EP1477240A2 - Installation and apparatus for cleaning crates, especially bottle crates - Google Patents

Abstract

The plant (1, 1a) is used for cleaning bottle crates (2). It includes a number of treatment zones in succession in the transporting direction (A), of which at least one is in the form of an immersion bath (35) and another (37) is for spraying the crates with cleaning fluid. These two zones may be directly adjacent to each other.

Description

The invention relates to a system according to the preamble of claim 1 and to a device according to the preamble of claim 15.

Devices for cleaning boxes, in particular bottle boxes (also as Box washer) are known in principle (DE 44 00 871 A1). With these known devices are between a housing of the device between an inlet for the bottle crates to be cleaned and an outlet for the cleaned bottle crates provided several treatment zones through which the Bottle crates are carried out one after the other, following the inlet First an immersion bath, in which the bottle containers for soaking in one suitable cleaning medium (e.g. lye) are completely immersed in and on this immersion bath then has several treatment zones in which the Bottle crates with a liquid cleaning medium using nozzles be hosed, with a hosing in a last treatment zone pure or fresh water.

The object of the invention is to show a system that is more flexible especially with regard to their installation in existing buildings as well as with regard to the adaptation to the respective needs of a user To solve this task, a system corresponding to the Claim 1 trained.

The object of the invention is also a device for cleaning Show bottle crates that are optimal in terms of their thermal insulation is trained. To solve this problem, a device is according to the Claim 15 executed.

It is also also known for devices for treating bottle crates Reduction of thermal losses, but also to reduce the noise level a thermal on the outer surface of a housing of the machine or device Provide insulation. In known devices, however, there is the disadvantage that this thermal insulation is not or only very poorly against external ones Effects, especially moisture or liquid, is therefore protected thermal insulation during normal operation with cleaning fluid soaked and therefore no longer effective.

Fig. 1

in vereinfachter schematischer Darstellung eine Anlage zum Reinigen von Behältern, insbesondere Flaschenkästen gemäß der Erfindung;

Fig. 2

in vereinfachter Darstellung einen Teilschnitt durch eine Wandung einer Vorrichtung zum Reinigen von Flaschenkästen;

Fig. 3

in einer vereinfachten Darstellung eine Anlage zum Reinigen von Behältern, insbesondere Flaschenkästen gemäß einer weiteren möglichen Ausführungsform der Erfindung;

Fig. 4

in vereinfachter Darstellung und in Seitenansicht einen verstellbaren Wendebogen für den Einlauf der Maschine 4;

Fig. 5

einen Schnitt durch die Tauchbäder der Maschine gemäß Figur 3;

Fig. 6

einen Längsschnitt durch die Maschine der Figur 3 im Bereich des Übergangs zwischen dem Tauchbad und einen anschließenden Modul zum Hochdruck-Abspritzen der Flaschenkästen;

Fig. 7

eine Teildarstellung einer Draufsicht auf die Maschine der Figur 3;

Fig. 8

in schematischer Darstellung ein oberes, höhenverstellbares Führungsgeländer für die Flaschenkästen am Einlass sowie Auslass des Tauchbades;

Fig. 9

in vereinfachter Darstellung und in Draufsicht das die Trockeneinheit aufweisende Modul der Vorrichtung der Figur 3;

Fig. 10

und 11 ein Längsschnitt sowie ein Querschnitt über das Modul der Figur 9;

Fig. 12

eine Draufsicht auf einen Transporteur mit Dreh-Station für die Flaschenkästen;

Fig. 13

in vereinfachter Darstellung einen Schmutz-Auffangwagen zur Verwendung bei der Vorrichtung der Figur 3;

Fig. 14

in vereinfachter Darstellung und in Draufsicht eine Drehstation des Moduls zum Hochdruckabspritzen der Flaschenkästen;

Fig. 15

in schematischer Darstellung eine weitere mögliche Ausführungsform der Anlage zum Reinigen von Flaschenkästen in Seitenansicht;

Fig. 16

in vereinfachter Darstellung eine Draufsicht auf eine Vorspritzstation der Anlage der Figur 15.

The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures using exemplary embodiments. Show it:

Fig. 1

a simplified schematic representation of a system for cleaning containers, in particular bottle crates according to the invention;

Fig. 2

in a simplified representation, a partial section through a wall of a device for cleaning bottle crates;

Fig. 3

a simplified representation of a system for cleaning containers, in particular bottle crates according to another possible embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 4

in a simplified representation and in side view an adjustable turning arc for the inlet of the machine 4;

Fig. 5

a section through the immersion baths of the machine according to Figure 3;

Fig. 6

a longitudinal section through the machine of Figure 3 in the area of the transition between the immersion bath and a subsequent module for high pressure spraying of the bottle crates;

Fig. 7

a partial representation of a plan view of the machine of Figure 3;

Fig. 8

a schematic representation of an upper, height-adjustable guide rail for the bottle crates at the inlet and outlet of the immersion bath;

Fig. 9

in a simplified representation and in plan view the module of the device of FIG. 3 having the drying unit;

Fig. 10

and FIG. 11 shows a longitudinal section and a cross section over the module of FIG. 9;

Fig. 12

a plan view of a conveyor with a turning station for the bottle crates;

Fig. 13

in a simplified representation, a dirt collecting trolley for use in the device of FIG. 3;

Fig. 14

in a simplified representation and in plan view a turning station of the module for high pressure spraying of the bottle crates;

Fig. 15

a schematic representation of another possible embodiment of the system for cleaning bottle crates in side view;

Fig. 16

In a simplified representation, a top view of a pre-injection station of the system in FIG. 15.

The system generally designated 1 in FIG. 1 is used for cleaning Bottle crates 2, which are fed to the system 1 via a conveyor 3. To the bottle crates 2 are cleaned by the conveyor 4 of another one Fed use.

