U.S. patent application number 14/258565 was filed with the patent office on 2014-11-13 for apparatus and method for the production of sets of containers.
The applicant listed for this patent is Krones AG. Invention is credited to Christian Napravnik.
Application Number | 20140331617 14/258565 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50679907 |
Filed Date | 2014-11-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140331617 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Napravnik; Christian |
November 13, 2014 |
Apparatus and method for the production of sets of containers
Abstract
An apparatus (1) for the production of sets of containers (10),
wherein the apparatus has a packaging device (2) which wraps a
plurality of containers (20) at least in part with a film-like
packaging material (12) and thus forms a set of containers (10),
with a shrinking device (4) which shrinks the packaging material
(12) which wraps the containers (20) at least in part, with a
conveying device (6) which conveys the containers (20)--wrapped by
the packaging material (12)--in a pre-set conveying direction, and
with an inspection device (8) which inspects the containers
(20)--wrapped at least in part by the packaging material
(12)--after the shrinking procedure.
Inventors: |
Napravnik; Christian;
(Rosenheim, AT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Krones AG |
Nautraubling |
|
DE |
|
|
Family ID: |
50679907 |
Appl. No.: |
14/258565 |
Filed: |
April 22, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
53/463 ; 53/493;
53/557 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01N 21/8806 20130101;
B65B 57/005 20130101; B65B 53/063 20130101; B65B 51/10 20130101;
B65B 57/00 20130101; G01N 21/95 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
53/463 ; 53/557;
53/493 |
International
Class: |
B65B 53/06 20060101
B65B053/06; B65B 57/00 20060101 B65B057/00; B65B 51/10 20060101
B65B051/10 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 7, 2013 |
DE |
10 2013 104 666.5 |
Claims
1. An apparatus (1) for the production of sets of containers (10),
wherein the apparatus has a packaging device (2) which wraps a
plurality of containers (20) at least in part with a film-like
packaging material (12) and thus forms a set of containers (10),
with a shrinking device (4) which shrinks the packaging material
(12) which wraps the containers (20) at least in part, with a
conveying device (6) which conveys the containers (20)--wrapped by
the packaging material (12)--in a pre-set conveying direction, and
with an inspection device (8) which inspects the containers
(20)--wrapped at least in part by the packaging material
(12)--after the shrinking procedure.
2. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein the inspection
device (8) is arranged downstream of the shrinking device (4) in
the conveying direction (R) of the containers (20).
3. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein the inspection
device (8) has an image-recording device (82) which is suitable and
provided for recording images of the set (10) of containers.
4. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein the inspection
device (8) is suitable for detecting a relative position of at
least one container (20) of the set of containers (10) with respect
to at least one further container (20) of this set of containers
(10).
5. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus
(1) has a position detection device (16) which detects a position
of the containers wrapped by the packaging material in the
conveying direction.
6. An inspection device (8) for the inspection of sets of
containers, wherein the sets of containers (10) have a plurality of
containers (20) which are wrapped by a packaging material, with an
image-recording device (82) which observes the sets of containers
(10), wherein the inspection device (8) has an output device (84)
which emits at least one signal which is characteristic of a
relative position of at least one container (20) of the set of
containers (10) with respect to at least one second container (20)
of this set of containers (10) and/or which signal is
characteristic of at least one external surface of the set of
containers (10).
7. The inspection device (8) according to claim 6, wherein the
image recording device (82) is arranged in such a way that it
observes the set of containers (10) from above.
8. The inspection device (8) according to claim 6, wherein the
inspection device (8) has at least one lens member (86) which is
arranged between the set of containers and the image-recording
device (82).
9. The inspection device (8) according to claim 6, wherein the
inspection device (8) has at least one beam deflection element (96)
which allows at least one lateral face of the set of containers to
be observed.
10. The inspection device (8) according to claim 6, wherein the
inspection device (8) has at least one illumination device (92) for
illuminating the set of containers (10) during the inspection.
11. A method of producing sets of containers with the steps of:
forming a set from a plurality of containers (20); applying a
film-like packaging material to the containers (20), wherein this
film-like packaging material (12) surrounds the set of the
containers (10) at least locally; shrinking the film-like packaging
material (12) onto the containers (10); inspecting the containers
(20) with the packaging material arranged on them for the shrinkage
of the packaging material (12).
