DE202016105126U1 - Filling plant for containers with liquids - Google Patents

Abstract

Filling plant for containers with liquids, comprising: - transport devices (7) capable of transporting the containers (C) in a consistent sequence over the entire distance from an entrance area (8) of the installation (1) to an exit area (9) of the annex (1); - A Dreillfüllmaschine (3), which detects the transport devices (7) and is located after this input area (8) and is equipped with a plurality of valve groups (15), which are suitable, a filling process with a liquid to be filled separated on the individual containers (C) perform; - a capping machine (4) for detecting the transport devices (7) after said filling machine (3) equipped with one or more capping heads (21) capable of performing a capping operation separately on the individual containers (C); - a labeling machine (5) after said input section (8) and before said output section (9) of the system (1); characterized in that it comprises: - an electronic control unit (32) associating an identification code with each of said containers (C) carried on said transport devices (7); - a rotation inspection machine (100) after said capping machine (4) and before said output section (9), comprising: - a rotary carousel (101), on its circumference along a circular path, a plurality of working elements actuated by motor elements (103) (102) is mounted to rotate said container (C) containing the filled liquid so as to rotate about its longitudinal axis (Z) during at least one movement about said longitudinal axis (Z) which is interrupted or altered one or more times and is adapted to produce a relative movement of the liquid filled in relation to its container (C); - at least one diagnostic device for detecting foreign particles (104) communicating with said electronic control unit (32) and mechanically separately mounted relative to said rotary carousel (101) to move said containers (C.) Carried on said circular path ) at least when said bottled liquid has a relative movement relative to said respective container (C) and is capable of detecting at least one inspection value with respect to the foreign particles present in the filled liquid; said electronic control unit (32) associating the inspection data of the individual containers (C) obtained from said foreign particle detection apparatus (104) with the respective identification codes of said containers (C); - wherein the labeling machine (5) communicates with said electronic control unit (32) and is capable of assigning to each said container (C) at least one characteristic value of said container (C) comprising said identification code or inspection value.

Description

application

This invention relates to a filling plant for containers with liquids according to the preamble of the independent claim.

The equipment in question is advantageously intended for use in the beverage industry to automatically complete the filling and closing of a considerable number of bottles per hour.

The plant which is the subject of this invention is preferably to be used for bottling beverages, in particular those with considerable added value, in which it is important to monitor the production process and subsequently and also to control the conditions under which this is done Procedure is done.

This invention has therefore its place in the technical field of manufacturing industrial plants for bottling beverages such as wine, spirits, mineral water, fruit juices, food drinks and other liquids.

State of the art

In the food sector, but even more so in the wine industry, the need to guarantee the quality and consistency of packaging processes is becoming more and more evident.

It is becoming more and more urgent to be able to monitor the filling process for each individual bottle. The standard and only in relation to the "batch" listed information is no longer sufficient to identify the product and the method used for its packaging.

Consumer market chains and restaurants in particular demand more guarantees regarding the perfection of bottling from the point of view of impurities, residues, glass fragments and particles in order to be able to remove each individual bottle.

In fact, the issue of being able to provide the end-user with information regarding the traceability of the product, also with respect to its manufacturing process, is becoming ever more topical.

The industrial bottling lines traditionally available on the market provide for the transport of the bottles to be filled (eg by means of cell wheels, screw conveyors or conveyor belts) by means of several machines in series, normally comprising at least one dishwasher, one filling machine and one closing machine.

To date, on-line quality control has been essentially manual and frequently sampled and visual inspections, which in any case are not fully effective due to shadows in the areas concerned and difficulties in analysis.

The task of identifying the product content, on the other hand, is the bottle label and the advertising campaigns.

Filling machines are known which carry out tests with regard to the contents of the bottle in order to detect undesirable foreign particles which, however, have proven to be bulky and ultimately difficult to integrate into the modern bottling of alcoholic beverages.

In addition, rotating inspection machines for the pharmaceutical industry are known, which would be difficult to integrate in bottling plants for alcoholic beverages in view of the different products and containers and the resulting technical differences.

In addition, none of the existing machines are able to compete with an integrated bottling system to provide data on the bottling process from the product itself and to allow the end customer to access all data related to the packaging process.

At the moment, the individual machines in the production chain can be equipped with mechanisms and special diagnostic means that are suitable to prevent the bottles from undergoing the procedure provided by the machine if their operating conditions are not met.

For example, in order to fill cylinders with carbonated liquids, isobaric filling machines provide the possibility of bypassing the opening of the respective valve group should the desired filling pressure not be achieved in the bottle.

Furthermore, the bottles can be stored in the exit from one machine in stores before they are transported to the next machine for the subsequent operation of the packaging process.

This makes it impossible for the moment to check and trace back the individual bottling processes done on the bottle.

In addition, applications of traceability of the flows of packaged bottles are known, which allow tracing and intercepting the specific batches through information systems that are capable of recording and organizing the management of the identification and storage of the products Receiving goods (bottles, closures, capsules, food liquids, labels), the composition and the execution of orders related data support. This entails registration of the batches of the goods, in particular those in contact with the liquid, by the labeling of the goods mentioned above, which together form the packaged product.

Therefore, the monitoring of the production process in terms of the control of the goods of the suppliers and of the final product (the packaged bottles) is limited in that it allows only the identification of uniform batches with reference to the requirements of conformity but not the identification of the individual bottles and thus none Assessment of the operating conditions of the individual machines and the conditions of the bottling process to which the bottles have been subjected and, in particular, no verification of the status of the product just bottled so as to guarantee the integrity of the contents of the bottle, for example with regard to the presence of unwanted foreign particles whether they are inflorescences or precipitations of the wine, particles of seals, insects, broken glass of bottles or other unwanted foreign particles.

