DE102013223090A1 - Container closure conveyor - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a container closure conveyor device (1) for conveying container closures (2), in particular bottle closures, in a conveying direction (10), with at least one conveying channel (3) for the container closures (2) and at least one drive channel (4), which is driven by a drive fluid which brings about the conveyance of the container closures (2) can flow through and which is connected to the at least one conveying channel (3) via drive openings (5), the conveying channel (3) comprising guide elements (6) for guiding the container closures (2), whereby a guide cross-section (7) is defined and at least two guide elements (6), which are on different sides of the guide cross-section (7), can be adjusted transversely to the conveying direction (10) so that the guide cross-section (7) can be changed from at least two sides.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a container closure conveyor device for conveying container closures, in particular bottle closures, in a conveying direction, with at least one delivery channel for the container closures and at least one drive channel, which can be traversed by a drive fluid conveying the container closures and which communicates with the at least one delivery channel Drive openings communicates, wherein the conveying channel comprises guide elements for guiding the container closures, whereby a guide cross-section is defined.

STATE OF THE ART

Such a conveyor is known from the prior art. Since filtered (usually sterile filtered) air is blown as drive fluid in an air body. Through drive openings in the form of gill punches or holes, the air from the air body enters the delivery channel in order to move the closures located on or next to the gills.

In most cases, the arrangement is such that the air box (also called the drive channel) is at the bottom, the gills are formed on its upper side, and the closures rest thereon and are conveyed "slidably" as it were. This is done either with its open side down (which has the advantage that the air can better "attack" and the conveying effect is slightly better and the closures with the sterile air are also a little blown out) or with their open side up ( which has the advantage that you can treat the closures additionally from above with eg UV light).

There are known designs in which the gills are arranged laterally in the air box, and the closures are located laterally next to the gills and thereby transported so to speak "rolling". However, these designs are prone to blockages.

An important topic is now the guides, with which the closures are guided on the three remaining pages.

Usually, simple stainless steel flat irons are used for all three remaining sides, which are welded in along the conveyor line (approximately every 0.5-1 m) regularly spaced stirrups (U-shaped flattened flat iron) or flanges (milled / laser-cut metal flanges). The clearance is often designed exactly to the lock used, and can not be adjusted.

Another solution uses for the two lateral guides of the closures (ie radial) each square plastic rod, which covers approximately the entire height of the closure and which is screwed directly to the gill plate of the drive channel (with no distance to this). As upper guide (ie in the direction of the circular closure bottom or the opening of the closure depending on its location during conveying), a flat iron is used, are welded to the threaded bolt, which in turn attached to regularly spaced brackets and thus height adjustable.

Also known are fixed side guides in the form of stainless steel round bars (with a diameter of about 4-8 mm) and an upper guide in the form of stainless steel flat iron (about 20 × 4 mm), which is welded firmly into laser-cut flanges.

Also known are flat iron or round bars for the side guide and a thin-walled U-shaped folded sheet metal profile (lighter than flat iron) as upper management.

In such conveyors following problems arise, these z. T. are due to a poorer quality of the closures. Until recently, the closures were more stable and of solid quality. Over the last 10 years, especially 5 years, bottlers have begun to save more and more on the closures due to cost pressure, the closures become thinner-walled and thus more easily deformable, bend more and are softer. Furthermore, the materials of the closures are always cheaper and less resistant (softer, more abrasion, lower temperature stability or melting point friction leads to melting) and it is purchased more from low-cost suppliers, resulting in reduced quality from the outset.

Thus, there are more problems during conveyance due to abrasion (dust formation) and so-called "angel hair", long threads made of plastic, which are produced by abrasions accumulating on the guides and suddenly releasing them.

Similar problems arise with sensitive designer closures whose use is steadily increasing. These include in particular closures such. For example, plastic closures with a matt metallic surface or with a high-gloss surface or closures with a transparent look.

The hitherto known conveyors can not respond to these special requirements and the variety of closures on the market. An adaptation to the size, the shape, the material, and the quality of the closures is not possible. A height adjustment of the Upper guide, so that guide, which is opposite to the provided with the drive openings (gills) bottom of the conveyor channel, can not solve this problem. As a result, closures get stuck in the delivery channel, are exposed to disproportionate abrasion, or are otherwise damaged by the delivery process. To avoid these disadvantages, a specially designed conveyor would have to be provided for each type of closure, which is unthinkable for cost reasons. An oriented conveying different types of closure in a conveyor is thus difficult. Oriented conveying means that the closures are already in line, and if possible (except for unwanted exceptions) all the same all around. During the promotion they keep their alignment. At the place of their processing they arrive already in the correct orientation.