12. The method according to claim 11, wherein at least one relative
position of a first container (20) of the set of containers (10)
with respect to a second container of the set of containers (10) is
detected.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method
for the production of sets of containers and, in particular, of
shrink-wrapped packs. Such shrink-wrapped packs have long been
known from the prior art. They usually have an assembly of a
plurality of articles and, in particular, containers, which are
held together by a packaging material. In this case it is known
from the prior art for an assembly of a plurality of articles first
to be formed and for the latter to be wrapped at least in part in a
film-like packaging material, and in a further step for this
packaging material to be shrunk onto the set of containers, for
example by this material being shrunk by the action of heat.
[0002] It is usual for methods of this type also to operate in a
highly satisfactory manner. In individual cases, however, it may
happen that the sets of containers are assembled in an irregular
manner, for example individual containers are offset with respect
to others. Sets of this type can result in difficulties in the
further processing, for example during the transportation or
stacking. In addition, during the wrapping of the assembled
containers with film it is also possible for an offset to occur,
such as for example a diagonal impact or an offset of the film (the
projection of the film to the left and right is not equal in size).
The formation of creases, irregular film eyes at the sides or open
packets may occur in the shrink tunnel as a result for example of
changes in the properties of the film due to different batches or
incorrect setting of the shrink tunnel. In addition, overlap
creases and the formation of holes in the film are possible.
[0003] A goal of the present invention is therefore to make
available an apparatus and a method which permit a smoother
procedure in the production of shrink-wrapped packs of this type.
This object is attained according to the invention by the subjects
of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and further
developments form the subject matter of the sub-claims.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] An apparatus according to the invention for the production
of sets of containers has a packaging device which provides a
plurality of containers, at least in part, with a film-like
packaging material and, in particular, wraps them at least in part
and thus forms a set of containers.
[0005] Furthermore, the apparatus has a shrinking device which
shrinks the packaging material which wraps the containers at least
in part. In addition, the apparatus has a conveying device which
conveys the containers--wrapped at least in part by the packaging
material--in a pre-set conveying direction. Finally, an inspection
device is also provided which inspects the containers--wrapped at
least in part by the packaging material--after the shrinking
procedure.
[0006] The expression "wrap at least in part" is understood that
the packaging material need not (but can) surround the set of
containers over the entire periphery thereof, but that recesses and
apertures (also referred to as "eye" below) for example can also be
formed. It is preferable for the packaging material to surround the
set of containers completely at least in a peripheral direction. It
is advantageous for the packaging material to be formed in such a
way that at least one lateral face of the set of containers is
covered completely by the packaging material. It is advantageous
for at least two and preferably at least three and preferably at
least four lateral faces of the sets of containers to be covered
completely by the packaging material or to be closed by the latter
respectively.
[0007] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
film-like material is a plastics material. In the case of a further
advantageous embodiment the apparatus also has a group-forming
device which forms pre-set groups of containers, these groups
having pre-set numbers of containers. It is advantageous for this
group-forming device to be arranged upstream of the packaging
device in the conveying direction of the containers.
[0008] Furthermore, it is preferable for the shrinking device to
have a heating device for heating the packaging material. In this
case the shrinking device can be designed in the form of a shrink
tunnel through which the sets of containers with the film applied
to them are conveyed, in which case the heating of the film causes
the latter to be shrunk onto the set of containers.
[0009] The conveying device can be for example a conveyor belt or a
conveying chain.
[0010] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
inspection device inspects the sets of containers without
contact.
[0011] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
packaging material is transparent at least in part. It is
advantageous for the packaging material also to be flexible at
least locally and preferably completely and for it to be capable of
being adapted at least locally to a surface structure of the
containers.
[0012] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment it is also
possible for the conveying device to convey the packs in a
plurality of paths, i.e. a plurality of sets of containers can also
be conveyed adjacent to one another in a direction at a right angle
to a conveying direction. In this case it is possible for the
inspection device to observe a plurality of these sets of
containers simultaneously. It would also be possible, however, for
a plurality of inspection devices to be used in parallel.
[0013] In the case of a preferred design an automatic inspection is
thus proposed. It is advantageous for the inspection device to
allow an automatic measurement of the set of containers.
[0014] In this case it is possible for example for the exceeding of
tolerances to be detected. In particular, it is possible in this
case for external dimensions of the sets of containers and, in
particular, also deviations from pre-set reference dimensions to be
measured. In the same way, any desired geometrical arrangement of
the containers in the pack can be pre-set as a nominal pattern.
