GB2539452A

GB2539452A - Nozzle assembly

Info

Publication number: GB2539452A
Application number: GB1510565.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: James Jenkins David
Original assignee: ADELPHI MASTERFIL Ltd
Current assignee: ADELPHI MASTERFIL Ltd
Priority date: 2015-06-16
Filing date: 2015-06-16
Publication date: 2016-12-21
Anticipated expiration: 2035-06-16
Also published as: GB201510565D0; GB2539452B

Abstract

A nozzle assembly (1, fig 1) for a filling machine. The nozzle assembly comprises (i) a nozzle (2, fig 1); (ii) an assembly body 4; and (iii) a connector 5 for connecting the assembly body to a filling machine. The assembly body is in slideable engagement with the connector. Also described is a filling machine comprising one or more nozzle assemblies and a spacer. The assembly body is in slideable engagement with the connector via a sliding joint, said sliding joint comprising a first part 6A provided on the assembly body and a second part 6B provided on the connector; said first part being slideable relative to the second part, wherein the sliding joint comprises a channel 7 for accommodating one or more cables and/or pipes and wherein the channel comprises an open end which forms a guide 8 for guiding one or more cables and/or pipes into the channel. The nozzle assembly may be configured such that when the assembly body moves from a first position towards a second position relative to the connector, an alarm is generated and/or the filling machine stops operating. The channel may include one or more chamfered edges 9. The nozzle or nozzle body may be in releasable engagement with the assembly body via a release mechanism, preferably a quick release mechanism. The nozzle body may include an inlet 3A for connection to a supply pipe (not shown) from which liquid and/or solids to be dispensed are provided and an outlet 3B which may be connected to a dispensing part of the nozzle (2).

Description

NOZZLE ASSEMBLY

The present invention relates to a nozzle assembly, in particular to a nozzle assembly for use in a filling machine, for example a container or bottle filling machine.

Filling machines are available in a variety of sizes and configurations and can be used for filling a wide-variety of containers, for example bottles. However, they generally suffer from similar problems.

For example, it is often difficult to clean those parts of a filling machine which come into contact with the dispensed liquid and/or solid. Often, a machine must be shut down for extended periods of time whilst parts of the machine are dismantled, cleaned and then put back together.

A related problem occurs if the bottles or containers are not correctly aligned with the nozzles of the machine. In this situation, the nozzle can either knock the bottle or container or become jammed on the neck of the bottle or container. This can cause the liquid and/or solid filling component to contaminate the machine and may also result in the presence of broken glass, thus requiring more cleaning. A further consequence of the nozzle jamming is that damage can occur to the machine. In all situations, the machine must be again shut down for extended periods of time whilst parts of the machine are dismantled, cleaned and then put back together.

It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to seek to alleviate the above identified problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a nozzle assembly for a filling machine, the nozzle assembly comprising:-(i) a nozzle; (ii) an assembly body; and (iii) a connector for connecting the assembly body to a filling machine, wherein the assembly body is in slideable engagement with the connector.

In use, a nozzle assembly of the present invention is attached to a filling machine via the connector. In preparation for filling a container with liquid and/or solids, the nozzle assembly is lowered via downward movement of the connector by the filling machine. This in turn lowers the assembly body towards the container which, in turn, lowers the nozzle into the neck of the container. However, if the container is not in correct alignment with the nozzle, then the nozzle is likely to hit the neck of the container and the continued downward movement exerted by the filling machine can result in the container breaking or falling over. The continued downward movement can also result in damage to the filling machine and/or the remainder of the nozzle assembly. A particular problem occurs when multiple nozzle assemblies are connected to a filling machine; if one nozzle hits the neck of a container this can have a detrimental effect on the whole filling machine assembly.

Remarkably, provision of the assembly body in slideable engagement with the connector eliminates this problem. In this regard, if the nozzle hits the neck of a container, it will not continue its downward movement. Rather, whilst the connector will continue to move downward, the nozzle will come to a stop with the neck of the container, which allows the assembly body to remain in position relative to the container but slide relative to the connector. Accordingly, the downward movement of the connector by the filling machine will not be transferred to the nozzle.

Preferably, the nozzle assembly is configured such that when the assembly body moves from a first position towards a second position relative to the connector, an alarm is generated and/or the filling machine stops operating.

Preferably, generation of the alarm causes the filling machine to stop operating.

Preferably, the first position corresponds to a normal operating position of the nozzle assembly, i.e. when the nozzle is not in abutment with the neck of a container and the assembly body has not moved relative to the connector.

Preferably, the second position corresponds to a position when the assembly body has moved relative to the connector, i.e. when the nozzle is in abutment with the neck of a container and the continued downward movement of the connector has caused the assembly body to slide relative thereto.