The previously known filling methods and systems do not allow to judge the individual bottles in a differentiated manner according to their content, as it was filled in the production process at the end of the various machines and rinsing, filling, sealing and labeling steps.

An important limitation of current bottling methods lies in the fact that the recognition and traceability of the production process is permitted only with reference to the operations before and after the above-mentioned bottling steps, without checking whether the bottled product is in respect of the individual bottles remains intact.

There are known production methods which provide for the use of rotary labeling machines, which are able to indicate on the bottled end product the origin of the wine productions, for example, on the basis of a respective cooperative designating number.

This allows the bottle, from where it was sold, to be assigned to the wine, the area in which the grapes were grown and the wine pressed, but does not allow the producer, in the case of a defective product, to ascertain the cause of the defect shut down.

The reactions of the end user are an important feedback for the optimization of the filling process. Exactly the feedback that the filling methods available on the market today do not get.

Presentation of the invention

In this situation, therefore, the problem underlying this invention is to remedy the difficulties exhibited by the type and equipment of the known type by providing equipment which allows the steps of the packaging process to be controlled on the single bottle and therewith To provide information on the integrity and quality of the product being bottled, which can easily be traced back from the references on the bottle itself.

Another object of this invention is to realize a plant which allows to guarantee the correct execution of the production process.

Another object of this invention is to realize a plant which allows the traceability of the single bottle during all steps of the filling process.

Another object of this invention is to provide a bottling plant which allows the quality and integrity of the bottled product to be monitored in an economically, structurally simple and operationally completely reliable manner.

These and other objects are all achieved by the liquid container filling apparatus which is the subject of this invention according to the claims set forth below.

Brief description of the drawings

The technical features of the invention will be clear from the content of the claims listed below, and the advantages thereof will become more apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter with reference to FIGS Drawings are made in the annex, which are a mere and non-exhaustive example of the machine in which:

the 1A . 1B and 1C schematically show a top view of three different designs of the filling plant, which is the subject of this invention;

the 2 a rinsing group of a corresponding dishwasher shows the part of the system 1 forms;

the 3 a schematic view with many missing parts to better highlight others of a Dreillfüllmaschine shows the part of the system 1 is;

the 4 a valve group of the type with slight negative pressure of a Dreillfüllmaschine shows the part of the plant 1 forms;

the 5 an isobaric type valve group of a rotary filling machine shows the part of the plant 1 forms;

the 6 a schematic view with many missing parts to better highlight others of a capping machine, the part of the system 1 is;

the 7 a working head for closing for compressible closures of a Drehverschließmaschine shows the part of the plant 1 forms;

the 8th a capping working head for rolling capsules of a Drehverschließmaschine shows the part of the plant 1 forms;

the 9 an overall perspective view of an inspection machine shows the part of the system 1 forms;

the 10 a detail of in 9 shown inspection machine with respect to a diagnostic device for detecting foreign particles;

the 11 a detail of in 9 shown inspection machine with respect to the engine elements of a working head;

the 12 shows a possible label format that has been printed by a labeling machine and contains numerous measurement and inspection data from connected to the machines and the inspection machine of the filling system diagnostic elements.

Detailed description of an example of the preferred embodiment

With reference to the drawings in the annex, an embodiment of a plant for filling containers with liquids in its entirety was 1 designated.

The plant is intended to be used in industrial filling processes for the packaging of containers with liquids, in particular with food liquids such as wine and water.

This bottling plant is traditionally made up of at least one filling machine 3 , at least one closing machine 4 and at least one labeling machine 5 together, preferably all with rotary carousels, each equipped with a variety of working heads, which are mounted on the circumference of their carousel, each on the plant 1 to rinse, fill, close and label the containers being transported. Advantageously, before the filling machine 3 also preferably a dishwasher 2 intended. In addition, especially in the case of wine bottles, the plant includes 1 preferably also an encapsulating machine to cover the bottle head with a capsule of aluminum or other malleable material, and a wiring machine 400 ,

In order to move the containers (usually glass bottles) in turn through the above-mentioned machines, are placed on the plant 1 transporters 7 used, which are suitable, the container from an input section 8th the plant 1 up to an exit section 9 the plant 1 and to maintain a consistent sequence throughout the route, ie without the containers changing their order.

More precisely, the rotary dishwasher is 2 if present, positioned so that they are the transport devices 7 right after the entrance section 8th recorded in a traditional way with a variety of working groups 10 mounted on the circumference of a first carousel and adapted to carry out a separate rinsing process on the individual containers.

Each rinse group 10 comprises, in a manner which is well known to the person skilled in the art and therefore not subsequently carried out individually, the following: a container hinged to the first carousel and intended to hold a container to be washed and rotated 180 degrees between an upright and an inverted position C to be operated gripper; - an injection nozzle 12 mounted on the carousel of the bottling plant with the mouth of the container C in an inverted position and by means of a supply line 13 to a distribution valve 14 a rinsing liquid is connected, with which the container C is rinsed.

The dishwasher 2 in particular by means of a screw 7 ' the transport devices 7 supplied, with the screw on the input section 8th the plant 1 is positioned. The snail gives the containers to an entrance star 49 the dishwasher 2 and then, once they have been rinsed, take them on a starting star 69 the same dishwasher 2 back up.

