EP1885514A2

EP1885514A2 - Washing machine for ampoules

Info

Publication number: EP1885514A2
Application number: EP06745300A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Giuseppino Naldi
Original assignee: Romaco SRL
Current assignee: Romaco SRL
Priority date: 2005-04-28
Filing date: 2006-04-21
Publication date: 2008-02-13
Anticipated expiration: 2026-04-21
Also published as: WO2006114803A2; EP1885514B1; WO2006114803B1; WO2006114803A3

Abstract

The washing machine for ampoules (2) of the type of phials and bottles comprises a pre washing tub (3), in which the ampoules (2) are suited to be supplied in accumulation on an inclined plane (15). Singularizing members (30) are suited to separate in succession rows of the single ampoules (2). A shifting device (44) carrying gripping elements (41) transfer the ampoules (2) through a series of successive washing stations (4). Internal washing devices (114) for the ampoules (2) comprise respective dispensing members (117) and dispensers (118) associated with the dispensing members (117), suited to be inserted inside the single ampoules (2), in order to perform the delivery of the washing fluid.

Description

WASHING MACHINE FOR AMPOULES

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a washing machine for ampoules, such as phials and bottles.

Background art

[0002] Currently are known automatic machines which carry out the washing of ampoules, in particular of the type of phials and bottles, at both the external and the internal surface. These machines essentially provide for a station for pre-washing the external surface, a station for washing and drying both the internal and the external surface, and finally a station for unloading.

[0003] A washing machine for ampoules of the cited type is illustrated by the patent IT1100324 in the name of H. Strunck GMBH. As this patent illustrates, the pre-washing station of the known machines is usually constituted by a tub filled with washing liquid, for instance water, in which an inclined plane is placed partially immersed, whereon the ampoules in accumulation advance for gravity. The pre-washing tub is associated with an ultrasonic waves generator suited to act on the supplied ampoules so as to cause the disjunction of the sediments of dirt adhering on the surface of the ampoules.

[0004] The ampoules are separated and spaced apart by means of suitable singularizing devices, for example of screw type, positioned at the lower end of the inclined plane, so as to be singularly taken by catching means suited to transfer them to the subsequent washing stations. Proper dispensing members, suited to be inserted inside the ampoules, perform the delivery of different washing fluids for washing and drying the internal surface of the ampoules, while other dispensing devices act on the external surface.

[0005] In particular, for washing the internal surface of the ampoules each washing cycle comprises successive deliveries of one or more washing fluids, usually demineralised water and distilled water, as well as pressurized air, carried out at a series of washing stations through which the same ampoules are taken. To this aim the known washing stations comprise, at each treatment station, a plurality of dispensers, suited to be inserted inside the ampoules to wash, in order to carry out the delivery of a specific fluid inside the ampoules. The dispensers of each washing station are simultaneously supplied with the washing fluid by means of a common distributing member associated with the station. Therefore, in the known washing units, the dispensers provided for each station are suited to dispense a single specific fluid supplied by the aforesaid distributing member.

[0006] The known washing units usually result very bulky because they require a relatively large number of successive washing stations, even for the simplest washing cycles.

[0007] Moreover these washing units don't allow to adjust the washing cycles to the productive requirements, which are imposed by the size as well as by the type of the ampoules to wash. In practice the washing sequences are rigidly determined by the structure of the washing unit and so don't allow to carry out optimal washing cycles for each type of ampoule.

[0008] Finally these known washing units carry out rather long washing cycles which considerably affect the productive efficiency of the plants. This is mainly caused by the dwell times and by the times for transferring the ampoules in step, each time the washing cycle requires the alternation of the dispensed fluid.

[0009] Consequently the known washing units do not fully satisfy the requirements of effectiveness, versatility of use, and functional simplicity of the current washing machines.

[0010] At the last station the washed ampoules are released in succession by the catching means in order to be transferred, in accumulation again, to an unloading station beneath, in order to be supplied, for example, to a sterilization tunnel, where the ampoules are subjected to air blowing at high temperature.

[0011] The machines of known type show considerable disadvantages caused by the difficulty to safely handle ampoules which are usually realized in fragile material such as glass material. In particular during the unloading step the known machines perform the release of the ampoules by gravity from the last washing station to the unloading station beneath, causing thus impacts among the ampoules and consequently increasing the risk of defects, such as cracks or breaks. Dangerous cracks can occur among the ampoules during the supplying step, too. In particular in order to carry out the singularization effectively, the ampoules are subjected to different actions mainly due to gravity, sliding friction and generated ultrasonic waves, causing thus even strong collisions between the surfaces being in contact of the ampoules in accumulation.

[0012] These damages during the supplying as well as the unloading step affect the productive outputs, which have to secure perfectly integral ampoules suitable for receiving dosed quantities of substances, for instance of pharmaceutical type, in order to comply with the quality standards in force.

[0013] The damage caused by these defects results even greater because the damaged ampoules can't be identified and removed from the productive cycle in time. Dangerous glass fragments and defective ampoules to be discarded go through all productive steps as well, thus increasing the risk of damaging further ampoules during the advance steps, and wasting costly productive resources.

Disclosure of the invention

[0014] The scope of the present invention is to provide a washing machine for ampoules which allows to carry out the automatic washing of ampoules of the type of phials and bottles in a secure and effective way.

[0015] Within this scope it is a further aim of the present invention to provide a washing machine for ampoules which allows to carry out the automatic washing of every type of ampoule of the type of phials and bottle in an optimal way.

