WO2019121944A1

WO2019121944A1 - Device for automatedly changing the composition of a batch

Info

Publication number: WO2019121944A1
Application number: PCT/EP2018/085889
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bernward Starke; Bernhard Mueller
Original assignee: Delphi Salesconsulting Ag; Mworks Gmbh
Priority date: 2017-12-20
Filing date: 2018-12-19
Publication date: 2019-06-27
Also published as: DE102017130735A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for automatedly changing the composition of a batch, said device having a plurality of product lines, wherein a container for transporting batches is movable along a product line. The device furthermore comprises a plurality of component lines, which are arranged perpendicular to the product line. A device for supplying or receiving a component is arranged on each component line and is arranged or can be positioned at a node point between a component line and a product line. The container for transporting batches can be positioned relative to each device for supplying or removing a component in such a way that the proportion of the component in question in the batch can be varied by the device for supplying or removing a component.

Description

DEVICE FOR AUTOMATED CHANGE OF THE

COMPOSITION OF A GEMENGES

The invention relates to a device for automated change of the composition of a batch, and a corresponding method.

In the prior art machines and machines are known with which individual mixtures can be produced automatically. However, these are generally only machines that must be manually loaded and unloaded and provide only a very limited number of components to make a batch. These are for example those described in WO 2001075586 A1, US 5,903,465 A or US 2002056724 A1. All of these systems are designed to be operated in retail and therefore, for reasons of space, have only a limited choice of possible components of the batch. In addition, these systems have only the ability to fill individual containers in the respective dosing position. A disadvantage of the cited prior art is that a real individualization due to the limited components with the proposed equipment can not be achieved and only one single filling per dosing station is possible.

In addition, EP 1988019 A1 or DE 102004020510 A1 describes a system for filling weekly tablet blisters, in which although the type of tablets can vary in the respective daily subject, but there is only one linear path for the filling. With a very high number of components, a very long filling distance would be necessary here. In addition, the containers can not be moved individually and freely programmable and filled. only linear and no freely programmable and parallel filling It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a device that allow individualized changes in the composition in a fully automatic production.

The object of the invention is achieved by a device according to independent claim 1.

The device according to the invention for the automated change of the composition of a batch comprises several product lines. Along each product line a separate container for the transport of mixtures can be moved. A plurality of component paths are arranged substantially transverse to the product lines. Each component section has a device for adding or receiving a component. Each device for adding or receiving a component is arranged or positionable in a node of a component section with a product section. Advantageously, the container for transporting mixtures is positionable such that the proportion of the respective component in the batch can be changed by one of the devices for adding or receiving a component.

Thus, production processes can be carried out by the device according to the invention. Depending on the type of product, the sequence and number of different production processes can be adapted within wide limits to the requirements of production. The plant control makes it possible, in particular, to produce individual recipes. The levels of the product and component paths may be horizontal or vertical. A vertical orientation is particularly suitable for packaging and sorting processes. Different products can be realized by the device of the invention, for example, mixing a liquid, paste, powder of different active ingredients such as cream, oils, paints, seed mixtures, fertilizer. Also possible is the assembly of a set of different parts eg tablets for large pharmacies in hospitals, components for individual and complex assemblies eg harnesses, picking of large numbers of standard parts for mounting a complex individualized assembly, eg smartphones, watches, toy sets or frequently required replacement and maintenance items, eg, seal kits. In addition, the assembly of an assembly of many small items such as individually configurable jewelry can be realized. Also conceivable is a sorting of a set of different parts such as biological or pharmaceutical samples and recyclables sorting of small parts.

Despite the far-reaching scalability and configurability of the plant concept, the components and assemblies are largely standardized so that the effort to adapt to different production processes is relatively low.

Further developments of the device according to the invention are set forth in subclaims 2 to 11.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, each container can be moved individually along a product route. In one development of the invention, the proportions of a component of the mixture of each container are individually variable.