After the dishwasher 2 is for detecting the transport devices 7 the rotary filling machine 3 provided with a variety of valve groups 15 equipped to perform a filling operation with a liquid to be filled separated on the individual containers.

As is known, depending on the conditions under which the filling operations are carried out, the filling machines are generally subdivided into light vacuum machines, isobaric machines, light pressure machines, gravity machines, etc.

More specifically, the filling machine includes 3 the plant 1 , which is the subject of this invention, it is a gravity machine or a machine with a slight negative pressure as in 4 or an isobaric machine is as in 5 , in a traditional way a second rotary carousel on which a tank 16 is mounted for receiving a liquid to be filled, and a plurality of mounted on the circumference of said rotary carousel valve groups 15 , each of which has a supply line 18 , which, in order to direct the liquid into the containers to be filled, hydraulically to the tank 16 connected, a return air cannula 19 and a flap movable between an open position and a closed position of the lead 20 for adjusting the supply of said liquid into said containers.

The snail gives the containers to another entrance star 51 the filling machine 3 As soon as they have been filled, they are put on a starter's stall 53 the same filling machine again.

After the filling machine 2 is for detecting the transport devices 7 then a capping machine 4 for detecting the transport devices 7 provided after said filling machine, which in turn with one or more Verschließköpfen 21 equipped, which are adapted to perform a separate closing operation on the individual containers. Advantageously, this sealing machine 4 a turn-seal machine having one with a plurality of sealing heads 21 equipped rotary carousel.

The plant can have several capping machines 4 in consequence both of the same type, as for example in 1C in which two screw cappers 4B are shown, the second of which is shown in dashed lines, the productivity of the plant 1 to increase, as well as other types of closure such as in the 1A . 1B and also 1C each of which are arranged in sequence include: a natural cork sealer 4A and a screw capper 4B ( 1A and 1B ); a crown capper 4C , two screw cappers 4B , a natural cork sealer 4A ,

In particular, it may be in the closing machine 4 one with closing work heads 21 equipped with sliding inserts machine for natural cork 4A for inserting and compressing natural corks into the interior of the bottle neck or an encapsulating machine for attaching capsules to the neck of the containers by means of a screwing process or capsule formation on the external thread of the neck of the container C (previously both generally as screw cappers 4B designated) act.

In the case of closing work heads 21 for natural corks or corks made of other compressible materials (capper 4A ) are mounted on the circumference of a third rotary carousel and each of them comprises clamping elements 22 for compressing a closure 24 from a widened to a compressed form suitable to be inserted into the mouth of a bottle; over the clamping elements 22 mounted sliding elements 23 , which can be actuated to drive in the closure, in compressed form from the clamping elements 22 is held along a vertical closing direction in the interior of the container neck C.

Every head 21 also has a support group 25 which is provided with a holding surface to serve as an abutment of the mouth of the container C, and one below the clamping elements 22 assembled importers 26 with a vertical opening in relation to the closing axis and the container mouth C to the filling plant, which is intended to that of the sliding elements 23 screw-in closure 24 to convey into the mouth of resting on the support surface container C.

The support group 25 is with at least one air passage 27 which is suitable, that of the sealing sealing positioned in said passage opening closure 24 limited internal volume of the bottle with devices for Injecting or injecting inert gas to connect.

In the case of capping heads for encapsulation machines 21 ' , the screw caps and generally metal or plastic closures are bolted on top of the threaded portion of the containers.

For this purpose, each head of this type is normally equipped with grippers to first grasp the capsules and then screw them onto the containers by rotating about the axis of the head.

It is also a second type of sealing heads for encapsulating machines 21 ' known in 8th is shown in the appendix which is used to roll up seals on top of the threaded part of the containers. In this case, the capping head provides 21 ' by deformation against a formation of the mouth of the container thread or even notches on a normally made of metal flange of the closures ago.

For this purpose, each head of this type is usually with forming rollers 28 equipped, which are rotated by the head itself against the closures in rotation to form the threads in their flanges. These rollers 28 are on poles hinged on the rotary body of the head 31 mounted and compressed, the capsule so that it is deformed and realize so by crimping a thread as a counter-profile compared to that on the neck of the container C above.

In any case, the closing heads are 21 ' for encapsulation machines for screwing or crimping (screw capper 4B ) rotatably on the corresponding third rotary carousel of the closing machine 4 supported by spindles capable of rotating them and with central sleeves 29 equipped the capsule on the mouth of the container C by means of a spring 30 compress elastically.

Every capsule machine head 21 . 21 ' is controlled in the closing operations during its controlled lowering to the container C.

The closing work heads 21 ' for encapsulating machines can thus be operated to move between a first raised position in which they are located above the capsule located on the head of the container, and a first lowered position in which they are lowered to the head of the container and by means of the central sleeve 29 to compress the capsule applied to the mouth of the container C, to be moved.

It can also be a wiring machine 400 be provided, in particular for closures of sparkling wines, as in the 1A and 1B shown.

It is then a labeling machine 5 that the transport devices 7 after the sealing machine 4 and before said exit section 9 detected, provided, which is adapted to perform a separate labeling on the individual containers C;

According to the basic idea of this invention, the system also includes an electronic control unit 32 Everyone on the transporters 7 transported container assigns an identification code, this particular using a detection sensor 33 near the entrance 8th that on the transporters 7 transported container.