Preferably, the nozzle assembly, for example the assembly body and/or the nozzle or nozzle body, is configured for breaking a beam of light generated by a light beam generator positioned on the connector or the filling machine when the assembly body moves from a first position towards a second position relative to the connector.

Preferably, breaking the beam of light causes the filling machine to stop operating.

Preferably the assembly body is in slideable engagement with the connector via a sliding joint, said sliding joint comprising a first part provided on the assembly body and a second part provided on the connector; said first part being slideable relative to the second part.

Preferably, the second part is slideable within the first part.

Preferably, the sliding joint, preferably the second part of the joint, comprises a channel for accommodating one or more cables and/or pipes.

Preferably, the sliding joint, preferably the second part of the joint, comprises a guide for guiding one or more cables and/or pipes into the channel.

In this respect, the channel is provided to allow pipes and/or cables to pass through the sliding joint, preferably the second part of the joint, and into connection with one or more components of the assembly body. For example, in some embodiments, the assembly body is provided with an actuator for moving a seal within the nozzle and said pipes and/or cables provide a connection between the actuator and the filling machine.

Preferably the channel comprises one or more chamfered edges.

Preferably, the channel comprises an open end which forms a guide.

Preferably, the open end of the channel is flared.

Preferably, the open end of the channel flares out to an increased diameter relative to the rest of the channel.

Preferably, the open end of the channel is substantially v-shaped.

Preferably, the guide is substantially v-shaped.

Preferably, the nozzle is integrally formed with the assembly body.

Preferably, the nozzle comprises a nozzle body connected to the assembly body.

Preferably, the nozzle body is in releasable engagement with the assembly body.

Preferably, the connector comprises an arm.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a nozzle assembly for a filling machine, the nozzle assembly comprising:- (i) a nozzle, (ii) an assembly body; and (iii) a connector for connecting the assembly body to a filling machine, wherein the nozzle is in releasable engagement with the assembly body.

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This aspect of the present invention is particularly advantageous because it allows the nozzle to be removed from the assembly body with ease and thus makes it much easier to clean those parts of the nozzle assembly which come into contact with dispensed liquid and/or solids.

Preferably, the nozzle comprises a nozzle body and the nozzle body is in releasable engagement with the assembly body.

The provision of a nozzle body improves the invention further by separating the nozzle from the assembly body by an intermediate part, i.e. the nozzle body.

Preferably, the nozzle body comprises an inlet for connection to a supply pipe and an outlet for connection to a dispensing part of the nozzle.

Preferably, the nozzle or nozzle body is in releasable engagement with the assembly body via a release mechanism, preferably a quick release mechanism.

Preferably, the release mechanism comprises a first mating part provided on the assembly body and a second mating part provided on the nozzle or nozzle body.

Preferably, the first mating part comprises a loop and/or bar for engagement with a hook on the second mating part. Alternatively, the first mating part comprises a hook for engagement with a loop and/or bar on the second mating part.

Preferably, the second mating part comprises a hook for engagement with the first mating part.

Preferably, the first mating part comprises a hook for engagement with the second mating part.

Preferably, the release mechanism comprises a tightener for bringing the nozzle or nozzle body into engagement with the assembly body when the first and second mating parts of the release mechanism are engaged.

Preferably, the tightener comprises a lever moveable between first and second positions, wherein the first position is a loose position and the second position is a tightened position.

Preferably, movement of the lever from the first to the second position causes the nozzle or nozzle body to move towards and into engagement with the assembly body.

Preferably, the nozzle or nozzle body has an assembly body engaging surface and the assembly body has a nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface, said assembly body engaging surface and said nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface being shaped to cause the nozzle or nozzle body to align with the assembly body when the nozzle or nozzle body is brought into engagement with the assembly body.

Preferably, the assembly body engaging surface comprises a substantially concave surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprises a substantially convex surface.

Alternatively, the assembly body engaging surface comprises a substantially convex surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprises a substantially concave surface.

Preferably, the assembly body engaging surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface are shaped such that the nozzle or nozzle body can only be provided in a single orientation with reference to the assembly body when the nozzle or nozzle body is in engagement with the assembly body.

Preferably, the assembly body engaging surface and nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprise mutually engaging irregular surfaces.

Preferably, the assembly body engaging surface and nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprise one or more mutually engaging substantially flat areas and/or one or more mutually engaging substantially curved areas.

Preferably, the assembly body engaging surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprise mutually engaging irregular surfaces formed of mutually engaging substantially flat areas provided at a plurality of orientations.

Preferably, the connector is moveable relative to a filling machine when connected thereto.

Preferably, the connector is slideable along a bar provided on a filling machine.

Preferably, the connector comprises one or more wheels for engagement with a bar of a filling machine.

Preferably, the connector comprises one or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and one or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.

Preferably, the connector comprises a higher number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.