The system 1 has a modular structure, i.e. it consists of several in Transport direction A of the bottle crates 2 consecutive, each independent and in the direction of transport of the bottle crates 2 from each other spaced, i.e. modules or modules which are not immediately adjacent to one another Devices 5, 6 and 7. These devices each have their own, elongated and oriented with its longitudinal extension in the direction of transport A. Housing 5.1, 6.1 and 7.1, which for example consists of a corrosion-resistant Steel is made and with at least one long side of the housing with large format French doors 8 and others for inspection and / or rectification of faults are.

Each device 5, 6 and 7 has on a narrow or end face of the housing 5.1, 6.1 or 7.1 an inlet and on the other narrow or front side of the concerned Housing an outlet for the bottle crates 2, the inlet of the housing 5.1 with the feed dog 3, the outlet of the housing 5.1 via a Intermediate conveyor 9 with the inlet of the housing 6.1, the outlet of the housing 6.1 via an intermediate conveyor 10 with the inlet of the housing 7.1 and Outlet of the housing 7.1 are connected to the feed dog 4. To the Moving the bottle crates within each device 5, 6 and 7 or along the processing stations formed in the corresponding housing these devices also have suitable transporters for the bottle crates 2 on, these device-internal transporters at least part of the Transporters 3 and 4 and in between transporters 9 and 10 can form.

In the embodiment shown, the device 5 is only used as an immersion bath or Dip switch designed, i.e. the processing line of this device consists in essentially only from at least one tub-like immersion bath with a suitable one Cleaning liquid, e.g. Lye through which the bottle crates 2 are passed that they are completely immersed in the immersion bath. For this, the internal Transporter of the device 5 at the inlet and at the outlet of the immersion bath in each case a sloping downward or sloping upward section. in principle there is the possibility of several immersion baths in the transport direction in the device 5 to be provided in succession. It also has at least one immersion bath preferably a circulation pump on, namely to generate a circuit for the Cleaning medium in such a way that this in each case in the transport direction Bottle crates 2 sucked off the rear end of the immersion bath and then after the Flow through a cleaning and foreign matter discharge the immersion bath at an in Direction of transport of the bottle crates 2 front end over at least one there Inlet nozzle or opening is fed again.

The bottle crates 2 treated in the device 5 pass through the Intermediate conveyor 9 to the inlet of the device 6. On the Intermediate conveyor 9 takes place, among other things. also draining or draining Cleaning liquid of the immersion bath. The dripping from the bottle crates 2 Cleaning liquid is on a tub-like collecting element 9.1 of the Intermediate conveyor 9 caught and to the device 5 or the one there Dip bath returned.

In the device 6, the bottle crates 2 are only cleaned further Spraying the bottle crates 2 in several on each other in the transport direction following workstations using appropriate nozzles, preferably using rotating nozzles with cleaning fluid and a final hosing down with fresh water.

The bottle crates 2 cleaned in this way are then transferred via the intermediate conveyor 10 transported to the device 7, the bottle boxes 2 still adhering water is already dripping on the intermediate conveyor 10 and there from one Collection device 10.1 collected and to the device 6 or to one Collecting container of this device is derived. Only takes place in the device 7 Blow off and / or dry the bottle crates 2, for example in one of at least one blower generated airflow and / or by emerging from nozzles Compressed air.

The advantage of having several independent modules or devices 5, 6 and 7 formed plant consists among other things in that the individual, in the cleaning process successive treatment stages according to the respective requirements Any combination, but can also be designed. For example, it is possible to dispense with the device 7, if blowing and / or drying the bottle crates 2 is not required, and / or if heavily soiled Bottle crates 2 two devices 5 successively in the direction of transport A. to provide, for example, the total exposure time of the immersion in the double bottle crates 2.

Another major advantage is that by using individual modules and those provided between these modules Intermediate transporters 9 and 10 the installation of the system, i.e. the arrangement of the Devices to each other can be chosen practically arbitrarily and thereby in particular, it is also possible to set up the system 1 to the existing spatial Adjust conditions optimally.

There is also the possibility of 9 and 10 more on the intermediate conveyors To carry out treatments, for example on the intermediate conveyor 9 Intermediate emptying of e.g. turned bottle crates 2 of still existing Foreign substances etc. Furthermore, it is also possible to use 2 devices in the direction of transport 6 to be provided in succession and on one of these devices together connecting intermediate conveyor means for rotating the bottle crates in such a way provide that the bottle crates after turning then in the second Device 6 with those sides oriented parallel to the direction of transport with which the bottle crates before turning in the previous device 6 were oriented perpendicular to the direction of transport, so an all-round intense To achieve cleaning of the bottle crates.

Above it was assumed that the bottle crates 2 single lane over the Transporter fed and discharged via the transporter 4 and likewise be moved through the various modules 5 - 7 in one lane. Of course, it is also possible to use the transporters 3 and 4 and / or the Intermediate transporters 9 and 10 and the internal transporters of the devices 5, 6 and 7 to train multiple lanes.

Figure 2 shows a simplified representation of a section through the housing or outer housing wall of a device for cleaning the bottle crates, for example a section through the lower area of the housing 5.1 Device 5, but the training shown in Figure 2 with each other cleaning device for bottle crates or other containers can be used.

With 11 in this figure is the outer vertical shell or wall of the housing otherwise reproduced device not shown, for example the vertical wall on one long side of the elongated housing. The wall 11, which consists of a stainless steel sheet, goes into the bottom of the housing also formed by the stainless steel sheet shell or bottom wall 12. At the Thermal insulation 13 is provided on the outer surface of the housing wall 11 in the illustrated embodiment of several plate-shaped insulating elements 13.1 consists of a foamed plastic, for example one Plastic resin foam. The insulating elements 13.1 are hermetic to the outside closed housed in a room through the housing wall 11 and through a cover 14 provided on the outer surface of this housing wall is limited is.

The cover 14 is also made from the stainless steel sheet by punching and bending produced in such a way that this cover 14 or its cover in FIG the cross-sectional profile shown forms a C-shaped bend in the upper area, with a shorter leg 15.1 and with one on this leg at the illustrated embodiment at right angles adjoining yoke section 15.2, which in turn is then angled in relation to the yoke section 15.2 Leg or wall section 16 merges, which extends over the entire height of the Cover 14 extends and forms a bend 17 at the lower end together with the yoke section 15.2 over a common side of the Wall section 16 protrudes.