In accordance with this invention, the plant comprises 1 also one of the capping machine 4 downstream and before the output section 9 the transport devices 7 equipped rotary inspection machine 100 ,

This inspection machine 100 includes a rotary carousel along a circular path 101 , on whose scope a variety of working heads 102 are mounted by engine elements 103 are driven to rotate the container containing the filled liquid about its longitudinal axis Z with a movement that is interrupted or slowed down at least once (but advantageously several times) to produce a relative movement of the filled liquid relative to its container C. ,

The inspection machine 100 also includes one or more diagnostic devices for detecting foreign particles 104 connected to the electronic control unit 32 communicates and is connected to the machine frame, not to that of the rotary carousel 101 transported containers so as to be opposite the containers C, which are conveyed along the circular route, when the filled liquid reaches a relative movement relative to the corresponding container C.

In particular, the diagnostic device is for detecting foreign particles 104 in relation to the rotary carousel 101 firmly mounted or also has a tracking movement on a portion of the rotary carousel 101 but without turning it.

The diagnostic device for detecting foreign particles 104 is capable of detecting at least one inspection value with respect to the foreign particles contained in the filled liquid.

More specifically, in accordance with the preferred embodiment shown in the figures in the annex, each working head comprises 102 the rotary inspection machine 100 a carrier disk 105 , which is suitable to the ground by means of an input star of the transport devices 7 to accommodate transported container C.

With each carrier disk 105 are then independent engine elements 103 (please refer 11 ) connected to the carrier disc 105 together with the standing on her container C about the longitudinal axis Z the latter in rotation.

To the verticality of the container C during rotation on the carrier disk 105 to receive is the working head 102 advantageously with a stop slider 107 equipped to rest loosely on top of the container C and in particular on its closure. The slider 107 can be achieved with the shaft of a mechanically controlled by a cam so down vertical actuator that this elastic on top of the container C comes to rest. The re-lifting of the shaft is controlled by the return force of the spring itself.

The pusher advantageously has a support with play to allow also the picking up of those containers which are not perfectly on the carrier disk 105 are centered.

Alternatively, each working head of the inspection machine 100 the use of a carrier disk 105 , which is adapted to receive the bottom of the container C and to rotate freely around its central axis of symmetry and a stopper slide 107 provide, which rests on the head of the container C, not only to maintain the verticality during the rotation, but also to make this around the longitudinal axis Z in rotation, as this of the motor elements 103 is set in rotation.

The diagnostic unit 104 the rotary inspection machine 100 is made up, for example, of at least one camera 106 that with the circular route of the rotary carousel 101 is connected and from at least one illumination source 108 the container C, which also with the circular route 101 is connected and preferably in relation to the container C in one of the camera 106 located opposite position, together.

As mentioned above, the camera 106 and the illumination source 108 in comparison to the rotary carousel stationary or point on a section of a tracking movement in relation to the rotary carousel 101 on.

The diagnostic device 104 also advantageously includes an electronic device (not shown) suitable for use by the camera 106 evaluated images to determine the presence of unwanted foreign particles in the liquid filled in relation to an adjustable threshold, for example, equipped with a sample image for comparison.

There may be multiple sources of illumination and advantageously at least one second with the carrier disc 105 connected illumination source for illuminating the container C are provided from its bottom side.

In accordance with a possible embodiment of the invention are at least one camera 106 and at least one illumination source 108 whether they are specially designed or consist of a same camera and an equal illumination source provided for detecting foreign particles contained in the filled liquid, which is configured to detect the color of the filled liquid.

The electronic control unit 32 may compare the color-related value obtained from the camera with that entered to detect color differences such as in the case of a batch outside the standard or in the case of dilution of the liquid product due to a malfunction of the dishwasher.

Specifically, during the operation, as soon as the container C reaches a rotational speed on its longitudinal axis Z and has exceeded a certain speed value, this container C is stopped instantaneously. In this way, the glass container C is stopped, while its content (wine and any corpuskolare contaminants) continue the rotation. In an angular agreement with this condition of the bottle "stopped relative to its axis", the container passes the extremely powerful camera 106 and is from the specially designed spotlight 108 enlightened. By photographing with a special method and comparing the images with special software, the moving and solid particles and contaminants inside the wine are highlighted no matter where in the container C they are. The spotlight 108 and the camera 106 are designed to guarantee verification under conditions and with products typical of the wine sector.

This implies, for example, the use of a camera and an electronic control unit designed to detect foreign particles that are considered to be impurities or precipitates in the field of oenology and that normally correspond to much larger dimensions (for example, greater than half a tenth of a millimeter) ) than those tolerated in the field of pharmaceutics.

The aforementioned electronic control unit 32 for its part, links those from the diagnostic device to detect the foreign particles 104 received inspection data of each container with the respective identification codes of the sensor 33 detected container C.

The labeling machine 5 connected to the electronic control unit 32 then communicates to each container C at least one corresponding characteristic value chosen among the identification code and the corresponding inspection value (or both).

In accordance with the idea underlying this invention, the end user can thus access, starting from the container, all or some of the data relating to the product or the production process, and in particular to that of the diagnostic device for detecting the foreign particles 104 recorded inspection data.

For this purpose, all of the diagnostic device for detecting foreign particles on the container can 104 recorded inspection data printed or provided on a stored carrier or only the reference of the identification code of the container C, with which the electronic control unit 32 the respective ones of the diagnostic device for detecting foreign particles 104 linked inspection data and archived, for example, in a central memory.

In detail, the electronic control unit linked 32 in accordance with a first execution choice of the diagnostic device 104 detected inspection value with the identification code of each container C in a central storage device. The labeling machine 5 in that case, it is confined to printing on the label of each container C the corresponding identification code which allows the consumer to obtain access to the above-mentioned inspection data by request to the producer or by remote access.