Alternatively, the connector comprises a higher number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine.

Preferably, the connector comprises two or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and a single wheel for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.

Alternatively, the connector comprises a single wheel for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and two or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.

Preferably, the position of the connector relative to a filling machine, for example the position of the connector along a bar of the filling machine, is fixable by a lock.

Preferably, the lock is releasable by a trigger mechanism.

Preferably, actuation of the trigger moves the lock from a locked to an unlocked configuration and release of the trigger moves the lock from an unlocked to a locked configuration.

In this respect, it will be appreciated that in preferred embodiments of the invention, the trigger mechanism is configured such that a lock is biased into engagement with the filling machine, or a component thereof, in a resting state and the connector is then in a fixed in position relative to the filling machine. Upon actuation of the trigger, the lock is released allowing movement of the connector relative to the filling machine. Upon release of the trigger the connector is secured in locking engagement with the filling machine.

Provision of a trigger mechanism allows the connector to be unlocked, its positioned adjusted and then locked in a new position via the use of a single hand.

Preferably, the nozzle assembly comprises a mechanism for opening and closing the end of the nozzle, the mechanism comprising an actuator provided on or in the assembly body, a rod positioned within the nozzle and a plug positioned at the end of the rod, said plug being moveable between first and second positions via movement of the rod by the actuator to open and close the end of the nozzle, said rod being releasably connected to the actuator via a linking mechanism.

Preferably, the linking mechanism comprises a foot for releasable engagement with the rod.

Preferably, the foot comprises a slot for receiving the rod.

Preferably, the foot is configured for breaking the light beam.

Preferably, the foot comprises a rod for breaking the light beam.

Preferably, the slot is orientated for receiving the rod when the nozzle or nozzle body is moved into engagement with the assembly body.

Preferably, the slot is orientated for receiving the rod when the second mating part of the release mechanism on the nozzle or nozzle body is moved into engagement with the first mating part of the release mechanism on the assembly body.

Preferably, the rod comprises a groove for engagement with the foot, said groove for preventing longitudinal movement of the rod when the rod is held within the foot.

Remarkably, the nozzle or nozzle body can, as a result, still be easily removed from the assembly body even with the provision of a mechanism for opening and closing the end of the nozzle. Furthermore, provision of the actuator within the assembly body means that the difficult to clean parts of the mechanism, such as the actuator, can be kept separate from those part of the mechanism which are easy to clean, such as the rod and plug.

Preferably, the rod comprises a spacer for maintaining the rod centrally aligned within the nozzle.

Preferably, the spacer comprises a collar for positioning around at least a part of the rod and plurality of projections extending from the collar, such that when the collar is positioned around the rod, the projections are located between the rod and the inside surface of the nozzle.

Preferably, the projections comprise one or more fins.

Preferably, the spacer comprises an odd number of projections, most preferably three projections.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a nozzle assembly for a filling machine, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle and a connector for connecting the nozzle assembly to a filling machine, wherein the connector comprises one or more wheels for engagement with a bar of a filling machine.

It will be appreciated that the one or more wheels allow the connector to be moved along the bar.

Preferably, the connector comprises (i) a higher number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine, or (ii) a higher number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine.

Preferably, the connector comprises (i) two or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and a single wheel for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine, or (H) a single wheel for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and two or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a nozzle assembly for a filling machine, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle and a connector for connecting the nozzle assembly to a filling machine, wherein the position of the connector relative to a filling machine, for example the position of the connector along a bar of the filling machine, is fixable by a lock and wherein the lock is releasable by a trigger mechanism.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a filling machine comprising one or more nozzle assemblies as described herein.

Preferably, the filling machine comprises a beam generator for generating a light beam, the position of the light beam being configured such that the beam is broken by a nozzle assembly as described herein when the assembly body moves from a first position towards a second position relative to the connector.

Preferably, the filling machine comprises a plurality of nozzle assemblies as described herein, wherein a first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with a higher number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine and a second nozzle assembly adjacent the first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with a higher number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine.

Preferably, the filling machine comprises a plurality of nozzle assemblies as described herein, wherein a first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with two or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and a single wheel for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine and a second nozzle assembly adjacent the first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with a single wheel for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and two or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.

Preferably, the filling machine comprises a plurality of nozzle assemblies as described herein, wherein nozzle assemblies of a first type comprise a connector with a higher number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine and nozzle assemblies of a second type comprise a connector with a higher number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine, wherein the first and second types of nozzle assemblies are arranged in an alternating sequence along the bar of the filling machine. For example, it is preferred that the nozzle assemblies are arranged such that nozzle assemblies of a first type are positioned adjacent nozzle assemblies of a second type.