[0016] A further aim of the invention is to devise a washing machine of simple structure, versatile use and actually reliable function.

[0017] The cited scopes are achieved, according to the present invention, by the washing machine for ampoules, in particular of the type of phials and bottles, according to claim 1.

Brief description of the drawings [0018] Description details of the invention shall be further evident in the illustrations of a preferred embodiment of the washing machine for phials and bottles, illustrated in the guideline drawings attached, wherein:

[0019] fig. 1 illustrates a schematic front view of a washing machine for ampoules according to the invention;

[0020] fig. 2 illustrates a front view of a pre-washing tub provided in the claimed machine;

[0021] fig. 3 illustrates a corresponding plant view of this pre-washing tub;

[0022] fig. 4 illustrates a front view of an unloading device of the machine;

[0023] fig. 5 illustrates a partial side view of the same unloading device;

[0024] fig. 6 illustrates a functional scheme of a washing unit according to the present invention;

[0025] fig. 7 illustrates a schematic front view of the claimed washing unit;

[0026] fig. 8 illustrates a side view of the same washing unit;

[0027] fig. 9 and 10 illustrate enlarged views of different embodiments of dispending members suited to be fitted in the claimed washing unit;

[0028] fig. 11 and 12 illustrate further embodiments of said dispensing members;

[0029] fig. 13 illustrates a side view of the washing unit utilizing the dispensing members of fig. 11.

Best mode for carrying out the invention

[0030] With reference to such figures 1 refers to the washing machine for ampoules 2 such as phials and bottles. The ampoules 2 shape a supporting base 20, a section contraction 21 and an upper opening 22. The machine 1 substantially comprises a pre-washing tub 3 for washing the external surface of the ampoules 2, a plurality of washing stations 4 mainly suited to wash the internal surface of the ampoules 2, and an unloading area 5 for the unloading of the washed ampoules 2 and for the supply of the same ampoules to successive treatment stations, for instance a sterilization tunnel.

[0031] The pre-washing tub 3 shapes a container usually filled with water at a temperature of nearly 40⁰C to a constant level comprised between a maximum level 6a and a minimum level 6b. The pre-washing tub 3 shapes an inclined bottom 7, inside which is associated a transducer device 8 connected to the ultrasonic waves generator 9 positioned externally.

[0032] In the pre-washing tub 3 is positioned an advance device 10 suited to enable the advance of the ampoules 2 along a direction A from an entry area 11 external to the pre-washing tub 3 to a transfer area 12 dipped in the washing fluid of the tub 3, at which transfer members 13 are suited to receive the ampoules 2 singularly. The advance device 10 shapes an inclined supplying band 14 dipped partially in the washing fluid of the pre- washing tub 3. This supplying band 14 is suited to define upperly an inclined plane 15, on which the ampoules 2 are suited to be positioned with the opening 22 turned upwards in order to advance in configuration of accumulation. In particular the supplying band 14 constituted preferably of steel grid is wound around a first drawing roll 16 positioned at the entry area 11 and around a second drawing roll 17 at the transfer area 12. The drawing rolls 16, 17 are operated in rotation in known way by suitable motor drives.

[0033] Furthermore with the supplying band 14 is associated a filling device 18 suited to fill the ampoules 2 by delivering washing fluid through the respective openings 22. This filling device 18 substantially shapes a plurality of nozzles 19 suitably supplied with the washing fluid and arranged on a crosspiece 23 fixed to the tub 3. The crosspiece 23 is positioned above the ampoules 2 advancing in an emerged position along the inclined plane 15 for enabling by filling the ampoules 2 the successive immersion of the ampoules 2 in the washing fluid.

[0034] Downstream to the filling device 18 is positioned a diverting device 24 suited to cause the alternate move of the ampoules 2 in transversal direction. This transversal move is preferably of an extent comparable with the transversal size of the ampoules 2. This diverting device 24 comprises a couple of plates 25 protruding at both sides of the inclined plane 15, next to the ampoules 2 in advance. The plates 25 are connected each other by a couple of tubes 26 positioned beneath the supplying band 14 and associated with a central support 27 operated in alternate motion by leverages 28 operated by drive means 29. Consequently the plates 25 are operated so as to intercept laterally the ampoules 2 from alternatively opposite sides of the inclined plane 15, so as to exert a moderate transversal push first in one direction and then in the opposite one.

[0035] At the transfer area 12 and consequently downstream to the diverting device 24 are positioned singularizing members 30 suited to act on the ampoules 2 positioned at the advance front 31 in order to disjoin a row of single ampoules 2 in a spaced way. The singularizing members 30 are constituted by a plurality of housing bodies 32 positioned aligned downstream to the second drawing roll 17 and spaced by means of separators 33. In particular the housing bodies 32 present frontally a hollow 34 suited to house one half of an ampoule 2 and such as to shape at a lower wall a flat area 35 suited to receive the supporting base 20 of the ampoules 2. Each housing body 32 presents a longitudinal slit 36 at the back.

[0036] Furthermore the housing bodies 32 are fitted in solid with a drawer-shaped support 66 suited to be set in alternate transversal motion by known drive mechanisms, for example of eccentric type. In particular the singularizing members 30 are suited to be alternately moved in transversal direction so that for each housing body 32 only one ampoule 2 of the advance front 31 is intercepted by the separators 33 to be housed inside the respective hollow 34.