As shown in FIG. 2, the cover with the yoke section 15.1 is on several points or areas 18 welded to the housing wall 11, namely exclusively from the inside of the housing. For this purpose, 18 in the housing wall 11 has an opening 19 through which the welded connection is designed such that not only the Creates a welded connection between the leg 5.1 and the housing wall 11, but also the respective opening 19 completely or almost again is completely closed, but at least the housing wall 11 in the area of this Opening is absolutely tight again. The free end of the bend 17 is by individual Weld spots 21 fixed to the housing base 12, in the vicinity of the transition between housing wall 11 and housing base 12.

For a tight seal of the interior receiving the insulating elements 13.1 To achieve the cover 14, the angular corner between the outer surface of the Housing wall 11 and the top or outer surface of the yoke section 5.2 and the gap there between the cover 14 and the outer surface of the Housing wall 11 with a continuous, over the entire length of Housing wall 11 or the cover 14 extending joint or order 22 a permanently elastic sealant, for example from a sealant Sealed silicone base.

Above the thermal insulation 13 and the cover 14 are in the Housing wall, for example, the large-format doors 8 provided. Through the described thermal insulation 13 is achieved on the one hand that the material 13.1 forming this insulation, in particular also moisture or is housed in a liquid-protected manner and by welding the cover 14 in the area of the leg 15.1, which starts from the upper yoke section 15.2 extends in the direction of the lower bend 17 and by welding the optical from the inside of the housing in the region of each opening 19 Appearance of the housing wall 11 and also the cover 14 in particular not due to temperature-related changes in the stainless steel surface or coloring is impaired, but still a moisture and liquid protected Housing of the material 13.1 is guaranteed. Due to the point fixation the cover 14 in the area of the cover 17 is also achieved that possibly in the interior of the cover 14 can collect condensate flow.

FIG. 3 shows a further system or Device 1a for cleaning the bottle crates 2. This device 1a exists again from several, adjoining each other in the transport direction A. Modules or device sections, 5a, 6a and 7a, each with its own Housing 5.1a, 6.1a and 7.1a are formed. The system 1a has two lanes executed, i.e. the bottle crates 2 to be cleaned move in Transport direction A on two parallel transport routes through system 1a or whose modules 5a, 6a and 7a.

The bottle crates 2 to be cleaned are in via an outer conveyor 30.1 Normal position, i.e. with their floor on the horizontal or approximately horizontal Surface of the conveyor is fed up to an input module 30, specifically at the embodiment shown in such a way that the bottle crates 2 with their larger side are oriented perpendicular to the transport direction (A). On the Transporter 30.1 first get the bottle crates 2 to a first Turning sheet 31, in which the bottle crates 2 are turned, so that now the bottom of each bottle crate is on top. One closes at the turning arc 31 first pre-injection and emptying 32 (pre-separation). In this the Turned bottle crates with water from above, so that not just pre-cleaning, but especially through the compartments and bottoms of the bottle crates 2 water passing through them as well Existing foreign objects such as broken glass, paper scraps, etc. be carried out. Via a second turning arch 33 and an obliquely downwards Directed conveyor 34, the bottle crates then get into one of the two parallel immersion baths 35, which in the embodiment shown the module 5a with its own housing 5.1a. In the immersion bath 35 are in a Cleaning liquid, i.e. Submerged water with cleaning medium or lye Bottle crates in a diving or cleaning channel through one from a nozzle escaping flow of the cleaning medium in the direction of transport A. The nozzle is located on the one that forms the inlet to the immersion bath 35 Transporter 34. The one especially for the pre-emptying of those to be cleaned Bottle crates 2 serving part of the device, consisting of the two Turning bends 31 and 33 as well as the pre-cleaning station 32 and the conveyor 34 is located above the housing 5.1a of module 5.

At the end of the immersion bath 35, the bottle crates reach the outlet forming, inclined conveyor 36 in a section 37 in module 6a the system 1a, in which (module) a lateral high pressure spraying of the Bottle crates 2 is done on the side surfaces, with water jets with extreme high pressure (approx. 100 bar) and with rotating nozzles 37.1, two of each are arranged on both sides of each transport route for the bottle crates 2.

This high pressure spraying takes place in two in the direction of transport successive sections. There is one between the two sections Rotating device 38 is provided, on which the bottle crates 2 each by one The vertical axis can be rotated by 90 °, so that one after the other through the high pressure water jets 37.1 of the two sections all four circumferential sides each Bottle crate 2 are processed with high pressure water jets, namely in particular also to remove any that may have been stuck on these circumferential pages Labels.

The peculiarity of the module 6a is that all units for Generation of the high pressure water jets in the housing 6.1a of the module 6a in a space 39 below the treatment section 37 having the nozzles 37.1 are arranged and below a collecting trough 40 for collecting and returning of the water used for high pressure spraying. The room 39 extends over the entire width of the module 6a.

In the embodiment shown, the module 6a directly adjoins the module 5a, without an intermediate conveyor.

As further shown, the module 6a has a height that is significantly larger than the overall height of the module 5a. While the overall height 5a is about a normal Corresponds to the table height, the module is at least 1.5 times higher. The tub 40 of the module is located approximately at the level of the top of the module 5a.

An intermediate conveyor 10a connects to the module 6a, on which the Bottle crates 2 in normal position, but with their narrower circumferential sides vertical oriented to the direction of transport A, the module 7a, in which a The water adhering to the cleaned bottle crates is blown off.

At the output of the module 7a there is a not shown in FIG. however, in FIG. 12, a top view of the conveyor 41 on which the Bottle crates 2 are then rotated again about their vertical axis, so that the cleaned bottle crates leave system 1a in normal position, i.e. with your Fashions standing up on the transport surface of the transporter and with the wider ones Circumferential sides oriented perpendicular to transport direction A.

The individual modules are described below in connection with FIGS. 4 and following explained in more detail.

