EP3000775B1 - Method and device for filling containers with a product - Google Patents
Method and device for filling containers with a product Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3000775B1 EP3000775B1 EP15187025.0A EP15187025A EP3000775B1 EP 3000775 B1 EP3000775 B1 EP 3000775B1 EP 15187025 A EP15187025 A EP 15187025A EP 3000775 B1 EP3000775 B1 EP 3000775B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- filling
- product
- stirring element
- stirring
- filling product
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
- 238000011049 filling Methods 0.000 title claims description 214
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 7
- 238000003756 stirring Methods 0.000 claims description 116
- 238000007654 immersion Methods 0.000 claims description 29
- 239000000945 filler Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000002826 coolant Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 description 11
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 7
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 7
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 6
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 description 6
- 238000005496 tempering Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 5
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 5
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000003507 refrigerant Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920006362 TeflonĀ® Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000006866 deterioration Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000018109 developmental process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 235000013399 edible fruits Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000005265 energy consumption Methods 0.000 description 2
- 235000011389 fruit/vegetable juice Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 239000003779 heat-resistant material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000015110 jellies Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 210000000056 organ Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005204 segregation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000013618 yogurt Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- MIDXCONKKJTLDX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 3,5-dimethylcyclopentane-1,2-dione Chemical compound CC1CC(C)C(=O)C1=O MIDXCONKKJTLDX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000013361 beverage Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 208000002352 blister Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 235000013736 caramel Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000019219 chocolate Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000006071 cream Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000013365 dairy product Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001627 detrimental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007598 dipping method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005485 electric heating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001704 evaporation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005429 filling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005187 foaming Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000012907 honey Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000015094 jam Nutrition 0.000 description 1
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- 235000008960 ketchup Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000004922 lacquer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000011068 loading method Methods 0.000 description 1
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- 230000002906 microbiologic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005457 optimization Methods 0.000 description 1
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- 235000021395 porridge Nutrition 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F27/00—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders
- B01F27/80—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis
- B01F27/805—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis wherein the stirrers or the receptacles are moved in order to bring them into operative position; Means for fixing the receptacle
- B01F27/806—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders with stirrers rotating about a substantially vertical axis wherein the stirrers or the receptacles are moved in order to bring them into operative position; Means for fixing the receptacle with vertical displacement of the stirrer, e.g. in combination with means for pivoting the stirrer about a vertical axis in order to co-operate with different receptacles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
- B67C—CLEANING, FILLING WITH LIQUIDS OR SEMILIQUIDS, OR EMPTYING, OF BOTTLES, JARS, CANS, CASKS, BARRELS, OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; FUNNELS
- B67C3/00—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus; Filling casks or barrels with liquids or semiliquids
- B67C3/02—Bottling liquids or semiliquids; Filling jars or cans with liquids or semiliquids using bottling or like apparatus
- B67C3/22—Details
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F27/00—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders
- B01F27/05—Stirrers
- B01F27/11—Stirrers characterised by the configuration of the stirrers
- B01F27/112—Stirrers characterised by the configuration of the stirrers with arms, paddles, vanes or blades
- B01F27/1125—Stirrers characterised by the configuration of the stirrers with arms, paddles, vanes or blades with vanes or blades extending parallel or oblique to the stirrer axis
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F27/00—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders
- B01F27/23—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders characterised by the orientation or disposition of the rotor axis
- B01F27/231—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders characterised by the orientation or disposition of the rotor axis with a variable orientation during mixing operation, e.g. with tiltable rotor axis
- B01F27/2312—Mixers with rotary stirring devices in fixed receptacles; Kneaders characterised by the orientation or disposition of the rotor axis with a variable orientation during mixing operation, e.g. with tiltable rotor axis the position of the rotating shaft being adjustable in the interior of the receptacle, e.g. to locate the stirrer in different locations during the mixing
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/20—Measuring; Control or regulation
- B01F35/21—Measuring
- B01F35/211—Measuring of the operational parameters
- B01F35/2112—Level of material in a container or the position or shape of the upper surface of the material
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/20—Measuring; Control or regulation
- B01F35/21—Measuring
- B01F35/213—Measuring of the properties of the mixtures, e.g. temperature, density or colour
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/71—Feed mechanisms
- B01F35/717—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer
- B01F35/7174—Feed mechanisms characterised by the means for feeding the components to the mixer using pistons, plungers or syringes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/90—Heating or cooling systems
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/90—Heating or cooling systems
- B01F35/95—Heating or cooling systems using heated or cooled stirrers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F2101/00—Mixing characterised by the nature of the mixed materials or by the application field
- B01F2101/06—Mixing of food ingredients
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F2101/00—Mixing characterised by the nature of the mixed materials or by the application field
- B01F2101/06—Mixing of food ingredients
- B01F2101/14—Mixing of ingredients for non-alcoholic beverages; Dissolving sugar in water
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a device for filling at least one container with a filling product, and to a method for filling a container with a filling product using such a device.
- filling devices for filling a filling product into containers in particular in the field of filling and metering machines for liquid or viscous foods such as drinks, it is known to provide the filling product in a product holding container, from which out the actual filling organs for filling the container with the filling product be fed.
- Product containment vessels are, for example, known in the form of a kettle, a ring bowl or a central boiler of a rotary filling machine and are usually provided in a plane above the filling members.
- the product holding container runs in normal operation in a rotary filler together with the filling members arranged thereon, in order to allow a correspondingly continuous filling of successively supplied containers to be filled.
- Piston fillers are usually used for high-viscosity filling products such as cream, ketchup or baby porridge.
- the different phases of the filling product in the filling and metering machine can separate, for example when the particles tend to sink or float.
- Such particle-containing filling products are filled, for example, as dairy products with fruit components or juices with pulp.
- motorized stirring device is integrated in the product holding container, permanently immersed in the product holding container used motorized stirring device. This can be achieved, for example, in the case of food filling by means of a piston dispenser in a rotary process, by motorized agitators or by rigid mixers, which immerse permanently into the filling product from a non-rotating part of the machine into the rotating, product-filled product holding container.
- Such a mixer thus ensures thorough mixing during the rotary movement of the product storage container and prevents the rapid separation of components of the product to be filled and thus a constant product quality.
- the DE 10 2012 104 275 A1 describes a device for filling containers with such a mixer, which is designed as a fixed and permanently immersed in the filling product agitator. Also from the DE 10 2010 031 873 A1 and AU 39,747 / 68 In each case, such a fixed and permanently immersed in the filling product stirring blades.
- the EP 0 378 011 A1 describes a device for processing and filling of honey according to the preamble of claim 1. A disadvantage of this is that the permanent stirring of the filling product increases the risk of blistering, foaming and / or mechanical loading of the filling product, which in certain filling products can lead to deterioration of the filling accuracy and / or quality reduction of the filled filling product.
- the product to be filled is tempered in many applications namely for microbiological reasons (for example in the hot filling of juices) or for reasons of processability in viscous or temperature-changing foods (for example, when filling fruit jellies or jams).
- the temperature control takes place via a heat exchanger provided in the product holding tank. Specifically, the temperature of the product takes place about a double-walled Fernvorhalte disposer, which is flowed through with cooling or heating media, or alternatively by fixed to the fixed part of the device heating coils, which immerse permanently in the filling product in Artsvorhalte disposer.
- two problem groups can be identified in apparatuses for filling containers with a rotatable product holding container: a) those which result from the permanent mixing of the filling product and b) those which are associated with the tempering of the filling product.
- An object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the above-mentioned problems.
- an object of the invention is to provide a device for filling at least one container with liquid filling product and a method for filling containers using such a device, which can achieve improved filling accuracy and avoid a conditional by the filling quality reduction of the filling product ,
- an apparatus for filling at least one container with a filling product comprising a product holding container for receiving the filling product and a stirring element for stirring the filling product received in the product holding container is proposed. According to the immersion depth of the stirring element in the product holding container is variable.
- the mechanical stress of the filling product can be varied and in particular reduced in the regular filling operation, whereby on the one hand the air impact in the filling product and on the other Deterioration of the quality of the filling product due to the mechanical stress caused by the stirring element can be avoided or at least reduced.
- the energy consumption resulting from the stirring of the filling product can be optimized.
- a āfilling productā is understood to mean low-viscosity as well as highly viscous and pasty liquids, as well as multiphase liquids and those with particles. Beverages of all kinds are included as well as yogurt, jam, jelly and other foods that can be filled or dosed by means of a filling and metering machine, in particular a piston dispenser.
- the product holding container holds the filling product ready, from which then the filling members, for example the piston fillers, are fed for direct filling of the filling product into the containers.
- the product holding container is not completely filled with the filling product, but this is at a certain level of filling, one could say in a certain level, before.
- the filling level is determined by the water level when the product holding container is at rest.
- a stirring element is provided in the product holding container.
- several stirring elements may be provided. If in the following the term ātheā or āoneā stirring element is mentioned, not even several, then this happens only for the sake of illustration. This applies analogously to other features of the device, even if it is not explicitly stated that the feature in question can be implemented several times.
- the stirring element is movable at least between a stirring position, in which the stirring element is immersed in the filling product, and a rest position, in which the stirring element is located completely or partially outside the filling product. Accordingly, the mixing function provided by the stirring element is activated only when it is needed according to the invention in the event of an interruption of the regular filling operation. The activation preferably takes place automatically.
- the stirring element can be completely moved out of the filling product. It may be that, due to the design, parts of the stirring element that do not or only slightly affect the filling product remain in the filling product. For this reason, even only partially moving the stirring member out of the filling product can achieve the above effects. However, in the rest position, the stirring element is preferably completely outside the filling product.
- the immersion depth of the stirring element in the endeavorvorhalte disposer is variable, then cases are included in which the stirring element is at certain positions, such as the rest position, outside the Artsvorhalte disposers.
- the stirring element is adjustable relative to the level of the filling product and can dip into the filling product.
- the stirring element is attached to a non-rotating device part and stationary relative to this in the direction of rotation of the product storage container.
- the device preferably has one or more device parts which do not rotate with respect to the product holding container, that is to say are fixed in this sense.
