Technical field
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The present invention relates to a filling apparatus, particularly suitable for containers used for filling sparkling beverages such as beer. More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus addressing the issue associated with filling cans or similar containers with liquids that are too sparkling and produce excessive foam during the filling operation.
Background art
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Filling apparatuses for containers, such as cans, with beverages like beer are well-known devices used in the beverage packaging industry.
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A typical filling apparatus comprises a support or holder for securing a can, which is positioned over a top filling pipe through which the liquid, such as beer, flows into the can. The bottom of the can is pressed against the top filling pipe by means of the supporting structure to ensure efficient and controlled filling operations.
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Additionally, a nozzle is often integrated into these apparatuses for cleaning purposes, allowing for effective removal of residual liquids or contaminants from the system after each use.
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It is also well-established in the art that complete removal of oxygen from the can prior to sealing is crucial to prevent degradation processes and spoilage of the beer during storage. This requirement necessitates specialized equipment capable of effectively purging the headspace above the liquid with an inert gas, such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide, before capping the container.
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However, existing filling apparatuses also exhibit several drawbacks that hinder their efficient operation in small breweries where frequent changes between different liquids (beers) are required. One significant issue arises from the mechanical interaction between the can and the supporting structure of the apparatus. The thin aluminium wall of a standard can is only a few micrometres thick, making it susceptible to deformation when excessive force is applied from below. This problem becomes particularly pronounced when manual operation by an untrained person occurs.
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Furthermore, cleaning the filling apparatus itself poses significant challenges. In order to prevent contamination and ensure proper sanitation, the entire device must be completely disassembled, cleaned, and reassembled after each use. For small breweries that frequently change between different liquids or beers within a short time frame, this process can become cumbersome and inefficient.
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If not properly cleaned, residual flavours from previous liquid fillings can mix with subsequent batches of beer, resulting in unpleasant taste profiles. This issue is particularly problematic for microbreweries where product quality and consistency are paramount to maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty.
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The existing filling apparatuses therefore require significant improvements to address these issues effectively, ensuring efficient operation, proper sanitation, and consistent product quality even under the demanding conditions found in small breweries.
Summary of the Invention
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In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a filling apparatus specifically designed for bottling containers, preferably cans, with carbonated liquids. The apparatus is particularly suitable for applications in which precise control over the filling process is required, ensuring that the container is securely held and filled with minimal risk of leakage or contamination.
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The filling apparatus for bottling a container, preferably a can, with a carbonated liquid, comprises: a cartridge and a head, wherein the cartridge and the head are connected through a hollow pipe configured for the flow of either carbonated liquid and/or inert gas. The cartridge having a conical body further comprising: a valve configured to fill the container with either the carbonated liquid or inert gas; a seal positioned between the cylindrical body of the filling head and the collet, configured to prevent leakage of the inert gas or liquid from the cylindrical body when the collet is secured to the container. The apparatus further comprises a collet surrounding the cartridge, wherein the collet is configured to secure the container from above by holding it from the inside of the container having a tapered edge or rim. The apparatus further comprises a threaded rod configured to push down the collet against the conical body of the cartridge, thereby causing the collet to open and expand its diameter to press against the inner wall of the container and thus securing the container from above. The head being configured to mix carbonated liquid and inert gas, wherein the mixture is actuated by a mixer tap lever, wherein one side of the lever actuates the inert gas flow and the other side actuates the carbonated liquid flow.
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The apparatus is particularly advantageous for high-speed filling under pressure and for carbonated beverages containing a high percentage of sugar. The innovative design of the apparatus addresses the challenges associated with filling such beverages by minimizing foaming and allowing for faster filling times.
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The invention enables these advantages is the collet, which securely grips the container, such as a can, by its upper rim of the container, preferably a can for beer. This securement ensures that the container is held firmly in place from above during the filling process. Concurrently, the filling is conducted through an opening in the cartridge, which directs the liquid to flow down the walls of the container. This method significantly reduces the amount of foam produced during filling, particularly important for carbonated beverages with high sugar content, which are prone to excessive foaming.
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By reducing foaming, the beverage can be filled more quickly, thus enhancing the efficiency of the bottling process. This combination of features-securement by the collet and the controlled flow of liquid down the container walls-makes the apparatus particularly well-suited for high-volume production environments where speed and precision are essential.