[0015] Geometrical arrangement[s] of the containers as well as
tolerance values and dimensions as well as configuration features
are filed in the image-processing computer or the control device
respectively in a manner specific to the type or batch
respectively. The choice of the parameters required in each case
can be made for example by way of the master computer of the plant
as a whole or by way of the lead machine arranged upstream.
[0016] Besides this and/or in addition, it is also possible for the
inspection device to inspect the position and/or dimensions or
geometry respectively of the above-mentioned opening in the
packaging material.
[0017] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
apparatus has a control or regulating device which controls the
packing device and/or the shrinking device in a manner dependent
upon a result or measurement value respectively detected by the
inspection device.
[0018] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
apparatus has a separation device which is preferably arranged
downstream of the inspection device and which allows specified sets
of containers, in particular sets of containers detected as being
defective in some way, to be separated out. In this case it is
possible for a control device of this type to be able to
differentiate between those sets of containers which can cause a
breakdown--for example in the conveying of the packs or in the
palletizer--in continuous operation, and those which are still
acceptable for further processing.
[0019] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
inspection device is arranged downstream of the shrinking device in
the conveying device of the containers. It is advantageous for the
inspection device also to be arranged in a region of the apparatus
which is situated downstream of the shrinking device. In addition,
however, a further inspection device could also be provided, which
for example monitors the shrinking device itself, such as for
example a camera which detects the inner workings of the shrinking
device at least in part.
[0020] It is advantageous for the inspection device to be arranged
directly downstream of the shrinking device, i.e. for example
directly at an outlet of a shrink tunnel. The advantage of an
arrangement of this type lies in short dead zones in the
regulation. It is preferable for the inspection device to be
arranged in such a way that in normal working operation and after
leaving the shrinking device the sets of containers reach the
inspection device within a period of time which is shorter than 10
s, preferably shorter than 6 s, preferably shorter than 5 s, and in
a particularly preferred manner shorter than 3 s.
[0021] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
inspection device has an image-recording device which is suitable
and provided for recording images of the sets of containers. This
image-recording device is preferably an image-recording device
which can record spatially resolved images, such as for example a
camera, a video camera, a CCD chip or the like. It is advantageous
for the inspection device also to be suitable for recording an
image of the entire set of containers, in particular also including
the lateral faces thereof.
[0022] In this way, it is possible for example for an optical
measurement to be carried out from a pre-set direction, and in
particular from above. The expression "from above" is understood in
this case to be a direction of observation which deals with the
containers from above, i.e. in particular in an upright position,
onto the closures thereof. In this way, it is possible for example
for a camera, which is orientated in a pre-set manner and
preferably vertically downwards, to be attached above a pack
path.
[0023] In this case it is also possible for this image-recording
device to be triggered, for example by a sensor, in order to cause
in this way each set of containers to be observed in a pre-set
position, for example precisely centrally. It is advantageous for
the inspection device also to have an image analysis device which
detects geometrical limits of the set of containers. In addition,
this image analysis device can also be suitable for being able to
determine the positions of the individual container ends or
container closures respectively. Furthermore, the image analysis
device can also be suitable for detecting the absence of individual
containers in a set of containers.
[0024] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
inspection device is therefore suitable for detecting a relative
position of a container of the set of containers with respect to at
least one further container of this set of containers and/or
further magnitudes which can result from these relative positions.
In this case it is advantageous for an evaluation unit also to be
provided which evaluates these detected positions. In this way, for
example, a comparator device can be provided, which compares the
detected position with respect to a reference or a nominal position
respectively.
[0025] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
apparatus therefore has a position detection device which detects
the position of the containers wrapped by the packaging
material--in particular in the conveying direction but also
advantageously transversely to the conveying device. It is
advantageous for the image-recording device to record an image of
the set of containers during the movement thereof, in particular
during the movement thereof in the conveying direction. In this
way, for example, a light barrier can be provided which triggers an
image-recording device in a pre-set position of the set of
containers.
[0026] The present invention further relates to an inspection
device for the inspection of sets of containers, the sets of
containers having a plurality of containers which are wrapped at
least in part by a packaging material, in particular a packaging
material in the manner of a film. This inspection device has an
image-recording device which observes the sets of containers.
