U.S. patent application number 09/823774 was filed with the patent office on 2002-10-03 for filling apparatus and methods.
Invention is credited to Meheen, Dave.
Application Number | 20020139434 09/823774 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25239673 |
Filed Date | 2002-10-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020139434 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Meheen, Dave |
October 3, 2002 |
FILLING APPARATUS AND METHODS
Abstract
Methods and apparatus for filling a container with a liquid
product. The apparatus includes various passageways which
facilitate the evacuation of the container of atmospheric gases
prior to filling as well as facilitating introduction of the liquid
product into the container. The apparatus also allows for the
introduction of a counter-pressure purge gas to be introduced into
the container after evacuation to prevent reintroduction of
atmospheric gases into the container during filling of the
container with a fluid product. A method in accordance with the
instant invention comprises substantially evacuating the container
as well as introducing liquid product into the container.
Inventors: |
Meheen, Dave; (Pasco,
WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
John S. Reid
REIDLAW LLC
1926 Valleyview Drive
Spokane
WA
99212
US
|
Family ID: |
25239673 |
Appl. No.: |
09/823774 |
Filed: |
March 31, 2001 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
141/40 ;
141/59 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B67C 3/2617 20130101;
B67C 3/10 20130101; B67C 3/12 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
141/40 ;
141/59 |
International
Class: |
B65B 001/04 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for filling an internal chamber of a container with
a liquid product, the apparatus comprising: a fill portion that is
configured to convey fluid substantially between a product
reservoir and the internal chamber of the container; an off-gas
portion that is configured to convey fluid substantially between
the internal chamber of the container and a liquid trap; and, a
snift portion that is configured to convey fluid between the
internal chamber of the container and the atmosphere.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, and wherein: the snift portion is
further configured to convey fluid between the internal chamber of
the container and a vacuum source; and, the off-gas portion is
further configured to convey fluid between a purge gas source and
the internal chamber of the container.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, and wherein: the off-gas portion is
further configured to convey fluid between the internal chamber of
the container and a vacuum source; and, the off-gas portion is
further configured to convey fluid between a purge gas source and
the internal chamber of the container.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, and wherein: the off-gas portion is
further configured to convey fluid between the internal chamber of
the container and a vacuum source; and, the snift portion is
further configured to convey fluid between a purge gas source and
the internal chamber of the container.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, and wherein: the snift portion is
further configured to convey fluid between the internal chamber of
the container and a vacuum source; and, the snift portion is
further configured to convey fluid between a purge gas source and
the internal chamber of the container.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, and wherein: the fill portion defines
a fill passageway that terminates at a fill opening; the off-gas
portion defines an off-gas passageway that terminates at an off-gas
opening, wherein the off gas opening is above the fill opening;
and, the snift portion defines a snift passageway which terminates
at a snift opening, wherein the snift opening is above the off-gas
opening.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, and wherein: the snift passageway is a
substantially laminar passageway; and, the snift opening is a
substantially capillary opening.
8. The apparatus of claim 6, and wherein the snift opening, the
off-gas opening, and the fill opening are substantially concentric
with one another.
9. An apparatus for filling an internal chamber of a container with
a liquid product, the apparatus comprising: a filling head which is
configured to move into and out of a filling position relative to
the container; a filling portion which is at least partially
supported by the filling head and which defines a fill passageway
which is configured to convey fluid therein, wherein the fill
passageway terminates at a fill opening that is configured to
fluidly communicate with the internal chamber of the container; an
off-gas portion which is at least partially supported by the
filling head and which defines an off-gas passageway which is
configured to convey fluid therein, wherein the off-gas passageway
terminates at an off-gas opening that is configured to fluidly
communicate with the internal chamber of the container; a snift
portion which is at least partially supported by the filling head
and which defines a snift passageway which is configured to convey
fluid therein, wherein the snift passageway terminates at a snift
opening that is configured to fluidly communicate with the internal
chamber of the container; a fill valve which defines at least a
portion of the fill passageway and which is configured to regulate
the flow of fluid there through; an off-gas valve which defines at
least a portion of the off-gas passageway and which is configured
to regulate the flow of fluid there through; and, a snift valve
which defines at least a portion of the snift passageway and which
is configured to regulate the flow of fluid there through.
10. The apparatus of claim 9, and further comprising: a liquid
product reservoir, wherein the fill portion is configured to convey
liquid product from the reservoir to the internal chamber of the
container; a liquid trap, wherein the off-gas portion is configured
to convey liquid product from the internal cavity of the container
to the liquid trap; an off-gas vent opening, wherein the off-gas
portion is configured to convey gaseous material from the internal
cavity of the container and out of the off-gas vent opening to the
atmosphere; and, a snift vent opening, wherein the snift portion is
configured to convey gaseous material from the internal cavity of
the container and out of the snift vent opening to the
atmosphere.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, and further comprising: a purge gas
source, wherein the off-gas portion is configured to convey purge
gas from the purge gas source to the internal cavity of the
container; and, a vacuum source, wherein the snift portion is
configured to convey gaseous material from the internal cavity of
the container to the vacuum source.
12. The apparatus of claim 10, and further comprising: a purge gas
source, wherein the off-gas portion is configured to convey purge
gas from the purge gas source to the internal cavity of the
container; and, a vacuum source, wherein the off-gas portion is
configured to convey gaseous material from the internal cavity of
the container to the vacuum source.
13. The apparatus of claim 10, and further comprising: a purge gas
source, wherein the snift portion is configured to convey purge gas
from the purge gas source to the internal cavity of the container;
and, a vacuum source, wherein the off-gas portion is configured to
convey gaseous material from the internal cavity of the container
to the vacuum source.
14. The apparatus of claim 10 and further comprising: a purge gas
source, wherein the snift portion is configured to convey purge gas
from the purge gas source to the internal cavity of the container;
and, a vacuum source, wherein the snift portion is configured to
convey gaseous material from the internal cavity of the container
to the vacuum source.
15. A method of filling the internal chamber of a container with a
liquid product, comprising: evacuating the internal chamber of the
container; and, introducing liquid product into the internal
chamber of the container.
16. The method of claim 15, and further comprising sealing the
internal chamber of the container from the atmosphere.
17. The method of claim 15, and further comprising filling the
internal chamber of the container with a purge gas.
18. The method of claim 15, and further comprising regulating the
flow of purge gas out of the internal chamber of the container.
19. The method of claim 15, and further comprising releasing a
pressure pulse of purge gas into the internal chamber of the
container.
20. The method of claim 19, and further comprising releasing the
pressure pulse of purge gas from the internal chamber of the
container.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention pertains to apparatus for, and methods of,
filling containers with fluid.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Various types of prior art filling apparatus and methods are
employed for filling containers, such as bottles and the like, with
consumable liquid products. Such liquid products can include
carbonated beverages such as soda and beer, as well as
non-carbonated beverages such as milk-based products, juices, and
wine. Typically, containers comprising glass bottles are filled
with a beverage liquid product after which the bottles are sealed
with a bottle cap or the like.
[0003] Often, a concern is posed by the potential for the presence
of atmospheric gases, and oxygen in particular, within the bottle
after the bottle is filled and sealed. The presence of such
atmospheric gases within the bottle after the bottle is filled and
sealed can tend to facilitate relatively rapid degradation of
liquid products, and particularly beer. In some cases, such as in
the case of beer, it can be most preferable to avoid contact of the
beer liquid product with atmospheric gasses at anytime during the
brewing and filling operation. That is, at least in the case of
beer, it is most preferable to prevent the contact of the beer with
any atmospheric gases, and oxygen in particular, during the
bottling process. It is additionally preferable to exclude
atmospheric gases, and oxygen in particular, from the container
which holds the beer.