In a further embodiment according to the invention, each container and / or each product section can be controlled separately. This has the advantage that each container or each product section for transporting a container is individually movable and also the proportions of one or more components of the batch in the respective container individually changeable. Thus, both the type of component, the proportion of which is to be changed, are set individually for each container, as well as the amount of the portion to be changed. It is thus possible to individually control the composition in terms of the type and quantity of component of a component for each container.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the device has a control which is suitable to control each product section separately. This has the advantage of making optimum use of the respective component sections. While a container is positioned under a device for adding or receiving a component on a component line, the container can be moved on the parallel and / or adjacent product section.

In one embodiment of the invention, the devices for the addition or recording of a component are controlled separately by the controller. This control may separately control the timing, duration, amount of addition or uptake of a component, or other process parameters for the devices for adding or containing a component. Thus, the amount of a component of a batch in a container can be changed separately via a device for adding or receiving a component.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the device is suitable to fill each container selectively and sequentially and also to proceed independently of the respective other containers and / or to position. This has the advantage that the composition of each container can be changed individually.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the number of product lines is at least 3, preferably at least 5 and particularly preferably at least 10. The number of product lines determines the number of simultaneously produced or to Mixing products and also significantly the number of products to be produced per unit time.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the product sections are arranged parallel to each other. The component lines arranged transversely or substantially at right angles to the product lines form nodes on the basis of this embodiment, in which addition or reception of a component is realized.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the nodes are arranged in the form of an n × m matrix. Where n is the number of product lines, m is the number of component lines. At these junctions, product and tool are merged and processing operations performed. These processing operations may be e.g. the addition of a liquid, paste, or powder of different active ingredients such as creams, oils, colors, seed mixtures, fertilizer. Also possible is the packaging of a set of different items, e.g. Large pharmacy tablets in hospital, components for individual and complex assemblies, e.g. Wiring harnesses, picking of large numbers of standard parts for mounting a complex individualized assembly, e.g. Smartphones, watches, toy sets, or frequently required replacement and maintenance items, e.g. Gasket sets. In addition, the assembly of an assembly of many small items, e.g. individually configurable jewelry, be realized. It is also conceivable to sort out a set of different parts, e.g. biological or pharmaceutical samples and recycling of small parts.

In a further aspect of the invention, the device according to the invention has a frame for receiving the product sections and / or the component sections. The frame is the static and load-bearing framework of the system, which positions and fixes the axes of the component and product sections. The frame is designed such that it scales a different number of links can record. The frame is preferably a rectangular frame with two levels, placed on top of the component sections and from below, perpendicular to the product lines are attached. Preferably, at least one slot is more prepared in both planes than necessary for the need. Routes that require maintenance can be replaced by replacement routes without interruption.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the frame has a device for locking the product sections and / or the component sections, in which the product sections and / or the component sections are releasably fixed. By loosening the device for engaging the product lines and / or the component sections, one or more product lines and / or the component sections can be released and removed from the frame during maintenance. Likewise, one or more product lines and / or the component sections can be supplied as a replacement for the removed the frame. Repair and maintenance are considerably simplified by this design of the invention. In addition, less downtime.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the frame has a device for locking the product sections and / or the component sections, in which the product sections and / or the component sections are releasably fixed. By releasing the locking of the product lines and / or the component sections, one or more product lines and / or the component sections can be released and removed from the frame during maintenance. Likewise, one or more product lines and / or the component sections can be supplied as a replacement for the removed the frame. Repair and maintenance are considerably simplified by this design of the invention. There is less downtime.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention bridge frames are arranged in the frame, which serve as carrier elements for the product lines and / or the Component lines are executed. The bridge frame is bolted to the product lines and / or the component lines and stiffened this against impermissible deflection. At this bridge frame all static attachments are attached. The bridge frame is advantageously a component with high bending stiffness and weight-optimized design.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the product sections and / or component sections are designed as linear units. The containers for transporting mixtures are fed one after the other to the nodes in a product line. The transport direction of the product sections and / or the component sections runs in one direction.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the product sections each have at least one carriage, which can be moved along the product line. The carriage is movably guided on a carriage body and is e.g. driven by a linear drive, revolving toothed belt, linear motor, a rack or a worm gear.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the carriage on a gripper. The gripper is designed so that it can accommodate an adapter. In this adapter, the containers are set for the transport of mixtures for the dosing. The grippers are attached to the carriages of the product lines and pick up the adapters.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the gripper has a latching connection to receive an adapter. The grippers are attached to the carriages of the product lines. The connection of gripper and adapter is latching, without the gripper energy supply is required, for example by spring-loaded locking bolts, slide or similar .. In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device according to the invention has a feed line. The feed line feeds the adapters with the containers for transporting mixtures to the product lines. The feed section is designed as a chain conveyor accumulation conveyor. Alternatively, another type of accumulation conveyor, a robot or a worker can be used.

