WO2013124486A1

WO2013124486A1 - Removal device for removing liquids from containers

Info

Publication number: WO2013124486A1
Application number: PCT/EP2013/053726
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rupert Meinzinger
Original assignee: Krones Ag
Priority date: 2012-02-24
Filing date: 2013-02-25
Publication date: 2013-08-29
Also published as: RU2631382C2; DE102012101503A1; CN103702925A; CN103702925B; EP2817257B1; EP2817257A1; RU2014133665A

Abstract

The invention relates to a removal device (40) for removing liquids from plastic containers (10), the removal device (40) having a tubular body (64) through which a liquid can be guided, said tubular body extending along a pre-determined longitudinal direction (L) in an end section (94), and a peripheral edge (98) being disposed on the end section (94), which peripheral edge can be brought into contact with a section of the container (10), a piercing device (42) also being arranged on the end section (94) in order to pierce a section of the container (10). The end section (94) has a tapered external cross-section opposite a region (95) that adjoins the end section and the piercing device (42) projects in longitudinal direction (L) in relation to at least one further section of the peripheral edge (98) in such a manner that, when there is a delivery motion of the removal device (40) towards the container (10), the piecing device contacts the section of the container earlier than other regions of the peripheral edge (98).

Description

Removal device for removing liquids from containers

description

The present invention relates to a removal device for removing liquids from containers. The invention is described in particular with reference to dispensing systems which remove plastic containers, liquids and in particular drinks. It should be understood, however, that the invention may be applied to other liquid dispensing devices.

Such devices for the removal of liquids from containers have long been known from the prior art.

For example, DE 10 2007 054 431 A1 describes a device for removing liquids from a container. In this case, a deformation element is used, which deforms the container, said deformation element here folds the container to be emptied and in this way allows almost complete removal of the liquid from the container. The disclosure content of DE 10 2007 054 431 A1 is hereby also completely made the disclosure content of the present invention.

From WO 97 32807 a fluid pressure mechanism is known, which is used in particular for liquids such as adhesives. Again, a container is squeezed and taken from a predetermined withdrawal point liquid from the container. US 2005/023307 A1 also describes an output device for drinks. Again, a stamp member is provided which compresses the container and thus withdraws liquid container. From US 2003/0197022 A1 a thin-walled container is known, which is also suitable for the removal of liquid by compressing the container.

The prior art also discloses a multiplicity of removal means and removal methods which perforate a container or a container closure in a wide variety of ways in order subsequently to be able to remove the liquid from the container. Thus, for example, it is known that thin films are pierced at the container closure and then the liquid flows out of the container in order to be able to be removed. However, in the application on which the invention is based, the additional problem arises that the container itself is compressed and is therefore under considerable pressure. For this reason, the removal device should be designed so that it allows a sufficient seal against the container. Advantageously, it should also be possible to apply the invention to conventional container closures known from the prior art. In contrast, special closures are often used in the prior art, which serve only for liquid removal. These objects are achieved according to the invention by the subject matters of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

A removal device according to the invention for the removal of liquids from plastic material containers and in particular compressible plastic containers has a tubular body (or a (pipe) line), through which a liquid can be guided. In this case, this tubular body extends in an end portion along a predetermined longitudinal direction and at the end portion is (at least partially) a circumferential edge formed, which can be brought into contact with a portion of the container and in particular with a portion of the container to be pierced.

Furthermore, a piercing device (also referred to below as piercing device) for piercing a section of the container is arranged at the end section.

According to the invention, the end section has an outer cross-section which tapers towards the end section adjacent to the end section, and the piercing device protrudes in the longitudinal direction relative to at least one further section of the peripheral edge such that the piercing device moves towards the piercing device when the container is moved onto the removal device Section of the container contacted earlier than other areas of the peripheral edge.

Thus, in contrast to the prior art, the entire peripheral edge is not placed on the container or the container wall at a specific time in order to sever it. In this way, a precise cutting or cutting process can be made with the wall of the container. It should be noted that not only the wall of the container itself is expected to the Behältniswandung, but also the wall of a closure of the container. Advantageously, the piercing device serves for piercing a closure of the container. However, it would also be conceivable that the container itself (for example, at a shoulder portion of the container) is pierced.

The tapered outer cross section is used in particular for sealing the area between the container closure and the removal device. In this way it can be achieved that during a compression of the container, the exiting liquid flows completely over the removal device and not laterally past this.