[0004] In addition to preventing contact of the liquid beverage
product with atmospheric gases, such as oxygen, it is also often
desirable to prevent foaming, or any unnecessary agitation, of the
liquid product during the bottling thereof, at least to the extent
feasible. This is because excessive foaming or agitation of the
liquid beverage product can result in the separation of desirable
gases which are dissolved within the liquid product. For example,
beer often contains dissolved carbon dioxide which adds desirable
qualities thereto, and which provides other benefits. Excessive
agitation of beer during bottling can cause problems in the filling
operation due to the excessive formation of foam, and can cause a
decrease in the quality of the beer liquid product.
[0005] A great degree of effort has been expended toward developing
prior art filling methods and apparatus which would theoretically
both avoid exposure of the beverage liquid product with atmospheric
gases and minimize agitation of the product during filling
operations. Examples of such methods and apparatus are set forth in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,912,780 to Meheen. In accordance with the '780
patent, both a three-tube embodiment and a four-tube embodiment of
a filling apparatus are disclosed.
[0006] Referring to FIG. 3 of the '780 patent which is
substantially reproduced in the drawings which accompany the
instant application as Prior Art FIG. 1, a side elevation schematic
diagram of a prior art three-tube filling apparatus 11 in
accordance with a first embodiment of the invention of the '780
patent is shown. The prior art filling apparatus 11 is employed for
dispensing a liquid product 5, such as a beverage, into a product
container 3 such as a bottle or the like. The prior art filling
apparatus 11 comprises a fill tube 17, a purge tube 23, and an
off-gas tube 35 as shown.
[0007] The tubes 17, 23, 35 are supported by a filling head 30. A
sealing gasket 9 is also supported by the filling head 30 and is
configured to provide a seal between the lip 7 of the bottle 3 and
the filling head. The off-gas tube 35 is connected to a moisture
separator 607 by way of an off-gas control valve 21. In addition, a
control unit 43 is employed to control various operational
functions of the filling apparatus 11, such as the operation of the
valve 21.
[0008] Now referring to FIG. 2 of the '780 patent, which is
substantially reproduced in the drawings which accompany the
instant application as Prior Art FIG. 2, a sequence 10 of
operational steps "A" through "I" is shown. The sequence 10 of
operational steps substantially corresponds to one possible
operational scheme of the prior art three-tube filling apparatus 11
described above. Referring to both FIGS. 1 and 2 of the instant
application, the operation of the prior art filling apparatus 11
begins with the operational step "A" wherein the bottle, or
container, 3 is positioned in preparation for filling thereof. The
next step in the sequence 10 is the operational step "B" in
accordance with which the filling apparatus, or assembly, 11 is to
be lowered into the container 3.
[0009] In accordance with step "C" of the sequence 10, a purge
operation is initiated before the filling apparatus 11 is fully
lowered into the bottle 3. The purge operation, in accordance with
step "C," comprises introducing an inert gas 13 into the purge tube
23 in an effort to drive atmospheric gas from the bottle 3. Step
"D" is the next step of the sequence 10, in accordance with which
the off-gas control valve 21 is opened. Moving to step "E" which is
the next step of the sequence 10, the filling apparatus 11 is fully
lowered into place as shown in FIG. 1 of the instant
application.
[0010] Still referring to both FIGS. 1 and 2, a seal is established
by way of the sealing gasket 9 between the filling apparatus 11 and
the bottle 3 in accordance with step "F." Once the seal is
established in accordance with step "F" the filling of the bottle 3
can commence by introduction of the liquid product 5 into the fill
tube 17. The liquid product 5, by entering the bottle 3, displaces
gas within the bottle which can escape through the off-gas tube 35.
After the filling commences, the operational sequence 10 then
progresses to step "G" in accordance with which the flow of gas out
of the bottle 3 is restricted by way of the operation of the
off-gas control valve 21.
[0011] The operational sequence 10 then progresses to step "H" in
accordance with which filling of the bottle 3 is stopped. That is,
in accordance with step "H" the flow of liquid product 5 into the
bottle 3 ceases. The final step of the operational sequence 10 is
step "I" which is an optional step. In accordance with step "I" a
pulse of gas 51 can be introduced into the off-gas tube 35.
[0012] The pulse of gas 51 in accordance with step "I" can be
employed to cause foaming of the liquid product 5 in the case
wherein a gas, such as carbon dioxide, is dissolved within the
liquid product, such as in the case of beer. The foaming of the
liquid product 5 in accordance with the step "I" can cause the foam
to displace the remaining atmospheric gas which is present within
the bottle 3. After the step "I" the filling apparatus 11 can be
removed from the bottle 3, whereupon the bottle can be capped or
otherwise sealed.
[0013] Now referring to FIG. 6 of the '780 patent, which is
substantially reproduced in the drawings which accompany the
instant application as Prior Art FIG. 3, a side elevation schematic
diagram of a four-tube filling apparatus 12 in accordance with a
second embodiment of the invention of the '780 patent is shown. As
is seen in FIG. 3, the prior art four-tube apparatus 12 of the '780
patent is similar to the three-tube embodiment in accordance
therewith, which is described above, with the exception of the
addition of a fourth tube 601 and a valve 605 connected
thereto.
[0014] That is, the prior art four-tube filling apparatus 12
comprises a fill tube 17, a purge gas tube 23, an off-gas tube 35,
and a fourth tube 601. The four tubes 17,23,35,601 are supported by
the filling head 30. The filling head 30 can be substantially
sealed against a lip 7 of a container 3, such as a bottle or the
like. The prior art filling apparatus 12 can be employed for
filling the container 3 with a liquid product 5 such as a beverage
or the like. The prior art filling apparatus 12 also comprises an
off-gas control valve 21 as well as a valve 605. A control unit 43
is also included in the prior art four-tube apparatus 12 for
controlling various operational functions of the apparatus, such as
for controlling the operation of the valves 21, 605.
[0015] Turning now to FIG. 8 of the '780 patent, which is
substantially reproduced in the drawings which accompany the
instant application as Prior Art FIG. 4, a sequence 20 of
operational steps "A" through "Q" is shown. The sequence 20 of
operational steps substantially corresponds to one possible
operational scheme of the prior art four-tube filling apparatus 12
which is described above.
[0016] Referring now to both FIGS. 3 and 4, the first step of the
sequence 20 of operational steps is step "A" in accordance with
which the bottle 3 is positioned relative to the filling apparatus
12 in preparation for filling the bottle. The sequence 20 then
progresses to step "B" wherein the filling head 30 along with the
tubes 17, 23, 35, 601 is lowered into the bottle 3. In accordance
with step "C," which is the next step, the purge operation is
commenced by introducing purge gas into the bottle via the purge
tube 23.
[0017] Moving to step "D" the off-gas valve 21 is opened to allow
gas 523 to escape from the bottle 3 via the off-gas tube 35. In
accordance with step "E" the filling apparatus 12 is fully lowered
into place on the bottle 3 as is shown in FIG. 3. Still referring
to both FIGS. 3 and 4, in accordance with step "F" a seal is
established between the filling head 30 and the lip 7 of the bottle
3 byway of the sealing gasket 9. The liquid product 5 can now begin
to flow into the bottle 3 via the fill tube 17. Gas 523, which is
displaced by the incoming liquid product 5, now escapes from the
bottle 3 via the fourth tube 601 in accordance with step "J."
[0018] During the filling process, the flow of purge gas is
restricted in accordance with step "K" of the sequence 20. Moving
to step "L," the fill process is stopped when the desired level of
liquid product 5 is established within the bottle 3. The valve 605
is then opened in accordance with step "M" to allow the internal
pressure of the bottle 3 to decrease so as to approximately equal
the external, atmospheric pressure. That is, in accordance with
step "M," pressure which remains within the bottle 3 after the
filling process is stopped is released via the fourth tube 601.