Preferably, the filling machine comprises a plurality of nozzle assemblies as described herein, wherein nozzle assemblies of a first type comprise a connector with two or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and a single wheel for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine and nozzle assemblies of a second type comprise a connector with a single wheel for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and two or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine, wherein the first and second types of nozzle assemblies are arranged in an alternating sequence along the bar of the filling machine. For example, it is preferred that the nozzle assemblies are arranged such that nozzle assemblies of a first type are positioned adjacent nozzle assemblies of a second type.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spacer as described herein.

Within this specification embodiments have been described in a way which enables a clear and concise specification to be written, but it is intended and will be appreciated that embodiments may be variously combined or separated without parting from the invention. For example, it will be appreciated that all preferred features described herein are applicable to all aspects of the invention described herein and vice versa.

Preferably, the filling machine is a container-filling machine, for example a bottle-filling machine.

It will be appreciated that reference to "one or more" includes reference to "a plurality".

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying Figures, in which Figure 1 shows a first view of a nozzle assembly according to the present invention; Figure 2 shows an enlarged view of the rear of the nozzle assembly of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows the nozzle assembly of Figure 1 with the housing of the nozzle and assembly body removed; Figure 4 shows an enlarged view of Figure 3 with the nozzle body in engagement (Figure 4A) and out of engagement (Figure 4B) with the assembly body; Figure 5 shows a close up of the underside of the nozzle assembly of Figure 1; and Figures 6A to 6C show the end of the nozzle and the position of the rod and plug therein (Figures 6A and 6B) together with the position of a spacer around the rod (Figure 6C).

The present invention relates to a nozzle assembly for a filling machine, for example a bottle-filling machine.

With reference to Figure 1, there is shown a nozzle assembly 1 for connection to a filling machine (not shown). The nozzle assembly 1 comprises a nozzle 2, which includes a nozzle body 3, an assembly body 4, and a connector 5 for connecting the assembly body 4 to a filling machine (not shown). In the embodiment shown, the assembly body 4 is in slideable engagement with the connector 5. The nozzle 2 is for dispensing liquid into a container, for example a bottle. The nozzle body 3 includes an inlet 3A for connection to a supply pipe (not shown) from which liquid and/or solids to be dispensed are provided. The nozzle body 3 also includes an outlet 3B which is connected to the dispensing part of the nozzle 2.

In use, the nozzle assembly 1 of the present invention is attached to a filling machine (not shown) via the connector 5. In preparation for filling a container, for example a bottle, (not shown) with liquid, the nozzle assembly 1 is lowered via downward movement of the connector 5 by the filling machine. It is understood that the downward direction refers to the orientation of the nozzle assembly 1 in use. This in turn lowers the assembly body 4 towards the container which, in turn, lowers the nozzle 2 into the neck of the container. However, if the container is not in correct alignment with the nozzle 2, then the nozzle 2 is likely to hit the neck of the container and the continued downward movement exerted by the filling machine can result in the container breaking or falling over. The continued downward movement can also result in damage to the filling machine and/or the remainder of the nozzle assembly 1. As described above, a particular problem occurs when multiple nozzle assemblies 1 are connected to a filling machine; if one nozzle 2 hits the neck of a container this can have a detrimental effect on the whole filling machine assembly.

Provision of the assembly body 4 in slideable engagement with the connector 5 eliminates this problem. In this regard, if the nozzle 2 hits the neck of a container, it will not continue its downward movement. Rather, whilst the connector 5 will continue to move downward, abutment of the nozzle 2 with the neck of the container will cause the assembly body 4 to remain in position relative to the container but slide relative to the connector 5. Accordingly, the downward movement of the connector 5 by the filling machine will not be transferred to the nozzle 2.

The nozzle assembly 1 is configured such that when the assembly body 4 moves from a first position towards a second position relative to the connector 5, an alarm is generated. Generation of the alarm causes the filling machine to stop operating. The first position corresponds to a normal operating position of the nozzle assembly 1, i.e. when the nozzle 2 is not in abutment with the neck of a container and the assembly body 4 has not moved relative to the connector 5. The second position corresponds to a position when the assembly body 4 has moved relative to the connector 5, i.e. when the nozzle 2 is in abutment with the neck of a container and the continued downward movement of the connector 5 has cause the assembly body 4 to slide relative thereto.

In the embodiment shown, the nozzle assembly 1 is configured for breaking a beam of light (not shown) generated by a light beam generator positioned on the filling machine when the assembly body 4 moves from the first position towards a second position relative to the connector 5. When the beam is broken, this causes the filling machine to stop operating. In practice, any part of the nozzle assembly 1, apart from the connector, could be configured for breaking the beam of light, for example, the assembly body 4 and/or the nozzle 2 and/or the nozzle body 3. In preferred embodiments, a foot 18A is configured for breaking the light beam. For example, a linking mechanism 18 may be provided with a rod 18B for breaking the light beam. The rod 18B also stabilises the orientation of the foot 18A relative to the assembly body 4 via its engagement with a channel 26.