- the stirring element is stationary, with the exception of the variability of the immersion depth or the position relative to Guehrix. For a particularly simple construction of the device is realized, since can be dispensed with elaborate mechanisms for driving and controlling the stirring element.
- the stirring element may, for example, have a guide blade, which causes the mixing of the filling product, and a guide blade carrier, which is connected directly to an adjusting mechanism.
- the adjusting mechanism may comprise a pneumatic cylinder and / or electric motor and / or electromagnet and so on.
- the stirring element is at least partially tempered. Due to the temperature control, in conjunction with the variability of the depth of immersion of the stirring a demand-based temperature control and at the same time a needs-based mixing of the filling product can be achieved. This is particularly important in an interruption of the regular filling operation of importance, during which both the mixing and the temperature of the filling product must be maintained in order to fill in a resumption of filling immediately present in the product holding container filling product and this particular must not be discarded ,
- the mere variability of the immersion depth of the stirring element can contribute directly to demand-based temperature, because the start time and the end time of the temperature can be precisely determined by immersion and extraction of the stirring in or out of the product without an unwanted heat exchange due to the inertia of the heat exchanger or the materials of the stirring element takes place.
- stirring element is preferably fastened to the non-rotating part of the machine eliminates, for example, structurally complex rotary distributor constructions for circulating cooling or heating media or for circulating the product itself, slip rings for transmitting electrical energy to the rotating part of the machine, etc. Apparent effort and the control and regulation of the device are reduced to a minimum, thereby purchasing and maintenance costs can be saved.
- the temperature control can hold the filling product during the downtime in a specific temperature frame and a predetermined mixing state and the filling product must not be discarded. Also with regard to the temperature control over the stirring element, energy can be saved and the filling product can be conserved by the temperature control is carried out only when it is needed.
- the stirring element is electrically heated and / or flowed through with a heat / refrigerant.
- the vane may be embodied as an electrically heatable vane and the power may be supplied via a cable inside the vane carrier.
- several vanes may be provided. These can be coated with a product-compatible and / or heat-resistant material, for example Teflon or ceramic.
- a sheath made of stainless steel or other materials can be considered.
- the agitating element such as the one or more vanes, may be provided with one or more internally routed tubes, baffles, or hoses that carry a gaseous and / or liquid medium. This can be steam, hot water, cold water or other heat / refrigerant into consideration. The tempering can of course also be done via evaporating media.
- the angle of incidence of the vane or the guide vanes is adjustable in order to achieve an optimal mixing success for the respective filling product or with respect to its viscosity.
- the dimension of the stirring elements, that is their extent, may optionally be provided changeable.
- a level sensor for measuring the filling product level or the filling level of the filling product is provided in the product holding container, whereby an efficient control of the stirring element, both in terms of its adjustability and its possible temperature control is simplified.
- the stirring element or its adjusting mechanism is connected to a controller, but also the level sensor for measuring the level of the filling product.
- a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the filling product is provided. This too can be connected to the above-mentioned control.
- the above stirring mechanism is particularly suitable for piston fillers, which realize a metering of the filling product via pistons.
- piston fillers are particularly preferably used for highly viscous liquids, such as yoghurt, jam, etc., which in many product variants are provided with additional solids such as, for example, pulp, chocolate pieces or caramel pieces.
- additional solids such as, for example, pulp, chocolate pieces or caramel pieces.
- unnecessary stirring and possibly unnecessary tempering of the quality of the filling product are detrimental.
- the particles are no longer finely ground by the constant mechanical action.
- An optimization of the stirring and temperature behavior in the regular filling operation and in an interruption of the regular filling operation is therefore particularly advantageous when using piston fillers.
- a method for filling at least one container with filling product by means of a device which has a product holding container for receiving the filling product and a stirring element for stirring the filling product accommodated in the product holding container, preferably one of the devices described above.
- Immersion depth of the stirring element in the product holding container varies depending on an operating state of the device.
- Possible operating states of the device include, inter alia, the regular filling operation and an interruption of the regular filling operation, for example in the event of a malfunction or maintenance of the system.
- other states can also determine the stirring and / or tempering mode of the stirring element.
- the stirring element when the regular filling operation of the device is interrupted, the stirring element is lowered into the filling product in the product holding container.
- the stirring element By further rotating the product holding container and / or actively operating the stirring element in rotation, the occurrence of a separation of the product components is reduced or avoided.
- the stirring element is arranged in the regular filling operation at least partially outside of the filling product and immersed in an interruption of the filling operation in the filling product.
- the stirring element Since, depending on the filling level of the filling product in the product holding container, the stirring element may not be covered, it is checked via the above-described level sensor, which preferably communicates with the control of the device, in a particular embodiment, whether sufficient filling product for covering the stirring element is included.
- filling product is supplied via a product feed valve until sufficient filling product is contained in the product holding container.
- a predetermined setpoint temperature Via the above-mentioned temperature sensor, a predetermined setpoint temperature can be set.
- the product holding tank continues to rotate, optionally at reduced speed, or the stirring element rotates to allow the filling product to flow past the stirring element, thereby heating or cooling the filling product, if necessary.
- the stirring element When restarting the device for resuming the regular filling operation, the stirring element is brought into the rest position, in which the stirring element is completely or partially moved out of the filling product.
- the present invention is particularly preferably used in the filling of containers with food, it is understood that the invention can also be implemented in other areas, for example in the filling or metering of paints, lacquers or other low-viscosity and high-viscosity liquids.
- the present invention is particularly preferably used in the filling of containers with food, it is understood that the invention can also be implemented in other areas, for example in the filling or metering of paints, lacquers or other low-viscosity and high-viscosity liquids.
- other advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments.
- FIGS. 1a and 1b schematically show a Rescuevorhalte variouser 1 a rotary filling machine, such as a piston filler, which is partially filled with a filling product 11.
- the filling level of the filling product 11 in the product holding tank 13 is referred to as the filling product level 12.
- Theloisvorhalte variouser 1 is rotatable about a rotation axis M around, as it is indicated by an arrow about the rotation axis M.
- Of the Product storage container 1 is closed in the embodiment shown with a cover 2, which is stationary and does not rotate with the Artsvorhalte disposer 1 accordingly.
- a stirring member 13 immersed, which serves to stir the filling product 11 accommodated in the product holding tank 1.
- the stirring element 13 can be varied with respect to its immersion depth into the product holding container 1, so that the immersion depth of the stirring element 13 can be varied correspondingly also with respect to the filling product level 12 of the filling product 11 in the product holding container 1.
- the immersion depth is preferably variable between an upper and a lower end position of the stirring element 13.
- the depth of immersion results from the retraction of the stirring element 13 into the product holding container 1 and can be objectively defined by the distance between the stirring element 13 and fixed parts of the product holding container 1 - for example, with respect to the bottom of the product holding container 1. Dipping the stirring element 13 deep into the product holding container 1 Thus, the distance of the stirring element 13 to the bottom of the endeavorvorhalte mattersers 1 is less than in a not so deep immersion of the stirring element 13.
- the immersion depth can also be defined relative to an upper edge of the Artsvorhalte mattersers 1.
- the immersion depth of the stirring element 13 in the Rescuevorhalte practicaler 1 can be achieved and the immersion depth can also be adjusted relative to Brown
- the immersion depth of the stirring element 13 is preferably infinitely variable or virtually infinitely variable between an upper and a lower end position.
- the stirring element 13 has, in the present embodiment, a guide blade carrier 4 and two guide vanes 5. Further, a drive in the form of a pneumatic cylinder 6 is provided, which is connected to the guide blade carrier 4 and makes it vertically adjustable together with the guide vanes 5, so that the immersion depth of the stirring element 13 can be varied accordingly in the Artsvorhalte interchangeer 1. Either the guide blade carrier 4 can be set only at the upper and lower end position, or the guide vane 4 can be set between the upper and lower end position in any position, so that a variable setting of the immersion depth can be achieved - depending on the respective Fill product level 12.
- the vanes 5 may further be rotated about the axis formed by the vane support 4 to stir the fill product 11.
- FIG. 1a shows a state in which the vanes 5 are outside of the filling product 11, so the stirring element 13 is not immersed in the filling product 11 and correspondingly can not interact with the filling product 11.
- FIG. 1b shows the guide vanes 5 and a part of the vane support 4 are immersed in the filling product 11.
- the vane support 4 is provided in a lifting and lowering direction movable through the non-rotating cover 2 and optionally passed therethrough.
- the pneumatic cylinder 6 and / or the vane support 4 are fixed at a suitable position on a non-rotating device part of the rotary filler, so that the stirring element 13 is movable at least between an upper and a lower end position.
- the vanes 5 are tempered, so heated and / or cooled.
- the vanes 5 are electrically heated.
- the guide vanes 5 are designed to be coolable in order to cool the filling product 11.
- the number of temperature-controllable vanes 5 and / or their surface can be increased, reduced or otherwise geometrically adjusted in order to optimize a transfer of heat or cold to the filling product 11.
- FIGS. 2a to 2f Exemplary geometric embodiments of the vanes 5 are shown in FIGS FIGS. 2a to 2f shown.
- the angle of incidence of the guide vanes 5 may optionally be provided correspondingly adjustable depending on the application in order to realize an optimal mixing success and / or an optimal heat / cooling output.
- a level sensor 9 for measuring the Gres 12 of the filling product 11 is provided in the Domvorhalte varier 1.
- the level sensor 9 communicates with a controller, which may be designed as a programmable logic controller PLC.
- a temperature sensor 8 is provided, which also communicates with the controller PLC.
- the level sensor 9 and the temperature sensor 8 need not necessarily be provided directly in the product holding tank 1.
- the level sensor 9 and the temperature sensor 8 may also be omitted in certain embodiments or may be generally implemented as means for determining the corresponding parameters.
- the product level 12, for example, can also be determine from a detection of the inflow and outflow of filling product 11 in and out of the product holding container 1.
- a product supply valve 10 For filling the product holding container 1, a product supply valve 10 is provided.
- the pneumatic cylinder 6, the temperature controller 7, the temperature sensor 8, the level sensor 9 and the product supply valve 10 are connected to the programmable logic controller SPS.
- the programmable logic controller PLC records the sensor quantities as well as the control of the corresponding components.