[0027] According to the invention the inspection device has an
output device which emits at least one signal which is
characteristic of a relative position of at least one container of
the set of containers with respect to at least one second container
of this set of containers and/or which is characteristic of at
least one external surface of the set of containers and/or at least
one pattern of this container surface with respect to an ideal
pattern. In addition or as an alternative, however, this output
device can also be designed in such a way that it emits a signal
which is characteristic of the absence of one or more containers in
the set of containers. It is advantageous for the inspection device
to be suitable in this case for recording the sets of containers
during a movement of the latter.
[0028] The output device can be for example an image output device,
such as a monitor, which preferably provides the user in a suitable
manner with information which allows conclusions to be drawn on the
quality and value of a set of containers of this type.
[0029] In this case it is possible to indicate whether a value
recorded by the output device exceeds specified tolerances. In this
case it is also possible for a comparison with a reference image to
be issued. In this way, a quality analysis of the set of containers
is also generally possible. The quality of the sets of containers
formed could thus be checked in a continuous manner, namely for
example with respect to the dimensions of the sets of containers,
with respect to the absence of individual containers, with respect
to defects of the packaging material and the like.
[0030] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
inspection device has a storage device in which references, for
example reference images, are stored. It would also be possible,
however, for these references to be simplified illustrations, for
example rectangles, which are characteristic of the periphery of a
set of containers of this type. In the case of a further
advantageous embodiment this inspection device can be designed in a
modular manner and, in particular, it can be arranged behind a
shrinking device of a plant for the production of shrink-wrapped
packs of this type. It would also be possible for images, which
have been recorded by the sets of containers, to be stored in the
aforesaid storage device, this storage being carried out in
particular with an allocation to the respective set of containers
recorded.
[0031] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
image-recording device is arranged in such a way that it observes
the set of containers from above. In this case for example a camera
can be arranged vertically above a conveying path of the sets of
containers, but it would also be possible for a direction of
observation to be reversed, for example by way of mirror elements.
As an alternative or, in particular, also in addition, it is also
possible for observation of the sets of containers to take place
from below.
[0032] In addition, however, it is also possible for observation to
take place from different directions of observation, for example an
observation from above, in order to ascertain an offset of the
containers or the absence of containers, an observation from
obliquely above, in particular in the conveying direction, in order
to detect the end faces of the sets of containers, an observation
from the side in order to detect the film eyes and/or an
observation from below, for example in order to check the quality
of the lower film overlap and the formation of holes in the base
region.
[0033] In addition, the inspection device is suitable for
observing, at least also in part, one and preferably a plurality of
lateral faces of the set of containers and to record images also of
these side regions. A lateral face is understood to be those areas
of the set of containers which also extend in a direction of
observation, i.e. for example in the case of a main direction of
observation in the vertical direction those faces which also have
an extension component in this vertical direction.
[0034] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
apparatus has a position detection device which detects a position
of the set of containers in the conveying direction thereof.
Furthermore, it is preferable for a control device also to be
provided which controls the inspection device in a manner dependent
upon a detected position of the set of containers.
[0035] In addition, it is preferable for a regulating device to be
provided which controls or regulates respectively at least one unit
arranged upstream in the conveying direction of the sets of
containers, i.e. in particular the packaging device and/or the
shrinking device in a manner dependent upon an inspection result of
the inspection device or the observation device respectively. In
this case a regulation could be provided for example in the form of
a closed regulating circuit.
[0036] Furthermore, it is possible, during or after the separation
of packs, in particular mixed packs, for the machines arranged
upstream to be controlled in such a way that the missing types are
produced subsequently. Machines arranged upstream would in this
case be the filling machine and the labelling machine as well as
the sorting device or group formation device respectively, which
have to produce the missing quantity subsequently in the correct
pieces.
[0037] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
inspection device has at least one lens member which is arranged
between the set of containers or the conveying path thereof
respectively and the image-recording device. This lens member can
be for example, and also in a preferred manner, a Fresnel lens.
[0038] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
inspection device has at least one beam deflection element which
allows a lateral face of the set of containers to be observed. In
this way for example, mirrors, prisms and the like can be provided
which allow the aforesaid lateral faces to be observed.
[0039] In this way, it would be possible for example for one and
preferably a plurality of sides of the set of containers also to be
projected completely or in part in the direction of the
image-recording device by way of a suitable mirror lens described
in greater detail below. As an alternative and/or in addition,
cameras could also likewise be provided laterally with respect to
the conveying path of the set of containers, for example to the
left or right of the set of containers. This would apply, in
particular, in the case of a single-path operation of the
apparatus.