With reference to Figure 2, the assembly body 4 is in slideable engagement with the connector 5 via a sliding joint, 6A, 6B comprising a first part 6A provided on the assembly body 4 and a second part 6B provided on the connector 5. The first part 6A is positioned around the edges of the second part 6B, such that the second part 6B is slideable within the first part 6A.

The second part 6B includes a channel 7 for accommodating one or more cables and/or pipes (not shown). Also provided is a guide 8 for guiding cables and/or pipes into the channel 7.

The channel 7 allows pipes and cables to pass through the second part 6B of the joint and into connection with one or more components of the assembly body 4. For example, as discussed below, in the embodiment shown, the assembly body 4 is provided with an actuator 14 for moving a plug 16 within the nozzle 2 and the pipes and cables provide a connection between the actuator 14 and the filling machine.

The channel 7 comprises one or more chamfered edges 9 and the guide 8 is provided in the form of a flared, V-shaped, open end 8 of the channel 7.

With reference to Figures 3 to 5, the nozzle 2 is in releasable engagement with the assembly body 4 via the nozzle body 3 and a quick release mechanism, 10A, 10B, 11. With particular reference to Figure 4B, the quick release mechanism comprises a first mating part in the form of a loop 10A provided on the assembly body 4 and a second mating part provided in the form of a hook 10B on the nozzle or nozzle body 3. The hook 10B engages with a bar 10C or the loop 10A. The quick release mechanism also includes a lever 11 moveable between first and second positions, wherein the first position is a disengaged position and the second position is a tightened, engaged position. The position shown in the Figures is the tightened, engaged position. Movement of the lever 11 from the first to the second position causes the nozzle body 3 to move towards and into engagement with the assembly body 4 via upward movement of the loop 10A.

The nozzle body 3 has an assembly body engaging surface 12 and the assembly body 4 has a nozzle body engaging surface 13. The assembly body engaging surface 12 and the nozzle body engaging surface 13 are shaped to cause the nozzle body 3 to align with the assembly body 4 when the nozzle body 3 is brought into engagement with the assembly body 4. In the example shown, the assembly body engaging surface 12 and the nozzle body engaging surface 13 comprise mutually engaging irregular surfaces formed of mutually engaging flat areas 12A, 12B, 12C, 13A, 13B, 13C provided at different orientations.

This arrangement means that the nozzle body 3 can only be provided in a single orientation with reference to the assembly body 4 when the nozzle body 3 is in engagement with the assembly body 4.

With particular reference to Figures 3, 4A and 6A to 6C, the nozzle assembly 1 includes a mechanism for opening and closing the end of the nozzle 2. The mechanism includes an actuator 14 provided on the assembly body 3, a rod 15 positioned within the nozzle 2 and a plug 16 positioned at the end of the rod 15. The plug 16 is moveable between first and second positions via movement of the rod 15 by the actuator 14 to open and close the end 17 of the nozzle 2. A particularly advantageous feature of the present invention is provided by virtue of the rod 15 being releasably connected to the actuator 14 via a linking mechanism 18.

The linking mechanism 18 comprises a foot 18A for releasable engagement with the rod 15. The foot 18A comprises a slot 19 for receiving the rod 15. The slot 19 is orientated for receiving the rod 15 when the nozzle body 3 is moved into releasable engagement with the assembly body 4.

For example, in the embodiment shown, the slot 19 is orientated for receiving the rod 15 when the hook 10B of the release mechanism on the nozzle body 3 is moved into engagement with the loop 10A on the assembly body 4.

The rod 15 is provided with a groove 20 for engagement with the foot 18A. The groove 20 prevents longitudinal movement of the rod 15 when the rod is held within the foot 18A.

Remarkably, it will be appreciated that the nozzle 2 and nozzle body 3 can still be easily removed from the assembly body 4 even with the provision of the mechanism for opening and closing the end 17 of the nozzle 2. Furthermore, provision of the actuator 14 within the assembly body 4 means that the difficult to clean parts of the mechanism, such as the actuator 14, can be kept separate from those part of the mechanism which are easy to clean, such as the rod 15 and plug 16.

As shown in Figures 3 and 6C, the rod 15 comprises a spacer 21 for maintaining the rod 15 centrally aligned within the nozzle 2. The spacer 21 comprises a collar 22 for positioning around the rod 15 and a plurality of projections 23 extending from the collar 22. When the collar 22 is positioned around the rod 15, the projections 23 are located between the rod 15 and the inside surface of the nozzle 2 and so the collar 22 maintains the rod in a centrally located position within the nozzle 2.

In the examples shown, the spacer 21 includes three projections 23.