Advantageously, the removal device has a circular or elliptical cross section.

The procedure according to the invention makes it possible to open standard closures of containers, in particular plastic closures. In a further advantageous embodiment, the removal device is arranged on a holding device. Advantageously, this holding device also has a receiving area or a recess for receiving a container closure of the container. Advantageously, the above-mentioned longitudinal direction of the removal device extends in a longitudinal direction of the plastic container (which is preferably also a direction of a relative movement between the container and the lancing device during piercing).

Thus, the container closure is advantageously centered by the holding device and the removal device, which can also be referred to below as the removal tube, pierces the closure of the container - particularly preferably substantially centrally.

In an advantageous embodiment, the peripheral edge is formed at least in sections as a cutting edge. By this design of the peripheral edge, a very precise and defined opening of the container closure or the container can be achieved.

Advantageously, this cutting edge contains the piercing device and / or even this piercing device. Preferably, the piercing device is formed by the cutting edge in its entirety. In this way, as mentioned above, a defined separation process of the container closure is achieved.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the cutting edge is (only) formed along a circumferential angle which is between 10 ° and 350 ° degrees. It is therefore pointed out that preferably the cutting edge is not formed completely encircling. In this way it can be achieved that a predetermined area of the container or container closure is not cut and in this way no area segment is completely cut out, for example the container closure, but this area segment is indeed cut, but remains hanging on the container closure. This in turn is advantageous so that in the subsequent removal of such a surface element can not hinder the removal process of the liquid. The circumferential angle is to be understood with regard to the removal device. For example, if the extraction device has the shape of a circular tube, this circumferential angle can be defined with respect to an axis of symmetry of this tube. In a preferred embodiment, the cutting edge is formed along a circumferential angle which is greater than 20 °, preferably greater than 60 °, preferably greater than 100 °, preferably greater than 140 °, preferably greater than 180 °, preferably greater than 220 °, especially preferably greater than 260 ° and preferably greater than 300 ° and preferably greater than 340 °. In a further advantageous embodiment, the cutting edge is formed along a circumferential angle which is less than 340 °, preferably less than 300 °, preferably less than 260 °, preferably less than 220 °, preferably less than 180 °, preferably less than 140 °, preferably less than 100 °, preferably less than 60 °. In a further advantageous embodiment, the peripheral edge has a blunt edge portion. This edge portion is just not suitable for cutting or cutting the container or container closure and causes in this way that no circumferential line is cut into the container closure. This running edge with the blunt edge portion complements the advantageous

Cutting edge to a circumferential angle of 360 °. This means that particularly preferably the peripheral edge is formed closed. However, it would also be possible for the peripheral edge to have one or more recesses. In a further advantageous embodiment, the peripheral edge extends in the

Essentially in one plane. Preferably, this plane is inclined to the above-mentioned longitudinal direction. In this case, an angle between a plane normal and the longitudinal direction is advantageously between 5 ° and 80 °, preferably 10 ° and 70 ° and particularly preferably between 20 ° and 60 °.

By this inclination, as mentioned above, the cutting process when piercing the container closure is improved. In a further advantageous embodiment of the blunt edge portion is arranged in a region of the peripheral edge, which contacts the container in a feed movement of the removal device to the container to the cutting edge. This means that initially, for example, the container closure, is cut by means of the cutting edge and in a further feed movement, the cut edge piece remains on the container closure and is pushed away by this feed movement. Thus, the partially cut-out portion remains on the closure.

Preferably, the edge portion of the removal device is designed such that after placing the cutting edge or the edge portion on the container closure first full sealing of the pipe end or edge portion relative to the closure or the closure surface occurs and only then is started with the cutting process. This can be achieved by a correspondingly adapted inclination of the cutting edge or its plane relative to the longitudinal direction of the removal device. The concrete angle of inclination depends inter alia on the resilience of the surface of the closure or on its rigidity. Thus, prior to the actual cutting process, a full sealing of the removal device with respect to the surface of the closure preferably occurs on the process side. In this way it can be prevented that inadvertently gas or product can splash out of the container past the removal device or the removal tube.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the removal device is formed of a metal. In this way, in particular a sufficient stability can be achieved in order to possibly pierce somewhat harder container closures.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the removal device or at least the peripheral edge is formed heatable. For example, a heating wire could be arranged in the end section of the removal device. By such heating, the container to be pierced or the closure to be pierced can be somewhat softened so that the cutting process can be carried out more easily.