The feed line has a buffer section in a further embodiment of the invention. The feed section conveys the containers in the adapters for transporting mixtures to the product lines. Right-angled to the side or vertically, the adapters are inserted into short buffer sections before transfer to the product lines. The buffer lines store some adapters to avoid jams on the feed line and product line waiting times when loading a new adapter.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the feed section and / or the buffer section have an introducer. Injectors branch off the adapters and / or containers for transporting mixtures from the feed line into the buffer line in front of the product lines or feed the adapters and / or containers into the product lines.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the device according to the invention has a number m of component sections. The length of a product line is longer than the sum of the product of m and the width of the component line and the product of (m-1) and the distance between the component lines. The product lines are thus measured at least as long as they protrude over the component sections arranged at right angles to the product lines.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the device according to the invention has a number n of product lines. The length of a component route is longer than that Sum of the product of n and width of the product line and the product of (m-1) and the distance between the product lines. The component sections are thus measured at least in their length so that they project beyond the product sections arranged at right angles to the component sections.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the device according to the invention has an adapter for receiving a container for transporting mixtures. The adapter is an assembly in which the containers are set for the transport of mixtures. The containers for transporting mixtures are gripped in an adapter which serves as an interface between the variable shape and size of the container for transporting mixtures and the transport and handling devices of the plant. The container for transporting mixtures has a device, e.g. a Rezess, for torsion-proof storage of the container in the adapter. The adapter has a spring-loaded pawl that fits into the recess of the container for transporting mixtures.

In a further embodiment of the invention adapter and / or the container for transporting mixtures with a unique identification element, such as a QR code, an RFID chip or a primary key provided. The assignment of the recipe to the adapter and the assignment of the adapter in turn to a container for the transport of mixtures is done because the QR code on the bottom of the container for transporting mixtures on a transport system standing, not easy to read. The QR code includes the recipe ID, container type ID and / or set ID. This QR code is stored permanently in a database together with the production data and the recipe. The identification element preferably contains an ID which is used only once. This ID is used in a database as a key for the recipe, container size, manufacturing date batch. This ensures a clear manufacturing control and consistent quality assurance. Repeat orders can be conveniently triggered by the customer. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the complete in the identification element Recipe deposited. The identification element serves to uniquely index the data record in a central database containing all customer data and production data.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the device according to the invention on an adapter charging station, which loads the adapter, each with a container for the transport of mixtures. The adapter charging station loads the containers for the transport of mixtures before filling in the device according to the invention in the adapter and spurt the adapters into the feed line.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the device according to the invention has an adapter-unloading station, which discharges the adapter. The adapter unloading station unloads the containers for the transport of mixtures after filling in the device according to the invention from the adapter and leads to the containers for the transport of mixtures of the packaging. The adapters are returned by a transport system to the adapter charging station.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the device according to the invention has an adapter return system charging station, which transports an empty adapter from the adapter unloading station to the adapter loading station. After the containers have been removed from the adapter to transport blends for packaging, the empty adapters are returned to the adapter loading station. An adapter buffer may be interposed if necessary.

The object of the invention is further achieved by a method according to claim 12. The process for individualized automated change of the composition of a batch comprises six process steps: First, a container for transporting mixtures is provided. Thereafter, a component is determined, the proportion of the mixture to be changed. In the third method step, a product section is selected from a plurality of product sections. In the next method step, the container is moved to transport mixtures along the selected product line to a node, which is formed by crossing the product line with a component line. Thereafter, a device for adding or receiving a component of the batch, which is arranged in a component section, positioned in the node. In the last process step, the composition of the component of the batch is changed by the apparatus for adding or receiving a component of the batch. Due to this method, it is possible to manufacture in particular individualized formulations. The individual recipes are combined in the container for transporting mixtures and stored. Sequence, proportion and number of different components can be adjusted within wide limits depending on the type of product. It is also possible to sort out a set of different parts.