[0040] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment it would
also be possible for at least one beam deflection element or in
general the observation lens or the mirror elements respectively to
be attached in a movable manner (for example pivotable and/or
rotatable) in order to be able to detect various regions of the
pack of the set of packs while moving past. In addition, an
improved observation of the entire set of containers can be
achieved by a movability of this type.
[0041] In this way, the beam deflection elements could move for
example at a speed adapted to the conveying speed of the set of
containers, and it would also be possible for specific regions of
the set of containers to be scanned by the movement of the beam
deflection elements.
[0042] In the case of a multiple-path operation it would be
possible for example for a first image-recording device to be
arranged at the top with respect to the set of containers and for
two further image-recording devices to be arranged in each case on
the two outer sides of the multiple-path conveying device. In this
case the deflection element or the aforesaid mirror lens
respectively can be designed in such a way that the entire lateral
face is imaged, but it would also be possible for only portions or
parts respectively of the lateral faces to be observed in each
case. In this way, it would be possible for the complete image of a
lateral face to be put together again from a plurality of such
sections.
[0043] Furthermore, the inspection device advantageously has a
correction device which corrects errors caused by a lens, such as
for example distortion.
[0044] As an alternative or in addition, so-called line scanners
could also be used, in which a complete image is put together from
individual columns of a side view.
[0045] In this case it is possible, as an alternative or in
addition, for critical or problematic regions of these lateral
faces, such as for example the welding of a lateral lower film tab,
to be tested for their quality. For this purpose, a capacitive
sensor for example can be used as a further inspection device.
[0046] It is possible for the quality of the sets of containers to
be monitored and advantageously also to be logged in a continuous
manner by way of a control means which can also be designed at
least in part in the form of software. It is advantageous for the
inspection device therefore to have a storage device which is
suitable for storing detected measurement results of the inspection
of the sets of containers. The subsequent regulation of a further
unit, such as for example a packer and/or shrink tunnel arranged
upstream or even an automatic separation out of sets of containers
respectively, can likewise be achieved by way of the aforesaid
control means.
[0047] In this case it is possible for the images recorded by the
sets of containers to be stored, in particular in order to evaluate
the quality of the sets of containers at pre-set time
intervals.
[0048] In this way, it is possible for the evaluation also to be
made independent of the user carrying out the evaluation in each
case.
[0049] In addition, it is also possible for the sets of containers
to be monitored with respect to colour properties, for example with
respect to colour imprints on the packaging material. In this way,
it would be possible for example for the position of colour
patterns to be monitored, for example the position of a white logo
on a ground of a different colour.
[0050] In this way, it is possible for example for the movement and
the reception of the size of this logo to be monitored by the RGB
value.
[0051] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
inspection device is suitable for identifying specific points of a
recorded image, for example the heads of the containers, and--with
reference to this image--to issue a value which is characteristic
of a geometrical arrangement of the individual containers within
the set of containers.
[0052] As well as the inspection of the geometry of the set of
containers, as described here, it is also possible, however, for
other characteristics to be detected, such as for example the
reading out of a barcode or another marking which is characteristic
of the set of containers. In addition, it may also be advantageous
for the packaging material to be checked for its quality, for
example for distortion, holes and the like. In addition, the design
of the set of containers can also be checked as a whole in this
way.
[0053] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment it is also
possible for a vertical profile of the set of containers to be
measured. In addition, an evaluation with respect to further
components of the set of containers can also be carried out. In
this way, it is possible to check for example whether additional
elements, for example a gripping arrangement (handle applicator),
is present. In addition, OCRs and OCVs can also be evaluated. In
addition, an inspection generally with respect to contamination,
damage and also an identity of the set of containers can also be
carried out.
[0054] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
apparatus has at least one illumination device for illuminating the
set of containers during the inspection. In this case it is
possible for this illumination device to observe the set of
containers from the same direction as is also observed by the
image-recording device. It is therefore preferable for the
illumination device also to be arranged above the packs with
respect to the conveying path of the latter. It is preferable for a
plurality of illumination elements or devices respectively to be
provided which illuminate the set of containers preferably from a
plurality of different directions. In this case, however, it is
preferable for all the illumination devices to be arranged in a
pre-set region with respect to a conveying plane of the set of
containers, in particular above a conveying plane of this type.