[0037] The singularizing members 30 are suited to cooperate with transfer members 13 shaping transport means 38 carrying respective rows of teeth 39 driven in step in order to carry the single ampoules 2 from the transfer area 12 positioned beneath to a drawing station 40 positioned at an upper level above the surface of the washing liquid, where gripping elements 41 operate. The transport means 38 preferably shapes a chain drive 37 wound around respective wheels 42 operated by suitable motor drives. Therefore the teeth 39 fixed to proper support elements 43 and dragged by the chain drive 37 are suited to pass through the longitudinal slit 36 so as to transfer the single ampoules 2 to the drawing station 40.

[0038] The gripping elements 41 , preferably of the pincers-shaped type, are fixed to a shifting device 44 of chain type in order to carry out the transfer of the drawn single ampoules 2 to the washing stations 4 at which a washing unit 101 is suited to carry out the washing of their internal surface as well as their external surface by the delivery of different washing fluids.

[0039] At the drawing station 40 arranged rows of ampoules 2 are suited to be drawn in succession in order to be transferred to the washing unit 101. For example each row to draw can be constituted by twelve ampoules 2 positioned with the opening 22 turned upwards.

[0040] In particular the gripping elements 41 are suited to grip the single ampoules 2 next to the opening 22, for example at the section contraction 21. The chain type shifting device 44 carrying the gripping elements 41 is preferably constituted by a couple of chains 105 wound around respective couples of wheels 107 positioned facing one another at opposite sides of the machine 1 and operated by drive means of known type. In particular the gripping elements 41 are positioned aligned on a plurality of supporting sections 108 constrained to the shifting device 44 and arranged along it. The shifting device 44 defines a closed pathway in which are respectively defined a lower branch 109 and an upper branch 111 , both rectilinear, spaced by wound portions 112. The drawing station 40 is positioned near the lower branch 109 and so each row of ampoules 2 drawn there is suited to be rotated and overturned in the configuration with the opening 22 turned downwards during the successive transfer to the upper branch 111. The washing stations 4 suited to perform the washing of the ampoules 2 are positioned in succession along the upper branch 111. These washing stations 4 comprise external washing devices 113 for washing the external surface of the ampoules 2 and internal washing devices 114 for washing the internal surface of the ampoules 2. In the illustrated case are provided nine washing stations 4 for each of which are active the internal washing devices 114; obviously it is possible to provide a different number of washing stations, depending on the requirements of the specific use. On the contrary the external washing devices 113 are preferably present only at the stations of initial and final washing of the washing process.

[0041] In particular the external washing devices 113 provided at the initial washing station shape sprayers 115 suited to dispense a suitable washing fluid, for example demineralised water, externally to the ampoules 2. The sprayers 115 are positioned above the ampoules 2 carried by the gripping elements 41 along the upper branch 111 of the shifting device 44. The external washing devices 113 provided at the final washing station preferably shape blowers 116 supplied with sterilized air and suited to blow with an air jet onto the ampoules 2 so as to perform their external drying.

[0042] For each washing station 4 the internal washing devices 114 comprise a dispensing member 117 provided with a plurality of dispensers 118 for the emission of a suitable washing fluid and/or of air. The dispensing member 117 shapes a rectilinear external duct 119, preferably cylindrical and substantially positioned horizontally by an area beneath each row of ampoules 2 transported by the shifting device 44 (see fig. 8). In the external duct 119 is inserted coaxially an internal duct 123 suited to the separated delivery of a fluid, for example sterilized air. Consequently between the external duct 119 and the internal duct 123 is defined an interspace 124 suitable for the delivery of a washing fluid, for example demineralised water and/ or re-circulation water or distilled water.

[0043] The external duct 119 and the internal duct 123 of the dispensing member 117 are longitudinally provided with a plurality of threaded drillings 125a, 125b for the connection of the dispensers 118. In particular the drillings 125a are positioned on the external duct 119 radially and longitudinally aligned with the respective drillings 125b of the internal duct 123.

[0044] At the opposite ends each dispensing member 117 is connected with a first jointing member 126 and with a second jointing member 127 for the junction with the circuits supplying the washing fluid and the air respectively.

[0045] The first jointing member 126 preferably shapes a connecting element suited to be axially inserted externally to the dispensing member 117, so as to seal the corresponding end section 123a of the internal duct 123 and at the same time define an annular chamber 128 for the connection with the external duct 119. In particular this annular chamber 128 is suited to put in communication the first jointing member 126 with the interspace 124 by means of suitable outlet openings 129 provided at the end of the external duct 119. Furthermore the first jointing member 126 is coupled beneath by means of suitable junction and seal means 130 with a first header 131 supplied by a supplying circuit 132a or 132b with demineralised water or distilled water respectively. Along the supplying circuits 132a, 132b of the washing fluids are advantageously provided control valves 133, for example of the type of the solenoid valves, suited to operate the delivery of the washing fluid in controlled way.

[0046] The second jointing member 127 comprises a closing element 134, suited to close the corresponding end section 124a of the interspace 124, and an articulated joint 135, for example of fork type, suited to enable the coupling with the dispensing member 117 for the connection with the internal duct 123. The articulated joint 135 is connected beneath to a second header 136 supplied with air by the respective supplying circuit 137. In the coupled configuration a channel 138 internal to the joint 135 is suited to put in communication the outlet end section 123b of the internal duct 123 with the second header 136. In the air supplying circuit 137 are advantageously provided control valves 133 of the aforesaid type in order to operate the delivery of air in a controlled way.