In addition, it would also be possible for the peripheral edge, for example a sawtooth-like structure, to cut the plastic of the container closure more easily can. It would also be conceivable that in addition to the feed movement and a rotational movement of the removal device is carried out, for example, with respect to the said longitudinal direction. In addition, the said measures can also be combined with each other. The present invention is further directed to a method for withdrawing liquids from a plastic container, wherein a removal device pierces a wall portion of the container and is subsequently discharged therefrom in the container liquid through the removal device from the container. According to the invention, a predetermined piercing region is first pierced by means of a piercing device, and then the removal device is introduced in sections into the interior of the container. Furthermore, a sealing movement between the removal device and the container is achieved by a feed movement of the container relative to the removal device. Advantageously, a removal of the liquid from the container is then carried out through the removal device. Advantageously, the container is compressed for the purpose of removal. The sealing effect is achieved in particular by the further introduction of the removal device and the tapered or upwardly widening region of the removal device.

Advantageously, the removal device is introduced into the container only so far that a peripheral edge of the removal device completely immersed in the liquid in the container. Advantageously, the removal device does not completely cut the container closure, but partially. With particular preference, a partially cut-out region thus remains suspended on the container closure. In this way it is achieved that no components of the container closure fall into the container. An advantageous device for removing liquids from plastic containers has a first holding device, which is suitable for holding a first portion of the plastic container. Furthermore, the device has a second holding device, which is suitable for holding a second portion of the plastic container, on. In this case, the said second section of the plastic container is in a Ausgangszu- stand of the container - ie in particular a completely filled state of the container - arranged spaced from the first portion of the plastic container.

Furthermore, the holding devices are advantageously arranged such that the container can be arranged at least in sections between these holding devices and thus can be deformed by a relative movement of one holding device relative to the other holding device. Furthermore, a drive device for generating a relative movement between the first holding device and the second holding device is provided so as to deform the container arranged between these holding devices in such a way that its inner volume is reduced.

Furthermore, the device advantageously has a removal device, which has a flow connection to the interior of the container and in particular to the liquid therein and over which the liquid can be removed as a result of compression of the container.

Advantageously, the device has a control device which controls the relative movement of one holding device relative to the other holding device in (at least indirect) dependence on an internal pressure within the container. By the method according to the invention, in particular the subject matter of the above application DE 10 2007 054431 is extended by the manner and direction in which the container is deformed and, in particular, by the manner in which the emptying of the container is controlled. By "at least indirect dependence" is meant that a control in immediate dependence on the internal pressure is possible, but also in indirect dependence (for example, depending on a drive torque of the drive device, which degrades from the internal pressure in the container or in dependence on the pressure the liquid in the withdrawal device.

The drive device may in particular be an electric motor, which controls the relative movement of the holding devices relative to one another via a spindle drive, for example. Advantageously, therefore, the drive device also has a transmission device which converts a drive speed of the drive motor into a lower movement speed. In addition, however, the use of hydraulic or pneumatic drives for moving the holding devices relative to each other would be conceivable. Advantageously, the movement of the holding device relative to each other is rectilinear and in particular along a longitudinal direction of the container. It would be possible that a holding device is arranged stationary and moves the other of these opposite. However, it would also be possible for both holding devices to be moved.

In a further advantageous embodiment, a carrier is provided on which at least one holding device is arranged. Advantageously, the other holding device is arranged on a corresponding carrier.

In a further advantageous embodiment, a holding device extends in the longitudinal direction of the container and preferably has a preferred length, which corresponds to at least one third of the total length of the container.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the first holding device serves to hold a bottom region of the container. For this purpose, for example, the first holding device may have a recess into which a bottom region of the container can be introduced. It would be possible that the holding device is adapted to a shape of the bottom of the container. However, it would also be possible that this holding device, for example, hemispherical or formed in a similar manner. Advantageously, the device according to the invention is designed such that it is suitable for liquid removal from commercially available containers. In particular, the device is also designed such that it is suitable for removing liquids from containers which have standard closures, such as plastic screw closures.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the second holding device serves to hold a mouth region of the container. It would be possible for an inner surface of the first holding device to be adapted with respect to its geometric shape to an outer surface of the container. In this case, the container can be compressed so strong with correspondingly strong drives that almost the entire liquid can be removed from the container. Unlike the device shown in DE 10 2007 054431 A1, in which a special container is used, this is Also possible in such containers, which have differently shaped bottoms, such as in PET bottles usual floors. Advantageously, the second holding device has a recess for receiving a closure of the container. The control device according to the invention causes, for example, a compression of the container is stopped at a certain maximum pressure. In this way, on the one hand the risk of bursting of the container can be prevented and on the other hand, it can also be prevented that liquid is removed with too high pressure. For these control devices described below in detail different ways are conceivable.