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Hence, the invention provides a robust and flexible solution for the efficient and precise bottling of carbonated liquids into containers. The apparatus is designed not only to accommodate various container shapes and sizes but also to optimize the filling process for carbonated beverages with high sugar content, ensuring a faster and cleaner fill with minimal foaming.
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In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprising a flange connected to the cylindrical body comprises at least one further inlet for cleaning the interior of the cylindrical body positioned on a side thereof.
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In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprising a protective transparent wall, wherein the protective transparent wall is cylindrical in shape; and the protective transparent wall is attached to the cartridge and extends below the cartridge, covering at least a part of the container during the filling process.
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In another preferred embodiment, the cartridge is a sectional cone; and wherein the cartridge is connected to the hollow pipe through a screw thread; and wherein a sealing ring is positioned between the pipe and inner wall of the conical cartridge, configured to prevent leakage of the inert gas or liquid.
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In yet another preferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprising a first container for a carbonated liquid, and a second container for inert gas, wherein both the first and second containers are fluidly connected to the mixer tap lever, allowing selective mixing of the carbonated liquid and inert gas for dispensing.
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In yet another preferred embodiment, the collet is manufactured by means of additive manufacturing.
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In yet another preferred embodiment,
- the collet comprises a top, a bottom, and an elongated body positioned between the top and the bottom; and wherein
- the top of the collet has an inner conical surface with a threaded section, configured to be screwed onto and fit around the outer circumference of the cartridge; and wherein the outer surface of the collet is a prism, wherein the side of the prism are separated; and wherein
- the bottom of the collet is a truncated cone expandable due to being segmented into sections; and wherein
- the elongated body comprises surfaces, each slightly curved, extending from the bottom of the collet.
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In yet another preferred embodiment, the surfaces of the elongated body of the collet comprises openings.
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In yet another preferred embodiment, the openings are on the top of the elongated body, on the bottom of the elongated body and at least two in the middle, wherein the openings in the middle is in the shape of butterfly wings.
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In yet another preferred embodiment, elongated body of the collet is hexagonal prism, wherein the each side are separated.
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In yet another preferred embodiment, the cartridge comprises an opening for filling the carbonated liquid into the container from the cartridge, wherein the opening is configured to flows down the sides of the container.
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Another advantage of the apparatus is that it eliminates the need for a CIP (Clean-In-Place) system, which is commonly required in food and beverage processing equipment for cleaning the interior surfaces without disassembly. The design of the apparatus allows for easy cleaning and maintenance without the complexity and expense of a CIP system, thereby simplifying the operation and reducing maintenance costs.
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Additionally, the apparatus does not require a press plate or any other bottom support mechanism, as the container is held securely from above by the collet. This design not only simplifies the apparatus but also improves its reliability by reducing the number of moving parts and potential points of failure.
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The invention provides a robust and flexible solution for the efficient and precise bottling of carbonated liquids into containers. The apparatus is designed to accommodate various container shapes and sizes, optimize the filling process for carbonated beverages with high sugar content, and operate with greater efficiency and ease of maintenance. The elimination of the need for a CIP system and the absence of a bottom support mechanism further enhance the practicality and cost-effectiveness of the apparatus.
Brief description of the drawings
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- Fig. 1 illustrates a schematic representation of an apparatus according to the present invention.
- Fig. 2 provides a more detailed illustration of the apparatus according to the invention.
- Fig. 3 provides a more detailed illustration of the apparatus according to the invention.
- Fig. 4 illustrates details of the apparatus according to the present invention.
- Fig. 5 illustrates a part of the apparatus according to the present invention.
- Fig. 6 illustrates a part of the apparatus according to the present invention.
- Fig. 7 illustrates a part of the apparatus according to the present invention.
- Fig. 8 illustrates a part of the apparatus according to the present invention.
- Fig. 9 illustrates a part of the apparatus according to the present invention.
- Fig. 10 illustrates a part of the apparatus according to the present invention.
- Fig. 11 illustrates a collet of the apparatus according to the present invention.
- Fig. 12 illustrates a collet of the apparatus according to the present invention.