[0047] The dispensing members 117 present in the washing unit 101 are associated with suitable operation means referred to the fixed framework of the machine 1. The operation means is suited to perform the alternate translation of the dispensing members 117 between a lowered position and a lifted position for the insertion of the dispensers 118 through the openings 22 of the facing ampoules 2. For example the operation means comprises cam-type mechanisms.

[0048] The operation means is advantageously suited to operate as well the external washing devices 113 in alternate motion between a position distant from the supporting base 20 of the ampoules 2 and a nearby position for performing the washing or the external drying.

[0049] The dispensers 118 suited to dispense the washing fluid and/or the air to the ampoules 2 are fitted aligned at the cited drillings 125a, 125b of each dispensing member 117. To be more precise the dispensers 118 are constituted by a first outflow channel 139 suitable for the delivery of the washing fluid and by a second outflow channel 140 suitable for the delivery of the air. The first outflow channel 139 preferably shapes a cylindrical duct 141 suited to be inserted longitudinally inside the ampoules 2 dwelling at the washing station 4. At a lower portion of the cylindrical duct 141 the first outflow channel 139 comprises a threaded base 142 for the tight connection with the respective drilling 125a of the external duct 119 and a grip portion 143, for example of prismatic shape, in order to enable the assembling operations. At the top the cylindrical duct 141 shapes a conical outlet portion 144 provided with side longitudinal notchings 145 particularly suitable for generating side outflow jets of washing fluid (fig. 9).

[0050] The second outflow channel 140 preferably shapes a needle-shaped duct 146 suited to be inserted coaxially in the first outflow channel 139, with which it contributes to define an outflow interspace 147 suited to allow the outflow of the washing fluid. The needle-shaped duct 146 protrudes beneath from the cylindrical duct 141 by an end portion 148 comprising a threaded end 149 for the tight connection with the respective drilling 125b of the internal duct 123, and a grip part 150 of the type of the grip portion 143 described previously for facilitating the assembling operations with the assistance of proper tools. At the top of the needle-shaped duct 146 is provided with an outlet axial section 151 associated with a plurality of radial drillings 152 protruding from the first outflow channel 139 (see fig. 9). This embodiment is particularly suitable for making washing jets lateral to the internal surface of the ampoules 2.

[0051] As illustrated in fig. 10 a different embodiment of the dispensers 118 provides that the outlet axial section 151 of the second outflow channel 139, lacking in this case the radial drillings 152, is positioned inside the first outflow channel 139. The cylindrical duct 141 , thus resulting protruding, shapes in turn an outlet portion 144a, cylindrical instead of conical, as well lacking any side notchings 145. This embodiment is suited to realize inside the outlet portion 144a in which air and washing fluid can flow such turbulence conditions to cause the nebulization of the dispensed washing fluid, in order to perform a particularly diffused washing of the internal surface of the ampoule 2.

[0052] It is worth noticing that by the lowered position of the dispensing members 117 the dispensers 118 are positioned external to the respective ampoules 2 dwelling at the washing stations 4. On the contrary by the lifted position of the dispensing members 117 the dispensers 118 are inserted inside the ampoules 2 in order to perform the washing with air and washing fluid.

[0053] According to the case illustrated in fig. 6 and 7 in the first three washing stations 4 the dispensing members 117 are supplied with sterilized air and with a first washing fluid consisting of a mixture pf demineralised water and re-circulation water coming from a collecting tub 153 located beneath the washing stations 4. The successive washing stations 4 are supplied with air and with a second washing fluid consisting of distilled water. The sixth station 4 is left available for further deliveries of washing fluids or for other treatments, for example for a silicone treatment, for which the supply of a mixture of water and silicone is needed. The last three washing stations 4 are supplied only with sterilized air for the drying of the ampoules 2. In the area beneath the washing unit 101 are preferably provided respective tanks 154 from which the different washing fluids are suited to be supplied in suitable ducts 155 by means of suitable pumping devices 156, by the interposition of suitable filtering elements 157. The air is usually supplied by a pipe network external to the machine 1.

[0054] According to a different embodiment illustrated in fig. 11 the internal duct 123 and the external duct 119 of the dispensing members provide respective circular pits 201 , 202 made orthogonally to the axes of these ducts respectively. The needle-shaped duct 146 carries fixed at one end a connector element 203 which presents axially spaced cylindrical portions suited to engage tight the pits 201, 202 respectively by the interposition of seals 204, 205. The portion engaging the pit 202 shapes an annular crown and defines the coupling seat for a second connector element 207 fixed at the end of the cylindrical duct 141. The second connector element 207 is frontally coupled to the first connector element 203 by the interposition of a seal 208. The outflow interspace 147 defined between the cylindrical duct 141 and the needle-shaped duct 146 is put in communication with the interspace 124 through an intermediate channel 206 realized diametrically to the first connector element 203. The connector elements 203, 207 are steadily kept in contact each other and with the internal and external ducts 123, 119 by a quick connectable spring 209. At the lower part of the external surface of the internal duct 123 is longitudinally provided a rib 210 suited to be connected to the internal surface of the external duct 119 in order to prevent any deflection of the internal duct 123 (see fig. 13).

[0055] Should the delivery of a single washing fluid be required, it is possible to make use of a simplified embodiment as illustrated in fig. 12 which provides a single dispensing tube 211 and a single needle-shaped duct 213. The dispensing tube 211 presents a circular pit 212. The end portion of the needle-shaped duct 213 shapes a connector element 214 of cylindrical shape suited to engage the pit 212 by the interposition of a seal 215.