Turn sheet 33

Figure 4 shows the design of the turning sheet 33 in a schematic representation and in side view.

Just like the turning sheet 33, the turning sheet 31 can also be designed. The Peculiarity of the turning sheet 33 is that it is the height of the transport route this turning arc is adjustable. The transport route is above and below bounded by a guide plate 42 or 43, which is approximately in the shape of an arc of a circle horizontal turning axis 44 oriented perpendicular to the transport direction A extends. The two turning plates 42 and 43 have a width that is equal to the conveying width the transport route for the bottle crates 2, i.e. roughly equal to the width that the Have bottle crates 2 on their wider circumferential sides. The outside Guide plate 42 first forms the upper guide at the inlet of the turning arc 33 and then at the outlet of the turning sheet 33 the lower guide or sliding surface for the bottle crates 2. Conversely, the inner sheet 43 at the inlet initially forms the Stand and guide surface for the bottle crates and at the outlet of the turning bend 33 the top guide.

The outer sheet 42 is accordingly at the outlet of the turning arc 33 forming end 42.1 and also approximately in the middle of the turning arc at 42.2 connected to the frame 45 of the turning arc. The upper end 42.3 is at one Swivel lever 46 is provided with which the position, and in particular also the Distance of this end 42.3 changed to adapt to the height of the bottle crates 2 can be. In an analogous manner, that which is provided at the inlet of the turning arc 33 End 43.1 of the sheet 43 firmly connected to the frame 45 and the other end 43.2 of the sheet 43 with a lever 47 pivotable about the turning axis 44, so that by pivoting the lever 47, the distance between the guide plates 42 and 43 at the outlet of the turning arc 33 is changeable. By creating both guide plates 42 and 43, the turning arc 33 is optimal to the different height of the bottle crates 2 adjustable.

Module 5a

The formation 5a essentially results from FIGS. 5-7.

A special feature of the system 1a and the module 5a is that the two Immersion baths 35 of the two parallel transport paths in the housing 51a of the module 5 in relation to the two long sides of this housing are provided on the inside, namely on both sides of a, extending in the longitudinal direction of the module, vertical middle partition 48, at the level of which the module 5a at least is mirror-symmetrical with regard to the design of the housing. At the Partition 48 are in the immersion bath 35 two heaters 49, respectively for example, several, in the immersion bath 35 or in the one there Cleaning fluid arranged heat exchanger tubes exist, which are in Extend longitudinally over the entire length of the immersion bath and from one hot, heat-transporting medium, for example from hot water or through which steam or the like flows. Of course there are others too Heaters conceivable. In the illustrated embodiment, the are in Immersion bath 35 arranged two such heaters 49 in the vertical direction. On the side facing away from the partition 48, each heating device 49 connects the space of the immersion bath 35 on which the bottle crates 2 move through the flowing cleaning medium. to the respective long side of the housing 5.1a then closes from the immersion bath 35 through a vertical one Partition 50 separate return channel 51 for the cleaning medium of the immersion bath 35 at. This design ensures a constant distance between the two Transport lanes through the entire facility 1a possible.

The cleaning medium flows through the respective immersion bath 35 in the transport direction A. and for this it emerges from the area of the conveyor 34 in each immersion bath provided and supplied by a pump nozzle. Got to the other end the cleaning medium of both immersion baths 35 with a discharge device 52 a moving sieve 53 in the two return channels 51, from which then Cleaning medium is sucked in by the associated pumps. The Discharge device 52 is provided jointly for both immersion baths 35. For this is the partition 48 is interrupted at the end or provided with an opening.

The top of the housing 5a is made up of a plurality of hinged covers 54 formed, each in the area of the partition 48 or on a provided there support 55 extending in the longitudinal direction of the module 5a around a horizontal one Axis are provided pivotable. By lock 56, each with a Large window-providing cover 54 can be locked in the open position. Through the lid 54 or its window, the preferably illuminated Interior of the module 5a and in particular also the immersion baths 35 visually are optimally observed.

FIG. 5 specifically shows the design of the bottom 47 of the housing 5.1 a. This floor training is for the entire system 1a and its modules 5a, 6a and 7a decisive. The bottom 57 consists of several, extending in the longitudinal direction extending longitudinal members 58 and formed as square tube profiles 59, of which the side member 58 in the middle and the two side members 59 each are provided laterally, but opposite the side surfaces of the housing inwards added. The longitudinal members 58 and 59 are at both ends at predetermined intervals Carriers 60 connected, which is oriented horizontally and perpendicular to the transport direction A. are and are also formed by a box hollow profile or tubular profile. To the The ends of the cross members 60 are each bearing elements 61.1 for feet 61 intended. The bottom plate 62, which on the of the side members 58, 59 and the frame formed by the cross members 60 rests, is designed in the manner of a sloping roof, i.e. it is in each case starting downwards from the middle partition 48 downwards running that both in the two baths 35 and in the two return channels 41 existing residual liquid each based on the Partition 48 collects outside and can be removed there if necessary. Furthermore, this training also ensures that any leaks Liquids always flow outside.

This floor training is, as a whole, for all modules of system 1a identical.

As already mentioned, the inlet of the module 5a or the two immersion baths 35 is formed by the sloping downward conveyor 34, the simplest Case is an inclined slide for the bottle crates 2. To avoid the Bottle crates 2 become undesirable when immersed in the respective immersion bath 35 Turning or turning over, there is a guide 63 at the top of this feed dog provided for the top of the bottle crates 2. This guide 63 consists in Essentially from a piece of pipe or guide pipe 64, which is in Transport direction A extends and at both ends on housing-fixed guide rods 65 and 66 is held. These guide rods extend in the horizontal direction, i.e. the guide 63 or its pipe section 64 are in the horizontal direction and in Longitudinal direction of the module 5a adjustable and in the respective setting by a Locking screw 63.1 can be fixed. Since this setting is made in the horizontal direction and the feed dog 34 is inclined, is also one with the horizontal adjustment Adaptation of the guide 63 to different heights of the bottle crates possible. The guide rods 65 and 66 are each located above the pipe section 64, are connected to the guide tube 64 via arms 67 and 68 and in bushings 65.1 and 66.1 on the housing. By using two parallel guide rods 66 at one end of the pipe section 64, this is against lateral evasion secured.