Detailed description
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Figure 1 illustrates a schematic representation of an apparatus 1 for bottling a container 6 for carbonated liquid and designed for securing the container 6, preferably a can, and filling it with a carbonated liquid. The can 6 is secured at the bottom of the apparatus 1 and is held by its neck, without any support pushing the can 6 towards the neck of the filling apparatus 1. The apparatus 1 further comprises a lever 2 for manipulating and selectively filling the can with inert gas, followed by a carbonated liquid, particularly beer. In one position of lever 2, a valve is opened, which is connected via a tube to a container with the inert gas, preferably CO2 or N2, commonly used in the food industry. The second position of lever 2 is set to allow the valve to dispense the carbonated liquid into the can 6. The transition between dispensing the inert gas and the carbonated liquid is seamless due to this lever 2, eliminating the need for sequentially sealing the inert gas before dispensing the carbonated liquid. The lever is preferably a mixed-type lever 2 well known from mixing cold and hot water.
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An advantage of this lever 2 is that the inert gas expels air, particularly oxygen, from the can 6, which is undesirable in food processing. Once all the air has been expelled from the can 6, the operator can smoothly and continuously begin dispensing the carbonated liquid. Another advantage is that the operator can dispense the carbonated liquid simultaneously with the inert gas, thus optimizing the can filling process. The apparatus further includes a threaded rod 3 for compressing a collet (not shown in this figure), thereby securing the can 6 from above. The apparatus may also feature a protective plastic shield 5 to prevent accidental splashing of liquid onto the operator. Between lever 2 and the plastic protective shield 5 is a cylindrical area 4, where the collet and filling cartridge for the can are housed.
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Figure 2 provides a more detailed illustration of the apparatus 1 according to the invention. This figure again shows lever 2 and rod 3, along with the mechanism for securing the can 6 from above by its lid. Additionally, the figure 2 depicts a preferred embodiment featuring a stand 7, which supports the apparatus 1, allowing it to be suspended above the work surface with sufficient clearance for a can to be inserted from below into the area within the plastic cover 5. Advantageously, the conduits for the inert gas and the carbonated liquid are routed through the rear of the apparatus, opposite lever 2, as indicated by arrow 8. This design allows for the convenient attachment of both the inert gas supply and the carbonated liquid supply.
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Figure 2 also shows an additional piston, which in standard filling devices is used for cleaning the apparatus. This invention, however, offers the additional advantage that the conduits for either the liquid or the gas can be connected to a separate cleaning line, allowing the entire apparatus 1 to be flushed. This prevents undesirable contamination in food processing, and in the case of filling cans 6 with different carbonated beverages, such as beers from different manufacturers, the operator can flush the entire device before switching kegs, thereby preventing any mixing of flavours.
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Figure 3 presents a more detailed illustration of the apparatus 1 according to the invention. The apparatus 1 shown in this figure includes a lever 2, which, as seen in the cross-section, is configured for mixing two different fluids-in this case, an inert gas and a carbonated liquid, such as beer-via a rotary valve 21. This rotary valve has two inlets, with two corresponding outlets on the opposite side connected to reservoirs of inert gas and carbonated liquid, respectively. From this valve, the inert gas, carbonated liquid, or a mixture of both is directed through a tube into a cartridge 42, where it fills the can through an opening at the bottom of the cartridge.
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The opening in the cartridge is designed so that the carbonated liquid flows down the sides of the can, which helps to reduce foaming and allows for a faster filling process. Advantageously, this opening is circular and positioned as close as possible to the walls of the can. In Figure 3 , the opening 45 is shown with a circular cross-section and is placed in close proximity to the walls of the can 6.
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Figure 3 further illustrates a rod 3 connected to the collet 41, a securement mechanism of the filling apparatus 1. The collet is configured to engage in a downward movement along the cartridge 42 when the rod 3 is actuated, typically by mechanical or pneumatic means or as shown in Fig. 3 , by hand. As the collet 42 descends, it expands outwardly due to its conical design, effectively increasing its diameter. This expansion is facilitated by the segmented structure of the collet's lower portion, allowing it to grip securely without the need for excessive force.
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In operation, when a can 6 is positioned or held at the lower part of the apparatus 1, the expanding collet 41 engages the upper rim of the can 6. This engagement is critical as it ensures that the can 6 is firmly held from above, which is particularly advantageous in automated or high-speed bottling where the stability of the container 6 is paramount. The design eliminates the need for additional support mechanisms from below, such as clamps or platforms, thereby simplifying the apparatus 1 and reducing potential points of failure.
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An additional feature of the collet 41 is the strategically positioned opening 45 along its body. This opening 45 is specifically designed to enhance the flow dynamics of the carbonated liquid being filled into the can 6. By providing a venting pathway, the opening 45 helps to equalize the pressure within the can 6, allowing for a smoother and faster filling process. This is particularly beneficial when dealing with carbonated beverages, where excessive foaming can lead to inefficiencies and product loss. For instance, when filling high-sugar content beers or soft drinks, the reduction in foaming ensures that the container 6 is filled to the correct volume without overflow, thereby maintaining product quality and consistency.