The aim of the present invention is to provide a conveyor which does not have these disadvantages and is optimally adaptable to different closure types with different size, shape, quality or material. The conveyor should be characterized by high reliability, in particular, the tendency to clog the conveyor through the closures should be minimized. Oriented conveying should be guaranteed for a wide variety of closure types. Furthermore, the conveyor should be characterized by ease of use and low cost.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

The goal is achieved in a container closure conveyor of the type mentioned above in that the drive channel in the volume flowed through by the drive fluid at least one throttle device, preferably an adjustable flap, for changing the flow of the fluid and / or that the drive channel at least one, in the side wall the channel formed drive fluid port for the supply of drive fluid, wherein the drive fluid port is preferably closable. As a result, means are provided with which the flow conditions in the drive channel can be specifically adapted or changed. With the throttle device, an existing flow can be changed. The drive fluid port allows the connection of an additional drive fluid supply, eg. B. a fan. A reinforced flow is z. B. on gradients required.

Preferably, the drive channel to a plurality of spaced-apart throttle devices. Different sections (eg with different gradients) can be acted upon individually by this measure with different flows or flow conditions (flow rate, flow rate).

Preferably, the throttle device is connected to a mounted on the outer wall of the drive channel display device, in particular a scale, which indicates the position of the throttle device. This allows the user to read the current setting at a glance and, if necessary, to adjust it.

The drive channel preferably has a plurality of drive fluid connections arranged at intervals from one another. Depending on requirements, individual sections can be supplied with drive fluid here.

The container closure conveyor device is preferably composed of a plurality of segments in the manner of a modular system, wherein each segment has a conveyor channel section and a drive channel section, and at least each straight segment has a drive fluid connection. Thus, a drive fluid supply can also be subsequently connected as required (eg, for large gradients).

Preferably, at least each straight segment on a throttle device; Particularly preferably, each segment of the conveyor to a throttle device.

The above-mentioned object is achieved in that at least two guide elements, which lie on different sides of the guide cross-section, are adjustable transversely to the conveying direction, so that the guide cross-section of at least two sides can be changed.

This allows the individual adjustment of the conveying path to different closure geometries. For this purpose, only the guide elements are to be adjusted before the delivery process. The variability of the guide cross section from two different sides results in a high degree of flexibility. The invention includes possible embodiments in which the size of the guide cross section is variable and / or the relative position of the guide cross section in the channel is variable.

The invention also ensures in particular a reliable oriented conveying of closures of all kinds. As the drive fluid, a gas can be used, for. As air, preferably sterile filtered air. Alternatively or in sections, as the drive fluid and liquid drive fluid such. As sterile water, and / or gaseous and / or liquid disinfectant, z. As diluted in water peracetic acid, can be used.

• – normale Schraubverschlüsse aus Kunststoff oder Aluminium (z. B. für Softdrinks)
• – größere Ku-Verschlüsse wie z. B. für Honiggläser oder Nussnougatcremegläser oder Lebensmittelbehältnisse
• – sonstige Ku-Kappen wie für Keg-Fässer, sonstige Über-Kappen, Senfgläser, Konserven oder auch Non-Food-Produkte wie Haushaltsreiniger, Weichspüler, Waschmittel, etc.
• – Blechdeckel (z. B. Twist Caps) wie z. B. für Lebensmittelgläser, Milchflaschen, Konserven, etc.
• – Kronenkorken (Bier, Cola, Fruchtsäfte, etc.)

Container closures (caps, lids, etc.) of all kinds may include:

• - normal screw caps made of plastic or aluminum (eg for soft drinks)
• - larger Ku closures such. B. for honey jars or Nussnougatcremegläser or food containers
• - other Ku caps as for keg barrels, other over-caps, mustard glasses, canned food or non-food products such as household cleaners, softeners, detergents, etc.
• - Sheet metal lid (eg twist caps) such. B. for food glasses, milk bottles, canned food, etc.
• - crown corks (beer, cola, fruit juices, etc.)

In a preferred embodiment, that wall of the delivery channel in which the drive openings are formed delimits the guide cross-section to one side, preferably downwards, ie. H. This wall forms the bottom of the conveyor. This allows the closures to slide on an air cushion. The three remaining sides of the guide cross section are each defined by guide elements: lateral, opposing guide elements and at least one upper guide element. Of these guide elements now lateral, opposing guide elements or at least one lateral guide element and the upper guide element or all guide elements can be designed adjustable.

Preferably, the two adjustable guide elements lie on opposite sides of the guide cross-section. As a result, the width of the guide cross section can be changed. This change can take place in that the opposing guide elements are displaced to the same extent in the direction of each other or in the direction away from each other. As a result, the relative position of the guide cross-section center to the drive openings remains substantially unchanged, whereby the drive remains symmetrical by the drive fluid.