Transporter 36

This transporter 36, which is connected to the respective immersion bath 35, is already there Part of the module 6a and is housed in the housing 6.1a.

The transporter 36 essentially consists of one rotating Hinged belt chain formed transport link 69 on which the bottle crates 2 get up and on which carriers are provided for these bottle crates, as well from side guide rails 70 for the bottle crates 2. The hinged chain is guided over a deflection wheel located in the immersion bath and over a deflection wheel 72, which is located at the end of the first section of the high pressure spray and is driven by a drive, not shown. Above, below and is to the side of the transport and treatment line formed by the transporter 36 a plurality of nozzles 73 are provided for spraying the bottle crates 2 inside and outside as well as on all circumferential sides and on the bottom with fresh water, to clean these bottle crates. There is also a turn on the feed dog 36 the corresponding guide 63 provided. This is clearly shown Figure also the suspension of the pipe section 64 with the two guide tubes 65 and 66 on guide bushes 65.1 or 66.1 fixed to the housing.

High pressure spraying with high pressure nozzles 37

6 is a partial length of the treatment room 37 for the High pressure spraying of the bottle crates shown. With 37.1 there is again one arranged laterally from the transport route for the bottle crates by one horizontal axis perpendicular to the direction of transport A rotating nozzle. The nozzle 37.1 is provided several times, namely two on each transport route Nozzles 37.1 before the turning station 38 and two nozzles 37 after this turning station. For the supply of the four nozzles 37 of each transport route is a separate one High-pressure pump 73 is provided, which has a backing pump 75 and two filters 76 and 77 is supplied with water. The coarse filter 76, which is used to filter out coarse Ingredients is in the embodiment shown with the output of Backing pump 75 connected with its inlet to an outlet of the collecting trough 40 connected. The coarse filter 76 is located outside the housing 6.1.a of the Module 36 and is a mechanical, self-cleaning filter from which the filtered solids by manual operation or after a given schedule. The filter 77 is a microfilter, which cleans itself and with which also very fine residues be filtered out.

The fact that for each of the two transport routes independently High-pressure pump 74 and the associated additional units, namely the backing pump 75 and the two filters 76 and 77 are provided separately, there is the possibility to operate the system 1a only on one lane, especially in the case a defective transport route.

When entering the high pressure spray 37, i.e. when leaving the Transporter 36, the bottle crates 2 are already clean per se. With the High-pressure spray 37 or with the nozzles 37.1 there are to the Bottle crates 2 adhesive labels removed, first on the two, on Outfeed of the conveyor 36 in the direction of transport and then to turning on the rotating device 38 on the other two, now in Pages oriented circumferentially.

The rotating device 38 is formed, for example, in that on the feed dog, on which the bottle crates are moved by the high pressure spray 37 Stop is provided on which the bottle crates 2 are rotated. In the illustrated embodiment, however, the rotating device is similar to that below transport route 41 described in more detail in connection with FIG. 12 trained on the turning of the bottle crates 2 through with different Speed running conveyor belt or hinge wall chains is reached.

As already mentioned, all functional elements, in particular the two, are High pressure pumps 74, the two pumps 75 and the two microfilters 77 and also a blower 78, each with a preliminary blow off of the bottle crates takes place via a nozzle 79 in the space 39 formed under the tub 40 arranged. This results in a particularly successful construction, the under the other takes into account on the one hand that the bottle crates via the transporter 36 must be led out of the respective immersion bath 35 and on the other hand one large space for clear and for example for repair and Maintenance 39 creates easily accessible space.

Furthermore, this construction enables the two high pressure pumps 75 and their drives, which are formed by electric motors with high power, each be attached directly to the two outer side members 58 of the base 57 can, in such a way that the axis of the respective high pressure pump and its Drive motor are oriented horizontally and perpendicular to the direction of transport A.

Unit 7a

Via the intermediate conveyor 10a, which is similar to the intermediate conveyor 10 is formed, the unit 7a follows, in which a blow-off of the cleaned bottle crates 2 takes place. The two parallel transport routes for the Bottle crates 2 are in this module each of a transport member 80 (endless revolving hinge band chain), from a lateral guide 81 and from one upper, preventing the bottle crates from lifting up from the transport member 80 Leadership 82 formed. The guide 82 essentially consists of a Guide tube 83, which is adjustable in height, namely the guide tubes 83 both guides 82 via a common cable pull. This cable pull consists of a plurality of ropes 84 and 85, each provided in pairs, each one rope 84 and 85 for each guide 82 or its guide tube 83.

Each rope 84 is connected at one end to the guide tube 83, namely in the Close to the inlet of the module 7a and with the other end in the longitudinal direction adjustably attached to one end of a tab-like connector 86. The Ropes 84 are guided over pulleys 87 in such a way that each rope 84 initially a rope length extending vertically upward from the guide tube 83 then a horizontal and above the guide tube 83 Rope length oriented perpendicular to conveying direction A and then a rope length forms a horizontal rope length oriented in the direction of conveyance A, approximately in the middle of the module 7a and is connected to the connecting piece 86. In the middle of the connecting piece 86, another rope 88 is fastened so as to be adjustable in length, which is then guided via a pulley 89 to an adjusting device 90 with which by tightening and yielding on the ropes 84, raising and lowering the Guide tube 83 is possible. The adjusting device 19, which on the outside of the Housing 7.1a is accessible and can be operated there by means of a hand crank, has, for example, a threaded spindle, which is tightened or The rope 88 yields.

The two ropes 85 are in the same way as the ropes 84 on rollers 87 on Device frames of the unit 7a guided and with a connecting piece 86 connected, which also together with the adjusting element 90 via a rope 88 acts so that when operating the adjusting element all four cables 84 and 85 in the same Actuated and thereby the guide tubes 83 of both guides 82 identical and can be operated synchronously.