Further developments of the method according to the invention are set forth in subclaims 13 to 21.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a plurality of containers are moved individually along different product lines. This means that a container can be positioned in one node on one product line, while on another product line the container is moved between two nodes. In one embodiment of the invention, the proportions of a component of the batch of each container are changed individually. In a further embodiment according to the invention, each container and / or each product section is controlled separately. This has the advantage that each container can be moved individually and also the proportions of one or more components of the batch in the respective container can be changed individually. Thus, both the type of component, the proportion of which is to be changed, are set individually for each container, as well as the amount of the portion to be changed. And it is possible to individually control the composition in terms of the type and quantity of the component of a component for each container.

In a further embodiment of the invention, each product section is controlled separately by means of a controller. This has the advantage of making optimum use of the respective component sections. While a container is positioned under a device for adding or receiving a component on a component line, the container can be moved on the adjacent product line.

In one development of the invention, the devices for the addition or recording of a component are controlled separately by the controller. The controller may separately control the timing, duration, amount of addition or uptake of a component, or other process parameters for the devices for adding or containing a component. Thus, the amount of a component of a batch in a container can be changed individually via a device for adding or receiving a component.

In a further embodiment of the invention, each container is selectively and sequentially filled and also moved and / or positioned independently of the respective other containers. This has the advantage that the composition of each container can be changed individually. In a further embodiment of the invention, the target composition of the batch is read. The containers for transporting mixtures are printed on the underside with an identification element such as a QR code. The recipe ID is unique and unique and identifies the composition of the batch. A database contains the data of the composition of the batch with the customer data, the order data and data for quality assurance and production.

In a further embodiment of the invention, a plurality of containers for transporting mixtures of a buffer line is supplied. The container for transporting mixtures is placed in the adapter and fed to a buffer line. The buffer lines store some adapters to avoid jams on the feed line and product line waiting times when loading a new adapter.

In a further embodiment of the invention, a plurality of containers for transporting mixtures of a product section is supplied. In an advantageous development of the invention, a plurality of containers for transporting mixtures are moved simultaneously on the product lines arranged in parallel.

In a further embodiment of the invention, a plurality of devices for adding or receiving a component of the batch on a plurality of component lines is positioned at the same time in a plurality of nodes. The product lines position the containers for transporting mixtures according to the composition of the batch under the component lines.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the composition of the portion of respectively different components is changed at the same time in a plurality of mixtures. Appropriately selected dosing pumps and dosing devices in the nodes of product and component lines dose the compositions of the components. It is also possible to use eg Suction devices or grippers that sort the mixture in the containers for transporting mixtures.

Embodiments of the sensor device according to the invention and the method according to the invention are shown schematically simplified in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description.

Show it:

Fig. 1 view of the device according to the invention for packaging of

liquids

Fig. 2 view of the device according to the invention for packaging of

creams

Fig. 3 detail view of a container for transporting mixtures on a linear unit

Fig. 4 view of a container for the transport of mixtures

The device according to the invention for automatically changing the composition of a batch 1 comprises a plurality of product lines 3 (FIGS. 1 and 2). Along a product section 3, a container for transporting mixtures 4 is movable. A plurality of component sections 5 are arranged substantially perpendicular to the product sections 3. On each product section 3, one or more containers 4 can be moved individually. Each component section 5 has a device for adding or receiving a component. Each device for adding or receiving a component is arranged or positionable in a node 7 of a component section 5 with a product section 3. The container for transporting mixtures 4 can be positioned so that the proportion of the respective component in the Blend can be changed by the device for adding or receiving a component. A controller controls the containers 4 and the product lines 3 such that the containers 4 are independently movable and positionable. Also, the devices 6 for changing for adding or receiving a component can be controlled individually by the controller. Thus, 4 different components with different amounts can be added to each container, and each container receives an individual composition. The nodes 7 are arranged in the form of an nxm matrix. In this case, n is the number of product lines 3, m is the number of component sections 5. At these junctions 7, product and tool are brought together and production processes are carried out.