[0019] Moving now to step "N," an optional pressure pulse gas 51
can be applied to the interior of the bottle 3 via the off-gas tube
35. If such a pulse is performed, the pulse gas 51 is released from
the bottle 3 via the fourth tube 601 in accordance with step "P."
In accordance with the final step, which is step "Q," the filling
apparatus 12 is removed from the bottle 3, whereupon the bottle is
capped or otherwise sealed.
[0020] Thus, as is evident from the above discussion, the prior art
three-tube apparatus 11, as well as the four-tube prior art
apparatus 12, are configured to first introduce a purge gas into
the liquid product container 3 prior to commencement of the
introduction of the liquid beverage product thereto. The internal
pressure of the bottle 3 then builds to a level that is greater
than the external atmospheric pressure. The fill process then
begins wherein the liquid product is introduced into the container
3.
[0021] The purge gas, as well as atmospheric gas remaining within
the container 3, is displaced from the container by the incoming
liquid product. When the liquid product reaches the desired level
within the container 3, the fill process is stopped whereupon an
optional pressure pulse can be applied to the interior of the
bottle to cause foaming, or the like, of the liquid product. The
pressure within the container is then substantially equalized with
the external atmospheric pressure whereupon the filling apparatus
11, 12 is removed from the container 3, which is then capped or
otherwise sealed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0022] The invention includes methods and apparatus for filling a
container with a fluid. In accordance with a first embodiment of
the present invention, an apparatus for filling a container
comprises a fill portion, an off-gas portion, and a snift portion.
The apparatus is configured to substantially seal the container
from the atmosphere. The container can then be substantially
evacuated when a vacuum is applied to the container by way of the
snift portion. After substantial evacuation of the container, purge
gas can be introduced into the container by way of the off-gas
portion. Liquid product can be introduced into the container by way
of the fill portion to displace the purge gas which is released
from the container by way of the snift portion or the off-gas
portion.
[0023] In accordance with a second embodiment of the present
invention, an apparatus for filling a container comprises a fill
portion, an off-gas portion, and a snift portion. The apparatus is
configured to substantially seal the container from the atmosphere.
The container can be substantially evacuated when a vacuum is
applied to the container by way of the off-gas portion. Purge gas
can be introduced into the container by way of the off-gas portion,
and the liquid product can be introduced into the container by way
of the fill portion to displace the purge gas which can be released
by way of the snift portion or the off-gas portion.
[0024] In accordance with a third embodiment of the present
invention, an apparatus for filling a container comprises a fill
portion, an off-gas portion, and a snift portion. The apparatus is
configured to substantially seal the container from the atmosphere.
The container can be substantially evacuated when a vacuum is
applied to the container by way of the off-gas portion. Purge gas
can be introduced into the container by way of the snift portion,
and the liquid product can be introduced into the container by way
of the fill portion to displace the purge gas which can be released
by way of the snift portion or the off-gas portion.
[0025] In accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present
invention, an apparatus for filling a container comprises a fill
portion, an off-gas portion, and a snift portion. The apparatus is
configured to substantially seal the container from the atmosphere.
The container can be substantially evacuated when a vacuum is
applied to the container by way of the snift portion. Purge gas can
be introduced into the container byway of the snift portion, and
the liquid product can be introduced into the container byway of
the fill portion to displace the purge gas which can be released
byway of the snift portion or the off-gas portion.
[0026] In accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present
invention, a method of filling a container comprises substantially
evacuating the container and introducing liquid product into the
container. The method can also include sealing the container from
the atmosphere and counter-pressuring the container with purge
gas.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 is a side elevation schematic diagram of a prior art
three-tube apparatus for filling a container with a liquid
product.
[0028] FIG. 2 is a prior art flow chart which represents a possible
operational scheme for the apparatus depicted in FIG. 1.
[0029] FIG. 3 is a side elevation schematic diagram of a prior art
four-tube apparatus for filling a container with a liquid
product.
[0030] FIG. 4 is a prior art flow chart which represents a possible
operational scheme for the apparatus depicted in FIG. 3.
[0031] FIG. 5 is a side elevation schematic diagram of an apparatus
for filling a container with liquid in accordance with a first
embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 5A is a sectional view of the apparatus depicted in
FIG. 5.
[0033] FIG. 5B is a flow chart which represents a possible
operational scheme for the apparatus depicted in FIG. 5.
[0034] FIG. 6 is a side elevation schematic diagram of an apparatus
for filling a container with liquid in accordance with a second
embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 7 is a side elevation schematic diagram of an apparatus
for filling a container with liquid in accordance with a third
embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 8 side elevation schematic diagram of an apparatus for
filling a container with liquid in accordance with a fourth
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0037] The invention includes apparatus and methods for filling a
container with a liquid product. The various versions of the
apparatus in accordance with various embodiments of the instant
invention generally include a fill portion, an off-gas portion, and
a snift portion. The apparatus are generally configured to seal an
internal chamber of a container from the atmosphere before
evacuating the chamber of substantially all atmospheric gases. A
purge gas can then be introduced into the chamber of the container
through either the off-gas portion or through the snift portion in
accordance with respective embodiments of the instant invention.
The purge gas can serve to prevent re-infiltration of atmospheric
gases into the chamber. The liquid product can then be introduced
into the container through the fill portion to displace some of the
purge gas which can be released from the container in a controlled
manner through either the off-gas portion or the snift portion.
[0038] Turning to FIG. 5, a side elevation schematic diagram is
shown of a filling apparatus 100 in accordance with a first
embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 100 is generally
configured to fill a container "GB," such as a glass bottle or the
like, with a liquid product "PR" such as a beverage. The container
"GB" generally defines an internal chamber "IC" in which the liquid
product "PR" is placed, or poured, by the filling apparatus 100.
Preferably, the container "GB" is designed to withstand at least a
given minimum internal/external pressure differential which will
allow at least a partial vacuum to be applied to the internal
cavity "IC."
[0039] More preferably, the container "GB" is of a design which is
typically used within the bottling industry and which is designed
to withstand an internal/external pressure differential of at least
one atmosphere, or about 15 psi. This will allow the container "GB"
to withstand a complete and total evacuation thereof, the relevance
of which is apparent in the discussion below.
[0040] Typically, the apparatus 100 is configured to consecutively
fill many such containers "GB" in conjunction with a continuous
production line (not shown) or the like. The container "GB"
preferably has an upper end "UE" and an opposite and distal lower
end "LE" which is configured to rest on a support surface 901 such
as a conveyor or the like so as to support the container in a
substantially upright position as shown. The container "GB"
preferably has a substantially annular lip "LP" proximate the upper
end "UE" which defines an opening to the internal chamber "IC" of
the container "GB." The apparatus 100 can comprise a filling head
910 which is configured to support various portions of the filling
apparatus as will be described in greater detail below. For
example, the apparatus 100 can include a seal 912 which is
supported on the filling head 910. The seal 912 is preferably
configured to contact the lip "LP" of the container "GB" so as to
form a substantially airtight seal between the container and the
filling head 910 when the apparatus 100 is placed into a filling
position relative to the container "GB." The filling position can
be defined as the position of the filling head 910 relative to the
container "GB" as depicted, wherein the process of filling the
container can commence.
[0041] The apparatus 100 preferably also comprises an actuator or
the like (not shown) which is employed so as to cause the container
"GB" to move relative to the apparatus 100, or portion thereof, so
as to facilitate the placement of the apparatus and container into,
and out of, the filling position. Although the illustrative figures
included herewith depict various embodiments of the instant
invention in the filling position only, it is understood that, when
the apparatus 100 is moved out of the filling position, no portion
of the apparatus is located within the internal chamber "IC" of the
container "GB" and the apparatus does not contact the
container.