- filling members 3 are shown schematically, which in the FIGS. 1a and 1b merely indicated as valves.
- FIGS. 1 a and 1b The following is a special way of operating in the FIGS. 1 a and 1b are shown.
- the filling machine is driven empty when the container lock is activated and lowered via the adjusting device 6 of the guide blade carrier 4 in the filling product 11 in the Commandervorhalte constitutioner 1 (see FIG. 1b ), wherein the electrically heatable vanes 5 are immersed in the filling product 11 in order to reduce a separation of product components with minimized blister impact and to maximize the heat transfer from the vanes 5 to the filling product.
- the vanes 5 may not be covered, via the level sensor 9 in the Fischvorhalte disposer 1 communicating with the controller PLC, checked whether sufficient filling product 11 is included to cover the vanes 5 and optionally is supplied via the product inlet valve 10 as long as filling product 11 until sufficient filling product 11 is contained in the product holding container 1.
- the adjusting device 6 can continue to be operated in order to allow the guide vanes 5 to continue to be immersed in the filling product 11.
- a predetermined setpoint temperature is set at the electrically heatable vanes 5 shown here.
- the product holding container 1 rotates at a reduced speed to allow the filling product 11 to flow past the heated guide vanes 5 while supplying heat energy and the filling product 11 for homogeneous temperature distribution and for reducing Separation to mix.
- the product holding container 1 can also come to a complete stop at a stop of the filling device and accordingly no longer rotate about the rotation axis M around.
- the movement of the filling product 11 is then applied via the rotation of the guide vanes 5 of the stirring element 13 in the filling product 11 in order to prevent segregation of different components.
- the stirring element 13 can then be returned to the upper end position and be pulled out of the filling product 11 in the product holding container 1.
- FIGS. 2a to 2f show embodiments of the stirring element 13.
- the stirring element 13 has a stirring rod 5, the inclination of which is optionally adjustable.
- the adjustability of the position of the stirring rod 5 is in the FIG. 2e shown by a heavily tilted alignment shown with dashed lines.
- Two cross stirrer bars are in the Figure 2c shown.
- Two mutually parallel, spaced stirring rods 5 are in the FIG. 2f shown.
- An embodiment with only one vane 5 is in the Figure 2d shown.
- the guide vanes or guide rods 5 may be suitably coated, for example with a product-compatible and / or heat-resistant material, such as Teflon or ceramic. Electric heating plates, which are coated with stainless steel sheet, are also conceivable as guide vanes, which have inside pipes, dividing plates and / or hoses for guiding a heat / refrigerant.
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Description
Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zum BefĆ¼llen mindestens eines BehƤlters mit einem FĆ¼llprodukt, sowie ein Verfahren zum BefĆ¼llen eines BehƤlters mit einem FĆ¼llprodukt unter Verwendung einer solchen Vorrichtung.The present invention relates to a device for filling at least one container with a filling product, and to a method for filling a container with a filling product using such a device.
In FĆ¼llvorrichtungen zum AbfĆ¼llen eines FĆ¼llprodukts in BehƤlter, insbesondere im Bereich der AbfĆ¼ll- und Dosiermaschinen fĆ¼r flĆ¼ssige oder viskose Lebensmittel wie beispielsweise GetrƤnke, ist es bekannt, das FĆ¼llprodukt in einem ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter bereitzustellen, aus welchem heraus die eigentlichen FĆ¼llorgane zum BefĆ¼llen der BehƤlter mit dem FĆ¼llprodukt gespeist werden. ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter sind beispielsweise die Form eines Kessels, eines Ringkessels oder eines Zentralkessels einer RundlƤuferfĆ¼llmaschine bekannt und sind gewƶhnlich in einer Ebene oberhalb der FĆ¼llorgane vorgesehen. Der ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter lƤuft im Normalbetrieb bei einem RundlƤuferfĆ¼ller zusammen mit den daran angeordneten FĆ¼llorganen um, um entsprechend eine kontinuierliche BefĆ¼llung von nacheinander zugefĆ¼hrten zu befĆ¼llenden BehƤltern zu ermƶglichen.In filling devices for filling a filling product into containers, in particular in the field of filling and metering machines for liquid or viscous foods such as drinks, it is known to provide the filling product in a product holding container, from which out the actual filling organs for filling the container with the filling product be fed. Product containment vessels are, for example, known in the form of a kettle, a ring bowl or a central boiler of a rotary filling machine and are usually provided in a plane above the filling members. The product holding container runs in normal operation in a rotary filler together with the filling members arranged thereon, in order to allow a correspondingly continuous filling of successively supplied containers to be filled.
Als FĆ¼llorgane kƶnnen entweder KolbenfĆ¼llorgane vorgesehen sein, welche eine Behandlung des FĆ¼llprodukts unter Unterdruck und Ćberdruck ermƶglichen, oder FĆ¼llorgane, aus welchen das FĆ¼llprodukt aufgrund seines Eigengewichts ausflieĆt. KolbenfĆ¼ller werden Ć¼blicherweise fĆ¼r hochviskose FĆ¼llprodukte wie beispielsweise Sahne, Ketchup oder Babybrei verwendet.As FĆ¼llorgane either KolbenfĆ¼llorgane be provided, which allow a treatment of the filling product under negative pressure and pressure, or filling organs, from which the filling product flows due to its own weight. Piston fillers are usually used for high-viscosity filling products such as cream, ketchup or baby porridge.
Bei partikelhaltigen FĆ¼llprodukten kƶnnen sich die unterschiedlichen Phasen des FĆ¼llprodukts in der AbfĆ¼ll- und Dosiermaschine entmischen, etwa wenn die Partikel zum Absinken oder Aufschwimmen neigen. Solche partikelhaltigen FĆ¼llprodukte werden beispielsweise als Milchprodukte mit Fruchtbestandteilen oder SƤfte mit Fruchtfleisch abgefĆ¼llt. Zur Vermeidung einer solchen Separation beziehungsweise Trennung von Produktbestandteilen wird eine im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter integrierte, permanent in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter eintauchende motorische RĆ¼hrvorrichtung eingesetzt. Dies kann, etwa bei der LebensmittelabfĆ¼llung mittels eines Kolbendosierers im Rundlaufverfahren, durch motorische RĆ¼hrwerke oder durch starre Mischer erreicht werden, die von einem nicht drehenden Teil der Maschine in den drehenden, mit Produkt gefĆ¼llten ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter permanent ins FĆ¼llprodukt eintauchen. Ein solcher Mischer sorgt wƤhrend der Drehbewegung des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters somit fĆ¼r eine Durchmischung und verhindert das schnelle Separieren von Bestandteilen des abzufĆ¼llenden Produkts und damit fĆ¼r eine gleichbleibende ProduktqualitƤt.In the case of particle-containing filling products, the different phases of the filling product in the filling and metering machine can separate, for example when the particles tend to sink or float. Such particle-containing filling products are filled, for example, as dairy products with fruit components or juices with pulp. To avoid such a separation or separation of product components is integrated in the product holding container, permanently immersed in the product holding container used motorized stirring device. This can be achieved, for example, in the case of food filling by means of a piston dispenser in a rotary process, by motorized agitators or by rigid mixers, which immerse permanently into the filling product from a non-rotating part of the machine into the rotating, product-filled product holding container. Such a mixer thus ensures thorough mixing during the rotary movement of the product storage container and prevents the rapid separation of components of the product to be filled and thus a constant product quality.
Die
Neben den oben genannten Problemen, die aus der permanenten mechanischen Durchmischung des FĆ¼llprodukts resultieren, besteht ein weiteres Problem herkƶmmlicher AbfĆ¼ll- und Dosiermaschinen darin, dass das FĆ¼llprodukt bei einer etwaigen Betriebsunterbrechung eine TemperaturƤnderung erfƤhrt, wobei dieses dann mƶglicherweise nicht mehr im Bereich der zur AbfĆ¼llung erforderlichen Temperaturen vorliegt.In addition to the above-mentioned problems resulting from the permanent mechanical mixing of the filling product, another problem of conventional filling and dosing machines is that the filling product undergoes a temperature change in the event of an interruption of operation, which may then no longer be in the region required for filling Temperatures is present.
Das abzufĆ¼llende Produkt wird in vielen AnwendungsfƤllen nƤmlich aus mikrobiologischen GrĆ¼nden (etwa bei der HeiĆabfĆ¼llung von SƤften) oder aus GrĆ¼nden der Verarbeitbarkeit bei viskosen oder mit der Temperatur seine Textur verƤndernden Lebensmitteln (beispielsweise bei der AbfĆ¼llung von Fruchtgelees oder KonfitĆ¼ren) temperiert.The product to be filled is tempered in many applications namely for microbiological reasons (for example in the hot filling of juices) or for reasons of processability in viscous or temperature-changing foods (for example, when filling fruit jellies or jams).
In der
Bei der Temperierung des Dosierguts im rotierenden ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter mittels Heiz- oder KĆ¼hlmantel ist eine konstruktiv aufwƤndige und kostenintensive Lƶsung mit Zu- und AbfĆ¼hrung von KƤlte-/WƤrmemitteln (beispielsweise HeiĆ- oder Kaltwasser, Dampf) erforderlich, die einen verfahrenstechnischen und apparativen Mehraufwand nach sich zieht. Starre, permanent in den rotierenden ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter eintauchende Temperierelemente (beispielsweise eine Heizwendel) sind auch aus reinigungstechnischer Sicht nicht optimal.When tempering the Dosierguts in the rotating product holding container by means of heating or cooling jacket is a structurally complex and costly solution with supply and removal of cooling / heating means (for example, hot or cold water, steam) is required, which entails a procedural and additional equipment expense , Rigid, permanently immersed in the rotating product holding tank tempering (for example, a heating coil) are not optimal from a cleaning point of view.
Zusammenfassend lassen sich im Stand der Technik zwei Problemgruppen bei Vorrichtungen zum BefĆ¼llen von BehƤltern mit einem drehbaren ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter identifizieren: a) solche, die sich aus der permanenten Durchmischung des FĆ¼llprodukts ergeben und b) solche, die mit der Temperierung des FĆ¼llprodukts zusammenhƤngen.In summary, in the prior art two problem groups can be identified in apparatuses for filling containers with a rotatable product holding container: a) those which result from the permanent mixing of the filling product and b) those which are associated with the tempering of the filling product.