As mentioned above, the device for removing the liquid can be carried out with relatively simple means. For example, the PET container can be compressed by means of threaded spindles and an electric drive so that the container can be reduced to a very small volume in order to empty the container to a very small residual volume. Advantageously, the container is a container having a size between 2 and 10 liters and in a commercial application between 10 and 30 liters. In a further advantageous embodiment, the first holding device and the second holding device are arranged such that the container can be arranged standing and with its mouth facing upwards between them. In this way, it can be prevented that, for example, fluid leaks unintentionally if the removal system becomes defective.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the first holding device has a stamp element which has a smaller cross-section than a base body of the container. In this way, the container can be folded so that its inner volume is minimized as possible. This was explained in the above-mentioned DE 10 2007 054431 A1.

In a further advantageous embodiment, in an initial state, a distance between the first holding device and the second holding device can be changed so as to be able to adapt to different containers. Also it would be possible that the holding devices are interchangeable or adapter elements are provided, which allow adaptation to different containers.

Advantageously, at least one section between the two holding devices is formed without a housing. This means that at least a portion of the container to be compressed during the compression process is not surrounded by an immediately adjacent housing. Such an immediately surrounding housing would disturb the movements of the holding devices. Whereas in the state of the art housings are provided in many removal devices, which support the containers when they are emptied, the Applicant has found that such housings to which the receptacle bears directly are not absolutely necessary.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the control device has a switching device which switches on or off the drive device in response to an internal pressure within the container. This may be, for example, a mechanical switch. So it is possible that the container pressure is readjusted when taking the liquid. Thus, it would be possible, for example, that the pressing force is applied via compression springs and / or readjusted via a two-point control. This will be explained in more detail with reference to the figures. It would also be possible that for a residual emptying of the pressure is largely or even completely drained.

The switching device may be a mechanical switching element. However, an electronic switch would also be conceivable which reacts, for example, to a measured pressure. Advantageously, at least one holding device is resiliently mounted and particularly preferably connected to the switching device.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the removal device has at least one flexible conduit section. Advantageously, a flow rate change element is arranged on this flexible line section, for example a compression element which can reduce the line cross section.

In a further advantageous embodiment, a pressure sensor element is provided, which detects an internal pressure in the container and controls the control device the drive means in response to values output from this pressure sensor element.

In a further advantageous embodiment, it would also be possible that the pressure is indirectly determined via a drive torque of the drive device and the drive device is switched off when a certain limit drive torque is exceeded.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the device has an actuatable valve for removing the liquid. Thus, for example, the device may have an outlet which, for example, is manually operable so as to remove the liquid from the container. As a result of such a removal, the internal pressure in the container will change and the drive device can continue in particular with the compression of the container. By a punch movement or a relative movement of the two holding devices towards each other, the pressure of the container is increased and by this pressure increase, the decrease amount can be specified. In a further advantageous embodiment, a pressure regulating valve can also be provided for this purpose. This pressure control valve can advantageously be a combination of a shut-off valve, a pressure regulator and a diffuser.

The above-mentioned flexible conduit means can be tightly squeezed shut off and opened to remove the liquid, in particular only be opened so far that is reduced by a small opening of the container pressure to a desired flow rate. Furthermore, it is also possible for a tube cross section to expand starting from a throttle cross section in the length and shape of a diffuser.