Preferably, at least three guide elements, which are located on different sides of the guide cross section, adjustable, so that the guide cross section of at least three sides is variable. This allows maximum flexibility, since the guide cross-section is variable in all three directions, while maintaining its central position with respect to the drive openings.

Preferably, one side of the guide cross-section is formed by a wall of the conveying channel, in which the drive openings are formed. This is preferably the bottom of the conveying path. All other sides of the guide cross section are defined by the respective position of the guide elements.

Preferably, at least one adjustable guide element is in each case adjustable in two different directions, which are transverse to the conveying direction and preferably substantially perpendicular to one another. This not only allows an adaptation of the guide cross section to different closure sizes, but also an optimized adaptation to different closure geometries.

Preferably, at least one adjustable guide element is designed in the form of an angle, wherein one of the legs of the angle is fastened to the conveying channel facing side of the drive channel, wherein preferably the attachment via elongated holes, which are formed in the leg attached to the drive channel of the angle and extend transversely to the conveying direction. This represents a particularly simple, cost-effective and mechanically stable solution. In particular, fastening by means of screws and oblong holes enables simple adjustment of the guide elements.

Preferably, at least one adjustable guide element comprises at least one substantially parallel to the conveying direction extending rod, preferably a round rod, wherein preferably the rod is a plastic rod. A rod does not limit the guide cross section on one side of the entire surface, but ensures during the promotion of a game between the closure and leadership. This measure promotes fluid transport. In addition, reduced by this measure, the friction during the sliding along the closure along the guide.

Preferably, at least one adjustable guide element comprises at least two substantially mutually parallel rods, which are held at intervals of transverse brackets. This measure replaces a full-surface training and therefore represents a particularly cost-effective embodiment Moreover, bars provide a certain amount of play between the closure and the guide.

Preferably, the guide cross-section of at least one side is limited by at least two independently adjustable guide elements. Here, the guide cross-section can also be adjusted to complicated closure geometries.

Preferably, adjustable guide elements are mounted on a flange which has an elongated hole for adjustability, along which a guide element is displaceably guided.

The goal is achieved in particular also with a container closure conveyor of the type mentioned above in that the conveyor channel has a cover which encloses or encloses guide elements. This measure prevents the penetration of dirt from the outside and improves the flow processes in the interior for the promotion of the closures with the drive fluid.

Preferably, the cover is hinged, preferably about an axis which is substantially parallel to the conveying direction. This allows easy access into the interior of the delivery channel for adjustment, repair and / or maintenance purposes.

Preferably, the cover has a handle for opening the cover, whereby the handling by the user is improved.

Preferably, the container closure conveyor device has a stop element which limits the unfolding movement of the cover, wherein preferably the stop element is arranged on the cover and / or wherein the stop element comprises an elastic material. As a result, the cover reaches a predefined position without abutting against other parts of the conveyor. An elastic material additionally dampens the stop.

Preferably, the container closure conveyor at least one fan for generating a flow of the drive fluid in the drive channel, wherein the fan for setting a desired flow has a speed control. As a result, the flow conditions can already be influenced by the drive fluid supply as needed.

The goal is achieved in particular also with a container closure conveyor device of the type mentioned above in that the container closure conveyor device has at least one sensor for detecting the closures in the conveyor channel, the detection direction of the sensor being inclined to a plane perpendicular to the conveying direction in the detection region of the sensor , As a result, the reliability of the detection, in particular in congestion and obstruction of the delivery channel through closures, can be improved.

Preferably, the angle of inclination of the detection direction to the plane which is perpendicular to the conveying direction, between 15 ° and 45 °, preferably between 25 ° and 35 °, whereby particularly good measurement results can be achieved.

Preferably, the sensor has a first sensor part, in particular a transmitter / receiver unit and a second sensor part, in particular a reflector, which are arranged on opposite sides of the guide cross section, and sit the first sensor part and the second sensor part sitting on a one-piece holder, the the guide cross-section runs immediately from one side to the opposite side of the guide cross-section. This eliminates adjustment problems and ensures permanently reliable detection.

Preferably, the holder is designed in the manner of a bracket, sitting at one end of the first sensor part and sitting at the other end of the second sensor part.

Preferably, the holder and the guide elements on a common attachment in the delivery channel, preferably in the form of a flange. This leads to a resource-saving design.

Preferably, at least one adjustable guide element is pivotable about an axis of rotation which is substantially parallel to the conveying direction.

Preferably, the guide element cooperates with a stop device which has at least one adjustable stop which limits the adjustment movement of the guide element. This allows an exact adjustment in operated by drives guide elements.