In accordance with another possible embodiment, the electronic control unit links 32 that of the diagnostic device 104 detected inspection value with the identification code of each container C in a contactless identification tag, in particular the type RFID or NFC. The labeling machine then associates each day with each corresponding container C, in particular by mechanically attaching the label on each container C in connection (eg glued) to the above tag.

In this case, the term "labeling machine" in the broader sense means not only the machine capable of mounting paper or sheet labels on the container, but also a machine capable of carrying one day on the container or to affix an electronic label, whether attached to the label or provided on the closure or other part of the container C.

In the drawings, the dashed line shows the connections between the controller 32 and the individual machines, but without specifying in detail the connections with the individual sensors, such as with the sensor 33 ,

Finally, the electronic control unit links 32 in accordance with another embodiment, that of the diagnostic device 104 detected inspection value with the identification code of each container C in a central storage device. The labeling machine 5 Prints the inspection value from the diagnostic device 104 on the label of each container C.

The inspection value is as from the as the diagnostic device 104 recorded value and for example from one of the aforementioned camera 106 consisting of an evaluation of the inspection value and consisting for example of an indication of the degree of contamination by foreign particles contained in the filled liquid (in particular based on a comparison of the camera 106 recorded image with a stored pattern image).

In addition, when exceeding the threshold value of sides of the above-mentioned inspection value determined by, for example, comparing the picked-up image with the stored pattern image, the equipment can make the sorting out of the container C.

In other words, the containers which have no contaminants or defects (see in this connection the further diagnostic means taken into account in the following) are conveyed further, while the containers containing defects are separated and directed onto a reject belt so that the customer can treat them accordingly.

Advantageously, the detection sensor 33 near the entrance section 8th housed on the transport devices 7 to be transported.

In addition, advantageously with the electronic control unit 32 communicating and with at least one of the filling and closing machines (and advantageously also dishwashers, if available) associated diagnostic means provided to detect at least one process measurement of at least one of the filling or closing operations (or rinses).

The electronic control unit 32 associates the measured value obtained from the diagnostic means with the identification code of each container C.

The traceability of the measured value from the container C is possible under the different conditions already mentioned above with reference to the inspection value of the inspection machine.

The provided, with at least one of the above-mentioned machines 2 . 3 . 4 . 5 . 6 and 400 Connected diagnostic means are capable of detecting at least one measured value of at least one of the operations of these machines. The electronic control unit 32 then associates the code of each container C with the corresponding measurement value obtained by the diagnostic means (for example by registering the data in a corresponding identification record) and shares the data of the labeling machine 5 for printing the respective identification code or the corresponding measured value on the label of each container C or integrating the data in a memory connected to the container, as stated above.

The electronic control unit 32 Advantageously, it may be a recording device similar to that used by the detection sensor 33 obtained identification code of each container C with the corresponding of the diagnostic means of the various machines and the inspection machine 100 collected measurement data and inspection data, and then to communicate with the labeling machine, so that this (for example, consisting of a consecutive number) identification code or the measurement and inspection data such as the label format 12 prints on the respective container.

Advantageously, it may be in the controller 32 is a centralized logic controller connected to the machines (the connections to the bottling plant are in 1 indicated by dashed lines) in order to control them on the individual containers in sequence under certain operating conditions for carrying out the above operations.

Advantageously, the detection sensor 33 from a photocell, which detects the passage of the container and the electronic control unit 32 their presence to assign the identification code. When transporting the containers, without ever being mixed and with the FIFO logic in any stores, the electronic control unit is always able to recognize this container C and with those of the along the transport devices 7 from the entrance section 8th linking data coming to the output section, particularly, but not exclusively, on the various machines presented above to associate the individual container C with data relating to the conditions under which it performs the various operations of the plant filling process 1 has gone through.

The electronic control unit 32 can, should it be equipped with logical control, in particular be suitable to avoid the different operations of the machines 2 . 3 . 4 . 5 and 400 to activate, the container C at the entrance of one of them should prove to be unsuitable to undergo this process due to the previously obtained in relation to this container C diagnostic data. This makes it possible to save operations and material on containers that need to be sorted out.

Initially, the detection sensor activates 33 via the logical controller 32 when it detects the presence of a container C in the screw 7 ' recorded in the entrance, the supply of the rinsing liquid from the side of the distribution valve 14 the one with the dishwasher head 2 connected flushing group 10 on the container C. identified with the corresponding code.

In accordance with a preferred form of this invention, the diagnostic means comprise at least a first pressure sensor 34 who the supply line 13 the rinsing liquid detected between the injection nozzle 12 and the distribution valve 14 is positioned. This first sensor 34 who in 2 is shown schematically, detects a first measured value of the pressure of the rinsing liquid on each container C.

Preferably, the diagnostic means also comprise at least one second pressure sensor 35 for detecting a channel connected to the container C. 90 in order to let in and out of its interior different operating media to flow in and out. This sensor detects at least a second reading of the pressure in that channel 90 who called the conditions of flow of the said Indicates operating fluid in or out of the container C connected to the corresponding valve group of the rotary filling machine, as shown in FIGS 4 and 5 schematically shown in the annex.

Advantageously, the second pressure sensor is 35 around a pressure transducer, which is suitable second identification data of the pressure in the channel 90 capture.

Each valve group 15 the in 5 illustrated isobaric filling machine 1 preferably comprises a shut-off valve 40 a vacuum circuit, which is intended to suck all the air from the container C, as soon as this from the carrier disc with the centering cone on the mouthpiece of the supply line 18 is brought into a sealing relationship. Once the filling step is completed, an automatic leveling phase occurs while the one of a valve 41 inert gas stream controlled by an automatic leveling circuit is injected into the container C to cause the liquid fraction (and foam fraction) in the return air cannula (or compensating cannula) to rise above the desired fill level or at the lower mouth of the return air cannula 19 bring about.