[0056] Downstream to the last washing station 4 the gripping elements 41 are suited to release the ampoules 2 at the unloading station 5 at which the ampoules 2 are suited to arrive with the opening 22 turned upwards. At the unloading station 5 operate the mobile unloading devices 45 for receiving single ampoules 2 from the gripping elements 41 and transferring them to an unloading area 46 located beneath.

[0057] The mobile unloading devices 45 are suited to translate in alternate motion and in properly timed relationship with the release of the ampoules 2 from a lifted position 45a of release to a lowered position 45b of unloading positioned at the unloading area 46. The unloading area 46 presents a set of channels 246 for the passage of the ampoules 2, defined between the parallel side guides 247 fitted sliding on respective coupling means; the guides 247 are suitably interchangeable by means of different shims so as to vary the size of the channels 246 depending on the size of the ampoules 2 whenever the ampoule production is changed. Along the channels 246 the ampoules 2 slide on underlying blades 248 placed longitudinally as to the channels themselves.

[0058] The mobile unloading devices 45 comprise a plurality of housing blocks 47 positioned aligned at each single ampoule 2 released by the gripping elements 41 at the unloading station 5. Each housing block 47 comprises a recess 48 open at its lower and upper part, shaping a plane support seat

49 at its lower part for the base 20 of the ampoule 2. The open recess 48 presents a cross section suitable for the shape and the size of the ampoule 2 to house. Each housing block 47 is carried by a support block

50 by means of quick coupling elements 51, for example of prismatic type, so as to enable its easy insertion. The support blocks 50 are fitted aligned, in case sliding upon operation of respective drive means, on a couple of transversal guides 52 carried by a frame 53 and operated in alternate motion in order to transfer the housing blocks 47 from the lifted position 45a to the lowered position 45b.

[0059] Furthermore the housing blocks 47 provide a longitudinal notch 54 at the open recess 48 suited to allow the insertion of extracting elements 55. The extracting elements 55 shape a plurality of shaped plates 56 fitted rotating around a transversal axis underlying the unloading area 46. The shaped plates 56 comprise extracting rods 58 suited to be inserted in the longitudinal notch 54. Drive means 59 of the type with crank and rocker arm are suited to drive the alternate rotation of the shaped plates 56 from an angular position at which the extracting rods 58 are coaxial to the longitudinal notches 54, to a forward angular position at which the extracting rods 58 are substantially perpendicular to the unloading plane at the unloading area 46. The extracting elements 55 are driven advantageously by the interposition of a modulating device 60 of pneumatic type.

[0060] Furthermore with the mobile unloading devices 45 are associated emptying devices 61 suited to perform the automatic discharge of the machine at the end of the production run. These emptying devices 61 are positioned behind the mobile unloading devices 45 substantially on the same plane as the unloading area 46. The emptying devices 61 shape a plurality of vertical rods 62 positioned grazing as to the extracting rods 58, operated by dragging means 63 with rackwork. The rods 62 are suited to intercept the ampoules 2 at the back in order to push them forward to the unloading area 46. [0061] Finally inside the machine 1 are housed, for example under the emptying devices 61, the collecting devices 64 suited to supply respective washing fluids at the washing stations 4 and at the pre-washing tub 3 by the interposition of suitable dispensing and pumping means (fig. 1). According to the illustrated case the machine 1 comprises three tanks 64 suited to supply respective treating fluids such as demineralised water, distilled water and silicone. The pre-washing tub 3 is preferably supplied with a mixture of demineralised water and re-circulation water. In addition to the aforesaid mixture the washing stations 4 are supplied with distilled water and with an emulsion of silicone in re-circulation water for the treatment with silicone.

[0062] The functioning of the washing machine for ampoules according to the invention is described as follows.

[0063] At a first supplying step the ampoules 2 are supplied along the supplying direction A by the inclined supplying band 14. Starting from the entry area 11 the ampoules 2 advance in accumulation in order to be immersed in the washing fluid contained in the pre-washing tub 3. During this advance the ampoules are suitably filled with the washing fluid dispensed by the filling device 18 in order to enable the partial or total immersion of the ampoules in the washing fluid. This washing fluid is subjected to the action of the ultrasonic waves generator 9 associated with the transducer device 8 in order to cause the disjunction of the sediments of dirt from the surface of the ampoules 2.

[0064] Subsequently the ampoules 2 are subjected to the action of the diverting device 24 which cooperates with the singularizing members 30 in order to ease the interception of the single ampoules 2 by the separators 33. In particular the diverting device 24 alternately pushes the ampoules 2 in transversal direction by means of the plates 25.

[0065] During the subsequent step a row of ampoules 2 is separated from the advance front 31 by the operation in transversal motion of the drawer- shaped support 66, which provokes the housing of single ampoules 2 inside respective housing bodies 32 at the transfer area 12. Consequently the teeth 39 of the transfer members 13 can lift and transfer single ampoules 2 to the drawing station 40, where the gripping elements 41 seize the single ampoules 2 by their section contraction 21.

[0066] Subsequently the chains 105 transfer in step the ampoules 2 from the drawing station 40 to the first washing station 4 at its upper branch 111. On the arrival at the fist washing station 4 the ampoules 2 are positioned upturned, with the opening 22 turned downwards. The dispensing members 117 are in lowered position distant form the ampoules 2.