Preferably, the guide element is connected via an arm with a rotary shaft and cooperates via a fixed to the rotary shaft pointer with the at least one stop of the stop device together. This allows a spatial separation of the guide element and stop device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In the following, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawing. It shows

1 a container closure conveyor according to the invention in a section transverse to the conveying direction,

2 an embodiment of the invention with lateral guide elements which are adjustable in two directions,

3 an embodiment of the invention with two independently adjustable guide elements on one side of the guide cross-section,

4 an embodiment of the conveyor with an indicated unfolded position of the cover,

5 the conveyor off 4 in a side and partially cutaway view,

6 a drive channel with throttling device and display device,

7 a conveyor of several composite segments,

8th a conveyor with a sensor from the side and from the top,

9 a bracket in different views,

10 a conveyor line within a disinfection device,

11 a sequence of different media feeds along a conveyor line.

WAYS FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

1 shows in a section transverse to the conveying direction of a container closure conveyor according to the invention 1 for conveying container closures 2 with a delivery channel 3 for the container closures 2 and a drive channel 4 By one of the promotion of container closures 2 causing drive fluid is flowed through and with the at least one delivery channel 3 via drive openings 5 communicates.

The conveyor channel 3 includes guide elements 6 for guiding the container closures 2 , Through the guide elements 6 becomes a guide cross section 7 Are defined. The guide elements 6 , two lateral guide elements and an upper guide element, are transverse to the conveying direction 10 (see also 5 ) adjustable. This is the guide cross section 7 changeable from at least two sides.

This causes a better adjustability of the closure guides. The illustrated embodiment provides a cost effective solution, especially for robust closures. The upper guide element 6 consists of a U-shaped edge profile preferably made of stainless steel sheet and is by means of a threaded bolt 20 standing on a bridge 21 is stored, height adjustable.

As side guides come folded sheet metal brackets are used, with one leg on the wall with the drive openings 5 (this is the face of the Chiemenbleches) be screwed and with the other, upstanding thigh the closures 2 lead laterally. For transverse adjustment of the guide element 6 is simply a transverse to the conveying direction in the screw 10 extending slot 14 provided in the angles.

The advantage of this embodiment is that the Querverstellbarkeit especially when using dünnwandigerem material, eg. B. sheet metal instead of flat iron, can be achieved inexpensively. By the edging remain the lateral guide elements 6 yet stable, are easy to manufacture and easy to assemble.

The conveyor channel 3 is through a cover 15 Covered the guide elements 6 includes or encloses. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 15 on the drive channel 3 stored and clamped by springs (thin-walled) clamping profiles over sections or along the entire conveyor line. The cover 15 as a whole is of the drive channel 3 removable.

2 shows a conveyor that allows the conveying of different or completely new closure shapes and optimal adjustability of the guide cross-section 7 offers.

The lateral guide elements 6 comprise bars extending parallel to the direction of conveyance 8th and are mounted vertically and transversely adjustable. These are the bars 8th at regular intervals with cross bolts 22 Mistake. These cross bolts 22 are in small clamp blocks 23 clamped transversely adjustable. The clamps 23 in turn are adjustable in height in the conveying direction spaced apart flanges 24 screwed. These have the flanges 24 in the height direction a slot 25 , which is preferably provided with a scale. The bars 8th are with a plastic profile 26 provided or coated, to a gentler leadership of the closures 2 to ensure.

Alternatively, the lateral guide elements 6 be formed by round rods which are substantially parallel to the conveying direction and are preferably made of plastic.

The advantages of this embodiment are in particular in the height and Querverstellbarkeit lateral guide elements 6 So the adjustability in two different directions. By the distance, the lateral guide elements 6 to the wall (here to the floor) with the drive openings 5 (Chiemen plate), dirt and also z. As torn circlips and other unwanted parts that would cause a blockage, better from the guide cross-section 7 fall out. This type of leadership touches the closures 2 not along the entire height but only pointwise or in sections, resulting in less abrasion (depending on the type of closure and material).

The upper guide element 6 comprises a plurality of round rods (eg made of stainless steel or plastic), which together in spaced along the conveyor track transverse brackets 9 are fixed in the form of combs. The round bars that form the KU upper reaches here are clamped with small worm screws in a laser-cut comb. Alternatively, the round rods in the transverse brackets 9 (Combs) be welded such. B. in the embodiment of 4 you can see. The combs are threaded through bolts 20 height adjustable on the spaced apart in the conveying direction flanges 24 attached.

Because the upper guide element 6 also not full-surface, but space between the round bars 8th leaves open, results in a better visibility to the promoted closures 2 and better access to the closures 2 with thin handling tools z. B. with a screwdriver through the spaces between the rods 8th , and / or through the spaces between bars 8th and the Kunstsoff profile 26 and / or between the Kunstsoff profile 26 and the conveyor surface.