With reference to Figure 3, the connector 5 comprises a plurality of wheels 24 for engagement with a bar (not shown) of a filling machine (not shown). This allows the nozzle assembly 1 to be moved along the bar and so allows adjustment of the position of the nozzle assembly 1 relative to a filling machine when connected thereto. In the example shown, two wheels 24 are provided for engagement with a top edge of a bar and a single wheel 24 is provided for engagement with a lower edge of a bar. Adjacent assemblies can be provided with an inverted configuration with a single wheel provided for engagement with the top edge of the bar and two wheels for engagement with the lower edge of the bar. This arrangement is advantageous because it allows for multiple nozzle assemblies to be positioned along the bar in close proximity to one another, whilst still providing a secure and stable attachment to the bar.

The position of the connector 5 along a bar of the filling machine is fixable by a lock (not shown), which is releasable by a trigger mechanism 25.

Actuation of the trigger mechanism 25 moves the lock from a locked to an unlocked configuration and release of the trigger mechanism 25 moves the lock from an unlocked to a locked configuration.

The trigger mechanism 25 is configured such that the lock is biased into engagement with the bar of a filling machine in a resting state and thus in a fixed in position. Upon actuation of the trigger mechanism 25, the lock is released allowing movement of the connector 5 relative to the filling machine. Upon release of the trigger 25 the connector 5 is again secured in locking engagement with the filling machine.