Product sections 3 and component sections 5 are arranged in a frame 8, in which the axes of the component and product sections 3 are positioned and fastened to one another. The frame 8 is designed such that it can accommodate a different number of linear axes and can be equipped with the three different sizes, even in a mixed arrangement. Optionally, racks 8 can be used, which accommodate different linear axes with more three different sizes. The frame 8 is a rectangular frame with two levels, are placed on top of the component sections 5 and fixed and from below, perpendicular to the product lines 3 are attached.

Product and component sections 5 are releasably engaged and locked in the frame 8 via devices 9, 10. By releasing the locking of the product sections 3 and the component sections 5, one or more product sections 3 and / or component sections 5 can be released and removed from the frame 8 during maintenance. Likewise, one or more product sections 3 and / or the component sections 5 can be supplied as a replacement for the removed frame 8. Repair and maintenance are considerably simplified by this design of the invention. There is less downtime. The distance between the planes of product and component sections 5 to each other is determined by the height of the adapter 18, the container for the transport of mixtures 4 and the height of the component and product sections 3. The distance between the planes can be made adjustable. The slots for the component and product lines 3 follow a fixed pitch. The positions of the slots are stored in the control software. Either by automatic recognition of the inserted component and product lines 3 or input by the worker, the software is configured. Individual programming of the positions to be approached is therefore not necessary. In the frame 8 bridge frame 11 are arranged, which are designed as support elements for the product sections 3 and the component sections 5. The bridge frame 1 1 is bolted to the product sections 3 and the component sections 5 and stiffens them against impermissible deflection. At this bridge frame 11 and all static attachments are attached. The bridge frame 11 is a component with high bending stiffness and weight-optimized design.

The product lines 3 position the containers in the adapters 18 for transporting mixtures 4 below the device corresponding to the composition of the batch for adding or receiving a component 6. The size and load capacity of the linear units 12 is determined by the size and weight of the adapter 18 and the container chosen for the transport of mixtures 4. The product sections 3 are mounted on the lower level of the frame 8 from below. The length of the product sections 3 determines the possible number of component sections 5 arranged at right angles thereto. The number of product sections 3 arranged in parallel determines the number of products to be produced per unit of time. Product lines 3 have rollers on the bottom for easy removal under the frame 8 for maintenance. The product sections 3 have carriages 13 which can be moved along the product section 3. The carriage 13 are slidably guided on a respective carriage body and are driven for example by a circulating toothed belt. On each carriage 13, a gripper 14 is attached, which receives an adapter 18. The grippers 14 have a latching connection, for example spring-loaded locking bolts, slides or the like, to receive an adapter 18 in each case. The number of product lines 3 is particularly preferably at least 10.

The length of a product section 3 is dimensioned such that it is longer than the sum of the product of m and width of the component section 5 and the product of (m-1) and the distance between the component sections 5. The product sections 3 are thus measured at least in their length such that they project beyond the component sections 5 arranged at right angles to the product sections 3.

The component sections 5 position devices for adding or receiving a component 6 of the batch, in this embodiment the nozzles of fixed metering pumps or mobile metering devices, via the metering stations, to the containers positioned below the product sections 3 and located in the adapters 18 for transporting mixtures 4 to fill with the liquid. Depending on the required devices for adding or receiving a component 6, linear units 12 of different length and load capacity are used. In the frame 8 different sizes of the component and product lines 3 can be plugged simultaneously. The length of a component line 5 is dimensioned to be longer than the sum of the product of n and width of the product line 3 and the product of (m-1) and the distance between the product lines 3.

The feed line 15 conveys the containers standing in the adapters 18 for the transport of mixtures 4 to the device for the automated change of the composition of a batch 1. The feed section 15 is designed, for example, as a chain conveyor accumulation conveyor. Right angles to the side or vertically, the adapters 18 are inserted into short buffer sections 16 before transfer to the product lines. The buffer sections 16 store some adapters 18 in order to avoid congestion on the feed path 15 and waiting times of the product lines when loading a new adapter 18. Feeding section 15 and buffer section 16 have a Einschleuser 17th on. These feeders 17 branch off the adapters 18 and containers for transporting mixtures 4 from the feed line 15 into the buffer section 16 in front of the product lines 3.