In addition, it is also possible that a further, in particular separate, piston surface is provided for activating a closing mechanism.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the flexible conduit element or the hose is advantageously squeezed to the outlet during the closing operation so as to be able to express residual fluid. This serves, for example, as Auspresshilfe. In a further advantageous embodiment, the device has a movement element, which moves the container relative to a holding device. In this movement element is in particular a moving element, which moves the container relative to the holding device when moving apart of the two holding devices. In this way, at least partial stripping of the container can be achieved, so that the container can be more easily removed from the holding device. Characterized in that a holding device has a smaller cross section than the main body of the container, this then penetrates when emptying the container in this. In order not to have to remove the container completely manually from this holding device, it is therefore proposed that by means of the movement element or stripping element in particular a backward movement of the holding device or a movement apart of the two holding devices is used to strip the container of the holding device.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the holding device is designed such that it can receive an opening region of the container. For this purpose, the holding device itself may have a recess, which is designed to receive the mouth region of the container.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the removal device has a piercing device for piercing at least one wall of the container or a container closure of the container. In particular, a piercing device is provided for piercing the container closure. In this way, the removal of liquids from standard containers can be made possible. Thus, for example, this lancing device may be formed as a tubular body with a cutting edge. In this embodiment, on the one hand, a removal of liquid from the container can be achieved, on the other hand, however, preferably also during the removal of a reliable seal the piercing device or the removal device relative to the container.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the removal device is integrated in one of the two holding devices. In particular, the removal device is integrated in that holding device, which for receiving the mouth region of the container is provided. In this case, the removal device may be arranged on or particularly preferably within this holding device. Thus, a preferably central cavity can be formed in the holding device, in which the said piercing device and in particular also a pipeline is arranged.

The present invention is further directed to a method of withdrawing liquids from a container, wherein a container is provided with a first portion (of the container) on a first holder and with a second portion (of the container) which is spaced from the first portion , Is arranged on a second holding device, that the container is at least partially between this first holding device and the second holding device. Furthermore, a holding device is moved to the other holding device in order to deform the container and so as to reduce the inner volume of the container. In this case, liquid is removed from the container by means of a removal device (in particular during compression of the container).

The movement of the first holding device relative to the second holding device is advantageously controlled as a function of an internal pressure of the container. Advantageously, the container is standing upright and arranged with its mouth up between the holding devices.

In a further advantageous method, at least one holding device is substantially stationary. Advantageously, the upper holding device, which holds the mouth region of the container, is substantially stationary and the lower holding device is moved relative to the upper holding device.

Further advantages and embodiments will be apparent from the attached drawings, in which:

1 shows a first schematic representation of a device according to the invention; FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of a device according to the invention in a second embodiment; FIG.

Fig. 3 is an illustration for using an upright container;

4 shows a representation of a partially emptied container;

Fig. 5 is an illustration of an overhead inserted container;

6 shows an illustration of an embodiment in which the first holding device has a receiving element;

7 shows a representation of a further embodiment of a device according to the invention;

Fig. 8 is an illustration of another embodiment, which additionally a

Reduction of the height of the device causes;

9 shows an illustration of a removal device;

10 is an illustration of a picking device inserted into the container;

Fig. 1 1 is an illustration of a piercing operation;

FIG. 12 shows a detailed representation of the removal device; FIG. and

13 shows a detailed representation of the removal device introduced into the container.

1 shows an illustration of a first embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention. Reference numeral 10 refers to a container to be emptied, this container having a bottom region 10a and an orifice region 10b. Reference numeral 30 denotes a closure of the container in which it is located here can act around a standard closure. Reference numeral 10e shows a mo- mentanen folding area, where the container 10 is bent to remove liquid. In a relative movement of a first holding device 2 relative to a second holding device 4, this folding area 10e is also displaced. The reference numeral 40 indicates in its entirety a removal device to remove liquid from the container. For this purpose, a valve 52 is provided and optionally a throttle body 56, which is preferably upstream of this valve 52. Reference numeral 54 denotes an outlet for the liquid. The reference numeral 42 denotes a lancing device which can pierce the container closure 30.

The reference numeral 20 designates in its entirety a control device for controlling the removal of the liquid from the container 10 in response to its internal pressure. In this case, a drive device 22, as here an electric motor, is provided, which, as indicated by the arrow P1, the first holding device 2 can move upwards and thus on the here secondarily arranged stationary holding device 4. The first holding device 2 here has a receiving device 24 for receiving the bottom region 10a. Furthermore, springs 28 are provided which press the receiving device and a bottom plate 29 apart.

The reference numeral 32 denotes a switching element which can be switched when the receiving device 24 is moved toward the bottom plate 29. Depending on this switching element, the drive device 22 can be switched on or off. Thus, a two-point control can be provided here, which in response to a pressure within the container 10, which here as pressure on the holding device 2, controls.