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In another embodiment, the collet 41 may be designed with a series of small apertures or slits along its elongated body. These apertures serve dual purposes: first, they allow for the controlled release of any excess gas that may be trapped within the container during the filling process; second, they contribute to the overall rigidity and strength of the collet 41 by distributing stress evenly across its structure. This design variation can be particularly useful in environments where the apparatus is subjected to repeated cycles of high-pressure filling, as it enhances the durability and lifespan of the collet 41.
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Moreover, the apparatus can be adapted to accommodate different container sizes by employing interchangeable collets with varying dimensions. For example, in one embodiment, the collet 41 could be replaced with a larger version designed for filling containers with a wider diameter, such as larger cans or even bottles. This flexibility allows the apparatus to be used in a variety of production settings, from small craft breweries to large-scale beverage manufacturing facilities.
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Furthermore, the materials used in the construction of the collet can be varied depending on the specific application. For instance, in environments where hygiene is of utmost importance, such as in the filling of dairy-based carbonated drinks, the collet may be made from stainless steel or food-grade plastic. Alternatively, for applications where weight is a concern, the collet could be constructed from lightweight alloys or composite materials, thereby reducing the overall mass of the apparatus and improving its energy efficiency.
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The collet 41 secures the container from above, minimizing the need for additional support, but also optimizes the filling process through its innovative features. Whether used in high-speed production lines or smaller, artisanal settings, the apparatus 1 according to the present invention is capable of meeting a wide range of bottling needs with precision and reliability.
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Figure 3 also depicts a cartridge 43 within which a valve 42 is positioned. This valve serves for filling process by controlling the flow of the carbonated liquid through the openings 45 into the can 6. As the liquid is dispensed, it passes through these openings 45, ensuring that the filling process is both efficient and controlled, minimizing turbulence and foaming within the can 6.
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To further enhance the performance of the filling apparatus, a gasket 44 is positioned between the cartridge 43 and the protective plastic wall 5. The gasket 44 acts as a seal, effectively preventing any backflow or leakage of the carbonated liquid during the filling process. The presence of this gasket is particularly beneficial in maintaining the integrity of the seal, thereby ensuring that the liquid is directed solely into the container, reducing waste and ensuring product consistency.
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In an advantageous embodiment, the apparatus 1 may further include a valve 9 dedicated to the cleaning process. This cleaning valve allows for the introduction of cleaning agents directly into the system. However, as noted earlier, cleaning can also be easily performed by connecting a standard food-grade cleaning liquid to the inlet line leading to valve 21. This method simplifies the maintenance process, ensuring that the apparatus can be thoroughly sanitized with minimal effort, thereby adhering to the stringent hygiene standards required in the food and beverage industry. The preferred embodiment ensures the precise filling of containers with carbonated liquids but also facilitates easy maintenance and cleaning, making it suitable for use in a variety of production environments. The integration of these features demonstrates the apparatus's adaptability and reliability, making it an invaluable tool in modern bottling operations.
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Figure 4 illustrates essentially the same features as those depicted in Figure 3, but in side views and as a preferred embodiment comprising a stand, offering a further perspective on the components and their interactions within the filling apparatus 1. As with Figure 3, Figure 4 shows the rod 3 connected to the collet 41, which is configured to expand as it moves downward along the cartridge 43 when actuated. This expansion allows the collet to securely grip the upper rim of the can 6, ensuring that the container is held firmly in place during the filling process.
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The valve 42 within the cartridge 43 is also clearly depicted in Figure 4, illustrating its role in controlling the flow of the carbonated liquid into the container. As the liquid is released, it passes through the openings 45 into the can, which is securely held by the collet. The design ensures that the liquid is dispensed efficiently and with minimal foaming, which is particularly important for carbonated beverages.
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Additionally, the gasket 44 positioned between the cartridge 43 and the protective plastic wall 5 is shown, serving as a crucial element in preventing any leakage of the liquid during the filling process. This gasket maintains the integrity of the seal, ensuring that all of the liquid is directed into the can without any backflow or spillage.