A special feature is that a 83 on each guide tube slot-shaped air outlet nozzle 91 is provided, which is when adjusting the Guide tube 83 is adjusted with and thus with every bottle crate size is arranged directly the path of movement of the bottle crates. The slit-shaped Outlet opening of the nozzle 91 is in the horizontal direction and perpendicular to Transport direction A oriented, in such a way that the exiting from the nozzle 91 Airflow is directed from top to bottom. It is understood that the nozzle 91 is located above the path of movement of the bottle crates. In the direction of transport A are offset on both sides of each transport route with respect to the two nozzles 91 two further nozzles 92 are provided, which just have their air outlet slots in are oriented in the vertical direction and with which a lateral blowing off of the Bottle crates 2 is done.

The nozzles 91 and 92 are each oriented so that the one emerging from these nozzles Air jet or its central plane with the horizontal (jet from the nozzles 91) or with the vertical plane (air jets of the nozzles 92) an angle somewhat smaller than 90 °, which opens in the direction of conveyance A, so that water remains at relative bottle crates moving to these nozzles from these bottle crates through the Air jets are literally "peeled off".

The housing has under the transport path formed by the transport member 80 a trough-like intermediate floor 93, which has an inclination towards the center, so that blown off the bottle crates and in the trough-like bottom 93 can collect residual water via an outlet 94.

Below the intermediate floor or the tub 93, two, each provided by an electric motor driven fan 95, the outlet are connected via pipes 96 to the nozzles 91 and 92, respectively the nozzles 91 leading piping flexible sections 97 are provided to the Height adjustment of the nozzles 91 provided on the guide tubes 93 enable. In the illustrated embodiment, one blower 95 is for the two Nozzles 91 and a blower 95 are provided for the four nozzles 92.

Transporter 41

The conveyor 41 forming the outlet of the system 1a is simplified in FIG shown. It forms two transport routes, each consisting of a straight line Transport section 98 and an adjoining in the transport direction, a 90 ° curvature Assemble forming transport section 99. The transport sections 98 consist of several, a common footprint for the bottle crates 2 forming parallel endlessly driven conveyor belts, for example hinge chain straps.

The two transport sections 99 each consist of two lateral ones Conveyor belts from the inside, based on the curvature Conveyor belt 100 and from the external transport bench 101, which is also from Flat top chains, namely curved flat top chains with associated Guides for the chain links are formed. The two conveyor belts 100 and 101 are each driven by their own drives 102 and 103, with different speeds such that, for example, the inside Transport bench 100 has a lower speed than the outside Transport bench 101. This takes place in each case on the transport section 99 Rotate the bottle crates 2 about their vertical axis by 90 ° such that the Bottle crates then the system 1a via a conveyor 104 in the leave the original location, i.e. with her bottom on the feed dog 104 rising and with its wider circumferential sides perpendicular to the direction of transport A oriented.

In order to ensure that the bottle crates 2 are turned in any case for example, additional stops at the transport sections 96 provided, against which the bottle crates start on one side and through which a Turning these bottle crates is achieved.

FIG. 13 shows, in a simplified representation, a trolley 105, which is used for collecting the foreign substances excreted in the pre-separation 32. The car 105 For this purpose, this pre-separation is laterally connected to a slide-like outlet 106 the system 1a positioned below a walk-in platform 107, which in the Area of the pre-separation 32 is provided on the side of the system 1a and via the the pre-separation is accessible if necessary.

The carriage 105 has an intermediate floor 108 below and below this a collection room 109 for surge or splash water. Not over one Hose shown, the collecting space 109 is connected to a pump 110 via which in turn collects the water that collects in the collecting space 109 Water cycle of the pre-separation 32 is pumped back to Reduction of water consumption.

It has already been mentioned above that the cover or flaps 54 with large-format viewing windows with panes made of a suitable, clear plastic are provided. In the same way, the housings 6.1a and 7.1a also point laterally Flaps open through which the interiors of these housings are accessible, the corresponding flaps or windows 111 especially where the proper Treatment of the bottle crates 2 and a trouble-free operation visually checked need to have large window panes.

Turning station for bottle crates 2 in module 6a for high pressure spraying

FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of the turning station 38 again in detail at this station the bottle crates 2 become upright, i.e. with their bottom fed down, in the direction of arrow A of Figure 14, i.e. with the wider side oriented perpendicular to the conveying direction. After turning, they are Bottle crates 2 then with their narrower circumferential side perpendicular to Direction of conveyance A oriented.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rotation takes place in that the Transporter 120 for the bottle crates 2 in the area of the turning station of two parallel conveyor belts 120.1 and 120.2 is formed, one of which Conveyor belt is driven somewhat faster than the other conveyor belt, so that thereby rotating the bottle crates 2 lying on both conveyor belts 2 he follows. The turning of the bottle crates is supported by two lateral ones Guide railings 121 and 122, the distance of which decreases in the conveying direction A, i.e. limit a conveyor lane for the bottle crates 2 laterally, the width in Delivery direction A decreases in such a way that this aisle width at the inlet of the turning station 38 is initially somewhat larger than the width of the wider circumferential sides of the in Top view of rectangular bottle crates 2 and then at the outlet of the turning station 38 is slightly larger than the width of the narrower peripheral sides of these bottle crates 2. One of the two guide rails, i.e. in the illustrated embodiment Guide rail 122 is rigid. The other guide railing 121 is in the area of Inlet of the rotating station 38 rotatable about a vertical axis at 123 and at the outlet the turning station 38 resiliently mounted at 124, in such a way that evasion of the Guide railing 121 is possible in the event of malfunctions, for example when wedging of bottle crates 2 or the like. A sensor 125 is located on the resilient holder 124 provided that responds when the guide rail 121 dodges and then emits a signal to indicate a fault and / or to switch off the system. The sensor 125 is a non-contact sensor, namely the Embodiment shown an inductive sensor that on a bolt 124.1 of spring-loaded holder 124 then responds when the guide rail 121 against the Effect of this holder is moved outwards. By using a contactless sensor 125, in particular an inductive sensor, it is possible this within the space provided for high pressure spraying to be arranged without the risk of malfunction.