The reference numeral 16 denotes a movement device which serves to pull off the compressed container 10 from the second holding device 4. This movement device can be arranged, for example, fixed to the first movable holding device 2. During a backward movement of the first holding device 2 downwards, this movement device comes into contact with the container 10 and pulls it at least partially from the second holding device 4. Preferably, this movement device 16 is therefore arranged to be movable and preferably at least temporarily coupled to a movement of the first holding device 2. It would also be conceivable that the movement of the movement device is coupled to the movement of the first holding device 2 only in the case of a backward movement. Preferably, the movement device 16 abuts against the second holding device 4, or its outer circumference. However, it would also be conceivable that a separate drive for moving the movement device is provided. It would also be conceivable that the movement device is manually movable. Also, the movement device could be designed as a relative to the second holding device displaceable ring.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, a pressure-controlled decrease takes place.

Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of the device according to the invention. In this embodiment, the removal device 40 has a flexible conduit section 72, which can be crimped by a cross-sectional constriction element 74, which is loaded by a spring 76. If desired, this element 74 may be slightly moved by the user so as to discharge a liquid across the outlet 54 (by enlarging the cross-section of the conduit section 72).

The drive device 22 can be controlled here, for example, such that it only permits a maximum torque or drive torque and stops when this drive torque is exceeded. As soon as the pressure in the container drops, the motor 22 or the drive device 22 will move the first holding device upwards and thus further compress the container (as a result of which the internal pressure in the container rises again). Thus, even with this procedure decreases the decrease in the liquids, the internal pressure in the container, but it is more accurate, a volume-controlled decrease of the liquid. The reference numeral 42 here again denotes the piercing body or the piercing device, which can puncture the container closure 30. This piercing body is advantageously formed as a tube through which a liquid can flow. Fig. 3 shows a further schematic representation of a device according to the invention. As you can see, the container is inserted here upright. The second holding device 4 has a cavity or receiving space 62, within which a line 64 for removing the liquid (but preferably also an orifice of the container 10) is arranged. This line 64 also extends here along the longitudinal direction L of the container 10. It can further be seen that, around a base body 10c of the container 10 around no housing is formed, or no wall on which this body portion 10c of the container can rest. In the embodiment shown here, the first holding device 2 is adapted to a bottom structure of the container 10. However, this is not absolutely necessary.

Fig. 4 shows the device in a partially empty state of the container. In this case, initially pierces the tapping body 42 through the container closure 30 and is then introduced so far until the tapping body 42 is disposed with its entire cross section within the product or the liquid F. It is possible that with a movement of the piercing body 42 already the entire holding device 4 and the punch 4 moves downwards. Preferably, however, these two bodies are arranged stationary. Thus, the container 10 is pressed in here by the shoulder by a movement of the holding device 2, wherein particular care is taken to ensure that in the region of the refolding 10e no product, but only air or a gas is.

By the holding device 4 and the punch, however, the mouth and also the inner part of the container shoulder remain upright. It can be seen that the holding device 4 not only receives the mouth, but also an initial region of the shoulder of the container. Accordingly, the holding device is adapted to the region 4a of the shoulder shape of the container 10 and after the impressions, the holding device or the stamp in mirrored form is formed such that the unwound distance of the container shoulder of the unwound punch shoulder 4a corresponds. Furthermore, it would be possible that the unwound punch shoulder is slightly shortened to pull the outside diameter easier inward. As already mentioned, the punch (ie the holding device 4) and the supporting shell (the first holding device 2) move relative to each other.

As mentioned above, the first holding device 2 is preferably moved and pressed against the stationary holding device 4. This has the advantage that the removal device 40 and possibly also the tap can be arranged stationarily.

Fig. 5 shows an embodiment in which the container 10 is inserted overhead. In this case, only one puncture of the piercing device 42 is required, so that a corresponding opening is created in order to empty as much as possible. The mouth of the container is arranged here below.

In this embodiment, advantageously, the container bottom 10a is rolled into the container to also have the Börtelrand above, so that no product puddle results within the Börtelrandes so. In this variant, a very extensive residual emptying of the product can be achieved. However, it is disadvantageous here that the container can drip when the container 10 is removed.

6 shows an embodiment in which the first holding device 2 has a receiving element which is adapted in terms of its shape to a container bottom, for example to a so-called petaloid bottom. This embodiment has the advantage that the container can be kept very stable in the holding device 2.