2 shows a special design of the cover 15 , The cover 15 is about an axis 16 , which runs essentially parallel to the conveying direction, hinged. At the axis 16 opposite side has the cover 15 a handle 18 for unfolding the cover 15 by the user. The cover 15 includes in the area of the axis 16 a stop element 17 that the unfolding movement of the cover 15 limited. The stop element 17 preferably comprises an elastic material for damping the stop.

In 4 is next to the conveyor channel 3 closing position and the unfolded position of the cover 15 indicated.

5 shows the conveyor 1 in side and partially cutaway view. In addition to the conveying direction 10 Here is in particular the position and orientation of the flange 24 and the adjustable clamps attached thereto 23 as well as a small bolt in the clamp block 23 inserted as anti-twist device for easy on / off screwing.

3 shows a preferred embodiment with the possibility of guides with additional guide rods for z. B. graduated closures or special geometric shapes.

Some closures, such. B. so-called push-pull closures (similar to cycling bottles), consist of a wider lower part with the screwed onto the bottle opening at the bottom (as it were a "normal" screw cap), and a narrower upper part (eg. a mouthpiece with dust cap). These closures 2 Be beneficial with two guide rods 8th on each page. Other closures whose height is equal to or greater than the diameter require at least two guide elements laterally 6 on each side.

On opposite sides of the guide cross-section 7 now are each at least two guide elements 6 provided, which are independently adjustable. According to the illustrated preferred variant, each of these guide elements 6 adjustable in two different directions (height and transversely adjustable), indicated by the double arrows. The side guides are thus individually adjustable individually.

The flanges 24 on which the clamping blocks 23 are attached, and the slot located therein 25 are high enough to be above the first clamp block 23 on each side a second clamp 23 take on that then another guide element 6 is attached. Both guide elements 6 on the same page are separately adjustable. In this variant, an optimally adjustable guide cross-section results.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the leadership with rather delicate, round or square plastic rods (spaghetti guide), which are also optimally adjustable and also subsequently or additionally attachable or convertible. Both the lateral guides and the upper guide may have a parallel to the conveying direction extending rod, preferably round rod.

In some closures (especially depending on the material and the surface because of the sliding properties and also with very easy scratching like painted surfaces) are particularly suitable guide elements made of plastic.

In a particularly preferred variant, plastic round rods with a diameter of 4-12 mm, preferably 5-8 mm, are used as the upper guide element. Alternatively, square bars or rectangular bars whose sides have a length of 4-12 mm, preferably 5-8 mm.

Such guide elements can due to their great flexibility and low dimensional stability along the conveying direction in relatively short intervals in combs z. Made of metal (milled from flat iron or laser-cut from sheet metal) (eg by means of clamping screws, see 2 ). These combs are fastened to an overlying, in the conveying direction extending flat iron (eg welded). The more stable Flat iron is the same height as in the previously treated systems with larger distances with threaded bolts attached to the regularly spaced in the conveying direction flanges.

As a lateral guide stainless steel guide elements can be used, which are mounted with transverse bolts and clamping blocks height and transversely adjustable on the flanges. However, preferably used as a side guide square or square steel. Anyway, a thin, z. As milled or extruded Kunstsuff profile 26 pushed on or above (in 2 indicated as a cap), so that the closures 2 only come into contact with the plastic.

The plastics used for the guides are selected such that, in combination with the used closures, which are also made of plastic or aluminum or painted / coated sheet metal, or with its surfaces results in a low coefficient of friction and good wear resistance. Preferably, polyethylene (UHM-ND-PE ultrahigh molecular weight low density polyethylene) or PTFE is used, preferably also with additional additives which give the plastic a once again reduced coefficient of friction (eg from Murtfeld material "s-green plus LF"). Furthermore, the plastic used can also be advantageously provided with additives that increase the conductivity in order to better dissipate electrical charges (static electricity).

Another aspect of the invention relates to the possibility that in the bends or curved sections of the conveyor, the upper guide may consist of several successive (circle) arc segments, preferably each of these segments is supported only by a fastening (or if two fasteners are provided per segment, then both fasteners in the same angular position, ie sitting in parallel). The same applies to the lateral guides in the curves (left and right side guide). In this embodiment, the guides comprise a plurality of successive guide elements.

The 6 and an independent aspect of the invention, which relates to an optimized distribution of the drive fluid, in particular air, in the system.

Air, preferably sterile air, is generated at (regular) intervals or on demand blower stations and into the drive channel 3 (Air body) injected. The drive channel can be a through the entire system (straight conveyors, bends, gradients, curves, etc.) continuous hollow body. While designing a conveyor line, consideration can be given to the course of the conveyor line, and less or weaker fans can be provided for horizontal (straight) sections, more or stronger fans for gradients, etc. But sometimes there are but problems in that closures in straight lines become too fast or on the other hand do not create gradients. To overcome this problem, blowers must be rebuilt on the construction site or in the test run before delivery or additional blowers added.