[0042] An actuator (not shown) as described above, can be included
in the apparatus 100, wherein the actuator is preferably configured
to move either the container "GB" or the filling head 910 so that
the container and the filling head can be placed into, and out of,
the filling position relative to one another. The actuator can
comprise an elevator device (not shown) to lift the container "GB"
into and out of the fill position. Alternatively, or in addition,
the actuator can comprise a lift device (not shown) to place the
filling head 910 into or out of the fill position by moving the
fill head away from or toward the container.
[0043] The overall process of filling the container "GB" with a
liquid product "PR" can comprise several related operations, each
of which are carried out by one of several portions of the
apparatus 100. More specifically, the apparatus 100 comprises a
fill portion 120 that is configured to convey fluid between a
liquid product reservoir 915, such as a tank or the like, and the
internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB." When I say "fluid" I
mean to include liquid fluid and gaseous fluid. The fill portion
120 can define a passageway 121 such as a duct or the like in which
fluid can be conveyed. The fluid so conveyed by the fill portion
120 can be, for example, a liquid product "PR" such as beer.
[0044] Preferably, the fill passageway terminates at a fill opening
922 which is configured to fluidly communicate with the internal
chamber "IC" of the container "GB" when the filling head 910 is in
the fill position. When I say "fluidly communicate" with a given
space or cavity, I mean exposed to the given space or cavity so as
to be able to selectively transfer fluid into and out of the given
cavity. The fill portion 120 is preferably configured so that the
fill opening 922 is located within the internal chamber "IC" when
the filling head 910 is in the fill position. More preferably, the
fill portion is configured so that the fill opening is proximate
the lower end "LE" of the container when the filling head 910 is in
the fill position.
[0045] Additionally, the fill opening 922 is preferably a capillary
opening. When I say "capillary opening" I mean the lower of two
openings of a passageway, wherein the lower opening is of a
cross-sectional area which is sufficiently small to cause the
surface tension of a fluid within the passageway to prevent the
fluid from draining out of the lower opening when the upper opening
of the two openings is closed, but which cross-sectional area is
sufficiently large to allow the fluid to drain from the lower
opening when the upper opening is open.
[0046] For example, the lower opening of a drinking straw filled
with water can be considered a capillary opening because, when the
upper opening of the straw is blocked, or closed, the surface
tension of the water within the drinking straw prevents the water
from draining from the lower opening. However, when the upper
opening of the drinking straw is unblocked, the water will easily
drain from the lower opening.
[0047] Conversely, for example, the lower opening of an elongated
pipe having a 4-inch inside diameter and being filled with water is
not a capillary opening because the opening is too large to allow
the surface tension of water within the pipe to prevent the water
from draining from the lower opening. Determination of the
appropriate cross-sectional area of any given opening in order to
produce a capillary opening for a given fluid within the given
passage will be obvious to one skilled in the art. Such a
determination will depend on various characteristics of the given
fluid such as the density, viscosity, surface tension properties
and the like, of the given fluid.
[0048] Also, the fill passageway 121, with the exception of the
fill opening 922, is preferably a laminar passage with respect to
the fluid intended to be conveyed thereby. When I say "laminar
passage" I mean a passage that is of sufficient cross-sectional
area to convey a given fluid there through while allowing
substantially laminar flow characteristics of the given fluid at
operational fluid flow rates. The laminar flow characteristics
provided by a laminar passage can serve to minimize unnecessary
agitation of a fluid, such as the liquid product "PR," during
filling operations. As in the case of a capillary opening as
described above, determination of the appropriate cross-sectional
area of any given passage in order to achieve the desired flow
characteristics of a given fluid within the given passage will be
obvious to one skilled in the art. Such a determination will depend
on various characteristics of the given fluid such as the density
and the viscosity, and the like, of the given fluid.
[0049] The fill portion 120 can also include at least one fill
valve 926 which defines at least a portion of the fill passageway
121 and which is configured to regulate the flow of fluid there
through. For example, the fill valve 926 can be configured to
regulate the flow of fluid from the product reservoir 915 to the
internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB." It is understood that
the location of the fill valve 926 relative to the fill passageway
121 is not intended to be limited a given location such as that
shown in accompanying figures. That is, the fill valve 926 can be
located anywhere along the associated fill passageway wherein the
fill valve can perform the function for which it is intended. It is
understood that this applies to any valve which is described herein
below. That is, any given valve can be located at any position
relative to its associated passageway wherein such location enables
the given valve to perform the function for which it was
intended.
[0050] Moreover, when I say "valve" I mean a device that is
configured with a mechanism to control the rate of fluid flow there
through which mechanism can include a throttling means for limiting
the cross sectional area of a passageway, such as in the case of a
throttling valve, and which mechanism can also include pressure
regulating means for allowing fluid to flow only above a given
fluid pressure, such as in the case of a pressure regulating valve.
The term "valve" can also include a device which is configured to
prevent any fluid flow there through such as in the case of a fully
closed throttling valve.
[0051] The fill portion 120 can also include a pump 912 for
inducing fluid flow within the fill portion. When I say "pump" I
mean any device that is configured to induce fluid flow within a
passageway. As is seen in FIG. 5, the fill portion 120 can be at
least partially supported by the filling head 910. Although not
shown, it is understood that the fill portion 120 can comprise
substantially flexible tubing or the like, or flexible joints, in
order to facilitate movement of the filling head 910 along with
part of the fill portion 120 supported thereby while allowing the
remainder of the fill portion which is not supported by the filling
head to remain substantially stationary relative to the filling
head. It is understood that other portions of the apparatus 100
which are described below can also be similarly configured.
[0052] The apparatus 100 also comprises an off-gas portion 130 that
is configured to convey fluid substantially between the internal
chamber "IC" of the container "GB" and a liquid trap 920. The
liquid trap 920 is a device that substantially captures and holds
liquid material therein while allowing gaseous material to pass
through as will be discussed below. The off-gas portion 130 can
define an off-gas passageway 131 such as a duct or the like in
which liquid and gas can be conveyed. Preferably, the off-gas
passageway 131 terminates at an off-gas opening 932. More
preferably, the off-gas opening 932 is configured to fluidly
communicate with the internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB"
when the filling head 910 is in the fill position.
[0053] As a study of FIG. 5 will reveal, liquid fluid material that
enters the liquid trap 920 by way of the off-gas portion 130 will
be captured and held in the liquid trap while gaseous fluid
material so entering the liquid trap will substantially pass there
through and exit the liquid trap by way of a trap vent opening 921
to the atmosphere "ATM." When I say "atmosphere" I mean air space
which is external to the container "GB" and which airspace is at
substantially atmospheric pressure. The off-gas portion 130 can
include at least one off-gas valve 936 which defines at least a
portion of the off-gas passageway 131 and which is configured to
regulate the flow of flow of fluid there through. For example, the
off-gas valve 936 can be configured to regulate the flow of fluid
from the off-gas passageway 131 into the liquid trap 920.
[0054] As further evidenced by FIG. 5, the off-gas passageway 131
can branch out in two or more directions so as to have several
"legs." Specifically, the off-gas passageway 131 of the apparatus
100 can be configured to branch so as to connect with a purge gas
source 930. The purge gas source 930 can be a reservoir, such as a
tank or the like, for storing purge gas at a high pressure. Purge
gas can be, for example, an inert gas such as nitrogen or the
like.