Eine Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung besteht darin, wenigstens eines der oben genannten Probleme zu lƶsen. Insbesondere liegt eine Aufgabe der Erfindung darin, eine Vorrichtung zum BefĆ¼llen mindestens eines BehƤlters mit flĆ¼ssigem FĆ¼llprodukt sowie ein Verfahren zum BefĆ¼llen von BehƤltern unter Verwendung einer solchen Vorrichtung anzugeben, mit denen sich eine verbesserte FĆ¼llgenauigkeit erzielen sowie eine durch den FĆ¼llvorgang bedingte QualitƤtsverminderung des FĆ¼llprodukts vermeiden lassen.An object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the above-mentioned problems. In particular, an object of the invention is to provide a device for filling at least one container with liquid filling product and a method for filling containers using such a device, which can achieve improved filling accuracy and avoid a conditional by the filling quality reduction of the filling product ,
Die Aufgabe wird mit einer Vorrichtung mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 gelƶst. Vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen ergeben sich aus den UnteransprĆ¼chen, der folgenden allgemeinen Beschreibung sowie der Beschreibung bevorzugter AusfĆ¼hrungsformen.The object is achieved with a device having the features of
Entsprechend wird eine Vorrichtung zum BefĆ¼llen mindestens eines BehƤlters mit einem FĆ¼llprodukt, umfassend einen ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter zur Aufnahme des FĆ¼llprodukts und ein RĆ¼hrelement zum RĆ¼hren des im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter aufgenommenen FĆ¼llprodukts vorgeschlagen. ErfindungsgemĆ¤Ć ist die Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter variierbar.Accordingly, an apparatus for filling at least one container with a filling product comprising a product holding container for receiving the filling product and a stirring element for stirring the filling product received in the product holding container is proposed. According to the immersion depth of the stirring element in the product holding container is variable.
Durch die Variierbarkeit der Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter lƤsst sich die mechanische Beanspruchung des FĆ¼llprodukts variieren und insbesondere im regulƤren FĆ¼llbetrieb vermindern, wodurch zum einen der Lufteinschlag in das FĆ¼llprodukt und zum anderen eine Verschlechterung der QualitƤt des FĆ¼llprodukts aufgrund der mechanischen Beanspruchung durch das RĆ¼hrelement vermieden oder zumindest vermindert werden kann. AuĆerdem lƤsst sich der Energieverbrauch, der aus dem VerrĆ¼hren des FĆ¼llprodukts resultiert, optimieren.Due to the variability of the immersion depth of the stirring element in the product holding container, the mechanical stress of the filling product can be varied and in particular reduced in the regular filling operation, whereby on the one hand the air impact in the filling product and on the other Deterioration of the quality of the filling product due to the mechanical stress caused by the stirring element can be avoided or at least reduced. In addition, the energy consumption resulting from the stirring of the filling product can be optimized.
Unter einem "FĆ¼llprodukt" werden hier niedrig- als auch hochviskose und pastƶse FlĆ¼ssigkeiten verstanden, genauso wie mehrphasige FlĆ¼ssigkeiten und solche mit Partikeln. GetrƤnke aller Art sind ebenso einbezogen wie Joghurt, KonfitĆ¼re, Gelee und andere Lebensmittel, die sich mittels einer AbfĆ¼ll- und Dosiermaschine, insbesondere einem Kolbendosierer, abfĆ¼llen beziehungsweise dosieren lassen. Der ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter hƤlt das FĆ¼llprodukt bereit, aus dem dann die FĆ¼llorgane, beispielsweise die KolbenfĆ¼ller, zum direkten EinfĆ¼llen des FĆ¼llprodukts in die BehƤlter gespeist werden.A "filling product" is understood to mean low-viscosity as well as highly viscous and pasty liquids, as well as multiphase liquids and those with particles. Beverages of all kinds are included as well as yogurt, jam, jelly and other foods that can be filled or dosed by means of a filling and metering machine, in particular a piston dispenser. The product holding container holds the filling product ready, from which then the filling members, for example the piston fillers, are fed for direct filling of the filling product into the containers.
Ćblicherweise ist der ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter nicht vollstƤndig mit dem FĆ¼llprodukt gefĆ¼llt, sondern dieses liegt bei einem gewissen FĆ¼llniveau, man kƶnnte auch sagen in einer gewissen FĆ¼llhƶhe, vor. Im Fall von Wasser wird das FĆ¼llniveau bei ruhendem ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter etwa durch den Wasserspiegel bestimmt. In dem ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter ist ein RĆ¼hrelement vorgesehen. SelbstverstƤndlich kƶnnen auch mehrere RĆ¼hrelemente vorgesehen sein. Wenn im Folgenden von "dem" oder "einem" RĆ¼hrelement die Rede ist, nicht auch von mehreren, dann geschieht dies nur aus GrĆ¼nden der Darstellung. Das gilt analog fĆ¼r andere Merkmale der Vorrichtung, auch wenn nicht explizit darauf hingewiesen wird, dass das betreffende Merkmal mehrfach realisiert sein kann.Usually, the product holding container is not completely filled with the filling product, but this is at a certain level of filling, one could say in a certain level, before. In the case of water, the filling level is determined by the water level when the product holding container is at rest. In the product holding container, a stirring element is provided. Of course, several stirring elements may be provided. If in the following the term "the" or "one" stirring element is mentioned, not even several, then this happens only for the sake of illustration. This applies analogously to other features of the device, even if it is not explicitly stated that the feature in question can be implemented several times.
GemĆ¤Ć der Erfindung ist das RĆ¼hrelement wenigstens zwischen einer RĆ¼hrposition, in der das RĆ¼hrelement in das FĆ¼llprodukt eingetaucht ist, und einer Ruheposition, in der sich das RĆ¼hrelement vollstƤndig oder teilweise auĆerhalb des FĆ¼llprodukts befindet, verfahrbar. Entsprechend wird die durch das RĆ¼hrelement bereitgestellte Mischfunktion nur dann aktiviert, wenn sie benƶtigt wird, erfindungsgemĆ¤Ć bei einer Unterbrechung des regulƤren FĆ¼llbetriebs. Die Aktivierung findet bevorzugt automatisch statt.According to the invention, the stirring element is movable at least between a stirring position, in which the stirring element is immersed in the filling product, and a rest position, in which the stirring element is located completely or partially outside the filling product. Accordingly, the mixing function provided by the stirring element is activated only when it is needed according to the invention in the event of an interruption of the regular filling operation. The activation preferably takes place automatically.
Damit wird das FĆ¼llprodukt noch weiter geschont und es findet eine noch weitere Optimierung des Energieverbrauchs statt. Im Normalbetrieb der Vorrichtung, das heiĆt wƤhrend des regulƤren FĆ¼llbetriebs, ist die Verweilzeit des FĆ¼llprodukts im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter relativ kurz und durch das stete ZufĆ¼hren von FĆ¼llprodukt in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter ist eine Durchmischung dann gegebenenfalls nicht notwendig. In diesem Fall kann das RĆ¼hrelement vollstƤndig aus dem FĆ¼llprodukt herausgefahren werden. Es mag sein, dass, konstruktionsbedingt, Teile des RĆ¼hrelements, die das FĆ¼llprodukt nicht oder nur wenig beeinflussen, im FĆ¼llprodukt verbleiben. Aus diesem Grund kann auch ein nur teilweises Herausbewegen des RĆ¼hrelements aus dem FĆ¼llprodukt die obigen Wirkungen erzielen. Vorzugsweise befindet sich das RĆ¼hrelement in der Ruheposition allerdings vollstƤndig auĆerhalb des FĆ¼llprodukts. In diesem Zusammenhang sei auf folgendes hingewiesen: wenn davon die Rede ist, dass die Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter variierbar ist, dann sind FƤlle mitumfasst, in denen sich das RĆ¼hrelement an bestimmten Positionen, etwa der Ruheposition, auĆerhalb des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters befindet. FĆ¼r die Funktion des RĆ¼hrelements ist es bedeutend, dass das RĆ¼hrelement relativ zum Niveau des FĆ¼llprodukts verstellbar ist und in das FĆ¼llprodukt eintauchen kann.This further protects the filling product and further optimizes energy consumption. During normal operation of the device, that is, during the regular filling operation, the residence time of the filling product in the product holding container is relatively short and, due to the continuous feeding of filling product into the product holding container, thorough mixing may not be necessary. In this case, the stirring element can be completely moved out of the filling product. It may be that, due to the design, parts of the stirring element that do not or only slightly affect the filling product remain in the filling product. For this reason, even only partially moving the stirring member out of the filling product can achieve the above effects. However, in the rest position, the stirring element is preferably completely outside the filling product. In this connection, it should be noted that if it is mentioned that the immersion depth of the stirring element in the ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter is variable, then cases are included in which the stirring element is at certain positions, such as the rest position, outside the ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters. For the function of the stirring element, it is important that the stirring element is adjustable relative to the level of the filling product and can dip into the filling product.
Vorzugsweise ist das RĆ¼hrelement an einem sich nicht drehenden Vorrichtungsteil angebracht und relativ zu diesem in Drehrichtung des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters stationƤr. Mit anderen Worten weist die Vorrichtung bevorzugt einen oder mehrere Vorrichtungsteile auf, die sich mit Bezug auf den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter nicht drehen, in diesem Sinne also fest sind. Relativ dazu ist gemĆ¤Ć dieser bevorzugten AusfĆ¼hrungsform das RĆ¼hrelement stationƤr, mit Ausnahme der Variierbarkeit der Eintauchtiefe beziehungsweise der Position relativ zum FĆ¼llproduktniveau. Damit wird ein besonders einfacher Aufbau der Vorrichtung realisiert, da auf aufwƤndige Mechanismen zum Antreiben und Steuern des RĆ¼hrelements verzichtet werden kann.Preferably, the stirring element is attached to a non-rotating device part and stationary relative to this in the direction of rotation of the product storage container. In other words, the device preferably has one or more device parts which do not rotate with respect to the product holding container, that is to say are fixed in this sense. Relative to this, according to this preferred embodiment, the stirring element is stationary, with the exception of the variability of the immersion depth or the position relative to FĆ¼llproduktniveau. For a particularly simple construction of the device is realized, since can be dispensed with elaborate mechanisms for driving and controlling the stirring element.