The valve 41 of the automatic leveling circuit is to the source of the inert gas and to the container C over in the mouthpiece around the feed line 18 Connected around openings connected. The above-mentioned openings connect the inside of the container C 4 with an intermediate release valve, which in turn communicates with the valve 41 of the automatic leveling circuit communicates. In detail, the release valve communicates 7 with the three valves 40 . 41 and 42 Vacuum, auto-leveling and isobaric circle by means of the common channel 90 who in 5 is shown in two rectangular sections, which are parallel to the tank walls 16 run.

The second pressure sensor 35 is for example to capture the channel 90 positioned in conjunction with the container C to detect the pressure in the various operations of the isobaric filling machine.

In the case of an in 4 The machine C, which is supported on the lifting cylinder, moves upwards and brings its mouth into sealing relationship with the seal under the valve group 15 , Then a filling valve 43 opened, that over a line 44 is connected to a vacuum circuit and causes the suction of the air from the container C.

Subsequently, the valve is closed 43 the vacuum line 44 and subsequently opening a supply of pressurized inert gas to a supply line 46 connected valve 45 allows the injection of the inert gas into the container C 3 ,

The second pressure sensor 35 is for example for detecting the vacuum line 44 or the line of inert gas 46 positioned or there may be two second pressure sensors 35 are provided, each of which is positioned in one of the above lines and of course with the logic controller 32 communicated.

Preferably, the diagnostic means also comprise at least one third pressure sensor 47 for detecting the air passage passage 27 of the capping head 21 (as in 7 shown schematically). In this case, the third sensor detects 47 a third reading of the pressure of the air passageway on each vessel C.

The diagnostic means also preferably also comprise on the output star 53 the filling machine 3 or alternatively on an entrance star of the inspection machine 100 mounted devices for filling level inspection. These devices for level inspection detect, in particular by means of a schematic with a star in the 1 in the system shown optical sensor 52 suitable for reading the liquid diffraction, a reading of the liquid level in the neck of the container C.

The diagnostic means also advantageously comprise on an exit star of the inspection machine 100 mounted devices for inspection of the bottom of the container C, which serve to detect the presence of precipitates or located on the bottom of the container C foreign bodies. These soil inspection devices consist, for example, of optical sensors or metal sensors connected to the star on the bottom of the containers C. 50 , in the 1 in the appendix are indicated schematically with a circle. These devices for inspection of the soil 48 capture a measure of the cleanliness of each container C.

The diagnostic means also advantageously comprise closure inspection devices mounted on an entry-side of the inspection machine, which detect, in particular by means of an optical sensor, a measurement of the presence or position of the closure in the neck of said container C.

In the case of capping machines of the encapsulating machine type 21 ' In particular, for screwing, the diagnostic means advantageously comprise a dynamometric sensor 54 which is suitable to that of the sleeve 29 on the mouth of the Container C pressure to be measured and to create a reading of the force with which the capsule is screwed or pressed against the mouth of the container C. In accordance with an in 8th shown possible embodiment of this dynamometric sensor 54 on a stop ring to the sleeve 29 coaxial spring 30 positioned.

In the case of capping heads for encapsulating machines 21 ' with form rollers 28 The diagnostic means can be a dynamometric sensor 55 which is suitable, that of the rollers 28 on the neck of the container moved with a rotary motion from the head against the capsules to form the threads on their flange by crimping pressure exerted. The dynamometric sensor 55 provides a measure of the force with which the thread of the capsule is formed or pressed against the neck of the container C. In accordance with an in 8th shown possible embodiment, this dynamometric sensor 55 be positioned on screws for pressure adjustment of the rollers.

Therefore, the visual inspection of the closure allows for the recognition of the integrity of the natural cork and for screw caps for the correct execution of the thread and the integrity of the seals.

The system also advantageously comprises the aforementioned second encapsulating machine 60 of the rotary carousel type, on the circumference of which a plurality of rolling heads are mounted, which are adapted to provide the neck of the containers, in particular of bottles, with capsules adapted to conceal the closure and to provide a guarantee seal for the contents of the bottle.

The capsules placed on the neck of the bottles in the filling lines may be made of heat-shrinkable polymer material or stretchable and deformable materials such as polylaminate, tin or aluminum.

Each rolling head comprises a rotatable body rotatably mounted on the support structure of the head and having a plurality of rocker arms mounted thereon with respective pressure rollers. Between the rocker arms and the annular body are a plurality of springs to elastically press the pressure rollers against the capsules.

Also in this case, the diagnostic means comprise a third dynamometric sensor similar to the second, which is adapted to measure the pressure exerted by the rollers on the neck of the containers and to produce an eighth measurement of the force with which the capsule is rolled Neck of the container C is pressed.

The diagnostic tools can also provide many more with the along the means of transport of the plant 1 comprise mounted sensors connected sensors. For example, sensors may be provided which are capable of correctly introducing liquid nitrogen droplets following the process of filling the container C with the liquid to be filled of the respective filling machine 3 and before the closing operation of the respective sealing machine 4 to eat.

In accordance with an embodiment, the rotation inspection machine 100 after the labeling machine 5 and is therefore capable of checking the liquid in areas not covered by the label (to detect impurities or color).