[0067] During the subsequent step the operation means brings the dispensing members 117 nearer the respective ampoules 2 so that the dispensers 118 are inserted inside the ampoules 2. By the same operation means the external washing devices 113 are brought nearer above the ampoules 2.

[0068] At this moment the control valves 133 enable the controlled delivery of the washing fluids and air. For example the air and the washing fluid can be delivered intermittently in alternate way according to a predetermined succession of delivery times. Otherwise the washing fluid can be delivered at the same time as the air. In this case it is possible to operate the nebulization of the washing fluid by means of the dispensers 118 illustrated in fig. 10.

[0069] In any case the washing fluids and the air delivered are dispersed homogeneously inside the ampoule 2 so as to perform the washing of the internal surface. Then the washing fluids can flow by gravity out of the ampoule 2 through the annular port let free by the dispensers 118 inserted in the opening 22. These washing fluids which are exhaust by then are collected in the underlying collecting tub 153 to flow in a suitable tank 154 for re-circulation.

[0070] During the same washing step the external washing devices 113 perform the washing of the external surface of the ampoules 2. To be more precise the sprayers 115 spray above and sideways the ampoules 2 with a jet of a suitable washing fluid, preferably demineralised water and/or re-circulation water.

[0071] When this washing step ends the operation means drives the removal of the dispensers 118 associated with the dispensing members 117 from the ampoules 2. At the same time the external washing devices 113 are withdrawn.

[0072] During the subsequent phase the chains 105 proceed by one step to transfer the ampoules 2 to the second washing station 4.

[0073] The previously described phases are repeated until the final washing stations 4 are reached, at which the drying of the external surface as well as of the internal surface is accomplished by the delivery of air. Therefore the corresponding dispensing members 117 deliver only air through the respective dispensers, while the blowers 116, which are brought nearer the ampoules 2 in properly timed relationship with the dispensing members 117, deliver air externally. Control valves 133 operate the controlled delivery of the necessary air flow rates.

[0074] When all washing steps are accomplished at the washing unit 101 the ampoules 2 are carried in step towards the lower branch 109 in order to be released by the gripping elements 41 and gathered at the unloading station 5 beneath.

[0075] At the unloading station 5 the gripping elements 41 release the single ampoules 2 to the open recesses 48 of the respective housing blocks 47 of the mobile unloading devices 45 which by then are positioned in the lifted position. Subsequently the housing blocks 47 are translated to the lowered position, thus enabling the insertion of the extracting rods 58 in the longitudinal notch 54 of the open recesses 48 during this lowering. Then the ampoules 2 are extracted from the mobile unloading devices 45 by the forward rotation of the extracting rods 58 around the axis 57. This extracting push is advantageously modulated by the modulating device 60.

[0076] Finally when the washing machine 1 finishes the washing of the supplied ampoules 2, the unloading area 46 is emptied by operating the emptying devices 61. To be more precise the vertical rods 62 are advanced grazing the extracting elements 55 in order to push forward the ampoules 2 dwelling at the unloading area 46.

[0077] The washing machine for ampoules according to the invention reaches the aim to carry out the automatic washing of ampoules of the type of phials and bottles in a secure and effective way. This is essentially due to the internal washing devices 114 which can deliver air as well as the washing fluid during the same washing phase. In particular by means of the dispensers 118 it is possible to deliver two types of washing fluid in succession as well as at the same time, thus enabling the widest choice of differentiated washing processes, and satisfy every type of productive requests.

[0078] It is worth emphasizing that the combined delivery of air and washing fluid, in succession as well as at the same time, enables inside the ampoules 2 fluid mechanical conditions very advantageous as to the effectiveness of the washing results. In particular it is possible to control the delivery of air and water at short intervals of time, so that inside the ampoules 2 the presence of pressurized air creates such turbulence conditions to help the subsequent transport of the washing fluid onto the surface to clean. This effect turns out to be particularly effective in case of encrusting residues, for example saline ones, which are very difficult to remove with the washing units of known type.

[0079] On the other hand the concurrent delivery of air and washing fluid by means of dispensers of the type illustrated in figure 10 allows the complete nebulization of the washing fluid, which consequently can reach the entire surface to wash in a diffuse and homogeneous way.

[0080] It is advantageously possible to position in succession in the washing unit 101 the dispensing members 117 provided with dispensers 118 made according to different embodiments, for example the ones previously illustrated, in order to carry out the washing of the ampoules 2 in optimal way through jets of washing fluids acting in differentiated directions.

[0081] A further advantage of the washing machine according to the invention is the fact that the number of the dispensing means necessary to carry out a determined washing cycle is halved in comparison with the known machines, because each dispensing member 117 is able to perform the double delivery of both air and washing fluid. Obviously this advantage results in a notable reduction of the overall space occupied by the machine, as well as a remarkable reduction of the realization costs.

[0082] The washing machine according to the invention optimizes the production outputs by halving the dwelling intervals as well as the intervals for delivering the washing fluids and the air, partly thanks to the possibility of delivering nebulized washing fluids.

[0083] An important advantage of the claimed washing machine lies in the notable versatility of use. In fact it is sufficient to modulate the parameters which regulate the delivery of the involved fluids, air and water, by means of the control valves 133 to adjust the washing cycle according to any type and size of ampoules 2. Moreover it is possible to substitute the dispensing members 117 easily, for example in order to have a different number of fitted dispensers 118. To this aim it is sufficient to insert axially each dispensing member 117 by the first jointing member 126 and carry out the connection, through articulation, with the second jointing member 127, in order to carry out the necessary connections with the supplying ducts 155 associated with the washing machine in fixed way.