Vorzugsweise erfolgt die Variation der Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements mittels eines Antriebs, bevorzugt mittels eines pneumatischen und/oder elektrischen Antriebs. Dadurch wird eine einfache und doch effiziente Mƶglichkeit der Verstellbarkeit realisiert. Das RĆ¼hrelement kann hierbei beispielsweise eine Leitschaufel, welche die Durchmischung des FĆ¼llprodukts bewirkt, und einen LeitschaufeltrƤger aufweisen, der direkt mit einem Verstellmechanismus verbunden ist. Der Verstellmechanismus kann einen Pneumatikzylinder und/oder Elektromotor und/oder Elektromagneten und so weiter aufweisen.Preferably, the variation of the immersion depth of the stirring element by means of a drive, preferably by means of a pneumatic and / or electric drive. This realizes a simple yet efficient way of adjustability. In this case, the stirring element may, for example, have a guide blade, which causes the mixing of the filling product, and a guide blade carrier, which is connected directly to an adjusting mechanism. The adjusting mechanism may comprise a pneumatic cylinder and / or electric motor and / or electromagnet and so on.
Vorzugsweise ist das RĆ¼hrelement wenigstens abschnittsweise temperierbar. Durch die Temperierbarkeit, in Zusammenwirkung mit der Variierbarkeit der Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements kann eine bedarfsgerechte Temperierung und gleichzeitig eine bedarfsgerechte Durchmischung des FĆ¼llprodukts erreicht werden. Dies ist insbesondere bei einer Unterbrechung des regulƤren FĆ¼llbetriebs von Bedeutung, wƤhrend dessen sowohl die Durchmischung als auch die Temperatur des FĆ¼llprodukts aufrechterhalten werden muss, um bei einer Wiederaufnahme des FĆ¼llbetriebs sofort das sich im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter vorliegende FĆ¼llprodukt abfĆ¼llen zu kƶnnen und dieses insbesondere nicht verworfen werden muss.Preferably, the stirring element is at least partially tempered. Due to the temperature control, in conjunction with the variability of the depth of immersion of the stirring a demand-based temperature control and at the same time a needs-based mixing of the filling product can be achieved. This is particularly important in an interruption of the regular filling operation of importance, during which both the mixing and the temperature of the filling product must be maintained in order to fill in a resumption of filling immediately present in the product holding container filling product and this particular must not be discarded ,
Auch die bloĆe Variierbarkeit der Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements kann direkt zur bedarfsgerechten Temperierung beitragen, denn der Startzeitpunkt und der Endzeitpunkt der Temperierung kƶnnen durch Eintauchen und Herausziehen des RĆ¼hrelements in das beziehungsweise aus dem FĆ¼llprodukt prƤzise festgelegt werden, ohne dass ein ungewollter WƤrmeaustausch aufgrund der TrƤgheit des WƤrmetauschers beziehungsweise der Materialien des RĆ¼hrelements erfolgt.The mere variability of the immersion depth of the stirring element can contribute directly to demand-based temperature, because the start time and the end time of the temperature can be precisely determined by immersion and extraction of the stirring in or out of the product without an unwanted heat exchange due to the inertia of the heat exchanger or the materials of the stirring element takes place.
Dadurch, dass das RĆ¼hrelement bevorzugt am nicht rotierenden Teil der Maschine befestigt ist, entfallen beispielsweise konstruktiv aufwƤndige Drehverteilerkonstruktionen zur Zirkulation von KĆ¼hl- oder Heizmedien oder zur Zirkulation des Produkts selbst, Schleifringe zur Ćbertragung elektrischer Energie auf den rotierenden Teil der Maschine usw.. Der zusƤtzliche apparative Aufwand sowie die Ansteuerung und Regelung der Vorrichtung werden auf ein Minimum reduziert, wodurch Anschaffungs- und Wartungskosten eingespart werden kƶnnen.The fact that the stirring element is preferably fastened to the non-rotating part of the machine eliminates, for example, structurally complex rotary distributor constructions for circulating cooling or heating media or for circulating the product itself, slip rings for transmitting electrical energy to the rotating part of the machine, etc. Apparent effort and the control and regulation of the device are reduced to a minimum, thereby purchasing and maintenance costs can be saved.
Speziell im Falle der Dosierung von Lebensmitteln kann durch die Temperierung Ć¼ber das RĆ¼hrelement wƤhrend eines Anlagenstillstands FĆ¼llprodukt gespart werden, da die Temperierung das FĆ¼llprodukt wƤhrend der Stillstandzeit in einem spezifischen Temperaturrahmen und einem vorgegebenen Durchmischungszustand halten kann und das FĆ¼llprodukt nicht verworfen werden muss. Auch im Hinblick auf die Temperierung Ć¼ber das RĆ¼hrelement kann Energie eingespart werden und das FĆ¼llprodukt geschont werden, indem die Temperierung nur dann durchgefĆ¼hrt wird, wenn diese benƶtigt wird.Especially in the case of dosing of food can be saved by the temperature control over the stirring during a system shutdown filling product, since the temperature control can hold the filling product during the downtime in a specific temperature frame and a predetermined mixing state and the filling product must not be discarded. Also with regard to the temperature control over the stirring element, energy can be saved and the filling product can be conserved by the temperature control is carried out only when it is needed.
Bevorzugt ist das RĆ¼hrelement elektrisch beheizbar und/oder mit einem WƤrme-/KƤltemittel durchstrƶmbar. Wenn das RĆ¼hrelement, wie es oben angedeutet wurde, eine Leitschaufel und einen LeitschaufeltrƤger aufweist, dann kann die Leitschaufel als elektrisch beheizbare Leitschaufel ausgefĆ¼hrt sein und die Stromzufuhr kann Ć¼ber ein Kabel im Inneren des LeitschaufeltrƤgers erfolgen. SelbstverstƤndlich kƶnnen auch mehrere Leitschaufeln vorgesehen sein. Diese kƶnnen mit einem produktvertrƤglichen und/oder hitzeresistenten Material, beispielsweise Teflon oder Keramik, beschichtet sein. Auch eine Ummantelung aus Edelstahl oder anderen Materialien kann in Betracht gezogen werden. Alternativ kann das RĆ¼hrelement, etwa die eine oder die mehreren Leitschaufeln, mit einem oder mehreren im Innern gefĆ¼hrten Rohren, Trennblechen oder SchlƤuchen vorgesehen sein, welche ein gasfƶrmiges und/oder flĆ¼ssiges Medium fĆ¼hren. Hierbei kommen Dampf, HeiĆwasser, Kaltwasser oder andere WƤrme-/KƤltemittel in Betracht. Die Temperierung kann selbstverstƤndlich auch Ć¼ber verdampfende Medien erfolgen.Preferably, the stirring element is electrically heated and / or flowed through with a heat / refrigerant. If, as indicated above, the stirring element comprises a vane and a vane carrier, then the vane may be embodied as an electrically heatable vane and the power may be supplied via a cable inside the vane carrier. Of course, several vanes may be provided. These can be coated with a product-compatible and / or heat-resistant material, for example Teflon or ceramic. Also, a sheath made of stainless steel or other materials can be considered. Alternatively, the agitating element, such as the one or more vanes, may be provided with one or more internally routed tubes, baffles, or hoses that carry a gaseous and / or liquid medium. This can be steam, hot water, cold water or other heat / refrigerant into consideration. The tempering can of course also be done via evaporating media.
Vorzugsweise ist der Anstellwinkel der Leitschaufel oder der Leitschaufeln verstellbar, um einen optimalen Mischerfolg fĆ¼r das jeweilige FĆ¼llprodukt beziehungsweise bezĆ¼glich dessen ViskositƤt zu erzielen. Auch die Abmessung der RĆ¼hrelemente, das heiĆt deren Ausdehnung, kann gegebenenfalls verƤnderbar vorgesehen sein.Preferably, the angle of incidence of the vane or the guide vanes is adjustable in order to achieve an optimal mixing success for the respective filling product or with respect to its viscosity. The dimension of the stirring elements, that is their extent, may optionally be provided changeable.
Vorzugsweise ist ein Niveausensor zur Messung des FĆ¼llproduktniveaus beziehungsweise der FĆ¼llhƶhe des FĆ¼llprodukts im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter vorgesehen, wodurch eine effiziente Steuerung des RĆ¼hrelements, sowohl hinsichtlich seiner Verstellbarkeit als auch seiner etwaigen Temperierbarkeit, vereinfacht wird. Dazu ist vorzugsweise nicht nur das RĆ¼hrelement beziehungsweise dessen Verstellmechanismus mit einer Steuerung verbunden, sondern auch der Niveausensor zur Messung des Niveaus des FĆ¼llprodukts.Preferably, a level sensor for measuring the filling product level or the filling level of the filling product is provided in the product holding container, whereby an efficient control of the stirring element, both in terms of its adjustability and its possible temperature control is simplified. For this purpose, preferably not only the stirring element or its adjusting mechanism is connected to a controller, but also the level sensor for measuring the level of the filling product.
Vorzugsweise ist zusƤtzlich dazu oder alternativ ein Temperatursensor zur Messung der Temperatur des FĆ¼llprodukts vorgesehen. Auch dieser kann mit der oben erwƤhnten Steuerung verbunden sein.Preferably, in addition to or alternatively, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the filling product is provided. This too can be connected to the above-mentioned control.