Appendix 1b

FIG. 15 shows, as a further possible embodiment, a system 1b that is of the system 1a essentially only through a somewhat modified training the pre-emptying and pre-spraying or the input module 30 differentiates, so that for elements that are the same in terms of their function, the same elements Reference numerals are chosen as in Figures 3-14.

The pre-injection designated 33a in FIG. 15 is again part of the Input module 30, in which the bottle crates to be cleaned via the transporter 30.1 are fed in the conveying direction A.

Above the one connected to the turning bend 31 in the transport direction Conveying section for the bottle crates 2 are in turn on the pre-injection 32 Water outlet nozzles arranged with which the turned bottle crates 2, with bottle crates 2 lying at the top are then sprayed off. That here resulting water with foreign substances is in a funnel-like collecting element 127 brought together and passed on a screen belt 128 on which the foreign or Foreign matter remains, so that it is then screened 128 outwards into one 15 and 16 not shown collection container, for example in the Container 105 of Figure 13 are brought.

Under the sieve belt 128 there is a container 129 for collecting the for Pre-spraying used water, which is then by means of a circulation pump 130 is returned to the spray nozzles 126.

FIG. 15 also clearly shows the one that follows the immersion bath 35 High pressure spray 37 with the rotary station 38 and the below the High-pressure spraying 39 formed spaces for receiving various Units, especially pumps for high pressure spraying. In Appendix 1b is between the two rooms 39 which follow one another in the direction of transport A. below the conveyor line for the bottle crates 2 and below the Turning station 38 a tub 131 for collecting the splashing water High pressure spraying provided. To the water of the high pressure spray in to guide this tub 131 are the chambers 39 that still close above Bottoms 132 and 133 in the area of the high-pressure spraying downwards Direction of running on the tub 131. The floor 132 in the area The first high-pressure spraying in the direction of transport A is also in a partial area formed obliquely to the immersion bath 35, so that part of the water this first high pressure spray is passed into the immersion bath 35 and thus a Compensation for that with the bottle crates from the immersion bath in the High pressure spraying carried off water.

The two storage spaces 39 are each on the two long sides of the system 1b Flaps or doors accessible, which makes maintenance and / or particularly convenient Repair of the units housed in these storage spaces is possible.

The cover 54, which closes the immersion bath 35 on the upper side, is in the illustrated embodiment provided with windows. The immersion bath is also 35 illuminated so that the operation of the system also visually during operation can be observed.

The invention has been described above using exemplary embodiments. It understands is aware that numerous changes and modifications are possible without thereby leaving the inventive concept on which the invention is based.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1, 1a

Plant for cleaning bottle crates

2

bottle case

3, 4

Transporter for feeding and removing the bottle crates on or from the plant

5, 6, 7

Modules or devices of the system

5a, 6a, 7a

Modules or devices of the system

5.1, 6.1, 7.1

Housing of the respective module

5.1a, 6.1a, 7.1a

Housing of the respective module

8th

large-format door with large-format viewing windows

9, 10, 10a

between transporter

9.1, 10.1

collecting element

11

vertical housing wall of a device for cleaning bottle crates

12

bottom wall

13

thermal insulation

14

cover

15

C-shaped bend

15.1

Leg of the bend 15

15.2

Yoke section of the bend 15

16

Leg or wall section

17

angling

18

Area

19

opening

20

WeldingSpot

21

WeldingSpot

22

Sealing application or sealing joint

30

input module

30.1

Transporter for feeding the bottle crates to be cleaned

31

turning arc

32

Pre-emptying and pre-spraying

33

turning arc

34

carrier

35

dip

36

carrier

37

Hochdruckabspritzung

37.1

Hochdruckabspritzdüse

38

turning station

39

room

40

tub

41

Transporter with turning station for the bottle crates

42, 43

guide plate

42.1, 42.2

End of the guide plate 42

42.3

middle fastening of the guide plate

43.1, 43.2

End of the guide plate 43

44

turning axis

45

Frame of the turn sheet 33

46

pivoting lever

47

pivoting lever

48

partition wall

49

Immersion heater

50

partition wall

51

Return channel

52

Schmutzaustragsvorrichtung

53

scree

54

cover

55

longitudinal beams

56

Hold open lid

57

ground

58, 59

longitudinal struts

60

Querstrebeb

61

stands

61.1

Bearing element for pedestal

62

floor panel

63

Guide for the top of the bottle crate

64

Pipe piece or guide tube

65, 66

guide rod

65.1, 66.1

housing-side guide boxes

67.68

poor

69

Transport element or conveyor belt (hinge belt chain)

70

side guardrail

71, 72

Deflection wheel for flat top chain

73

jet

74

high pressure pump

75

upstream pump

76

prefilter

77

microfilter

78

fan

79

jet

80

conveyor belt

81

side guide rail

82

upper leadership

83

Upper guide tube

84, 85

rope

86

joint

87

pulley

88

rope

89

pulley

90

adjustment

91, 92

Blow Off

93

Partition wall or tub

94

procedure

95

fan

96

Pipe for blowing air

97

flexible connection for blowing air

98, 99

transport section

100, 101

conveyor belt

102, 103

drive

104

carrier

105

waste container

106

ejection

107

platform

108

false floor

109

plenum

110

pump

111

Door or flap

120

carrier

120.1, 120.2

conveyor belt

121, 122

guide railings

123

Swivel bearing for guide railing 121

124

spring-loaded counter bearing for guide railings 121

125

sensor

126

spray nozzles

127

funnel-like collecting element

128

screen belt

129

container

130

circulating pump

131

tub

132,133

ground

Claims (15)