In the container for transporting mixtures 4, the liquid is mixed and sold to the end customer. The size and shape of the containers for transporting mixtures 4 can essentially be chosen freely. Conceivably, e.g. Bottle, bottle and pump dispenser and the like. Due to the scalability of the device for the automated change of the composition of a batch 1 also much smaller and larger containers for the transport of mixtures 4 can be filled. Each container for the transport of mixtures 4 receives on the bottom of a unique identification element 23 printed and is so clearly identifiable. Here it is a QR code. The QR code is an ID used only once. This ID is used in a database as the recipe key, bin size, batch date .... This QR code is stored permanently in a database together with the manufacturing data and the composition of the liquid. This ensures a clear manufacturing control and consistent quality assurance. Reorders can be ordered by the customer by e.g. a smartphone app can be conveniently triggered.

In adapters 18, a container for transporting mixtures 4 are received in each case. The adapter 18 is an assembly in which the containers are set to transport blends 4. The containers for transporting mixtures 4 are taken in an adapter 18, which serves as an interface between the variable shape and size of the container for the transport of mixtures 4 and the transport and handling devices of the system. The container for transporting mixtures 4 has a recess to be secured against rotation in the adapter 18. The adapter 18 has a spring-loaded pawl, which engages in the recess of the container for transporting mixtures 4. Each adapter 18 has a unique adapter ID. This is attached to the adapter 18 by a hardwired RFID chip. The Adapter ID is queried by RFID scanner. Since, when inserting the containers for transporting mixtures 4, the container ID is assigned to the adapter ID for the duration of the production, the respective composition of the batch is clearly specified by the adapter ID.

An adapter loading station 19 loads the containers for the transport of mixtures 4 before filling in the device for the automated change of the composition of a batch 1 in the adapter 18 and spurts the adapter 18 in the feed line 15 a. If geometrically different containers for the transport of mixtures 4 are filled at the same time, correspondingly different adapters 18 are used. The adapter type is recognizable by the adapter ID. Different containers for transporting mixtures 4 can be filled at the same time. For this purpose, the adapter loading station 19 selects the appropriate adapter 18 depending on the container to be loaded for transporting mixtures 4 from a buffer. The containers for transporting mixtures 4 in the adapters 18 can be arranged in the apparatus for automatically changing the composition of a mixture 1 in an optional sequence be filled. The Adapterentladestation 20 unloads the containers for the transport of mixtures 4 after filling from the adapter 18 and leads the containers for the transport of mixtures 4 of the package. The adapters 18 are returned to the adapter loading station 19 by a transport system.

The process for the individualized automated change of the composition of a batch comprises six process steps: First, a container for transporting mixtures 4 is provided and inserted into the adapter loading station 19 in a suitable adapter 18. Via a QR code of the container for transporting mixtures 4 and RFID chip of the adapter 18, the composition of the mixture intended for this container for transporting mixtures 4 is read in and a corresponding product line 3 is selected. Alternatively, the RFID chip can also be replaced by a QR code, bar code or similar. be replaced. Alternatively, a primary key can be used to uniquely index the record in the central database, where all customer data and production data are stored. About buffer and

Feed line 15 are adapter 18 with container for transporting mixtures 4 along the product section 3 to nodes 7, which is formed by crossing the product section 3 with component section 5, moved and positioned. The

Component lines 5 position the devices for adding or receiving a component 6 above the container for transporting mixtures 4 and meter the programmed amount of liquids into the container 4 for transporting mixtures 4 until all liquids are filled according to the composition of the mixture. Due to the arrangement of several, particularly preferably 10, parallel product and component sections 5, a plurality of containers for transporting mixtures 4 can be filled with individualized composition of the liquids at the same time. The adapter 18 with container for the transport of mixtures 4 get from the product section 3 in the

Adapter unloading station, where the containers for transporting mixtures 4 are released from the adapters 18 and supplied to the packaging. The adapters 18 are transported back to the adapter loading station 19 via an adapter return system 21.

An apparatus for automatically changing the composition of a batch 1 in which a cream is made up, Fig. 2. The cream has a tailor-made to the customer by skin analyzes recipe. The active ingredients of the cream are pasty or liquid. The cream active ingredients are dosed according to the individually designed recipe in the containers for the transport of mixtures 4 and mixed to complete the dosing process.