The inspection machine also in this case detects the inspection value and assigns it to the respective container by being printed by means of a downstream second labeling or stored in a central memory or in a connected to the container tag.

The identification value of the container may be from the inspection machine 100 can be read on the label or on the tag already connected to the container, or this identification value can be read by a device of the progressive identification of the logical controller 32 (not shown) in front of the inspection machine 100 be received, for example, with this directly or through a central processor of the controller 32 communicated.

In the case of one of the inspection machines 100 downstream second labeling, communicates this also here with the electronic control unit 32 to assign each container C its characteristic value, whether it is only an identification code, an inspection value or both. In particular, the assignment of this value takes place on a further label or by attaching a contactless identification tag or registering this characteristic value on a tag already assigned to the container.

Therefore, in accordance with the above-mentioned various embodiments, the term labeling machine should not only designate a traditional machine capable of permanently affixing a label to the outer surface of the containers through a profile buffer, but more generally a machine capable of mechanically assign a carrier to each container, whether it be a label or a memory, such as a contactless identification tag, in particular of the RFID or NFC type, on the label or on the closure or bottom of the container, for example or to be adapted to transfer, by imprinting or storing on an already existing label or in an already associated with the container memory, the above-mentioned characteristic value of the specific container, which is represented by the identification code or the corresponding inspection value.

Depending on the different functions, the labeling machine 5 for performing the above-described operations also at an arbitrary position between the input station 8th and the starting station 9 be positioned.

The inspection value itself may also comprise a process measurement of at least one of the filling and capping operations established by the further diagnostic means provided associated with at least one of the bottling and closing machines (and advantageously also dishwashers, if any).

With the plant 1 according to the invention, which is an optimized inspection machine 100 For the sector of oenology, all control functions can be integrated into a single system without risking a dispersion of data (filling level control, presence of cork, cork control, etc.) that may not be perfectly consistent and therefore numerous settings in several places Require line of pages of operators.

The thus conceived invention therefore achieves the goals set.

Of course, in its practical design, it may also have shapes and configurations that differ from those illustrated above without, however, exceeding the scope of this protection.

In addition, all components may be replaced with technically equivalent elements and the dimensions, shapes and materials used may be chosen as desired.

Claims (23)