It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications are covered by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A nozzle assembly for a filling machine, the nozzle assembly comprising:- (I) a nozzle; (ii) an assembly body; and (iii) a connector for connecting the assembly body to a filling machine, wherein the assembly body is in slideable engagement with the connector.
2. A nozzle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the nozzle assembly is configured such that when the assembly body moves from a first position towards a second position relative to the connector, an alarm is generated and/or the filling machine stops operating.
3. A nozzle assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the assembly body is in slideable engagement with the connector via a sliding joint, said sliding joint comprising a first part provided on the assembly body and a second part provided on the connector; said first part being slideable relative to the second part.
4. A nozzle assembly according to claim 3, wherein the sliding joint, preferably the second part of the joint, comprises a channel for accommodating one or more cables and/or pipes.
5. A nozzle assembly according to claim 4, wherein the sliding joint, preferably the second part of the joint, comprises a guide for guiding one or more cables and/or pipes into the channel.
6. A nozzle assembly according to claim 5, wherein the channel comprises an open end which forms a guide.
7. A nozzle assembly according to claim 6, wherein the open end of the channel is flared.
8. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 4 to 7, wherein the channel comprises one or more chamfered edges.
9. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle comprises a nozzle body connected to the assembly body.
10. A nozzle assembly according to claim 9, wherein the nozzle body is in releasable engagement with the assembly body.
11. A nozzle assembly for a filling machine, the nozzle assembly comprising:- (i) a nozzle, (ii) an assembly body; and (iii) a connector for connecting the assembly body to a filling machine, wherein the nozzle is in releasable engagement with the assembly body.
12. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle comprises a nozzle body and the nozzle body is in releasable engagement with the assembly body.
13. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 9, 10 or 12, wherein the nozzle body comprises an inlet for connection to a supply pipe and an outlet for connection to a dispensing part of the nozzle.
14. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle or nozzle body is in releasable engagement with the assembly body via a release mechanism, preferably a quick release mechanism.
15. A nozzle assembly according to claim 14, wherein the release mechanism comprises a first mating part provided on the assembly body and a second mating part provided on the nozzle or nozzle body.
16. A nozzle assembly according to claim 15, wherein the release mechanism comprises a tightener for bringing the nozzle or nozzle body into engagement with the assembly body when the first and second mating parts of the release mechanism are engaged.
17. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle or nozzle body has an assembly body engaging surface and the assembly body has a nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface, said assembly body engaging surface and said nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface being shaped to cause the nozzle or nozzle body to align with the assembly body when the nozzle or nozzle body is brought into engagement with the assembly body.
18. A nozzle assembly according to claim 17, wherein (i) the assembly body engaging surface comprises a substantially concave surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprises a substantially convex surface, or (ii) the assembly body engaging surface comprises a substantially convex surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprises a substantially concave surface.
19. A nozzle assembly according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the assembly body engaging surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface are shaped such that the nozzle or nozzle body can only be provided in a single orientation with reference to the assembly body when the nozzle or nozzle body is in engagement with the assembly body.
20. A nozzle assembly body according to any of claims 17 to 19, wherein the assembly body engaging surface and nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprise mutually engaging irregular surfaces.
21. A nozzle assembly body according to any of claims 17 to 20, wherein the assembly body engaging surface and nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprise one or more mutually engaging substantially flat areas and/or one or more mutually engaging substantially curved areas.
22. A nozzle assembly body according to any of claims 17 to 21, wherein the assembly body engaging surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprise mutually engaging irregular surfaces formed of mutually engaging substantially flat areas provided at a plurality of orientations.
23. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the connector is moveable relative to a filling machine when connected thereto.
24. A nozzle assembly according to claim 23, wherein the connector is slideable along a bar provided on a filling machine.
25. A nozzle assembly according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the connector comprises one or more wheels for engagement with a bar of a filling machine.
26. A nozzle assembly according to claim 25, wherein the connector comprises one or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and one or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.
27. A nozzle assembly according to claim 26, wherein the connector comprises (i) a higher number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine, or (H) a higher number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine.
28. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 23 to 27, wherein the position of the connector relative to a filling machine is fixable by a lock.
29. A nozzle assembly according to claim 28, wherein the lock is releasable by a trigger mechanism.
30. A nozzle assembly according to claim 29, wherein actuation of the trigger moves the lock from a locked to an unlocked configuration and release of the trigger moves the lock from an unlocked to a locked configuration.
31. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a mechanism for opening and closing the end of the nozzle, the mechanism comprising an actuator provided on or in the assembly body, a rod positioned within the nozzle and a plug positioned at the end of the rod, said plug being moveable between first and second positions via movement of the rod by the actuator to open and close the end of the nozzle, said rod being releasably connected to the actuator via a linking mechanism.
32. A nozzle assembly according to claim 31, wherein the linking mechanism comprises a foot for releasable engagement with the rod.
33. A nozzle assembly according to claim 32, wherein the foot comprises a slot orientated for receiving the rod when the nozzle or nozzle body is moved into engagement with the assembly body.
34. A nozzle assembly according to claim 33, wherein the slot is orientated for receiving the rod when the second mating part of the release mechanism on the nozzle or nozzle body is moved into engagement with the first mating part of the release mechanism on the assembly body.
35. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 32 to 34, wherein the rod comprises a groove for engagement with the foot, said groove for preventing longitudinal movement of the rod when the rod is held within the foot.
36. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 31 to 35, wherein the rod comprises a spacer for maintaining the rod centrally aligned within the nozzle.
37. A nozzle assembly according to claim 36, wherein the spacer comprises a collar for positioning around at least a part of the rod and plurality of projections extending from the collar, such that when the collar is positioned around the rod, the projections are located between the rod and the inside surface of the nozzle.
38. A nozzle assembly for a filling machine, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle and a connector for connecting the nozzle assembly to a filling machine, wherein the connector comprises one or more wheels for engagement with a bar of a filling machine.
39. A nozzle assembly according to claim 38, wherein the connector comprises one or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and one or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.
40. A nozzle assembly according to claim 39, wherein the connector comprises (i) a higher number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine, or (ii) a higher number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine.
41. A nozzle assembly for a filling machine, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a nozzle and a connector for connecting the nozzle assembly to a filling machine, wherein the position of the connector relative to a filling machine, for example the position of the connector along a bar of a filling machine, is fixable by a lock and wherein the lock is releasable by a trigger mechanism.
42. A filling machine comprising one or more nozzle assemblies according to any preceding claim.
43. A filling machine according to claim 42, comprising a plurality of nozzle assemblies, wherein a first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with a higher number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine and a second nozzle assembly adjacent the first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with a higher number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine.