The structure of the apparatus for automatically changing the composition of a batch 1 and methods for automatically changing the composition of a batch essentially correspond to the previous exemplary embodiment to FIG. 1.

In addition, a mixer 22 is used in this embodiment after the dosage of the active ingredients of the cream. The mixer 22 mixes the in the containers for Transport of mixtures 4 filled active ingredients and cream base to a homogeneous mass. The mixer 22 is loaded, for example, by a robot. Ideally, the containers are loaded with the adapter 18 in the mixer 22 for the transport of mixtures 4 in order to process different sizes and shapes of the containers for transporting mixtures 4 without retooling the mixer 22 can.

In a further embodiment of an apparatus for automatically changing the composition of a batch 1 for batch sorting of mixtures, the apparatus for automatically changing the composition of a batch 1 is arranged vertically. The structure of the apparatus for automatically changing the composition of a batch 1 and methods for automatically changing the composition of a batch correspond to the first embodiment. At the nodes 7 of product and component links 5 there are devices for receiving a component 6, e.g. Grippers or suction devices. In this way, mixtures of different parts, e.g. biological or pharmaceutical samples, recycling of small parts or mixtures of foods, e.g. Nuts or fruits, to be sorted apart.

3 shows a detailed view of a container for transporting mixtures 4 on a linear unit 12. The container for transporting mixtures 4 is set in an adapter 18 so that it can not rotate. The adapter 18 has a unique, non-variable identification by an RFID chip and suitable devices for orientation and support in the transport systems of the device according to the invention. The adapter ID is queried by RFID scanner. The adapter 18 has two longitudinal grooves, into which the gripper 14 engages. The adapter 18 can be loaded or unloaded into the gripper 14 from both sides. The gripper 14 is designed so that it can receive an adapter 18. The connection of gripper 14 and adapter 18 is latching and fixed, for example by a suitable device (spring-loaded locking bolts, slides, etc.) on the gripper 14 against the acceleration forces. The grippers 14 are at the Carriage 13 of the linear units 12 attached. The carriage 13 is movable on the linear unit 12 and is driven for example by a circulating toothed belt.

A container for transporting mixtures 4 is shown in Fig. 4. In the container for the transport of mixtures 4, the liquid 2 is mixed and sold to the end customer. The size and shape of the containers for transporting mixtures 4 can essentially be chosen freely. The scalability of the apparatus for the automated change of the composition of a batch 1 also allows much smaller and larger containers to be transported for the transport of mixtures 4. The container for transporting mixtures 4 has an anti-rotation device 24, for example a groove, in order to stand against rotation in the adapter 18. Each container for the transport of mixtures 4 receives printed on the bottom as an identification element 23 a unique QR code and is so clearly identifiable. The QR code 23 includes the recipe ID, container type ID and set ID. This QR code 23 and all other data on the product are permanently stored in a database together with the manufacturing data and the composition of the batch 2. Alternatively, a label may be used that contains no information about the product and only the identification of the container for the transport of mixtures 4 is used. This ensures a clear manufacturing control and consistent quality assurance. Repeat orders can be conveniently triggered by the customer through, for example, a smartphone app.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

Device for automated modification of the composition of a batch

mixture

product range

Container for transporting mixtures Component route

Devices for adding or receiving a component

junction

frame

Device for latching

Product lines or component lines

Device for locking

Product lines or component lines

bridge frame

linear units

carriage

grab

feed section

buffer zone

Einschleuser

adapter

Adapterbeladestation

Adapterentladestation Ad a pte r backf u rsy ste m

mixer

Identification element for identifying the container for transporting mixtures

twist

Claims

P AT TESTS

1. Device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2), which comprises:

a plurality of product lines (3)

wherein along each product section (3) a separate container (4) for transporting mixtures (2) is movable a plurality of component sections (5) wherein the component sections (5) is arranged transversely to the product section (3), wherein at each component section (5) a device (6) for the addition or

Receiving a component is arranged

wherein each device (6) for the addition or removal of components in a node (7) of a component section (5) with a product section (3) is arranged or positionable

wherein the containers (4) for transporting mixtures (2) to the

Devices (6) for the addition or removal of a component is positionable such that the proportion of the respective component in the mixture (2) by the device (6) for adding or removing a component is changeable.