Filling plant for containers with liquids, comprising: - transport devices ( 7 ), which are capable of keeping the containers (C) in a consistent order over the entire distance from an entrance area ( 8th ) the plant ( 1 ) to an exit area ( 9 ) the plant ( 1 ) to transport; - a rotary filling machine ( 3 ), which transport devices ( 7 ) and after this input range ( 8th ) and with a plurality of valve groups ( 15 ), which are adapted to perform a filling operation with a liquid to be filled separately on the individual containers (C); - a closing machine ( 4 ) for detecting the transport devices ( 7 ) after said filling machine ( 3 ) with one or more sealing heads ( 21 ), which are adapted to carry out a closing operation separately on the individual containers (C); - a labeling machine ( 5 ) after the said entry section ( 8th ) and before the said output section ( 9 ) the plant ( 1 ); characterized in that it comprises: - an electronic control unit ( 32 ), which is accessible to everyone on the said transport 7 ) (c) assigns an identification code; - a rotation inspection machine ( 100 ) after said sealing machine ( 4 ) and before the said output section ( 9 ), comprising: - a rotary carousel ( 101 ), along the circumference thereof along a circular path a plurality of with engine elements ( 103 ) actuated working heads ( 102 ) is mounted to rotate said container (C) containing the filled liquid about its longitudinal axis (Z) in at least one movement about said longitudinal axis (Z) in rotation, which is interrupted or changed one or more times and is suitable to produce a relative movement of the filled liquid relative to its container (C); At least one diagnostic device for detecting foreign particles ( 104 ) connected to said electronic control unit ( 32 ) communicates mechanically with respect to said rotary carousel ( 101 ) is mounted separately to face the said containers (C) carried on said circular path at least when said bottled liquid has a relative movement relative to said respective container (C) and is capable of at least one To detect the inspection value with respect to the foreign particles present in the filled liquid; wherein said electronic control unit ( 32 ) from the said diagnostic device for detecting foreign particles ( 104 ) associated inspection data of the individual containers (C) with the respective identification codes of said container (C) linked; - the labeling machine ( 5 ) with said electronic control unit ( 32 ) communicates and is capable of, each said container (C) at least one characteristic value of said Assign container (C), which includes the said identification code or inspection value. Filling plant according to Claim 1, in which the said electronic control unit receives the information from the said diagnostic device ( 104 ) associated inspection value with the identification code of each said container (C) in a central storage device; wherein said labeling machine ( 5 ) at least prints the corresponding identification code on the label of each said container (C). Filling plant according to Claim 1, in which the said electronic control device ( 32 ) from the mentioned diagnostic device ( 104 ) associated inspection value with the identification code of each said container (C) in a contactless identification tag, in particular the type RFID or NFC linked; wherein said labeling machine ( 5 ) assigns each named tag to each corresponding named container (C), in particular mechanically to the label on each said container (C) or to another location of the container (C) such as the closure or the bottom. Filling plant according to Claim 1, in which the said electronic control device ( 32 ) from the mentioned diagnostic device ( 104 ) associated inspection value with the identification code of each said container (C) in a central storage device; wherein said labeling machine ( 5 ) prints on the label of each said container (C) at least the inspection value detected by said diagnostic device on the corresponding container (C). Filling plant according to Claim 1, in which the said electronic control device ( 32 ) each on said transport devices ( 7 ) conveyed container (C) by means of a for detecting the on the said transport devices ( 7 ) transported container (C) in the vicinity of said input section ( 8th ) positioned detection sensor ( 33 ) assigns an identification code. Filling plant according to claim 1, in which with said electronic control unit ( 32 ) and at least one of said filling machines ( 3 ) and sealing machines ( 4 ) associated diagnostic means are provided to detect at least one process measurement value of at least one of said filling and Verschließvorgänge; wherein said control unit ( 32 ) associates the measured value obtained from the diagnostic means with the corresponding identification code of each of said containers (C). Filling plant according to claims 2 and 6, wherein said electronic control unit ( 32 ) also associates the process measurement value with the identification code of each said container (C) in said central storage device. Filling plant according to claims 3 and 6, wherein said electronic control unit ( 32 ) also associates said method reading with the identification code of each said container (C) in said contactless identification tag; wherein said labeling machine ( 5 ) assigns each named tag to each corresponding named container (C), in particular mechanically on the label on each said container (C). Filling plant according to Claims 4 to 6, in which the said electronic control device ( 32 ) also associates said process value with the identification code of each said container (C) in a central storage device; wherein said labeling machine ( 5 ) prints on the label of each said container (C) at least the inspection value and the process measurement value. Filling plant according to claim 1, in which each working head of said rotary inspection machine ( 100 ) Comprising: - a carrier disk ( 105 ) adapted to receive the bottom of said containers (C); - to said carrier disc ( 105 ) connected motor elements ( 103 ) to rotate them together with the container on it about the longitudinal axis (Z) of the latter in rotation; - a stop slider ( 107 ), which rests loosely on top of the container (C) to maintain verticality during rotation. Filling plant according to claim 10, in which the diagnostic device for detecting foreign particles ( 104 ) of said rotary inspection machine ( 100 ) Comprising: - at least one, with the circular path of the rotary carousel ( 101 ) fixed camera ( 106 ); At least one likewise stationary illumination source ( 108 ) of the container (C) connected to the circular path of the rotary carousel ( 101 ) in relation to the container (C) in opposite to said camera position is connected; An electronic device capable of processing the recorded images to detect the presence of unwanted foreign particles in the filled liquid compared to an input threshold. Filling plant according to claim 11, wherein at least one of said cameras ( 106 ) and at least one of said illumination sources ( 108 ) or another specially equipped camera ( 106 ) or another specially created Illumination source ( 108 ) are configured to detect the color of the filled liquid. Filling plant according to Claim 11, in which the diagnostic device ( 104 ) a second with the carrier disc ( 105 ) to illuminate the container (C) from under its bottom. Filling plant according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the said diagnostic device ( 104 ) is an image or value derived from the image processing and indicates the degree of contamination by foreign particles present in the filled liquid. Filling plant according to Claim 6, in which the said diagnostic means are arranged on a starting or input side of a machine of the said plant after said sealing machine ( 4 ) and in particular on the starting star ( 53 ) of said filling machine ( 3 ) or on an entrance star of said inspection machine ( 100 ) level inspection devices, said level inspection devices, in particular by means of an optical sensor, which is adapted to read the liquid diffraction, detect a reading of the liquid level in the interior of the neck of said container (C). Filling plant according to Claim 6, in which the said diagnostic means are arranged on a starting or input side of a machine of the said plant after said sealing machine ( 4 ) and in particular on an entrance star ( 53 ) of said inspection machine ( 100 ), wherein said closure inspection devices, in particular by means of an optical sensor, detect a measurement of the presence or the position of the closure inside the neck of said container (C). Filling plant according to Claim 6, in which the said diagnostic means are located on a starting side of the said inspection machine ( 100 ) mounted inspection devices at the bottom of the container (C), wherein the bottom inspection devices, in particular by means of an optical or metal sensor, detect the presence of unwanted foreign bodies on the bottom of the container (C). Filling plant according to claim 1, in which said rotary inspection machine ( 100 ) downstream of a second labeling machine and capable of controlling the liquid in non-label-coated areas, said labeling machine ( 5 ) after the rotation inspection machine ( 100 ) with said electronic control unit ( 32 ) and is adapted to associate with each said container (C) at least one characteristic value of said container comprising said identification code or said inspection value, in particular on another label or by assigning to the container (C) a contactless identification tag or on said day already associated with said container, said characteristic value is registered. Filling plant according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said rotary inspection machine ( 100 ) and said electronic control unit ( 32 ) for detecting foreign particles in bottled liquids above an allowable threshold and identifying containers filled with foreign particles above that threshold. Filling plant according to claim 1, wherein each working head of said rotary inspection machine ( 100 ) Comprising: - a carrier disk ( 105 ) adapted to receive the bottom of said containers (C); - a stop slider ( 107 ) resting on top of the container (C) to maintain verticality during rotation; - to the said stop slider ( 107 ) connected motor elements ( 103 ) to rotate it together with the container under it about the longitudinal axis (Z) of said container (C) in rotation. Filling plant according to claim 1, in which said rotary inspection machine ( 100 ) records the inspection value of the said container (C) and assigns it to the respective container by printing it on with the aid of a downstream second labeling machine or storing it in a central store or in a tag connected to the container (C). Filling plant according to claim 12, in which the identification value of said container (C) is determined by said rotary inspection machine (15). 100 ) on the label or on a tag associated with the container (C) or by a device of progressive identification in front of said rotary inspection machine ( 100 ), which are connected directly or via a central logic control unit ( 32 ) is communicated, read. Filling plant according to Claim 21, in which the said rotary inspection machine ( 100 ) is suitable to check the liquid in areas not covered by labels.

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