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Figure 4, like Figure 3, also suggests the possible inclusion of a cleaning valve 9, which facilitates the introduction of cleaning agents into the system. This feature, while not essential, greatly enhances the ease of maintenance for the apparatus. The cleaning process can be further simplified by connecting a standard food-grade cleaning liquid to the inlet line leading to valve 21, as discussed previously.
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Figure 5 provides a detailed view of the internal components located beneath the chassis of the apparatus 1. Specifically, it illustrates the lever 2 and the rear side of the lever in a cross-sectional side view. The rear side of the lever 2 is designed to accommodate two inlets: one for the carbonated liquid and the other for the inert gas, which is commonly used in food and beverage applications to maintain product quality and prevent oxidation.
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From the head of the apparatus, the carbonated liquid and/or inert gas are directed through a hollow pipe 51 that extends into the cartridge 4. Within the cartridge, several key components are positioned to ensure the efficient filling of the container. These include the valve 42, which controls the flow of the liquid or gas into the container, and the collet 41, which secures the container from above by expanding to grip the upper rim.
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Additionally, the cartridge 43 houses the openings 45 that facilitate the smooth flow of the liquid into the container, while the gasket 44 ensures a tight seal, preventing any leakage. The conical body 47 inside the collet works in conjunction with the threaded rod to control the expansion of the collet, ensuring a secure fit around the container's rim. The segmented structure of the collet's lower portion 48 allows it to expand and contract as needed, providing a reliable mechanism for holding the container in place during the filling process.
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Figure 5 also emphasizes the connectivity and flow paths within the apparatus, showing how the liquid and gas are efficiently routed through the system to achieve precise and controlled filling. The design ensures that the filling process is conducted under optimal conditions, minimizing the risk of foaming or contamination, which is particularly important for carbonated beverages.
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Figures 6 and 7 illustrate a part of the apparatus 1 according to the invention, focusing on the lever 2 mechanism, which is designed to control the dispensing of the carbonated liquid and the inert gas. The mechanism operates similarly to a standard mixing valve used for combining hot and cold water, allowing the user to precisely adjust the flow of both the carbonated liquid and the inert gas. By actuating the lever 2 in one direction, the user can initiate the flow of the carbonated liquid, while moving it in the opposite direction controls the flow of the inert gas.
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Located at the rear of this mechanism is an inlet 21 that serves as the entry point for the carbonated liquid and the inert gas into the system. These inlets are typically connected to polyethylene tubing, which is well-known in the art for its flexibility, durability, and suitability for handling food-grade liquids and gases. The tubing directs the carbonated liquid and inert gas from their respective sources into the apparatus for subsequent mixing and dispensing.
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Figures 6 and 7 also show the central portion of the apparatus, which channels either the carbonated liquid or the inert gas into the cartridge 4. This central portion includes key elements such as the openings 45, which facilitate the flow of these substances into the cartridge, ensuring a controlled and efficient filling process.
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Additionally, the gasket 48 is depicted, providing a crucial seal that prevents leakage of the carbonated liquid during the filling process. The opening for pouring the carbonated liquid can be adjusted in height, allowing for fine-tuning of the apparatus based on the specific requirements of the filling operation. This adjustment is achieved through the use of a screw 49, which can be tightened or loosened to alter the position of the gasket or the height of the pouring opening, ensuring an optimal fit and preventing any potential leaks.
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These design features collectively contribute to the precision and reliability of the apparatus, enabling it to handle various filling scenarios with ease. The adjustable components, such as the gasket 48 and the screw 49, provide flexibility in operation, making the apparatus adaptable to different container sizes and filling conditions.
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The lever mechanism and associated components within the filling apparatus, showcasing its versatility and effectiveness in managing the flow of carbonated liquids and inert gases. The integration of well-known materials like polyethylene tubing and the ability to adjust critical elements like the gasket and pouring opening further highlight the apparatus's suitability for bottling processes.
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Figure 8 illustrates a component of the apparatus 1 according to the invention. This figure provides a detailed view of the specific part of the apparatus responsible for interacting with the various mechanisms involved in the filling process, emphasizing its role in the overall functionality of the device. Figure 8 depicts the central portion 4 of the apparatus 1 for dispensing of the carbonated liquid and inert gas. Alongside the central portion, a plastic protective housing is shown, designed to prevent the unintended splashing or ejection of the carbonated liquid during the filling process. This protective housing ensures that the operational area remains clean and safe, minimizing the risk of accidents or product loss.