2. Device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that wherein the containers (4) on the product lines (3) are independently movable

3. Device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each container (4) along a product section (3) is individually movable.

4. A device (1) for automatically changing the composition of a batch (2), according to one or more of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the device (1) for automatically changing the composition of a batch has a control which is suitable each container (4) and / or each product line (3) to control separately.

5. Device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2), according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the devices (6) for the addition or recording of a component are controlled separately by the controller.

6. Device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2), according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2) at least 3, preferably at least 5 and more preferably at least 10 product lines (3).

7. Device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2), according to one or more of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the product sections (3) are arranged parallel to each other.

8. Device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a mixture (2), according to one or more of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the nodes (7) are arranged in the form of an n × m matrix,

where n is the number of product lines and m is the number of component lines.

9. Device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2), according to one or more of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the device (1) for automatically changing the composition of a batch (2) a frame (8) for receiving the product sections (3) and / or component sections (5),

wherein the frame (8) has a device (9) for engaging the product sections (3) and / or component sections (5) and

wherein the frame (8) has a device (10) for locking the product sections (3) and / or component sections (5).

10. Device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that bridge frames (11) are arranged in the frame as carrier elements, which are connected to the product sections (3) and / or component sections (5). are connected.

1 1. A device (1) for the automated change of the composition of a batch (2), according to one or more of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the device (1) for automatically changing the composition of a batch (2) a feed line (15 ) having.

wherein the feed section (15) has a buffer section (16) and

wherein the feed section (15) and / or the buffer section (16) has a Einschleuser (17).

12. Method for individual automated modification of

Composition of a mixture (2) with the steps of:

Providing a container (4) for transporting mixtures (2)

• Determination of a component whose proportion of the mixture (2) is to be changed

• Selection of a product line (3) from a plurality of product lines

(3)

Method of the container (4) for transporting mixtures (2) along the product line (3) to a junction (7),

Positioning of a device (6) for adding or receiving a

Component of the mixture (2) in the node (7) • Change in the composition of the proportion of the component of the batch (2)

wherein the node is formed by the intersection of the product section (3) with a component section (5),

the device (6) for adding or receiving a component of the

Gemenges (2) is arranged in a component section (5),

wherein the means (6) for adding or receiving a component of the batch (2) is adapted to alter the proportion of the selected component in the batch (2).

13. Method for individual automated modification of

Composition of a batch (2) according to claim 8, characterized in that a plurality of containers are moved individually along different product lines.

14. Method for individual automated modification of

Composition of a batch (2) according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that each container and / or each product section are controlled separately.

15. Method for individual automated modification of

Composition of a mixture (2) according to one or more of the claims

12 to 14, characterized in that the devices for the addition or recording of a component are controlled separately by the controller.

16. Method for individual automated modification of

Composition of a batch (2) according to one or more of Claims 12 to 15, characterized in that each container is filled selectively and sequentially and is also moved and / or positioned independently of the respective other containers.

17. Method for individual automated change of

Composition of a mixture (2) according to one or more of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that the target composition of the mixture (2) is read.

18. Method for individual automated change of

Composition of a mixture (2) according to one or more of claims 12 to 17, characterized in that a plurality of containers (4) for the transport of mixtures (2) are fed to a buffer section (16),

wherein the plurality of containers (4) for the transport of mixtures (2) from the buffer section of a product section (16) are supplied.

19. Method for individual automated change of

Composition of a mixture (2) according to one or more of claims 12 to 18, characterized in that a plurality of mixtures (2) are moved simultaneously on parallel product lines (3).

20. Method for individual automated change of

Composition of a batch (2) according to one or more of claims 12 to 19, characterized in that a plurality of devices (6) for the addition or removal of a component on a plurality of component sections (5) at the same time in a plurality of nodes (7) be positioned.

21. Method for individual automated change of

Composition of a mixture (2) according to one or more of claims 12 to 20, characterized in that in the case of a plurality of mixtures (2) the composition of the fraction of respectively different components is changed at the same time.