According to the invention now has the drive channel 4 Throttling means in the volume flowed through by the drive fluid 11 , Preferably adjustable flaps, for changing the flow of the drive fluid. Additionally or alternatively, the drive channel 4 at least one, in the sidewall of the drive channel 4 trained drive fluid port 13 for the supply of drive fluid, wherein the drive fluid port 13 is preferably closable to use this as needed.

7 shows a route of a conveyor 1 , whose drive channel 4 a plurality of spaced drive fluid ports 13 having. Not all drive fluid connections 13 are connected to a fan 19 coupled. fan 19 are coupled only where they are needed due to the route (eg before gradients). Also seen are mutually spaced throttle devices 11 with which the flow can be regulated locally.

6 shows a throttle device 11 in the form of a flap in detail. The flap is in the drive fluid flowed through volume of the drive channel 4 arranged, depending on the position of the flap results in a different flow cross-section. 6 also shows location and function of the drive openings 5 , These provide a directional drive fluid flow in the adjacent conveyor channel. The drive openings 5 are preferably designed as gills.

The throttle device 11 is with one on the outside wall of the drive channel 4 attached display device 12 connected in the form of a rotary scale showing the position of the throttle device 11 displays. The scale also serves to turn the flap.

The container closure conveyor 1 is composed of a plurality of segments in the manner of a modular system, wherein each segment has a conveying channel section and a drive channel section. How out 7 shows at least each straight running segment one Drive fluid port 13 and / or a throttle device 11 on.

In a particularly preferred variant, all segments of conveyor lines such as straight lines (in different lengths), arcs (rising and falling, each in different degrees), curves (left and right, each in different curvature) are standardized box-like and all these segments are in certain intermittent drive fluid ports (eg, air supply ports) are provided, which can be bolted to and sealed with gasket and blind cover, or coupled to a fan as needed.

In addition, regularly adjustable externally adjustable and scaled internal and aerodynamic throttle valves may also be attached. With the help of this, the distribution of the air or their pressure / volume according to the need arising from the conveyor line (slope, straight line, ...) can be adjusted and also modified if necessary.

For difficult tasks, an optional speed control of the fans can also be carried out. In order to better control the flow conditions in a container closure conveyor, at least one fan 19 for generating a flow of the drive fluid in the drive channel 4 equipped with a speed control.

This happens z. B. electronically by means of frequency control (frequency converter FU: either centrally mounted in the control cabinet of the entire system or decentralized to the blower motors).

Furthermore, with appropriate control technology, individual fans can be switched on or off as required (eg during filling of the system or when fully excavated conveyor lines are approached).

The following is based on the 8th and 9 Another aspect of the invention described, dealing with the detection of closures 2 or a lock in the delivery channel 3 with at least one sensor 27 , in particular a light barrier, busy. So far, sensors have always been arranged in such a way that the detection direction is always perpendicular (ie 90 ° transverse) to the conveying direction. The sensors were attached to the lateral guide elements carrying flanges, on one side a transmitter / receiver was attached and on the other side a reflector, each with its own small holding plate. The problem with such a solution has been that some closures are slightly conical or have a circlip that is slightly thicker, or else a protruding bead, so that, if desired, a small gap between the closures could result exactly at sensor height. If, in the event of a blockage of the delivery channel, precisely this intermediate space remained standing by the sensor, ie was in the detection direction, then no closure and thus no closure jam were erroneously detected. In addition, it was necessary to adjust the two mounting plates, which carried the transmitter / receiver on one side, and on the other side to adjust the reflector individually so that the receiver could receive the emitted and reflected by the reflector signal.

In order to increase the reliability of the detection, the invention proposes solution. According to the invention, the detection direction 28 of the sensor 27 from the plane perpendicular to the conveying direction 10 stands, turned out so that the detection direction 28 now inclined to this level. The inclination of the detection direction 28 to this plane is preferably between 15 ° and 45 °, more preferably between 25 ° and 35 °. The detection direction in the case of a light barrier sensor is the direction of the light beam into which it emits and / or in which it is detected.

In order to eliminate the effort of Einjustierens of opposing sensor parts, which are involved on opposite sides of the conveying path actively involved in the detection process sensor parts, ie, for. B. Transmitter / receiver unit 29 on the one hand and reflector 30 on the other side, or in a variant without a reflector: the transmitter on one side and the reflector on the other side, on a one-piece holder 31 attached. In the illustrated embodiment of the 8th and 9 this is a fork-bracket, the z. B. with two screws on the flange 24 is attached. If the holes in the flanges 24 Can be made as standard, you can on every flange 24 attach a sensor holder (eg in the form of a sensor bracket). 9 shows in different views a preferred holder 31 in detail.