[0055] As is seen, the off-gas portion 130 can include at least one
purge valve 937 which defines at least a portion of the off-gas
passageway 131 and which is configured to regulate the flow of
fluid therethrough. Preferably, the purge gas valve 937 is a
regulator which is configured to regulate the release of high
pressure purge gas from the purge gas source 930. For example, the
purge valve 937 can be configured to regulate the flow of fluid
from the purge gas source 930 into the off-gas passageway 131.
[0056] In addition to the fill portion 120, and the off-gas portion
130, the apparatus 100 comprises a snift portion 140. The snift
portion is configured to convey fluid between the internal chamber
"IC" of the container "GB" and the atmosphere "ATM." Preferably,
the snift portion 140 can define a snift passageway 141 which is at
least partially supported by the filling head 910 and which snift
passageway terminates at a snift opening 942. More preferably, the
snift opening 942 is configured to fluidly communicate with the
internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB" when the fill head 910
is in the fill position.
[0057] The snift passageway can be configured as a duct or the like
and is configured to convey fluid therein. As is seen, the snift
passageway 141 can have a sniftvent opening 949 which leads to the
atmosphere "ATM." That is, gaseous fluid material can escape from
the internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB" through the snift
vent opening 949 by way of the snift passageway 141. The snift
portion 140 can further comprise a snift valve 946 which defines at
least a portion of the snift passageway 141 and which is configured
to regulate the flow of fluid there through.
[0058] Moving briefly to FIG. 5A, a view 5A-5A is shown of the fill
opening 922, the off-gas opening 932, and the snift opening 942,
all of which are described above. As is evident, the respective
openings 922, 932, 942 are preferably configured to be
substantially concentric with one another as shown. Such a
substantially concentric arrangement of the openings 922, 932, 942
can facilitate an optimal cross-sectional area of the portions of
the apparatus 100, as well as those portions of other apparatus
which are described below, which protrude into containers having
relatively small, substantially round openings. It is understood,
however, that such a concentric orientation of the openings 922,
932, 942 is not necessary to the operation of the apparatus 100 or
any other apparatus in accordance with the present invention, and
that other non-concentric orientations of the openings are
consistent with the various embodiments of the instant
invention.
[0059] As in the case of the off-gas passageway 131, as described
above, the snift passageway 141 can branch out in at least two
directions so as to have two or more "legs." As is seen, the snift
passageway 141 of the apparatus 100 can be configured to branch so
as to lead both to the snift vent opening 949 and to a vacuum
source 940. The vacuum source 940 can be any device that can
produce a substantial vacuum, including a device such as a vacuum
pump or the like.
[0060] A vacuum valve 947 is preferably included in the snift
portion 140 of the apparatus 100 in the case wherein a vacuum
source 940 is so included. The vacuum valve 947 defines at least a
portion of the snift passageway 131 and is configured to regulate
the flow of fluid there through. For example, the vacuum valve 947
can be configured to regulate the flow of substantially gaseous
fluid from the snift passageway 141 to the vacuum source 940 when
the vacuum source is producing a vacuum. Thus, the snift portion
130 can be configured to convey substantially gaseous fluid between
the internal chamber "IC" and the vacuum source 940. Also, as
discussed above, the snift portion 140 can also be configured to
convey substantially gaseous fluid between the internal chamber
"IC" of the container "GB" and the atmosphere "ATM." It is
understood that any of the valves 926, 936, 937, 946, 947 can be
configured to be either manually operated or automatically
operated. When I say a device is configured to be "manually
operated" I mean configured with a handle, switch, or the like
which allows the device to be physically manipulated by a person
for operation thereof. When I say a device is configured to be
"automatically operated" I mean configured to be operated in
response to a signal which is remotely sent to the valve and
received thereby. For example, a valve 926, 936, 937, 946, 947
which is configured to be automatically operated can employ an
actuator or the like (not shown), such as a solenoid, to operate
the valve in response to remotely sent signals which are received
by the valve. The signals can originate from any device capable of
generating such signals.
[0061] As is evident, the liquid product reservoir 915 can be
located relative to the filling head 910 so as to cause the liquid
product "PR" to flow into the container "GB" under the force of
gravity. Alternatively, as discussed above, the pump 912 or the
like can be employed to induce flow of the liquid product "PR" from
the reservoir 915 into the container "GB." That is, the pump 912
can be employed to move liquid product "PR" from the liquid product
reservoir 915 and out of the fill opening 922. The pump 912 can be
configured to be manually operated by way of a manual switch (not
shown) or motor control (not shown) or the like. In the
alternative, the pump 912 can be configured to be operated
automatically byway of a feed-back control loop (not shown), a
remotely controlled relay (not shown), or the like.
[0062] The apparatus 100 can include at least one pressure sensor
960 which is configured to detect and measure either relative or
absolute pressure within a corresponding passageway 120, 130, 140.
That is, at least one pressure sensor 960 can be included in the
apparatus 100, wherein each pressure sensor is configured to
measure the pressure within a given passageway 120, 130, 140.
Alternatively, a given pressure sensor 960 can be configured to
selectively, or simultaneously, measure the pressure within two or
more passageways 120, 130, 140.
[0063] The pressure sensor 960 can be one of a number of
configurations, including those of a pressure gauge and a pressure
sending unit. For example, the apparatus 100 is depicted in FIG. 5
as including a single pressure sensor 960 which is configured to
detect and measure pressure within the off-gas passage 130. The
pressure sensor 960 is further depicted as a gauge which is
configured to visually display the measured pressure within the
off-gas passage 130. It is understood, however, that the pressure
sensor 960 can be alternatively configured as a pressure sending
unit which converts the measured pressure into a signal that can be
transmitted, or otherwise sent, to a remote location where it is
received.
[0064] The apparatus 100 can comprise a controller 950 which is
configured to control operational functions of one or more
components of the apparatus 100. The controller 950 can be in
signal communication with one or more components of the apparatus
100 via communication links 952. By "signal communication" I mean
communicably linked so that signals can be transmitted and received
between the controller 950 and one or more communicably linked
objects. The communication links 952 can comprise any of a number
of means of transmitting a signal between two points, including
wire transmission, fiber optic transmission, electromagnetic air
wave transmission, sonic wave transmission, and the like. The
controller 950 can be, for example, a programmable logic
device.
[0065] As shown, the controller 952 can be in signal communication
with each of the fill valve 926, the off-gas valve 936, the purge
valve 937, the snift valve 946, and the vacuum valve 947. In
addition, the controller 950 can be in signal communication with
any of a number of other components of the apparatus 100 such as
the vacuum source 940, the pressure sensor 960, and the pump 912 as
shown. Such signal communication between the controller 950 and a
given component can enable the controller to precisely control and
coordinate various operational parameters of the apparatus 100 in
accordance with predetermined guidelines as will be more fully
discussed below.
[0066] It is understood that the controller 950 can be in signal
communication with other components of the apparatus 100, or other
components of other apparatus in accordance with alternative
embodiments of the instant invention which are not shown. For
example, in an alternative embodiment of the instant invention
which is not shown, the controller 950 can be in signal
communication with the filling head 910, and can further be in
signal communication with an actuator or the like (not shown) for
moving the filling head 910 relative to the container "GB."
[0067] Preferably, as discussed above, the controller 950 can be
employed to facilitate the operation of each of the valves 926,
936, 937, 946, 947. That is, the controller 950 can be configured
to cause any of the valves 926, 936, 937, 946, 947 to modulate,
actuate, or otherwise operate so as to regulate the flow of fluid
material there through. For example, the controller 950 can be
configured to cause any of the valves 926, 936, 937, 946, 947 to
modulate in conjunction with an actuator (not shown) and an
automatic feedback control system (not shown) in order to maintain
a given flow rate of a fluid material through the valve.