44. A filling machine according to claim 43, wherein the first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with two or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and a single wheel for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine and the second nozzle assembly adjacent the first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with a single wheel for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and two or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.
45. A spacer as described in claim 37.
46. A nozzle assembly substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.
47. A filling machine substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.
48. A spacer substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.Amendments to the Claims have been filed as followsCLAIMS1. A nozzle assembly for a filling machine, the nozzle assembly comprising:- (i) a nozzle; (ii) an assembly body; and (iii) a connector for connecting the assembly body to a filling machine, wherein the assembly body is in slideable engagement with the connector via a sliding joint, said sliding joint comprising a first part provided on the assembly body and a second part provided on the connector; said first part being slideable relative to the second part, wherein the sliding joint comprises a channel for accommodating one or more cables and/or pipes and wherein the channel comprises an open end which forms a guide for guiding one or more cables and/or pipes into the channel.2. A nozzle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the nozzle assembly is (r) configured such that when the assembly body moves from a first position towards a second position relative to the connector, an alarm is generated and/or the filling machine stops operating.CO 3. A nozzle assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the open end of the channel is flared.4. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the channel comprises one or more chamfered edges.5. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle comprises a nozzle body connected to the assembly body.6. A nozzle assembly according to claim 5, wherein the nozzle body is in releasable engagement with the assembly body.7. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle comprises a nozzle body and the nozzle body is in releasable engagement with the assembly body.8. A nozzle assembly according to claim 5, 6 or 7, wherein the nozzle body comprises an inlet for connection to a supply pipe and an outlet for connection to a dispensing part of the nozzle.9. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle or nozzle body is in releasable engagement with the assembly body via a release mechanism, preferably a quick release mechanism.10. A nozzle assembly according to claim 9, wherein the release mechanism comprises a first mating part provided on the assembly body and a second mating part provided on the nozzle or nozzle body.11. A nozzle assembly according to claim 10, wherein the release mechanism comprises a tightener for bringing the nozzle or nozzle body into engagement with the assembly body when the first and second mating parts of the release (r) mechanism are engaged.12. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle or nozzle body has an assembly body engaging surface and the assembly body CO has a nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface, said assembly body engaging surface and said nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface being shaped to cause the nozzle or nozzle body to align with the assembly body when the nozzle or nozzle body is brought into engagement with the assembly body.13. A nozzle assembly according to claim 12, wherein (i) the assembly body engaging surface comprises a substantially concave surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprises a substantially convex surface, or (ii) the assembly body engaging surface comprises a substantially convex surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprises a substantially concave surface.14. A nozzle assembly according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the assembly body engaging surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface are shaped such that the nozzle or nozzle body can only be provided in a single orientation with reference to the assembly body when the nozzle or nozzle body is in engagement with the assembly body.15. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 12 to 14, wherein the assembly body engaging surface and nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprise mutually engaging irregular surfaces.16. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 12 to 15, wherein the assembly body engaging surface and nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprise one or more mutually engaging substantially flat areas and/or one or more mutually engaging substantially curved areas.17. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 12 to 16, wherein the assembly body engaging surface and the nozzle or nozzle body engaging surface comprise mutually engaging irregular surfaces formed of mutually engaging (r) substantially flat areas provided at a plurality of orientations.18. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the connector is moveable relative to a filling machine when connected thereto. CO 19. A nozzle assembly according to claim 18, wherein the connector is slideable along a bar provided on a filling machine.20. A nozzle assembly according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the connector comprises one or more wheels for engagement with a bar of a filling machine.21. A nozzle assembly according to claim 20, wherein the connector comprises one or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and one or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.22. A nozzle assembly according to claim 21, wherein the connector comprises (i) a higher number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine, or (ii) a higher number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine.23. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 18 to 22, wherein the position of the connector relative to a filling machine is fixable by a lock.24. A nozzle assembly according to claim 23, wherein the lock is releasable by a trigger mechanism.25. A nozzle assembly according to claim 24, wherein actuation of the trigger moves the lock from a locked to an unlocked configuration and release of the trigger moves the lock from an unlocked to a locked configuration.26. A nozzle assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle assembly comprises a mechanism for opening and closing the end of the nozzle, (r) the mechanism comprising an actuator provided on or in the assembly body, a rod positioned within the nozzle and a plug positioned at the end of the rod, said plug being moveable between first and second positions via movement of the rod by the actuator to open and close the end of the nozzle, said rod being CO releasably connected to the actuator via a linking mechanism.27. A nozzle assembly according to claim 26, wherein the linking mechanism comprises a foot for releasable engagement with the rod.28. A nozzle assembly according to claim 27, wherein the foot comprises a slot orientated for receiving the rod when the nozzle or nozzle body is moved into engagement with the assembly body.29. A nozzle assembly according to claim 28, wherein the slot is orientated for receiving the rod when the second mating part of the release mechanism on the nozzle or nozzle body is moved into engagement with the first mating part of the release mechanism on the assembly body.30. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 27 to 29, wherein the rod comprises a groove for engagement with the foot, said groove for preventing longitudinal movement of the rod when the rod is held within the foot.31. A nozzle assembly according to any of claims 26 to 30, wherein the rod comprises a spacer for maintaining the rod centrally aligned within the nozzle.32. A nozzle assembly according to claim 31, wherein the spacer comprises a collar for positioning around at least a part of the rod and plurality of projections extending from the collar, such that when the collar is positioned around the rod, the projections are located between the rod and the inside surface of the nozzle.33. A filling machine comprising one or more nozzle assemblies according to any preceding claim.34. A filling machine according to claim 33, comprising a plurality of nozzle assemblies, wherein a first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with a higher number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine CO than the number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine and a second nozzle assembly adjacent the first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with a higher number of wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine than the number of wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine.35. A filling machine according to claim 34, wherein the first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with two or more wheels for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and a single wheel for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine and the second nozzle assembly adjacent the first nozzle assembly comprises a connector with a single wheel for engagement with a top edge of a bar of a filling machine and two or more wheels for engagement with a lower edge of a bar of a filling machine.36. A nozzle assembly substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.37. A filling machine substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures.CDMW