10 shows a further embodiment of the invention, in which the upper guide element 6 This is adjustable so that it is a lateral axis of rotation 32 is pivotable. This is the upper guide element 6 over an arm with a rotating shaft 33 connected. Also with the rotary shaft 33 rotatably connected is a pointer 34 which is inside a stop device 35 between variable stops 36 is movable. At another with the rotary shaft 33 rotatably connected arm 37 can attack a drive, preferably a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator. Due to the adjustable stops 36 can the adjustability of the upper guide element 6 and thus the guide cross-section 7 be done exactly. The pointer 34 and the stopper 35 is preferably from outside the conveyor 1 accessible and is z. B. arranged on a housing.

The embodiment of 10 can z. B. a closure disinfection device, such as a designed for chemical wet disinfection of closures device. The promotion of closures takes place here through the disinfection device, In such devices, it is known that the closures slide over a small mold tube on the top, and are driven by that medium which is pumped into the pipe, and which by oblique holes in the top of the forming tube flows out. This pipe, also called applicator pipe, is designed to alternately guide different media in the conveying direction, depending on the project. For example, first sterile air, then disinfectant z. B. peracetic acid diluted in water, then sterile water, then again sterile air, etc .. The closure is similar to an air conveyor (drive fluid is air) held by side guides and an upper guide. With some distance around the guides and the applicator tube around is a sheet metal tray at the bottom and side, at the top a cover. This device can, depending on the number of chambers (order and type of media) and length of the chambers (speed of the filling and desired residence / efficiency) z. B. have a length of 3 to 15 meters, preferably 5-8 meters.

In order to achieve a high degree of flexibility with regard to different closure shapes and sizes in these disinfection sections of a conveyor, adjustable guide elements can be used according to the invention.

For example, the lateral guide elements may be designed to be adjustable in the form of L-angle profiles with slot. The upper guide element can by the above-described rotation mechanism (rotation axis 32 ) are made adjustable in height, wherein the axis of rotation laterally of the guide cross-section 7 and levers are used to drive or stop positions (better accessibility).

11 shows a sequence of different media feeds along a conveyor line in a disinfection area. Along the conveying direction 10 are successively supplied different media. In the area BZ1 the supply of sterile air takes place, in BZ2 the treatment with disinfectant takes place, in BZ3 again the supply of sterile air, in BZ4 the addition of sterile water takes place, in BZ5 the supply of sterile air. These media can also be used simultaneously as drive fluid in the respective areas. The circles in 11 represent the connections for the various media.

The invention is not limited to the described embodiments and the aspects highlighted therein. Rather, within the concept of the invention a variety of modifications are possible, which are within the scope of expert action. It is also possible, by combining the means and features mentioned to realize further embodiments, without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims (28)