System for cleaning crates (2), in particular bottle crates, characterized by a plurality of treatment zones which follow one another in a transport direction (A) of the crates (2), of which at least one treatment zone is an immersion bath and at least one further treatment zone for spraying off the crates (2) a cleaning liquid are formed. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one immersion bath and the at least one treatment zone for spraying the boxes (2) in the direction of transport directly adjoin one another,
wherein the transport plane of the boxes (2) in the immersion bath is lower than in the treatment zone for spraying, and / or
that the at least one immersion bath is formed by at least one independent module or at least one independent device (5) of a first type and the at least one treatment zone for spraying the boxes is formed by at least one independent module or at least one independent device (6) of a second type, wherein an intermediate conveyor (9) is provided between the spatially spaced apart independent devices (5, 6) and for example at least two devices (5, 6) of the first and / or second type are present,
and or
each device has its own housing (5.1, 6.1) with an inlet and an outlet for the bottle crates (2),
and or
that means for further treatment of the boxes (2) are provided on at least one intermediate conveyor (9, 10). following a device (6) of the second type in the transport direction (A) and from this is spatially spaced apart from a further, independent device (7) third type for drying or / or blowing off the bottle crates (2) is. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that above the module (5a) which has at least one immersion bath (35) there is a device (32) for pre-separating and flooding the boxes (2), preferably with two turning arches (31) following one another in the transport direction , 33) is provided
for example, at least one turning bend (33) has an outside guide and an inside guide (42, 43) with respect to a turning axis (44) and both guides can be adjusted to adapt to the height of the boxes to be cleaned, namely the outside guide (41 , 42) at the inlet around the inner guide (43) at the outlet of the turning bend. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the module (5a) having the immersion bath (35) is constructed in two lanes, each with a heating device (49) arranged in the immersion bath (35), and in that the heating device (49) on the the inside of the transport route leading through the immersion bath (35) is provided,
and or
that a guide (63) for the top of the bottle crates (2) is provided at the inlet and / or outlet of the immersion bath (35) or at a conveyor (34, 36) there, and that the distance between this guide or the guide forming guide element (64) and the transport plane of the transporter can be adjusted to adapt to different heights of the bottle crates, the setting being made, for example, by the guide element (64) being adjustable in an axial direction relative to the transport plane of the transporter (34, 36), which forms an angle of less than 90 ° with the transport plane. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the conveyor (30.1) forming the outlet of the at least one immersion bath (35) is provided in the housing (6.1a) of a module (6a) which causes the boxes to be cleaned to be sprayed, for example nozzles (73) for spraying the boxes (2) with fresh water are provided on the transporter (36). Installation according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the treatment zone for spraying the boxes is followed by a further treatment zone (37) for spraying the boxes with high-pressure water jets, and in that this treatment zone has at least four high-pressure spray nozzles (37.1), two of which are in pairs are provided on opposite sides of the transport path, and that between the two pairs of nozzles (37.1), offset in the transport direction (A), a station (38) is provided for rotating the bottle crates by 90 °. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a space (39) for accommodating the units of this module is formed in the housing (6.1 a) of the module (6a) below the high-pressure spray zone (37), and / or
that the module (5a) having at least one immersion bath (35) has a height which is substantially smaller than the overall height of the other modules (6a, 7a), and / or
that the housing of the module (5a) with the at least one immersion bath (35) on the top is closed by a plurality of flaps or lids (54) which follow one another in the direction of transport, preferably with large viewing windows. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one high-pressure pump (74) is provided for the high-pressure spraying, which is supplied via a backing pump (75), a coarse or prefilter (76) and a fine or microfilter (77) .
and or
that in a multi-lane design for the high-pressure nozzles (37.1), each lane has its own high-pressure pump (74). Installation according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the module (7) for drying or blowing off the bottle crates (2) on the at least one transport path for the bottle crates has at least one first air outlet nozzle (91) above the path of movement of the bottle crates and at least two second air outlet nozzles (92) to the side of the movement path of the bottle crates (2), for example the at least one first nozzle (91) being arranged on an upper guide (83) for the top of the bottle crates and being height-adjustable with this upper guide. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a conveyor (41) connected to the module (7a) for blowing off the cleaned bottle crates is formed by at least one transport section (99) on which the bottle crates (2) are rotated again by 90 ° be, and / or
that the device for rotating the bottle crates is formed by two transport belts (100, 101) which extend in the transport direction and are arranged next to one another and can be driven at different speeds, and / or
that a station for rotating the bottle crates is formed by a transporter with lateral guide rails (121, 122), and that at least one guide rail is designed for resilient evasion, and that a sensor (125) is provided which responds to the evasion of this guide rail. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a trough for collecting the spray water is provided between the two groups of nozzles (37.1) of high-pressure spraying, and in that the bottoms (132, 133) the area of high-pressure spraying in the direction of this trough (131 ) are inclined downwards. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a collecting trolley (105) which is arranged under an ejection (106) of the pre-emptying device (32) and has a sieve-like intermediate floor (108) and below this a collecting space (109) for draining off the cleaning liquid, and that a pump (110) is provided, via which the cleaning liquid can be returned from the collecting space (109) into the circuit of the pre-separation (32). System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the station (30) for pre-emptying or pre-spraying has at least one sieve belt (128) above the path of movement of the boxes (2), spray nozzles and below the path of movement. Device for cleaning crates, in particular bottle crates with a housing, in which at least one treatment zone for treating the crates (2) is formed, the housing having an outer wall (11) of the building, and on the housing wall (11) at least in a partial area on the outside thermal insulation (13) is provided, characterized in that the material (13.1) forming the thermal insulation (13) is accommodated in a space formed between the housing wall (11) and a cover (14),
that the cover (14) is made of a flat material by bending, with a top of the cover (14) forming a U- or C-shaped section (15), and
that the cover (14) from the inside of the housing wall (11) in several areas (18) at openings provided there (19) by welding the housing wall (11) with an angled leg (15.1) of the profile section to the housing wall (11) is
for example the transition between the outer surface of the housing wall (11) and the cover (14) in the region of the upper profile section is sealed by a sealing material (22), preferably by a permanently elastic sealing material,
and or
wherein, for example, the cover (14) has a bend (17) on a lower side remote from the profile section, with which the cover (14) is connected to the housing in the lower region of the housing wall (11) and / or in the region of the housing base (12) is, preferably by welding,
and or
wherein, for example, the housing wall (11) and / or the cover (14) consist of stainless steel.

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