[0055] The illumination devices can advantageously be pulsed
illumination devices, such as for example flash lamps. These flash
lamps can be triggered in particular by the image-recording device.
It is advantageous for the illumination devices to have elements,
such as in particular light-emitting diodes (LEDs). In this case
light-emitting diodes of different colours (RGB) can also be
used.
[0056] Furthermore, it is possible for the region in which the
inspection device is arranged to be shaded, for example a casing is
provided by which the sets of containers are transported.
[0057] In the case of a further advantageous embodiment the
inspection device has an information output device, and in
particular an image output device, which are suitable for the
emission of values or signals respectively which are characteristic
of a set of containers.
[0058] The present invention further relates to a method of
producing sets of containers. In this case in a first method step a
set is formed from a plurality of containers. In a further method
step a film-like packaging material is applied to the containers,
this film-like packaging material surrounding the containers at
least locally. In a further method step the film-like packaging
material is shrunk onto the containers. In a further method step
the containers with the packaging material arranged on them are
inspected for the shrinkage of the packaging material. In this way,
the complete set of containers is first produced and then an
inspection thereof is carried out. An inspection would also be
possible after the packaging and before the shrinking of the
packaging material.
[0059] It is advantageous for the set of containers to be inspected
during the conveying thereof.
[0060] In the case of a further advantageous method at least one
relative position of a first container of the set of containers
with respect to a second container of the set of containers is
detected. In addition or as an alternative, it is possible for at
least one external surface of the set of containers to be
inspected.
[0061] It is advantageous for an evaluation of this relative
position also to be carried out. In this case it is advantageous
for this measured relative position to be compared with a nominal
position.
[0062] Conclusions on the correctness of a set of containers can
advantageously be drawn from this comparison.
[0063] It is advantageous for a relative position of a container
situated on the outside in the set of containers to be compared
with a second container situated on the outside in the set of
containers. This based upon the fact that, in particular, the
containers situated on the outside are decisive for the
straightness and flatness of the lateral faces and thus for the
possibility of further processing. It is advantageous for a
deviation of the relative position of a container with respect to
another container to be compared with a nominal deviation or a
nominal position respectively. In this case it is possible for a
threshold value to be formed for this deviation and, if this
threshold value is exceeded, for a further reaction to be carried
out with respect to the production procedure and/or the inspected
container. In this way, it is possible for a specific set of
containers to be separated out in reaction to measurements of this
type. In addition, the aforesaid set of containers can also be
provided with a marking.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0064] Further advantages and embodiments are evident from the
accompanying drawings. In the drawings
[0065] FIG. 1 is a roughly diagrammatic illustration of an
apparatus according to the invention for the production of sets of
containers;
[0066] FIGS. 2a, 2b are two illustrations of a set of
containers;
[0067] FIGS. 3a, 3b show two examples of possible deviations or
defects of sets of containers;
[0068] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic illustration of an inspection
device;
[0069] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of an optical
measurement from above;
[0070] FIG. 6a is an illustration of a measurement whilst using a
single pack path;
[0071] FIG. 6b is an example of the measurement in the case of two
pack paths;
[0072] FIG. 6c is an example of the measurement in the case of
three pack paths;
[0073] FIG. 7 is a further diagrammatic illustration to demonstrate
the measurement;
[0074] FIG. 8 is a further illustration to demonstrate a
measurement;
[0075] FIG. 9 is a further illustration of the measurement with
respect to FIGS. 7 and 8;
[0076] FIG. 10 is an illustration of the measurement whilst using a
line scanner;
[0077] FIGS. 11a, 11b are two illustrations to demonstrate an
inspection of an underside of the set of containers;
[0078] FIG. 12 is a further illustration for measuring the end
faces of the set of containers;
[0079] FIG. 13 is an illustration to demonstrate a measurement
value output, and
[0080] FIGS. 14a to c are three illustrations of a shrinking
device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0081] FIG. 1 is a roughly diagrammatic illustration of an
apparatus 1 according to the invention. In this case a conveying
device 6 is provided which guides or conveys the sets of containers
along a pre-set conveying path. This conveying device can be
designed in this case in the form of a conveyor belt or conveying
chain. In addition, it would also be possible for the conveying
device to guide or grip the sets of containers differently at
different regions of the conveying path. In addition, the conveying
device can be assembled from various units.