[0068] Likewise, the controller 950 can be employed to regulate the
operation of the pump 912 as well as the operation of the vacuum
source 940. For example, the controller 950 can be configured to
regulate the speed of the pump 912 in order to maintain a give
pressure within the fill passage 120 and downstream of the pump.
Similarly, the controller 950 can be configured to turn the vacuum
source 940 on and off as required.
[0069] It is understood that, although a controller 950 is shown
and described herein for regulating various operational aspects of
the apparatus 100, the inclusion of the controller in the apparatus
is optional. That is, in the alternative, the controller 950 can be
deleted from the apparatus 100 and can be replaced by manual
controls. For example, rather than employing the controller 950
along with various actuators and feed back control systems to
operate the valves 926, 936, 937, 946, 947, the valves can be
fitted with manual handles or the like to facilitate manual
manipulation of the valves for operation thereof as discussed
above.
[0070] That is, alternatively, each of the valves 926, 936, 937,
946, 947 can be configured to be opened, closed, or throttled, by
way of manual operation rather than automatic operation byway of
the controller 950. Likewise, each of the other various components
of the apparatus 100 can be alternatively operated manually rather
than by way of the controller 950. For example, the pump 912 can be
operated by way of a manual switch or the like, as can the vacuum
source 940. Likewise, the pressure sensor 960 can be visually
monitored. Additionally, any of the components of the apparatus 100
can be configured to be both manually and automatically operated.
The operational aspects of the apparatus 100 will be more fully
described below.
[0071] Turning now to FIG. 5B, a flow chart 100A is shown which
depicts an embodiment of an operational scheme which can be
employed in conjunction with the operation of the apparatus 100
(shown in FIG. 5) as well as other apparatus in accordance with
other embodiments of the instant invention, some of which are
described below following the description for FIG. 5B. As is shown
in FIG. 5B, the flow chart 100A comprises a series of sequential
steps S10 through S80. Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 5B, and in
accordance with the first step S10, the container "GB" is
positioned relative to the filling head 910 so that the filling
head and the container are in substantial alignment for movement of
the filling head and container relative to one another into the
filling position.
[0072] Moving to step S20 of the flow chart 100A, the filling head
910 is lowered into the fill position wherein the flow of liquid
product "PR" into the chamber "IC" of the container "GB" can
commence. When in the fill position, the fill opening 922, the
off-gas opening 932, and the snift opening 942, are exposed to the
internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB" so that fluid can pass
into and out of the container through each of the openings.
Preferably, when the filling head 910 is in the fill position, the
fill opening 922 is located proximate the lower end "LE" of the
container "GB." That is, preferably, the fill portion 120 protrudes
into the chamber "IC" proximate the lower end "LE" of the container
"GB" as shown when the filling head 910 is in the fill
position.
[0073] Preferably, the off-gas portion 130 protrudes into the
chamber "IC" so that the off-gas opening 932 is located
substantially near the ideal liquid product fill level within the
chamber "IC" of the container "GB" when the filling head 910 is
located in the fill position. That is, the off-gas opening 932 is
preferably located at an elevation relative to the container "IC"
which is substantially close to the elevation at which the surface
of the liquid product "PR" is located when the container is filled
to the proper level and when the filling head 910 is located in the
fill position relative to the bottle.
[0074] Also, the snift opening 942 is preferably located
substantially near the opening to the container "GB" defined by the
lip "LP" of the container. The snift opening 942 is also preferably
located above the off-gas opening 932 when the filling head 910 is
in the fill position and the off-gas opening 932 is preferably
located above the fill opening when the filling head 910 is in the
fill position.
[0075] It is understood that, while it is preferable to lower the
apparatus 100, or at least the filling head 910, into the fill
position, an equally acceptable practice is to keep the filling
head stationary while raising the container "GB" into the fill
position. In either case, the effect is to move the container "GB"
with respect to the filling head 910 so that the container and
filling head are placed into the fill position. Furthermore, it is
understood that the apparatus 100 can be configured so that only
the filling head 910 is movable, along with the appropriate
portions of the passageways 121, 131, 141 which are supported by
the filling head.
[0076] That is, the apparatus 100 can be configured so that the
filling head 910, along with a portion of each of the passageways
121, 131, 141, is configured to move independently of the remainder
of the apparatus, including the various valves 926, 936, 937, 946,
947, reservoirs 915, 930, vacuum source 940, and controller 950. In
that case, a portion of each of the passageways 121, 131, 141 can
comprise flexible tubing or flexible joints or the like (not shown)
so as to allow independent movement of the filling head 910
relative to the remainder of the apparatus 100.
[0077] Moving now to step S30 of the flow chart 100A, a seal is
established between the filling head 910 and the lip "LP" of the
container "GB." That is, when the apparatus 100 is in the fill
position, the filling head 910 is in contact with the lip "LP" of
the container "GB" as shown so as to substantially seal the chamber
"IC" from the atmosphere "ATM." More preferably, the apparatus 100
comprises the seal 912 which, when the filling head 910 is in the
fill position, is at least slightly compressed between the filling
head and the lip "LP" of the container "GB" so as to create a
substantially air-tight seal there between.
[0078] Now referring to step S40 of the flow chart A100, the
container "GB" is evacuated. The evacuation of the container "GB"
can be accomplished by maintaining the valves 926, 936, 937, 946,
947 in respective closed positions as the apparatus 100 attains the
fill position. Once the fill position is attained and the seal is
established between the lip "LP" and filling head 910, then the
vacuum source 940 is turned on. The vacuum valve 947 is then opened
to allow the vacuum source 940 to "pull a vacuum" on the container
"GB" byway of the appropriate passage. Alternatively, the vacuum
source 940 can remain on while the vacuum valve is opened to apply
a vacuum to the chamber "IC."
[0079] The evacuation of the container "GB" by way of the vacuum
source 940, causes substantially all atmospheric gases to be
removed from the container. Once the container "GB" has been
evacuated, the vacuum valve 947 can be closed. A pressure sensor
(not shown) can be included in either the apparatus 100, and can be
employed cause the vacuum source 940 to turn off when the desired
level of vacuum within the container "GB" is reached.
[0080] Moving now to step S50 of the flow chart A100, the container
"GB" is counter pressured, or filled with purge gas from the purge
gas reservoir 930. Purge gas can be an inert gas such as Nitrogen
or the like. The counter-pressuring of the container "GB" can be
accomplished by opening the purge gas valve 937 to allow the purge
gas which is stored within the purge gas reservoir 930 to flow from
the purge gas reservoir into the container "GB" by way of the
off-gas passageway 130 and through the off-gas opening 932. The
pressure of the purge gas within the container "GB" can be
monitored by employment of the pressure sensor 960. When the
pressure of the purge gas within the container "GB" reaches a given
predetermined level, the purge gas valve 937 can be closed.
[0081] The next step in the flow chart A100 is step S60 in which
the container "GB" is filled with liquid product "PR" while the
flow of off-gas is restricted. This step can be accomplished by
causing the pump 912 to turn on and by causing the fill valve 926
to open. This will cause liquid product "PR" to flow from the
liquid product reservoir 915 to the chamber "IC" of the container
"GB" by way of the fill passage 120. That is, the liquid product
"PR" will flow out of the liquid product reservoir 915, through the
fill passage 120, out of the fill opening 922, and into the chamber
"IC" of the container "GB." As the liquid product "PR" flows into
the container "GB" the pressure within the chamber "IC" will
initially increase because the purge gas within the container
cannot escape there from.
[0082] The off-gas valve 936 can then be opened so as to regulate,
in a controlled manner, the flow of purge gas from the container
"GB." That is, the off-gas valve 936 is opened slightly to allow
the off-gas within the container "GB" to "bleed off" at a
controlled rate as the container fills with liquid product "PR."