[0084] A prerogative of the invention consists in the mobile unloading devices 45 suitable for receiving each single ampoule 2 and lead it to the unloading area 46. During this transfer there is no risk of impacts among the ampoules 2 released by the gripping elements 41 and consequently the unloading operational step is carried out in totally secure conditions for the integrity of the manufactured ampoules 2.

[0085] It is worth noting that the unloading devices 45 of the machine according to the invention can be easily adjusted according to any productive requirement, in particular relating to the size and the shape of the ampoules 2 to wash. In fact it is sufficient to fit suitable housing blocks 47 on the support blocks 50 through the quick coupling elements 51 in order to prepare the machine according to the specific productive requirements.

[0086] A further reason of versatility for the machine is constituted by the fact that the support blocks 50 can be operated in a sliding way along the transversal guides 52, for example in order to adjust the transversal space occupied by the row of unloaded ampoules 2 to the wideness of the sterilization tunnel positioned downstream to the unloading area 46.

[0087] A further prerogative of the machine, meant to increase the security and effectiveness of functioning, is the presence of the modulating device 60 for the modulation of the extracting push by which the extracting elements 55 act on the ampoules 2. Thanks to the softening action of this pneumatic device are avoided excessive and abrupt effort, which could cause defects and breaks of the ampoules 2.

[0088] The emptying devices 61 as well increase the security of the machine functioning by avoiding any manual operation during the unloading phase of the machine at the end of the productive run. The ampoules can be removed softly by the moderate push exerted by the vertical rods 62 to load the treatment stations placed downstream.

[0089] The claimed washing machine for ampoules is secure and effective during the supplying phase as well thanks to the transversally diverting device 24 cooperating with the supplying band 14. The diverting device 24 easily moves the ampoules 2 so as to prevent the ampoules 2 from getting stuck at the entrance of the separators 33. This action is advantageously very light on the ampoules 2, because the ampoules 2 transported by the supplying band 14 offer a small friction resistance, anyway smaller than the typical resistance offered by the fixed supplying plane of the known machines, on which the ampoules are suited to slide for gravity.

[0090] Finally it is worth noting the compactness of the washing machine according to the invention, obtained in particular thanks to the advance device 10 and to the unloading devices 45 of simple structure and reduced space occupied. Thanks to its compactness the washing machine can contain all collecting devices 64, as well as the dispensing and pumping devices necessary for supplying the treatment fluids required for the pre- washing and for the washing cycles.

[0091] Materials adopted for the actual realization of the invention, as well as their shapes and sizes, can be various, depending on the requirements.

[0092] Where technical features mentioned in any claim are followed by reference signs, those reference signs have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the claims and accordingly such reference signs do not have any limiting effect on the scope of each element identified by way of example by such reference signs.

Claims

1. Washing machine for ampoules (2), in particular of the type of phials and bottles, comprising a washing unit (101) provided with a shifting device (44) suited to supply in step the ampoules (2) to be washed through a series of successive washing stations (4), with external washing devices (113) associated with one at least of the washing stations (4) for washing the external surface of the ampoules (2), with internal washing devices (114) associated with each washing station (4) for washing the internal surface of the ampoules (2), characterized in that the internal washing devices (114) respectively comprise a dispensing member (117) suited to be supplied in a controlled way with at least one washing fluid and/or pressurized air, and dispensers (118) associated with the dispensing member (117) and suited to be inserted inside the single ampoules (2) at a corresponding washing station (4), in order to perform the delivery of the washing fluid and/or pressurized air according to a differentiated and programmable sequence through the successive washing stations (4).

2. Washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the dispensing member (117) comprises an external duct (119) and an internal duct (123) inserted coaxially inside the external duct (119), so as to define an interspace (124) for the differentiated delivery of the washing fluid and/or pressurized air.

3. Washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that the external duct (119) and the internal duct (123) are longitudinally provided with circular pits (201, 202) made orthogonally to the axes respectively of the external and internal ducts (119, 123), suited to be engaged by the interposition of suitable sealing members for the connection with the dispensers (118).

4. Washing ^"machine according to claim 3, characterized in that the dispensers (118) comprise a first outflow channel (139) suitable for the delivery of one washing fluid and a second outflow channel (140) suitable for the delivery of pressurized air.

5. Washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that the second outflow channel (140) is inserted coaxially inside the first outflow channel (139) so as to define an outflow interspace (147) for the outflow of the washing fluid.

6. Washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the first outflow channel (139) is protruding with an upper portion from the second outflow channel (140) for enabling the nebulization of the washing fluid in the pressurized air.

7. Washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the second outflow channel (140) shapes a needle-shaped duct (146) provided at the top with an outlet axial section (151) and at the lower end carrying a first connector element (203), which presents respective axially spaced cylindrical portions suited to engage the pits (201 , 202) tight by the interposition of seals (204, 205), being the outflow interspace (147) defined between the first outflow channel (140) and the needle-shaped duct (146) in communication with the interspace (124) through an intermediate channel (206) realized diametrically to the first connector element (203).

8. Washing machine according to claim 7, characterized in that the first outflow channel (139) shapes a cylindrical duct (141) comprising an outlet portion (144) at the top for the outflow of the washing fluid, shaping the end portion of the cylindrical duct (141) a second connector element (207) frontally coupled to the first connector element (203) by the interposition of a seal (208).