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Additionally, Figure 8 shows the tubes 22 that are integral to the system's operation. These tubes are responsible for providing structural support for the handle located at the top of the apparatus, which is used to lift and maneuver the hollow pipe 51. The tubes 22 ensures the stability and ease of use of the apparatus, particularly during the filling process when the hollow pipe 51 and associated components are in motion. By acting as both conduits for fluid flow and as support structures, the tubes 22 enhance the overall functionality and reliability of the system.
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Figure 9 offers an alternative perspective on the component of the apparatus depicted in Figure 8 , providing additional clarity on its structure and functionality. This view highlights the same central portion 4 and the protective plastic housing 5 designed to prevent unintended splashing or ejection of the carbonated liquid during the filling process.
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In this figure, several additional components are clearly illustrated. The lifting mechanism 25 is shown, which includes a locking function to secure the position of the relevant components during operation. Adjacent to it, the CIP inlet 24 is depicted as the opening on the cylindrical body, allowing for the introduction of cleaning solutions into the system, ensuring proper maintenance and sanitation of the apparatus.
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Furthermore, Figure 9 also illustrates the cleaning valve 9, which facilitates the maintenance of the apparatus by allowing the introduction of cleaning agents directly into the system. This valve is crucial for ensuring that the apparatus remains hygienic and free of contaminants, especially in food and beverage applications.
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The figure also shows the openings 52, which serve different purposes depending on their position. The openings 52 on the right side of the figure are holes through the plastic, used for screws (four around the diameter) that hold the plastic cover securely in place. The openings 52 on the left side of the figure are holes for the distancing pins, which ensure that the can is properly positioned by guiding it to slide into the center of the plastic cover. Figure 10 presents yet another perspective on the component of the apparatus depicted in Figures 8 and 9 . This view further clarifies the arrangement and interaction of the various elements within this section of the apparatus, offering additional insight into its structural and functional details. By providing this different angle, Figure 10 helps to enhance the understanding of how the central portion 4, the protective plastic housing 5, and other associated components such as lifting mechanism 25, CIP inlet 24, and the cleaning valve 9 integrate and operate together.
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This figure also continues to emphasize the importance of the openings 52 in the controlled flow of carbonated liquid and inert gas, showing how these elements are positioned relative to the other components. The consistent depiction of these parts across multiple figures underscores their significance in the overall design and functionality of the apparatus.
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In one embodiment, the filling apparatus 1 is designed to securely hold and fill containers, such as cans, with carbonated liquids. The apparatus includes a collet 41 for securing and releasing of the container 6 during the filling process.
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The collet 41 comprises several distinct parts, including an upper part 411, an elongated body 413, and a lower part 415. The upper part 411 is preferably square in shape, providing a stable base for the collet. Inside the upper part, there is a circular section 412 designed to screw onto the cartridge 4. This circular section securely connects the collet to the cartridge, allowing it to function effectively during the filling process.
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The elongated body 413 extends downward from the circular section and is equipped with strategically positioned openings 414. These openings are designed to facilitate the expansion of the collet when mechanical pressure is applied. The ability to expand is crucial for the collet's function, as it must securely grip the container's rim from the inside during filling.
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The lower part 415 of the collet is shaped like a truncated cone. This conical section is divided into six segments, separated by gaps 416, which allow the collet to expand and contract as needed. These gaps are present both in the lower part and in the elongated body 413, enabling precise control over the collet's expansion.
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The material used for the collet is selected based on its strength, rigidity, and ability to withstand repeated mechanical stress. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, Nylon (PA), Polycarbonate (PC), Glass-Filled Nylon, Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP), ABS, and Alumide. These materials ensure that the collet can hold a filled can securely without deformation while allowing for the necessary mechanical expansion and contraction during operation.
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In its unexpanded state, the collet 41 is firmly held together. When pressure is applied via a lever 3, the collet extends downward, with the lower part 415 sliding over the conical cartridge 4. This action causes the collet to expand its circumference. If a can 6 is positioned at the lower part of the apparatus, the lower part 415 of the collet 41 slides into the can, gripping it securely by its inner rim. This securement allows the can to be held in place from above during the filling process, eliminating the need for additional support mechanisms.
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After the can is filled, the lever 3 is used to retract the collet, bringing it back to the level of the cartridge. This retraction releases the grip on the can, allowing it to be easily removed from the apparatus.
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In some embodiments, the collet 41 may include additional features such as adjustable height for the pouring opening, achieved through a screw 49 mechanism. This allows for fine-tuning of the apparatus to accommodate different container sizes and filling conditions.