This bleed off of the purge gas from the chamber "IC" in turn
permits an additional element of control of the rate of fill of the
container, since flow of the liquid product "PR" into the container
is affected by the internal pressure thereof, and is thus affected
by the rate of bleed-off of purge gas through the purge valve
936.
[0083] Moving now to step S70 of the flow chart A100, the fill of
the container "GB" is stopped when the liquid product "PR" reaches
the proper level within the container. Once the proper level of
liquid product "PR" is attained within the container "GB," the fill
valve 926 can be closed, and the pump 912 can be shut off.
Alternatively, the fill valve 926 can be closed while the pump 912
is allowed to run continuously.
[0084] If excess liquid product "PR" is pumped into the container
"GB" the excess liquid can escape from the chamber "IC" by entering
the off-gas passage though the off-gas opening 932. The excess
liquid product "PR" can then travel through the off-gas passage 130
and enter the liquid trap 920. The excess liquid product "PR" is
captured within the liquid trap 920 while any excess gaseous
pressure is allowed to escape from the chamber "IC" through the
off-gas vent opening 921. The off-gas valve 936 can then be
closed.
[0085] The next step of the flow chart A100 is step S80, the pulse
option. As is evident, step S80 is an optional step which can be
performed at the end of a fill cycle to cause the liquid product
"PR" to foam prior to capping or sealing of the container "GB" as
in the case of a carbonated liquid product "PR" or the like. The
pulse, in accordance with step S80, can be accomplished by quickly
and fully opening, and then quickly closing, the purge gas valve
947. This will allow a pulse of purge gas to flow from the purge
gas reservoir 930 through the off-gas passageway and out of the
off-gas opening 932 and into the chamber "IC."
[0086] The pulse of purge gas released from the purge reservoir 930
can cause the liquid product "PR" to foam, especially in the case
of a liquid product which contains a dissolved gas, such as in the
case of beer which contains dissolved carbon dioxide. The snift
valve 946 can be opened immediately after the pulse of purge gas is
released into the container "GB" so as to allow the excess pressure
within the container to equalize with the atmospheric pressure.
Alternatively, the snift valve 946 can be open during release of
the pulse of purge gas into the container "GB." In either case, the
preferable result is to enable the pulse of purge gas to escape
from the chamber "IC" to the atmosphere "ATM" through the snift
opening 141.
[0087] At the completion of step S70, or alternatively at the
completion of optional step S80, the filling head 910 can be
removed from the fill position wherein the fill portion 120, and
the off gas portion 130, are withdrawn from the chamber "IC" and
whereupon the container "GB" can be capped or otherwise sealed. The
above-described process can then be repeated continually to fill a
succession of containers "GB."
[0088] Turning now to FIG. 6, a schematic diagram is shown which
depicts an apparatus 200 in accordance with a second embodiment of
the instant invention. The apparatus 200 is similar to the
apparatus 100 which is described above for FIG. 5. That is, the
apparatus 200, shown in FIG. 6, is an apparatus for filling an
internal chamber "IC" of a container "GB" with a liquid product
"PR" as in the case of the apparatus 100. The container "GB" has
been described above for the apparatus 100.
[0089] The apparatus 200 comprises a fill portion 220 which is
configured to convey fluid substantially between a liquid product
reservoir 915 and the internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB."
The configuration and operational aspects of the liquid product
reservoir 915 have been discussed above for the apparatus 100. The
apparatus 200 also comprises an off-gas portion 230 which is
configured to convey fluid substantially between the internal
chamber "IC" of the container "GB" and a liquid trap 920. The
configuration and operational aspects of the liquid trap 920 have
been discussed above for the apparatus 100. The apparatus 200 also
comprises a snift portion 240 that is configured to convey
substantially gaseous fluid between the internal chamber "IC" of
the container "GB" and the atmosphere "ATM."
[0090] Preferably, the off-gas portion 230 of the apparatus 200 is
also configured to convey fluid between the internal chamber "IC"
of the container "GB" and a vacuum source 940. The configuration
and operational aspects of the vacuum source 940 have been
discussed above for the apparatus 100. Additionally, the off-gas
portion 230 of the apparatus 200 is also preferably configured to
convey fluid between a purge gas source 930 and the internal
chamber "IC" of the container "GB." The configuration and
operational aspects of the purge gas source 930 have been discussed
above for the apparatus 100.
[0091] As is evident, the apparatus 200 can be configured so that
the off-gas portion 230 is configured to convey purge gas from the
purge gas source 930 to the internal chamber "IC" of the container
"GB." It is likewise evident that the apparatus 200 can be
configured to that the off gas portion 230 is configured to convey
gaseous material from the internal chamber "IC" of the container
"GB" to the vacuum source 940. It is evident also that this latter
aspect of the apparatus 200 serves to differentiate the apparatus
200 from the apparatus 100 which is discussed above.
[0092] The fill portion 220 preferably defines a fill passageway
221 which terminates at a fill opening 922. The fill opening 922
has been discussed above for the apparatus 100. Preferably, the
fill passageway 221 is a laminar passageway. The off-gas portion
230 preferably defines an off-gas passageway 231 which terminates
at an off-gas opening 932 which has been discussed above for the
apparatus 100. Likewise, the snift portion 240 preferably defines a
snift passageway 241 which terminates at a snift opening 942. The
snift opening 942 has been discussed above for the apparatus
100.
[0093] As is further evident from FIG. 6, the apparatus 200 can
comprise other components such as a pump 912, a pressure sensor
960, a controller 950, and at least one communication link 952. The
relative location, configuration, and operational aspects of these
components has been discussed above for the apparatus 100. The
apparatus 200 can also comprise additional components such as at
least one each of a fill valve 926, an off-gas valve 936, a purge
valve 937, a snift valve 946, and a vacuum valve 947. The relative
location, configuration, and operational aspects of such valves
have been discussed above for the apparatus 100.
[0094] As is evident from a study of FIGS. 5 and 6, the
configuration and operation of the apparatus 200 can be similar to
that of the apparatus 100 which is described above with the
exception that, in the case of the apparatus 200, the vacuum source
940 is connected to the off-gas portion 230 rather than the snift
portion 240 as in the case of the apparatus 100.
[0095] Turning now to FIG. 7, a schematic diagram is shown which
depicts an apparatus 300 in accordance with a third embodiment of
the instant invention. The apparatus 300 is similar to the
apparatus 100 and 200 which are described above for FIGS. 5 and 6
respectively. That is, the apparatus 300, shown in FIG. 7, is an
apparatus for filling an internal chamber "IC" of a container "GB"
with a liquid product "PR" as in the case of the apparatus 100 and
200. The nature and configuration of the container "GB" has been
described above for the apparatus 100.
[0096] The apparatus 300 comprises a fill portion 320 which is
configured to convey fluid substantially between a liquid product
reservoir 915 and the internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB."
The configuration and operational aspects of the liquid product
reservoir 915 have been discussed above for the apparatus 100. The
apparatus 300 also comprises an off-gas portion 330 which is
configured to convey fluid substantially between the internal
chamber "IC" of the container "GB" and a liquid trap 920. The
configuration and operational aspects of the liquid trap 920 have
been discussed above for the apparatus 100. The apparatus 300 also
comprises a snift portion 340 that is configured to convey fluid
between the internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB" and the
atmosphere "ATM."
[0097] Preferably, the off-gas portion 330 of the apparatus 300 is
also configured to convey substantially fluid between the internal
chamber "IC" of the container "GB" and a vacuum source 940. The
configuration and operational aspects of the vacuum source 940 have
been discussed above for the apparatus 100. Also, preferably the
snift portion 340 of the apparatus 300 is configured to convey
fluid between a purge gas source 930 and the internal chamber "IC"
of the container "GB." The configuration and operational aspects of
the purge gas source 930 have been discussed above for the
apparatus 100.