9. Washing machine according to claim 8, characterized in that the outlet portion (144) has a substantially conical shape and is provided with side longitudinal notchings (145) for the side outflow of the washing fluid.

10. Washing machine according to claim 9, characterized in that the second outflow channel (140) is protruding from the first outflow channel (139).

11. Washing machine according to claim 7, characterized in that the needle- shaped duct (146) comprises a plurality of radial drillings (152) protruding from the first outflow channel (139).

12. Washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that the dispensing member (117) is connected at opposite ends to a first jointing member (126) and to a second jointing member (127) for the junction with suitable circuits (132, 137) supplying the washing fluid and pressurized air.

13. Washing machine according to claim 12, characterized in that the first joining member (126) shapes a connecting element suited to be axially inserted externally to the dispensing member (117), so as to seal the internal duct (123) at a corresponding end section (123a) and at the same time define an annular chamber (128) for the connection of the external duct (119) with the supplying circuit (132) of the washing fluid.

14. Washing machine according to claim 12, characterized in that the second jointing member (127) comprises a closing element (134), suited to close the interspace (124) at an end section (124a), and an articulated joint (135) of fork type, suited to enable the coupling with the dispensing member (117) for the connection with the internal duct (123) and the circuit (137) supplying air.

15. Washing machine according to claim 1 , characterized in that the external washing devices (113) and the internal washing devices (114) are suited to be operated in alternate motion by operation means in properly timed relationship between a position nearby the ampoules (2) to wash and a position distant from the ampoules (2).

16. Washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises unloading devices (45) mobile between a release position (45a) and an unloading position (45b), suited to receive and accompany the single washed ampoules (2) released by gripping elements (41) to the unloading position (45b), being the gripping elements (41) carried by the shifting device (44) of the washing unit (101).

17. Washing machine according to claim 16, characterized in that the unloading devices (45) are suited to cooperate with extracting elements (55) suited to extract the single ampoules (2) from the unloading devices (45).

18. Washing machine according to claim 17, characterized in that the unloading devices (45) comprise one support block (50) at least , coupled by means of quick coupling elements (51) with an interchangeable housing block (47) suited to receive the single ampoule (2).

19. Washing machine according to claim 18, characterized in that a plurality of support blocks (50) is fixed aligned on a couple of transversal guides (52) carried by a frame (53) and operated in alternate motion in order to transfer the housing blocks (47) from the lifted release position (45a) to the lowered unloading position (45b).

20. Washing machine according to claim 19, characterized in that the support blocks (50) are fitted sliding on the transversal guides (52) upon operation of suitable drive means.

21. Washing machine according to claim 18, characterized in that the housing block (47) shapes a recess (48) open at its lower and upper part, suited to receive the single ampoule (2) on a plane support seat (49).

22. Washing machine according to claim 21, characterized in that the open recess (48) comprises a longitudinal notch (54) suited to enable the extracting elements (55) to insert at the back of the single ampoule (2) and to push the single ampoule (2) in accumulation at the unloading position (45b).

23. Washing machine according to claim 17, characterized in that the extracting elements (55) are operated to extract the single ampoules (2) by the interposition of a modulating device (60) of pneumatic type for the modulation of the extracting push.

24. Washing machine according to claim 16, characterized in that it comprises a pre-washing tub (3) containing a washing fluid, in which the ampoules (2) are suited to be supplied in an advance direction (A) in accumulation on an inclined plane (15) defined by an advance device (10); singularizing members (30) suited to separate in succession single rows of the single ampoules (2) at an advance front (31) in the advance direction (A); transferring members (13) suited to deliver the single ampoules (2) to the gripping elements (41) operating in the washing unit (101).

25. Washing machine according to claim 24, characterized in that the inclined advance plane (15) shapes a supplying band (14) wound around respective drawing rolls (16, 17) operated in rotation.

26. Washing machine according to claim 25, characterized in that the supplying band (14) cooperates with a diverting device (24) suited to cause the alternate transversal shift of a plurality of ampoules (2) upstream the singularizing members (30) as to the advance direction (A) in order to ease the singularization of the ampoules (2).

27. Washing machine according to claim 26, characterized in that the transversal diverting device (24) comprises a couple of plates (25) protruding sideways from the supplying band (14) in order to intercept sideways a plurality of ampoules (2) in accumulation, being the plates (25) operated in synchronous way.

28. Washing machine according to claim 24, characterized in that the singularizing members (30) comprise a plurality of housing bodies (32) spaced by means of separators (33), positioned aligned transversally at the advance front (31) and provided with respective longitudinal slits (36) for the insertion of the transferring members (13).

29. Washing machine according to claim 17, characterized in that it comprises emptying devices (61) shaping a plurality of vertical rods (62) positioned grazing as to the extracting elements (55) and operated by dragging means (63) in order to push forward the ampoules (2) unloaded by the unloading devices (45).

30. Washing machine according to claim 24, characterized in that the washing fluids dispensed at the pre-washing tub (3) and/or at the washing stations (4) are supplied by respective collecting devices (64) housed inside the machine for the treatment of the ampoules (2) at least with demineralised water, distilled water and silicone.

31. Washing machine according to the claims 7 or 8, characterized in that the first and second connector elements (203, 207) are kept steadily in contact each other and with the external and internal ducts (119, 123) by a quick connectable spring (209).