[0082] In this case it is possible for the containers (not shown in
detail) to arrive already assembled in a group at a packaging
device 2 and to be provided, for example to be wrapped, by the
latter with a film-like packaging material. After this procedure
the sets of containers 10 formed in this way with the packaging
material are conveyed further through the conveying device 6 to the
shrinking device 4. This shrinking device is advantageously a
so-called shrink tunnel through which the sets are conveyed, in
which case the shrink film is heated and rests close against the
sets of containers 10 in this way.
[0083] An inspection device 8, which checks the sets of containers
10 and, in particular in this case, checks the result of the
packaging and shrinking procedure, is provided downstream with
respect to this shrinking device 4.
[0084] The reference number 16 designates a position detection
device which detects a position of the sets of containers along the
conveying path. The inspection device 8 can be triggered by this
position detection device 16. The reference number 84 refers to an
output device which emits at least one signal which is
characteristic of a physical property of the set of containers, in
particular of a deviation of at least one physical property with
respect to a reference.
[0085] The reference number 18 designates a separation device which
is suitable and intended for separating individual sets of
containers out from the further processing. This separation can be
carried out in this case in particular in reaction to a signal
which is emitted by the inspection device and which displays the
defectiveness of a set of containers 10.
[0086] The reference number 22 designates a group formation device
which forms groups from containers, for example groups of two,
groups of four, groups of six etc.
[0087] FIG. 2a is an illustration of a set of containers 10. It
will be seen that in the example shown in FIG. 2a twelve containers
20 are assembled in a set of containers 10. The reference number 20
designates an individual container. The reference number 12 refers
to the film-like packaging material which is arranged substantially
around the containers.
[0088] The reference letters A, B and C designate the dimensions of
the sets of containers. In this case it would be possible for the
set to be made substantially cuboidal, but on account of the
tapering aperture region of the containers the sets of containers
are somewhat narrower at the upper end than at the lower end. The
reference letter H refers to the tolerances for the position of an
imprint. The reference number 14 designates an opening in the
packaging material which is also referred to as an eye, and the
reference letter G designates the tolerance for the central axis of
this opening or the film eye respectively. The reference letters D
and E designate shape tolerances for the offset.
[0089] FIG. 2b is a side view of a set of containers, in which case
a radius of the containers in the region of the closures is
indicated with the reference letter G.
[0090] FIGS. 3a, 3b show two examples of defective sets of
containers or of sets of containers assembled in a defective manner
respectively. In the case of the illustration reproduced in FIG. 3a
it will be seen that the middle row of containers (indicated in
this case by the broken lines) is shifted by a distance D with
respect to a nominal position. A set of containers of this type can
give rise to problems in stacking one above the other.
[0091] FIG. 3b shows a further example of a defective assembly. It
will be seen in this case that the middle row is offset with
respect to the lower row both laterally to the left and the
individual longitudinal rows are offset by the amount F in the
vertical direction in this case. In addition, a set of containers
of this type would be classified as defective and would be
separated out accordingly.
[0092] FIG. 4 is a roughly diagrammatic illustration of an
inspection or testing device for a set of containers 10.
[0093] This inspection device has in this case an observation
device 82, such as for example a camera, which is arranged above
the sets 10 of containers or the conveying path thereof
respectively.
[0094] The reference number 92 designates illumination devices
which also illuminate in particular the background of the set of
containers 10 in order to achieve a stronger contrast in this way
and in order to detect, in particular, the contours of the set of
containers 10 which are particularly crucial.
[0095] The reference number 86 designates a lens member which, in
particular, is a Fresnel lens. This Fresnel lens preferably has a
very short focal length and thus allows the observation device 82
to be arranged comparatively close to the set of containers 10.
[0096] In the case of a preferred embodiment a telecentric
observation of the set of containers 10 by the observation device
82 is carried out. In this way, it would be possible for example
for a telecentric lens with a telecentric beam path towards the
lens to be used. This would make it possible to detect articles, in
this case the set of containers, without distortion of perspective.
In addition, however, it would also be possible for a beam path to
be used which is telecentric towards the image and which serves, in
particular, the parallelization of the beam path. In this case the
exit pupil lies at infinity, so that the beam cones strike the
image plane substantially at a right angle. Finally, a
telecentricity on both sides could also be used, i.e. the
combination of a beam path towards the article and a beam path
telecentric towards the image.