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The apparatus may also include a plastic protective housing 5 around the central portion 4, designed to prevent unintended splashing or ejection of the carbonated liquid during the filling process. The housing ensures that the operational area remains clean and safe.
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Furthermore, the apparatus can be equipped with polyethylene tubes 22 for the transport of carbonated liquid and inert gas. These tubes are well-known in the art for their flexibility and suitability for food-grade applications.
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The apparatus may also feature a cleaning valve 9, which facilitates the introduction of cleaning agents into the system. This valve ensures that the apparatus can be thoroughly sanitized, maintaining the hygiene standards required in food and beverage processing.
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The described embodiments provide a robust and flexible solution for the filling of containers with carbonated liquids. The use of high-quality materials and precise engineering ensures that the apparatus operates efficiently, securely, and with minimal risk of product loss or contamination.
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In a preferred embodiment, the filling apparatus 1 includes a collet 41 that is manufactured by means of additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing. Additive manufacturing offers significant advantages in producing complex geometries with high precision, allowing for the creation of customized components that are both lightweight and strong. The use of 3D printing enables the collet to be produced with intricate features that would be difficult or impossible to achieve using traditional manufacturing methods.
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The collet 41 is designed to comprise three main parts: a top, a bottom, and an elongated body positioned between the top and the bottom. The top of the collet 41 features an inner conical surface with a threaded section. This threaded section is specifically configured to screw onto and fit securely around the outer circumference of the cartridge. The use of a conical surface ensures a tight and reliable connection, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the apparatus during operation. The outer surface of the top section is designed as a prism, where the sides of the prism are separated to allow for controlled expansion and contraction of the collet 41. The bottom part of the collet 41 is shaped as a truncated cone. This section is expandable due to its segmented design, which allows the collet 41 to grip the container firmly when pressure is applied. The segmentation is carefully engineered to provide the necessary flexibility while maintaining the structural integrity of the collet 41. Positioned between the top and bottom sections, the elongated body of the collet 41 features slightly curved surfaces that extend from the bottom of the collet 41. These curved surfaces provide the necessary strength and stability to the collet 41 while also allowing for expansion when securing the container.
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In another embodiment, the elongated body of the collet 41 includes strategically placed openings that further enhance its functionality. These openings serve multiple purposes. Openings are located at both the top and bottom of the elongated body. These openings facilitate the expansion of the collet 41 and allow for the controlled passage of air and liquid, reducing the risk of turbulence and ensuring a smooth filling process. At least two openings are positioned in the middle of the elongated body. These openings are uniquely designed in the shape of butterfly wings, which not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the collet 41 but also play a functional role in enhancing the flexibility and responsiveness of the collet 41 during expansion. The butterfly-shaped openings allow for precise control over the expansion process, ensuring that the collet 41 can securely grip containers of varying sizes and shapes.
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In a further embodiment, the elongated body of the collet 41 is designed as a hexagonal prism, with each side separated from the others. This hexagonal structure provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making the collet 41 both strong and lightweight. The separation of the sides allows for greater flexibility and ensures that the collet 41 can expand and contract uniformly, providing a consistent and reliable grip on the container. The hexagonal design, combined with the separated sides and strategically placed openings, makes the collet 41 highly adaptable to different container sizes and shapes, enhancing the versatility of the filling apparatus. The use of additive manufacturing to produce this complex geometry ensures that each collet 41 is made with the highest precision, meeting the stringent requirements of modern bottling operations.
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The collet 41 may be manufactured from a variety of materials suitable for additive manufacturing, including but not limited to Nylon (PA), Polycarbonate (PC), Glass-Filled Nylon, and Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP). These materials are chosen for their strength, durability, and ability to withstand the mechanical stresses involved in the filling process. The use of 3D printing allows for the optimization of material usage, reducing waste and production costs while ensuring that the collet 41 meets all necessary performance criteria.
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The design of the collet 41, as described in these embodiments, offers several operational advantages. The combination of the hexagonal prism shape, segmented sides, and butterfly-wing openings provides superior flexibility and control, allowing the collet 41 to adapt to a wide range of container types. The use of additive manufacturing ensures that each collet 41 is produced to exact specifications, providing consistent performance across multiple production runs. Additionally, the lightweight nature of the collet 41 reduces the overall energy consumption of the apparatus, contributing to more sustainable manufacturing practices.