Container closure conveyor ( 1 ) for conveying container closures ( 2 ), in particular bottle closures, in a conveying direction ( 10 ), with at least one delivery channel ( 3 ) for the container closures ( 2 ) and at least one drive channel ( 4 ), by a promotion of container closures ( 2 ) causing drive fluid is flowed through and with the at least one delivery channel ( 3 ) via drive openings ( 5 ), the delivery channel ( 3 ) Guide elements ( 6 ) for guiding the container closures ( 2 ), whereby a guide cross-section ( 7 ), characterized in that the drive channel ( 4 ) in the volume flowed through by the drive fluid at least one throttle device ( 11 ), preferably an adjustable flap, for changing the flow of the drive fluid and / or that the drive channel ( 4 ) at least one, in the side wall of the drive channel ( 4 ) formed drive fluid port ( 13 ) for the supply of drive fluid, wherein the drive fluid port ( 13 ) is preferably closable. Container closure conveyor according to claim 1, characterized in that the drive channel ( 4 ) a plurality of spaced apart throttle devices ( 11 ) having. Container closure conveyor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the throttle device ( 11 ) with a on the outer wall of the drive channel ( 4 ) display device ( 12 ), in particular a scale, connected to the position of the throttle device ( 11 ). Container closure conveyor according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the drive channel ( 4 ) a plurality of spaced apart drive fluid ports ( 13 ) having. Container closure conveyor according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the container closure conveyor device ( 1 ) is composed of a plurality of segments in the manner of a modular system, wherein each segment has a delivery channel section and a drive channel section, and that at least each straight segment comprises a drive fluid connection ( 13 ) having. Container closure conveyor according to claim 5, characterized in that at least each straight segment a throttle device ( 11 ) having. Container closure conveyor device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container closure conveyor device ( 1 ) at least one blower ( 19 ) for generating a flow of the drive fluid in the drive channel ( 5 ), wherein the blower ( 19 ) has a speed control for setting a desired flow. Container closure conveyor ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two guide elements ( 6 ), which on different sides of the guide cross-section ( 7 ), transversely to the conveying direction ( 10 ) are adjustable, so that the guide cross section ( 7 ) is changeable from at least two sides. Container closure conveyor according to claim 9, characterized in that the two adjustable guide elements ( 6 ) on opposite sides of the guide cross section ( 7 ) lie. Container closure conveyor device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least three guide elements ( 6 ), which on different sides of the guide cross-section ( 7 ), are adjustable, so that the guide cross section ( 7 ) is changeable from at least three sides. Container closure conveyor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one side of the guide cross-section ( 7 ) through a wall of the conveyor channel ( 3 ) is formed, in which the drive openings ( 5 ) are formed. Container closure conveyor device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one adjustable guide element ( 6 ) in two different, each transverse to the conveying direction ( 10 ) and preferably substantially perpendicular directions is adjustable. Container closure conveyor device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one adjustable guide element ( 6 ) is formed in the form of an angle, wherein one of the legs of the angle on the conveyor channel ( 3 ) facing side of the drive channel ( 4 ), wherein preferably the fastening via elongated holes ( 14 ) carried out in the drive channel ( 4 ) fixed legs of the angle are formed and transversely to the conveying direction ( 10 ). Container closure conveyor device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one adjustable guide element ( 6 ) at least one substantially parallel to the conveying direction ( 10 ) extending rod ( 8th ), preferably a round rod, wherein preferably the rod ( 8th ) is a plastic rod. Container closure conveyor according to claim 14, characterized in that at least one adjustable guide element ( 6 ) at least two substantially mutually parallel bars ( 8th ), which are in the conveying direction ( 10 ) spaced apart transverse supports ( 9 ) being held. Container closure conveyor according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guide cross-section ( 7 ) from at least one side by at least two independently adjustable guide elements ( 6 ) is limited. Container closure conveyor ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conveying channel ( 3 ) a cover ( 15 ) comprising the guide elements ( 6 ) encloses or encloses. Container closure conveyor according to claim 17, characterized in that the cover ( 15 ) is hinged, preferably about an axis ( 16 ), which are essentially parallel to the conveying direction ( 10 ) runs. Container closure conveyor according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the cover ( 15 ) a handle ( 18 ) for unfolding the cover ( 15 ) having. Container closure conveyor device according to one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that the container closure conveyor device ( 1 ) a stop element ( 17 ), which the Aufklappbewegung of the cover ( 15 ), wherein preferably the stop element ( 17 ) on the cover ( 15 ) is arranged and / or where the stop element ( 17 ) comprises an elastic material. Container closure conveyor ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container closure conveyor device ( 1 ) at least one sensor ( 27 ), preferably a light barrier sensor, for the detection of the closures ( 2 ) in the conveyor channel ( 3 ), wherein the detection direction ( 28 ) of the sensor ( 27 ) to one level, directly to the direction of funding ( 10 ) in the detection area of the sensor ( 27 ), inclined Container closure conveyor according to claim 21, characterized in that the angle of inclination of the direction of detection ( 28 ) to the plane perpendicular to the conveying direction ( 10 ) is between 15 ° and 45 °, preferably between 25 ° and 35 °. Container closure conveyor according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the sensor ( 27 ) a first sensor part, in particular a transmitter / receiver unit ( 29 ) and a second sensor part, in particular a reflector ( 30 ), which on opposite sides of the guide cross-section ( 7 ) are arranged, and that the first sensor part and the second sensor part on a one-piece holder ( 31 ), which hold the guide cross-section ( 7 ) immediately from one side to the opposite side of the guide cross section ( 7 ) runs. Container closure conveyor according to claim 23, characterized in that the holder ( 31 ) is formed in the manner of a bracket, sitting at one end of the first sensor part and at the other end of the second sensor part is seated. Container closure conveyor according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that the holder ( 31 ) and the guiding elements ( 6 ) a common attachment in the conveyor channel ( 3 ), preferably in the form of a flange ( 24 ). Container closure conveyor device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one adjustable guide element ( 6 ), preferably one above the guide cross section ( 7 ) arranged guide element about a rotation axis ( 32 ) is pivotable, which is substantially parallel to the conveying direction ( 10 ), wherein preferably the axis of rotation ( 32 ) laterally of the guide cross-section ( 7 ) lies. Container closure conveyor according to claim 26, characterized in that the guide element ( 6 ) with a stop device ( 35 ) interacting with at least one adjustable stop ( 36 ), which controls the adjustment movement of the guide element ( 6 ) limited. Container closure conveyor according to claim 27, characterized in that the guide element ( 6 ) via an arm with a rotary shaft ( 33 ) and via one on the rotary shaft ( 33 ) attached hands ( 34 ) with the at least one stop ( 36 ) of the stop device ( 35 ) cooperates.

Images