Der obige RĆ¼hrmechanismus ist insbesondere fĆ¼r KolbenfĆ¼ller geeignet, welche eine Dosierung des FĆ¼llprodukts Ć¼ber Kolben realisieren. Die Eignung ergibt sich daraus, dass KolbenfĆ¼ller besonders bevorzugt fĆ¼r hochviskose FlĆ¼ssigkeiten, wie etwa Joghurt, KonfitĆ¼re usw., verwendet werden, welche in vielen Produktvarianten mit zusƤtzlichen Feststoffen wie beispielsweise Fruchtfleisch, SchokoladenstĆ¼ckchen oder KaramellstĆ¼ckchen versehen sind. In diesem Fall sind im regulƤren FĆ¼llbetrieb ein unnƶtiges RĆ¼hren und gegebenenfalls ein unnƶtiges Temperieren der QualitƤt des FĆ¼llprodukts abtrƤglich. Insbesondere werden die Partikel nicht mehr durch die stƤndige mechanische Einwirkung kleingemahlen. Eine Optimierung des RĆ¼hr- und Temperaturverhaltens im regulƤren FĆ¼llbetrieb und bei einer Unterbrechung des regulƤren FĆ¼llbetriebs ist daher besonders bei der Verwendung von KolbenfĆ¼llern vorteilhaft.The above stirring mechanism is particularly suitable for piston fillers, which realize a metering of the filling product via pistons. Suitability arises from the fact that piston fillers are particularly preferably used for highly viscous liquids, such as yoghurt, jam, etc., which in many product variants are provided with additional solids such as, for example, pulp, chocolate pieces or caramel pieces. In this case, in the regular filling operation, unnecessary stirring and possibly unnecessary tempering of the quality of the filling product are detrimental. In particular, the particles are no longer finely ground by the constant mechanical action. An optimization of the stirring and temperature behavior in the regular filling operation and in an interruption of the regular filling operation is therefore particularly advantageous when using piston fillers.
Die oben gestellte Aufgabe wird weiterhin durch ein Verfahren mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 11 gelƶst. Auch hier ergeben sich vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen aus den UnteransprĆ¼chen.The above object is further achieved by a method having the features of
Entsprechend wird ein Verfahren zum BefĆ¼llen mindestens eines BehƤlters mit FĆ¼llprodukt mittels einer Vorrichtung, die einen ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter zur Aufnahme des FĆ¼llprodukts und ein RĆ¼hrelement zum RĆ¼hren des im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter aufgenommenen FĆ¼llprodukts aufweist, vorgeschlagen, bevorzugt eine der oben beschriebenen Vorrichtungen. ErfindungsgemĆ¤Ć wird die Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter in AbhƤngigkeit von einem Betriebszustand der Vorrichtung variiert.Accordingly, a method is proposed for filling at least one container with filling product by means of a device which has a product holding container for receiving the filling product and a stirring element for stirring the filling product accommodated in the product holding container, preferably one of the devices described above. According to the invention Immersion depth of the stirring element in the product holding container varies depending on an operating state of the device.
Mƶgliche BetriebszustƤnde der Vorrichtung umfassen unter anderem den regulƤren FĆ¼llbetrieb und eine Unterbrechung des regulƤren FĆ¼llbetriebs, etwa bei einer Stƶrung oder Wartung der Anlage. Allerdings kƶnnen auch andere ZustƤnde den RĆ¼hr- und/oder Temperiermodus des RĆ¼hrelements bestimmen.Possible operating states of the device include, inter alia, the regular filling operation and an interruption of the regular filling operation, for example in the event of a malfunction or maintenance of the system. However, other states can also determine the stirring and / or tempering mode of the stirring element.
ErfindungsgemĆ¤Ć wird bei einer Unterbrechung des regulƤren FĆ¼llbetriebs der Vorrichtung das RĆ¼hrelement in das FĆ¼llprodukt im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter abgesenkt. Indem sich der ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter weiter dreht und/oder das RĆ¼hrelement aktiv rotierend betrieben wird, wird das Auftreten einer Separation der Produktbestandteile reduziert oder vermieden. Gegebenenfalls findet auch ein WƤrme-/KƤlteĆ¼bertrag vom RĆ¼hrelement auf das FĆ¼llprodukt statt.According to the invention, when the regular filling operation of the device is interrupted, the stirring element is lowered into the filling product in the product holding container. By further rotating the product holding container and / or actively operating the stirring element in rotation, the occurrence of a separation of the product components is reduced or avoided. Optionally, there is also a heat / cold transfer from the stirring to the filling product.
ErfindungsgemĆ¤Ć ist das RĆ¼hrelement im regulƤren FĆ¼llbetrieb wenigstens teilweise auĆerhalb des FĆ¼llprodukts angeordnet und bei einer Unterbrechung des FĆ¼llbetriebs in das FĆ¼llprodukt eingetaucht.According to the invention, the stirring element is arranged in the regular filling operation at least partially outside of the filling product and immersed in an interruption of the filling operation in the filling product.
Da je nach FĆ¼llhƶhe des FĆ¼llprodukts im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter das RĆ¼hrelement mƶglicherweise nicht bedeckt ist, wird Ć¼ber den oben beschriebenen Niveausensor, der vorzugsweise mit der Steuerung der Vorrichtung kommuniziert, in einer besonderen AusfĆ¼hrungsform Ć¼berprĆ¼ft, ob ausreichend FĆ¼llprodukt zum Bedecken des RĆ¼hrelements enthalten ist. Gegebenenfalls wird Ć¼ber ein Produktzulaufventil solange FĆ¼llprodukt zugefĆ¼hrt, bis ausreichend FĆ¼llprodukt im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter enthalten ist. Ćber den oben erwƤhnten Temperatursensor kann eine vorgegebene Solltemperatur eingestellt werden. WƤhrend des Stopps der Vorrichtung dreht sich der ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter weiter, gegebenenfalls bei reduzierter Drehzahl, oder das RĆ¼hrelement rotiert, um das FĆ¼llprodukt an dem RĆ¼hrelement vorbeistrƶmen zu lassen und dabei das FĆ¼llprodukt, sofern erforderlich, zu erwƤrmen oder abzukĆ¼hlen. Beim Wiederanfahren der Vorrichtung zur Wiederaufnahme des regulƤren FĆ¼llbetriebs wird das RĆ¼hrelement in die Ruhelage gebracht, in der das RĆ¼hrelement vollstƤndig oder teilweise aus dem FĆ¼llprodukt herausbewegt ist.Since, depending on the filling level of the filling product in the product holding container, the stirring element may not be covered, it is checked via the above-described level sensor, which preferably communicates with the control of the device, in a particular embodiment, whether sufficient filling product for covering the stirring element is included. Optionally, filling product is supplied via a product feed valve until sufficient filling product is contained in the product holding container. Via the above-mentioned temperature sensor, a predetermined setpoint temperature can be set. During the stop of the device, the product holding tank continues to rotate, optionally at reduced speed, or the stirring element rotates to allow the filling product to flow past the stirring element, thereby heating or cooling the filling product, if necessary. When restarting the device for resuming the regular filling operation, the stirring element is brought into the rest position, in which the stirring element is completely or partially moved out of the filling product.
Wenngleich die vorliegende Erfindung besonders bevorzugt bei der BefĆ¼llung von BehƤltern mit Lebensmitteln zur Anwendung kommt, versteht es sich, dass die Erfindung auch in anderen Bereichen umgesetzt werden kann, beispielsweise bei der AbfĆ¼llung beziehungsweise Dosierung von Farben, Lacken oder anderen niedrig- und hochviskosen FlĆ¼ssigkeiten. DarĆ¼ber hinaus sind weitere Vorteile und Merkmale der vorliegenden Erfindung aus der folgenden Beschreibung bevorzugter AusfĆ¼hrungsformen ersichtlich.Although the present invention is particularly preferably used in the filling of containers with food, it is understood that the invention can also be implemented in other areas, for example in the filling or metering of paints, lacquers or other low-viscosity and high-viscosity liquids. In addition, other advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments.
Bevorzugte weitere AusfĆ¼hrungsformen und Aspekte der vorliegenden Erfindung werden durch die nachfolgende Beschreibung der Figuren nƤher erlƤutert. Dabei zeigen:
- Figuren 1a und 1b
- schematisch einen drehbaren ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter fĆ¼r eine Vorrichtung zum BefĆ¼llen von BehƤltern, jeweils mit einem RĆ¼hrelement, das sich in der
Figur 1 a auĆerhalb des FĆ¼llprodukts befindet und in derFigur 1b in das FĆ¼llprodukt eingetaucht ist, und - Figuren 2a bis 2f
- verschiedene Realisierungen des RĆ¼hrelements.
- FIGS. 1a and 1b
- schematically a rotatable product holding container for a device for filling containers, each with a stirring element, located in the
FIG. 1 a is located outside the filling product and in theFIG. 1b immersed in the filling product, and - FIGS. 2a to 2f
- various implementations of the stirring element.
Im Folgenden werden bevorzugte AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiele anhand der Figuren beschrieben. Dabei werden gleiche, Ƥhnliche oder gleichwirkende Elemente in den unterschiedlichen Figuren mit identischen Bezugszeichen bezeichnet, und auf eine wiederholte Beschreibung dieser Elemente wird in der nachfolgenden Beschreibung teilweise verzichtet, um Redundanzen zu vermeiden.In the following, preferred embodiments will be described with reference to the figures. In this case, identical, similar or equivalent elements in the different figures are denoted by identical reference numerals, and a repeated description of these elements will be omitted in the following description in part in order to avoid redundancies.