[0098] As is evident, the apparatus 300 can be configured so that
the snift portion 340 is configured to convey purge gas from the
purge gas source 930 to the internal chamber "IC" of the container
"GB." It is likewise evident that the apparatus 300 can be
configured to that the off-gas portion 330 is configured to convey
gaseous material from the internal chamber "IC" of the container
"GB" to the vacuum source 940. It is evident also that these
aspects of the apparatus 300 serve to differentiate the apparatus
300 from both the apparatus 100 and the apparatus 200 which are
discussed above.
[0099] The fill portion 320 preferably defines a fill passageway
321 which terminates at a fill opening 922. The fill opening 922
has been discussed above for the apparatus 100. Preferably, the
fill passageway 321 is a laminar passageway. The off-gas portion
330 preferably defines an off-gas passageway 331 which terminates
at an off-gas opening 932 which has been discussed above for the
apparatus 100. Likewise, the snift portion 340 preferably defines a
snift passageway 341 which terminates at a snift opening 942. The
snift opening 942 has been discussed above for the apparatus
100.
[0100] As is further evident from a study of FIG. 7, the apparatus
300 can comprise other components such as a pump 912, a pressure
sensor 960, a controller 950, and at least one communication link
952. The relative location, configuration, and operational aspects
of these components have been discussed above for the apparatus
100. The apparatus 300 can also comprise additional components such
as at least one each of a fill valve 926, an off-gas valve 936, a
purge valve 937, a snift valve 946, and a vacuum valve 947. The
relative location, configuration, and operational aspects of such
valves have been discussed above for the apparatus 100.
[0101] As is evident from a study of FIGS. 5, 6, and 7, the
configuration and operation of the apparatus 300 can be nearly
identical to that of the apparatus 100 which is described above
with the exception that, in the case of the apparatus 300, the
relative respective locations of the vacuum source 940 and the
purge gas source 930 are reversed. That is, in the case of the
apparatus 300, the purge gas source 930 can be connected to the
snift portion 340 and the vacuum source 240 can be connected to the
off-gas portion 330. In comparison, in the case of the apparatus
100, the purge gas source 930 can be connected to the off-gas
portion 330 and the vacuum source 240 can be connected to the snift
portion 340.
[0102] Turning now to FIG. 8, a schematic diagram is shown which
depicts an apparatus 400 in accordance with a fourth embodiment of
the instant invention. The apparatus 400 is similar to the
apparatus 100, 200, and 300 which are described above for FIGS. 5,
6, and 7 respectively. That is, the apparatus 400, shown in FIG. 8,
is an apparatus for filling an internal chamber "IC" of a container
"GB" with a liquid product "PR" as in the case of the apparatus
100, 200, and 300. The nature and configuration of the container
"GB" has been described above for the apparatus 100.
[0103] The apparatus 400 comprises a fill portion 420 which is
configured to convey fluid substantially between a liquid product
reservoir 915 and the internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB."
The configuration and operational aspects of the liquid product
reservoir 915 have been discussed above for the apparatus 100. The
apparatus 400 also comprises an off-gas portion 430 which is
configured to convey fluid substantially between the internal
chamber "IC" of the container "GB" and a liquid trap 920. The
configuration and operational aspects of the liquid trap 920 have
been discussed above for the apparatus 100. The apparatus 400 also
comprises a snift portion 440 that is configured to convey fluid
between the internal chamber "IC" of the container "GB" and the
atmosphere "ATM."
[0104] Preferably, the snift portion 440 of the apparatus 400 is
also configured to convey fluid between the internal chamber "IC"
of the container "GB" and a vacuum source 940. The configuration
and operational aspects of the vacuum source 940 have been
discussed above for the apparatus 100. Also, preferably the snift
portion 440 of the apparatus 400 is further configured to convey
fluid between a purge gas source 930 and the internal chamber "IC"
of the container "GB." The configuration and operational aspects of
the purge gas source 930 have been discussed above for the
apparatus 100.
[0105] As is evident, the apparatus 400 can be configured so that
the snift portion 440 is configured to convey purge gas from the
purge gas source 930 to the internal chamber "IC" of the container
"GB." It is likewise evident that the apparatus 400 can be
configured so that the snift portion 440 is also configured to
convey gaseous material from the internal chamber "IC" of the
container "GB" to the vacuum source 940. It is evident also that
these aspects of the apparatus 400 serve to differentiate the
apparatus 400 from the apparatus 100, 200 and 300 which are
discussed above.
[0106] The fill portion 420 preferably defines a fill passageway
421 which terminates at a fill opening 922. The fill opening 922
has been discussed above for the apparatus 100. Preferably, the
fill passageway 421 is a laminar passageway. The off-gas portion
430 preferably defines an off-gas passageway 431 which terminates
at an off-gas opening 932 which has been discussed above for the
apparatus 100. Likewise, the snift portion 440 preferably defines a
snift passageway 441 which terminates at a snift opening 942. The
snift opening 942 has been discussed above for the apparatus
100.
[0107] As is further evident from a study of FIG. 8, the apparatus
400 can comprise other components such as a pump 912, a pressure
sensor 960, a controller 950, and at least one communication link
952. The relative location, configuration, and operational aspects
of these components have been discussed above for the apparatus
100. The apparatus 300 can also comprise additional components such
as at least one each of a fill valve 926, an off-gas valve 936, a
purge valve 937, a snift valve 946, and a vacuum valve 947. The
relative location, configuration, and operational aspects of such
valves have been discussed above for the apparatus 100.
[0108] As is evident from a study of FIGS. 5, and 8, the
configuration and operation of the apparatus 400 can be nearly
identical to that of the apparatus 100 which is described above
with the exception that, in the case of the apparatus 400, the
relative respective locations of the vacuum source 940 and the
purge gas source 930 are reversed from those in the case of the
apparatus 100. That is, in the case of the apparatus 400, the purge
gas source 930 can be connected to the snift portion 440 and the
vacuum source 940 can also be connected to the snift portion 440.
In comparison, in the case of the apparatus 100, the purge gas
source 930 can be connected to the off-gas portion 130 and the
vacuum source 240 can also be connected to the off-gas portion
140.
[0109] In accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present
invention, a method is disclosed for filling the internal chamber
of a container with a liquid product. The method includes
evacuating the internal chamber of the container and introducing
liquid product into the container. The method can include sealing
the container from the atmosphere during filling thereof. This can
be accomplished, for example, by providing a filling head which is
configured to contact the container in a manner which seals the
container from the atmosphere. The container can be filled with
purge gas after evacuation of the container and prior to filling
thereof with liquid product. An off-gas passageway can be provided
through which the purge gas can enter and exit the container.
[0110] If the container is filled with purge gas prior to filling,
the flow of the purge gas out of the container can be regulated as
the purge gas is displaced by incoming liquid product during
filling of the container. The purge gas can be released from the
container through the purge gas passageway. Alternatively, a snift
passageway can be provided through which the purge gas can exit the
container. Once the container is filled with liquid product, a
pulse of purge gas can be released into the internal chamber of the
container so as to cause foaming of the liquid product within the
container. The pulse of purge gas can be released into the
container through the off-gas passageway. Alternatively, the pulse
of purge gas can be released into the container through the snift
passageway. Likewise, the pulse of purge gas can be vented to the
atmosphere through the snift passage, or in the alternative, can be
vented to the atmosphere through the off-gas passage.
[0111] While the above invention has been described in language
more or less specific as to structural and methodical features, it
is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to
the specific features shown and described, since the means herein
disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into
effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or
modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims
appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine of
equivalents.
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