Fig. 7 shows a further embodiment of a device according to the invention. In this embodiment, the holding device 2 on no receiving device, which is adapted to the shape of the bottom of the container. Rather, the container is pressed here in a different form. Thus, the container bottom between the first holding device 2 and the second holding device 4, or between the punch 4 and the shell 2 is transformed. In this case, the bottom and the feet of the container 10 are deformed or creased so that the smallest possible cavity remains. This irregular configuration allows for the plastic material of the container. In other words, the bottom and the feet are brought into a suitable shape by the axial deformation force, the internal pressure of the container and, in particular, by mechanical compression, in order to secure the container 10. possible to empty. However, this requires relatively high pressing forces of the drive device (and / or a strong reduction ratio).

Depending on the design of the bottom of the container, its feet can be pressed in more or less. Limiting here is the thick-walled portion in the middle of the soil. The deformation of the shoulder of the container is applied to the thus formed bottom (or immediately before it) and there is a kind of annular channel in the middle of the bottom, in which the residual liquid flows when unloading the container towards the center. The piercing device 42 advantageously protrudes to the bottom of the container.

Fig. 8 shows a further embodiment, which additionally causes a reduction in the height of the device. In this embodiment, the second holding device 4 is shorter than half the container length, for example in the range of the third container length. In addition, radially encircling projections or a collar 48 may be provided, which cause the container not only to be rolled around the fold 10e shown in the above figures, but additionally also to be crushed in the region 10g of the container. In this way, as mentioned, the punch length and thus the height can be reduced. More specifically, a reduction of the length of the second holding device 4 in the longitudinal direction L of the container by almost half is possible.

Furthermore, it can be achieved in this way that the residual volume in the container is further reduced. Furthermore, with a gas in the container headspace, the liquid can be further pushed out. Now, if the container 10 is rolled so far that the deflected container wall is present at the end of the holding device 4 or on the collar 48, usually from this collar 48 forth a wave or a fold after the other. However, if the container wall is pushed together shapeless, but this is not disturbing. 9 shows an illustration of a removal device 40, which is delivered to a container 10, more precisely a container closure 30. In this case, the removal device 40 has a tubular body 64 through which liquid can be passed. The reference numeral 94 denotes an end portion of the tubular body, which serves for piercing the container closure. For this purpose, the tubular body or pipe body 64 has a peripheral edge 98, which is here inclined with respect to a longitudinal direction L, so as to first pierce a region and then other regions of the container closure 30. The reference numeral 95 denotes a region of the tubular body 64 adjoining the end section 94. It can be seen (cf., Fig. 12) that this end section 95 is tapered with respect to this adjoining region 95. Advantageously, this taper is formed circumferentially. The taper can be continuous starting from the adjoining area. The reference symbol A denotes an angle of the taper or bevel with respect to the longitudinal direction L. This angle is preferably between 5 ° and 50 °, preferably between 5 ° and 40 °, preferably between 10 ° and 35 ° and preferably between 10 ° and 30 °.

10 shows a representation in which the removal device 40 is introduced into the container 10. It can be seen that the piercing device or the circumferential edge 98 completely dips into the liquid F. Subsequently, the container can be compressed from the bottom and the liquid can be pushed out of the container through the tubular body 64 and fed to a tap, for example. The peripheral edge is partially formed as a cutting edge 82. The reference symbol E denotes a plane in which the peripheral edge 98 or its surface extends. The longitudinal direction L is obliquely opposite this plane E.

Fig. 1 1 shows schematically the actual piercing process. It can be seen that here the flexibility of the cover 30 or the cover surface 30a is used to bridge the piercing opening. The chamfered tube 64 facilitates the piercing of the lid 30. This is widened by the outer bevel, which is shown in Figure 12, through the resulting bore and generates a cutting edge. Preferably, however, before starting the cutting operation, the edge of the tube seals completely against the lid surface 30a. A radius or blunt edge portion 84 of an opposite side (see Fig. 12) serves to ensure that the pierced central portion (30b) is not loose and enters the container. A corresponding sharp-edged cutting edge 82 is needed so that the hole is cut and on the other hand, no fibrous edges arise. In this way it can be prevented that such fibers get into the drink and later in the dispensing. FIG. 13 is an illustration of the hole pierced in the shutter 30. It can be seen that, on the one hand, an inwardly curved seal 30c is created, which is circumferential and at the same time dynamically seals. In this way, it would even be possible that the tubular body 64 in particular in the longitudinal direction can be moved back and forth and a seal between the closure 30 and the outer periphery of the tubular body 64 is formed, which seal is gas-tight and liquid-tight until pushed through and also manages without additional sealing elements. In addition, however, it would be possible to attach a further sealant to a tubular body 64, such as a disc which is disposed on the tubular body 64 and additionally presses on the closure 30 from above, for which purpose additional sealing elements, such as sealing rubbers, are placed could. Furthermore, it would also be possible to achieve a seal, for example, with respect to the support ring 10f of the container. Also, the attached hole portion 30b is not disturbing to the seal.