Die
In den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 taucht ein RĆ¼hrelement 13 ein, das zum RĆ¼hren des im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 aufgenommenen FĆ¼llprodukts 11 dient. Das RĆ¼hrelement 13 kann bezĆ¼glich seiner Eintauchtiefe in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 variiert werden, so dass die Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements 13 entsprechend auch bezĆ¼glich des FĆ¼llproduktniveaus 12 des FĆ¼llprodukts 11 im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 variiert werden kann.Into the
Damit kƶnnen unterschiedliche Eintauchtiefen des RĆ¼hrelements 13 in das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 realisiert werden und das RĆ¼hrelement 13 bei einer ersten Eintauchtiefe in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 vollstƤndig oder teilweise mit dem FĆ¼llprodukt 11 in Kontakt stehen und bei einer zweiten Eintauchtiefe in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 vollstƤndig auĆerhalb des FĆ¼llprodukts 11 angeordnet sein. Hierzu ist die Eintauchtiefe bevorzugt zwischen einer oberen und einer unteren Endposition des RĆ¼hrelements 13 variierbar.Thus, different immersion depths of the stirring
Die Eintauchtiefe ergibt sich aus dem Einfahren des RĆ¼hrelements 13 in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 und kann objektiv Ć¼ber den Abstand des RĆ¼hrelements 13 gegenĆ¼ber feststehenden Teilen des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters 1 definiert werden - beispielsweise gegenĆ¼ber dem Boden des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters 1. Taucht das RĆ¼hrelement 13 tief in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 ein, so ist der Abstand des RĆ¼hrelements 13 zum Boden des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters 1 geringer, als bei einem nicht so tiefen Eintauchen des RĆ¼hrelements 13. Die Eintauchtiefe kann auch gegenĆ¼ber einem oberen Rand des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters 1 definiert werden.The depth of immersion results from the retraction of the stirring
Entsprechend kann durch eine Variation der Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements 13 in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 auch eine Variation der Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements 13 in das jeweils im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 aufgenommene FĆ¼llprodukt 11 erreicht werden und die Eintauchtiefe auch relativ zum FĆ¼llproduktniveau 12 eingestellt werden kann. Hierzu ist die Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements 13 bevorzugt stufenlos oder quasi stufenlos zwischen einer oberen und einer unteren Endposition variierbar.Accordingly, a variation of the immersion depth of the stirring
Dadurch, dass das RĆ¼hrelement 13 in seiner oberen Endposition vollstƤndig aus dem FĆ¼llprodukt 11 herausgehoben ist, kann ein durch das RĆ¼hrelement 13 ungestƶrtes AbfĆ¼llen des FĆ¼llprodukts durchgefĆ¼hrt werden, wenn die RotationsfĆ¼llmaschine mit der vorgesehenen AbfĆ¼llgeschwindigkeit betrieben wird und entsprechend der ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 mit der vorgesehenen Geschwindigkeit rotiert. Dabei wird durch die kontinuierliche Entnahme des FĆ¼llprodukts aus dem ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 in Kombination mit der Rotation des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters 1 eine Strƶmung des FĆ¼llprodukts 11 im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 erreicht, die einer Entmischung der einzelnen Komponenten des FĆ¼llprodukts 11 entgegenwirkt. Weiterhin ist die Verweildauer des FĆ¼llprodukts 11 im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 relativ gering, da Ć¼ber den Zulauf Ć¼blicherweise das gleiche Volumen an FĆ¼llprodukt 11 zuflieĆt, wie es auch gleichzeitig Ć¼ber die FĆ¼llorgane in die zu befĆ¼llenden BehƤlter abflieĆt. Daher kann auf das Eintauchen des RĆ¼hrelements 13 in das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 im regulƤren FĆ¼llbetrieb verzichtet werden, da eine Entmischung der Komponenten oder eine VerƤnderung anderer physikalischer Eigenschaften - beispielsweise eine VerƤnderung der Temperatur - nicht zu befĆ¼rchten ist. Da das RĆ¼hrelement 13 nicht in das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 eintaucht, wird der AbfĆ¼llvorgang nicht beeinflusst, da die StrƶmungsverhƤltnisse im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 nicht durch das RĆ¼hrelement 13 gestƶrt werden.Characterized in that the stirring
Das RĆ¼hrelement 13 weist in der vorliegenden AusfĆ¼hrungsform einen LeitschaufeltrƤger 4 und zwei Leitschaufeln 5 auf. Ferner ist ein Antrieb in Form eines Pneumatikzylinders 6 vorgesehen, der mit dem LeitschaufeltrƤger 4 verbunden ist und diesen zusammen mit den Leitschaufeln 5 hƶhenverstellbar macht, so dass die Eintauchtiefe des RĆ¼hrelements 13 in den ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 entsprechend variiert werden kann. Entweder kann der LeitschaufeltrƤger 4 dabei nur an der oberen und der unteren Endposition festgelegt werden, oder der LeitschaufeltrƤger 4 kann zwischen der oberen und unteren Endposition in beliebigen Positionen festgelegt werden, so dass ein variables Einstellen der Eintauchtiefe erreicht werden kann - auch abhƤngig von dem jeweiligen FĆ¼llproduktniveau 12.The stirring
Die Leitschaufeln 5 kƶnnen weiterhin um die durch den LeitschaufeltrƤger 4 gebildete Achse herum in Rotation versetzt werden, um das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 zu rĆ¼hren.The
Die
Der LeitschaufeltrƤger 4 ist in einer Hub- und Senkrichtung beweglich durch den nicht rotierenden Deckel 2 hindurch vorgesehen und gegebenenfalls durch diesen hindurch gefĆ¼hrt. Der Pneumatikzylinder 6 und/oder der LeitschaufeltrƤger 4 sind an einer geeigneten Stelle an einem nicht rotierenden Vorrichtungsteil des RotationsfĆ¼llers befestigt, sodass das RĆ¼hrelement 13 wenigstens zwischen einer oberen und einer unteren Endlage bewegbar ist.The
Die Leitschaufeln 5 sind temperierbar, also beheizbar und/oder kĆ¼hlbar. Im gezeigten AusfĆ¼hrungsbeispiel sind die Leitschaufeln 5 elektrisch beheizbar. Die Stromzufuhr zu den elektrisch beheizbaren Leitschaufeln 5 erfolgt Ć¼ber im Innern des LeitschaufeltrƤgers 4 gefĆ¼hrte Kabel und ist Ć¼ber eine Temperatursteuerung 7 regelbar ausgefĆ¼hrt. Entsprechend kann auf das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 WƤrme Ć¼bertragen werden.The
In einer weiteren AusfĆ¼hrung sind die Leitschaufeln 5 kĆ¼hlbar ausgefĆ¼hrt, um das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 zu kĆ¼hlen.In a further embodiment, the
Je nach Anforderung und Produkteigenschaften des FĆ¼llprodukts 11 kann die Anzahl der temperierbaren Leitschaufeln 5 und/oder deren OberflƤche vergrƶĆert, verkleinert oder auf andere Weise geometrisch angepasst werden, um eine Ćbertragung von WƤrme beziehungsweise KƤlte auf das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 optimieren zu kƶnnen.Depending on the requirements and product properties of the filling
Beispielhafte geometrische AusfĆ¼hrungsformen der Leitschaufeln 5 sind in den
In der dargestellten AusfĆ¼hrungsform ist ein Niveausensor 9 zur Messung des FĆ¼llproduktniveaus 12 des FĆ¼llprodukts 11 im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 vorgesehen. Der Niveausensor 9 kommuniziert mit einer Steuerung, die etwa als Speicherprogrammierbare Steuerung SPS ausgelegt sein kann. DarĆ¼ber hinaus ist ein Temperatursensor 8 vorgesehen, der ebenfalls mit der Steuerung SPS kommuniziert. Es sei darauf hingewiesen, dass der Niveausensor 9 und der Temperatursensor 8 nicht notwendigerweise direkt im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 vorgesehen sein mĆ¼ssen. Ganz allgemein kƶnnen der Niveausensor 9 und der Temperatursensor 8 in bestimmten AusfĆ¼hrungsformen auch weggelassen werden oder allgemein als Einrichtungen zur Ermittlung der entsprechenden Parameter ausgefĆ¼hrt sein. Das Produktniveau 12, beispielsweise, lƤsst sich auch aus einer Erfassung des Zu- und Ablaufs von FĆ¼llprodukt 11 in den und aus dem ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 bestimmen.In the illustrated embodiment, a
Zum FĆ¼llen des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters 1 ist ein Produktzulaufventil 10 vorgesehen. Der Pneumatikzylinder 6, die Temperatursteuerung 7, der Temperatursensor 8, der Niveausensor 9 und das Produktzulaufventil 10 sind mit der Speicherprogrammierbaren Steuerung SPS verbunden. Ćber die Speicherprogrammierbare Steuerung SPS erfolgt die Erfassung der SensorgrƶĆen sowie die Ansteuerung der entsprechenden Komponenten.For filling the
Im unteren Bereich des ProduktvorhaltebehƤlters 1 sind schematisch FĆ¼llorgane 3 dargestellt, die in den
Im Folgenden soll eine spezielle Mƶglichkeit des Betriebs der in den
Da je nach FĆ¼llproduktniveau 12 des FĆ¼llprodukts 11 im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 die Leitschaufeln 5 mƶglicherweise nicht bedeckt sind, wird Ć¼ber den Niveausensor 9 im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1, der mit der Steuerung SPS kommuniziert, Ć¼berprĆ¼ft, ob ausreichend FĆ¼llprodukt 11 zum Bedecken der Leitschaufeln 5 enthalten ist und gegebenenfalls wird Ć¼ber das Produktzulaufventil 10 solange FĆ¼llprodukt 11 zugefĆ¼hrt, bis ausreichend FĆ¼llprodukt 11 im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 enthalten ist. In einer Alternative oder zusƤtzlich kann auch die Stellvorrichtung 6 weiter betrieben werden, um die Leitschaufeln 5 weiter in das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 eintauchen zu lassen.Since, depending on
Ćber die Temperatursteuerung 7, gegebenenfalls in Kommunikation mit der Steuerung SPS und dem damit verbundene Temperatursensor 8, wird an den hier gezeigten elektrisch beheizbaren Leitschaufeln 5 eine vorgegebene Solltemperatur eingestellt. WƤhrend eines Stopps der AbfĆ¼llvorrichtung dreht der ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 bei reduzierter Drehzahl, um das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 an den beheizten Leitschaufeln 5 vorbeistrƶmen zu lassen und dabei WƤrmeenergie zuzufĆ¼hren sowie das FĆ¼llprodukt 11 zur homogenen Temperaturverteilung und zur Reduzierung von Separation zu durchmischen. Der ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 kann bei einem Stopp der AbfĆ¼llvorrichtung auch zum vollstƤndigen Stillstand kommen und entsprechend nicht mehr um die Rotationsachse M herum rotieren. Die Bewegung des FĆ¼llprodukts 11 wird dann Ć¼ber die Rotation der Leitschaufeln 5 des RĆ¼hrelements 13 in dem FĆ¼llprodukt 11 aufgebracht, um ein Entmischen unterschiedlicher Komponenten zu verhindern.Via the
Beim Wiederanfahren der Anlage kann das RĆ¼hrelement 13 dann wieder in die obere Endlage verbracht werden und aus dem FĆ¼llprodukt 11 im ProduktvorhaltebehƤlter 1 herausgezogen werden.When restarting the system, the stirring
Die
Die Leitschaufeln beziehungsweise LeitstƤbe 5 kƶnnen geeignet beschichtet sein, beispielsweise mit einem produktvertrƤglichen und/oder hitzeresistenten Material, etwa Teflon oder Keramik. Elektroheizplatten, die mit Edelstahlblech ummantelt sind, sind ebenso denkbar wie Leitschaufeln, die im Inneren Rohre, Trennbleche und/oder SchlƤuche zum FĆ¼hren eines WƤrme-/KƤltemittels aufweisen.The guide vanes or guide
- 11
- ProduktvorhaltebehƤlterProduktvorhaltebehƤlter
- 22
- Deckelcover
- 33
- FĆ¼llorganFilling head
- 44
- LeitschaufeltrƤgerguide vane
- 55
- Leitschaufelvane
- 66
- Pneumatikzylinderpneumatic cylinder
- 77
- Temperatursteuerungtemperature control
- 88th
- Temperatursensortemperature sensor
- 99
- Niveausensorlevel sensor
- 1010
- ProduktzulaufventilProduct supply valve
- 1111
- FĆ¼llproduktfilling product
- 1212
- FĆ¼llhƶhe des FĆ¼llproduktsFilling height of the filling product
- 1313
- RĆ¼hrelementstirrer
- SPSSPS
- Speicherprogrammierbare SteuerungProgrammable logic controller
- MM
- Rotationsachse des ProduktvorhaltebehƤltersRotation axis of the product storage container
Claims (11)
- Device for filling at least one container with filling product (11), comprising a product reservoir (1) for receiving the filling product (11) and a stirring element (13) for stirring the filling product (11) received in the product reservoir (1), wherein the immersion depth of the stirring element (13) in the product reservoir (1) is variable, wherein the stirring element (13) is able to move at least between a stirring position in which the stirring element (13) is immersed in the filling product (11) and an idle position in which the stirring element (13) is located completely or partially outside the filling product (11),
characterised in that
the device is configured such that the stirring element (13) is arranged, in a regular filling operation, at least partially outside the filling product (11) and, in the case of a disruption of the regular filling operation, is immersed in the filling product (11). - Device according to claim 1, characterised in that the product reservoir (1) is rotatable and the device has a device part which does not rotate with respect to the product reservoir, wherein the stirring element (13) is attached to the non-rotating device part and therefore is stationary relative to the latter in the direction of rotation of the product reservoir (1).
- Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the variation of the immersion depth of the stirring element (13) occurs by means of a drive, preferably a pneumatic and/or electric drive.
- Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the stirring element (13) is able to be tempered at least in sections.
- Device according to claim 4, characterised in that the stirring element (13) is able to be heated and/or cooled electrically at least in sections and/or is able to be flowed through with a heating/cooling agent.
- Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the stirring element (13) has at least one guide vane (5).
- Device according to claim 6, characterised in that the setting angle of the guide vanes (5) is adjustable.
- Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a level sensor (9) is provided for measuring the filling product level (12) in the product reservoir (1).
- Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a temperature sensor (8) for measuring the temperature of the filling product (11) is provided in the product reservoir (1).
- Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least one filling element in the form of a piston filler for filling the at least one container is connected to the product reservoir (1) and preferably circulates together with the latter around its axis of rotation (M).
- Method for filling at least one container with a filling product (11) by means of a device which comprises a product reservoir (1) for receiving the filling product (11) and a stirring element (13) for stirring the filling product (11) received in the product reservoir (1), preferably according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the immersion depth of the stirring element (13) in the product reservoir (1) is varied depending on the operating state of the device by moving the stirring element, wherein the immersion depth is varied, preferably automatically, between a stirring position in which the stirring element (13) is immersed in the filling product (11) and an idle position in which the stirring element (13) is located completely or partially outside the filling product (11),
characterised in that
the stirring element (13) is arranged, in a regular filling operation, at least partially outside the filling product (11) and, in the case of a disruption of the regular filling operation, is immersed in the filling product (11).
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE102014113986.0A DE102014113986A1 (en) | 2014-09-26 | 2014-09-26 | Apparatus and method for filling containers with a filling product |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3000775A1 EP3000775A1 (en) | 2016-03-30 |
EP3000775B1 true EP3000775B1 (en) | 2018-01-31 |
Family
ID=54238286
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP15187025.0A Active EP3000775B1 (en) | 2014-09-26 | 2015-09-28 | Method and device for filling containers with a product |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US10112158B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3000775B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN105460867B (en) |
DE (1) | DE102014113986A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10898870B2 (en) | 2016-11-01 | 2021-01-26 | Life Technologies Corporation | Liquid mixing system with vertically adjustable mixing element and method of use |
US11439965B2 (en) * | 2018-03-22 | 2022-09-13 | Basf Coatings Gmbh | Method for producing coating medium compositions by means of gravimetric metering with mixing and adaptation of the height of the stirring element to the level |
CN112844201A (en) * | 2020-12-24 | 2021-05-28 | ę¹åęę£®å„„ęŗēē©ē§ęęéå ¬åø | Emulsifying pot control system based on internet |
CN114984792B (en) * | 2022-05-10 | 2023-09-19 | å®å “åøęå å®äŗæåå·„ęéå ¬åø | Stirring device for coal water slurry additive and using method thereof |
Citations (1)
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EP0378011A1 (en) * | 1989-01-11 | 1990-07-18 | Etablissements Thomas Et Fils | Device for treating honey |
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DE563690C (en) * | 1930-10-19 | 1932-11-10 | I G Farbenindustrie Akt Ges | Agitator container with electrically heated agitator |
GB472673A (en) | 1936-10-15 | 1937-09-28 | Stanley Frederick Broadhurst | Machines for filling containers with liquids or with materials in a liquid state |
US2691282A (en) * | 1949-06-21 | 1954-10-12 | Lyell Jennings | Cooling and storage apparatus for liquids |
US2703966A (en) * | 1950-12-30 | 1955-03-15 | Lyell Jennings | Cooling and storage apparatus for liquids |
DE1216845B (en) * | 1958-07-23 | 1966-05-18 | Lederle Pumpen & Maschf | Device for stirring, mixing, dispersing, etc. like. of fluids |
DE1954947U (en) * | 1966-12-07 | 1967-02-09 | Linde Ag | SUBMERGED COOLER FOR CHILLING MILK. |
AU3974768A (en) * | 1968-06-26 | 1968-08-01 | Sulzer Brothers Limited | Apparatus for filling individual containers with sterile liquids |
GB1474524A (en) * | 1973-07-06 | 1977-05-25 | ||
US4593612A (en) | 1982-01-30 | 1986-06-10 | Herbert Rieger | Upright red wine fermentation tank |
US4817397A (en) * | 1988-06-21 | 1989-04-04 | Grischenko Valentin I | Device for refrigeration and freezing of biological objects |
AT395544B (en) * | 1990-11-23 | 1993-01-25 | Kreuziger Wolf Dieter Mag Ing | DEVICE FOR MIXING, HOMOGENIZING OR IMPLEMENTING AT LEAST TWO COMPONENTS |
US5538462A (en) * | 1994-03-15 | 1996-07-23 | The Gleason Works | Lapping compound supply system for a gear finishing machine |
JPH10277378A (en) * | 1997-04-07 | 1998-10-20 | Ishikawajima Harima Heavy Ind Co Ltd | Agitating device for exothermic reactor |
US6491423B1 (en) * | 1998-03-11 | 2002-12-10 | Mc21, Incorporated | Apparatus for mixing particles into a liquid medium |
US6825289B2 (en) * | 2001-04-02 | 2004-11-30 | Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd. | Method for producing chemical reactive substance and polycarboxylic acid produced thereby |
DE202005004188U1 (en) * | 2005-03-14 | 2005-05-19 | Harro Hƶfliger Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH | Device for filling in each case predetermined amounts of powdery filling material |
DE102006002545A1 (en) * | 2006-01-18 | 2007-07-19 | Ewald Dƶrken Ag | Silicon-based corrosion inhibitor |
CN101016143A (en) * | 2007-02-14 | 2007-08-15 | äøå½äŗŗę°č§£ę¾åē¬¬äøäøå «å»é¢ | full-automatic liquid medicine heating stirring preparation filtering filling machine |
ATE481162T1 (en) | 2007-11-01 | 2010-10-15 | Mettler Toledo Ag | MIXER UNIT HAVING AN ADAPTER |
CN201676652U (en) * | 2010-04-29 | 2010-12-22 | åØé | Stirring device used on filling machine |
DE102010031873A1 (en) | 2010-07-21 | 2012-01-26 | Krones Aktiengesellschaft | Apparatus and method for filling containers with cleaning device |
DE102012104275A1 (en) | 2012-05-16 | 2013-11-21 | Krones Ag | Apparatus and method for filling containers with liquid product |
EP2689830B1 (en) | 2012-07-26 | 2016-04-20 | Michael Niederbacher | Bio gas facility |
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2014
- 2014-09-26 DE DE102014113986.0A patent/DE102014113986A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2015
- 2015-09-24 CN CN201510617372.3A patent/CN105460867B/en active Active
- 2015-09-25 US US14/866,603 patent/US10112158B2/en active Active
- 2015-09-28 EP EP15187025.0A patent/EP3000775B1/en active Active
Patent Citations (1)
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EP0378011A1 (en) * | 1989-01-11 | 1990-07-18 | Etablissements Thomas Et Fils | Device for treating honey |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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US10112158B2 (en) | 2018-10-30 |
CN105460867A (en) | 2016-04-06 |
DE102014113986A1 (en) | 2016-03-31 |
US20160089643A1 (en) | 2016-03-31 |
EP3000775A1 (en) | 2016-03-30 |
CN105460867B (en) | 2018-02-06 |
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