The Applicant reserves the right to claim all features disclosed in the application documents as essential to the invention, provided they are novel individually or in combination with respect to the prior art.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

contraption

2 first holding device

4 second holding device

4a stamp shoulder

10 container

10a floor area

10b mouth area

10c basic body 10e folding area

10f support ring

10g squeezed area

16 movement element

20 control device

22 drive device

24 receiving device

28 spring

29 base plate

30 container closure

30a lid surface of the container closure

30b attached hole section

30c sealing section

32 switching element

40 removal device

42 lancing device

48 fret

52 valve

54 outlet

56 throttle body

62 recording room

64 pipe, tubular body

72 flexible line section

74 cross-sectional constriction element

76 spring

82 cutting edge

84 blunt edge section

94 end portion of the tubular body 64th

95 at the end portion 94 subsequent section 98 circumferential edge

P1 movement of the first holding device upwards

L longitudinal direction of the container

F liquid E plane A angle

Claims

Removal device for removing liquids from containers. Claims

1 . Removal device (40) for removing liquids from plastic containers (10), wherein the removal device (40) has a tubular body (64) through which a liquid can be guided and wherein said tubular body in an end portion (94) along a predetermined longitudinal direction ( L) and wherein on the end portion (94) an at least partially circumferential edge (98) is formed, which is brought into contact with a portion of the container (10), further comprising at the end portion (94) a piercing means (42) for Piercing a portion of the container (10) is arranged

characterized in that

the end section (94) has an outer cross-section which tapers in relation to a region (95) adjoining the end section, and the lancing device (42) protrudes in the longitudinal direction (L) with respect to at least one further section of the peripheral edge (98) in such a way that during a feed movement Removal device (40) on the container (10) to the lancing device (42) the portion of the container (10) contacted earlier than other portion of the peripheral edge (98).

2. removal device (40) according to claim 1,

characterized in that

the peripheral edge (98) is formed at least in sections as a cutting edge (82).

3. removal device (40) according to claim 2,

characterized in that

the cutting edge (82) comprises or is the piercing device (42).

4. removal device (40) according to claim 2,

characterized in that

the cutting edge (82) is formed along a circumferential angle which is between 10 ° and 350 °.

5. removal device (40) according to claim 4,

characterized in that

the cutting edge (82) is formed along a circumferential angle which is greater than 20 °, preferably greater than 40 °, preferably greater than 100 °, preferably greater than 140 °, preferably greater than 180 °, preferably greater than 220 °, particularly preferably greater than 240 °, more preferably greater than 300 ° and particularly preferably greater than 340 °.

6. removal device (40) according to claim 4

characterized in that

the cutting edge (82) is formed along a circumferential angle which is less than 340 °, preferably less than 300 °, preferably less than 240 °, preferably less than 220 °, preferably less than 180 °, preferably less than 140 °, preferably less as 100 °, preferably less than 40 °

7. removal device (40) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

the peripheral edge (98) has a blunt edge portion (84).

8. removal device (40) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

the peripheral edge (98) extends substantially in a plane (E) which is oblique to the longitudinal direction (L).

9. removal device (40) according to claim 7,

characterized in that

the blunt edge portion (84) is arranged in a region of the peripheral edge (98) which contacts the container (10) after the cutting edge (82) during a feed movement of the removal indentation onto the container (10).

10. removal device (40) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the removal device (40) is formed from a metal. A method for removing liquids from a plastic container (10), wherein a removal device penetrates a wall region of the container (10) and in the connection thereto in the container (10) located liquid is discharged through the removal device from the container (10), characterized that

First, by means of a piercing device (42) a predetermined piercing region is pierced and then the removal device (40) is inserted in sections in the interior of the container (10), and further by a feed movement of the removal device (40) to the container (10) to a Seal between the removal device (40) and the container (10) is achieved.