[0097] A telecentricity towards the image recorder is achieved by
the optical element being a Fresnel lens with a focal length of 600
mm. A groove spacing of less than 1 mm is preferred, and of <0.5
mm is particularly preferred. The distance for the generation of
telecentricity is 550 mm to the lens which can be a zoom with a
focal length of from 10 to 40 mm. Lenses with a luminous intensity
of better than 1:4, 1:2.8 are preferred. In this way, a usable
telecentric image field diameter of approximately 350 mm is
achieved.
[0098] It is advantageous for a distance between a top side of the
set of containers and the image-recording device or an
image-recording element respectively to be between 5 cm and 250 cm,
preferably between 10 cm and 150 cm, preferably between 30 cm and
120 cm, and preferably between 40 cm and 120 cm.
[0099] It is advantageous for the illumination devices 92 to be
arranged in this case on the same side with respect to the sets of
containers 10 as the observation device, i.e. also above in this
case. In this way, it is possible to prevent light from the
illumination devices 92 arriving directly at the observation device
82.
[0100] FIG. 5 is a further illustration to explain the method. It
will be seen that in this case the observation device 8 is arranged
centrally above the set of containers 10 (at least at the time of
the image recording). The reference number 20 again designates the
containers. The reference number 20a designates an aperture or
closure region of the containers. In this case, therefore, the
image-recording device, which in this case is directed vertically
downwards and which--in particular triggered by a sensor, such as a
light barrier--detects each set of containers from above, is
attached above the pack path. The limits of the sets of containers
and also the position of the container heads 20a can be detected by
suitable image analysis. In addition, the absence of individual
containers 20 can be established in this way.
[0101] In the case of the illustration reproduced in FIG. 6a a
lateral observation by image-recording devices 82a, 82b
additionally takes place. In this way, the sides can be observed
and/or projected upwards completely or in part (optionally also by
a suitable mirror lens).
[0102] FIG. 6b shows a further arrangement in which two sets of
containers are conveyed adjacent to each other in the direction of
the conveying path T. With this design an image-recording device 82
is arranged in this case between these two sets of containers and
two further image-recording devices 82a, 82b or a corresponding
mirror lens is arranged in each case on the two sides of the sets
of containers.
[0103] FIG. 6c reproduces an illustration in which three sets of
containers are conveyed parallel or adjacent to one another
respectively in the conveying direction T. In this case one
image-recording device 82 is arranged above the middle set of
containers and two further image-recording devices 82a, 82b are
arranged on the two sides.
[0104] FIGS. 7 and 8 reproduce a further illustration to
demonstrate the optical measurement. In this case beam-reversing
elements 96 or mirrors respectively are provided, which make it
possible for the entire lateral faces of the set of containers 10
to be capable of being imaged. In this way, as mentioned above, a
complete image of the lateral faces can be assembled from regions
imaged piece-wise. In this case it would also be possible for the
images of the lateral faces also to be imaged onto the
image-recording device 82. For this purpose, semi-transparent
mirrors could be used or a multiple illumination could also be
carried out with light of different wavelength. The sets of
containers 10 are conveyed in this case at a right angle to the
plane of the figures. The opening of the packaging material
illustrated here is not necessarily present.
[0105] FIG. 8 reproduces an illustration of this type, in which
case the base regions of the sets of containers can be detected in
each case by the two reflecting or mirror elements 96. Distortions
possibly caused by the lens can advantageously be corrected in this
case by suitable software. In this way, it would be possible for
the respective lateral regions of the sets of containers also to be
recorded, in which case further mirror elements 96 (not shown)
could also be provided.
[0106] FIGS. 9 and 10 show a further design. In the case of this
design an observation device 82 in the form of a line scanner 182
is used. This line scanner 182 is likewise arranged in a stationary
manner in this case and the set of containers moves along the
conveying path T relative to this line scanner 182. This line
scanner can likewise assemble a complete image from individual
columns of the side view. In addition, it would be possible in this
case for critical areas, such as for example the welding of the
lateral lower film tab, to be capable of being checked in addition
or as an alternative for its quality with a capacitive sensor.
[0107] FIG. 10 is a corresponding view from above, in which case
two line scanners 182 of this type are used.
[0108] FIGS. 11a, 11b reproduce an illustration on the checking of
the base welding. In this case too, use can again be made of an
observation device 82, such as for example also a capacitive sensor
or even a line scanner, which is arranged in this case between two
conveying devices 6 and checks the container during the transfer
from the left-hand conveying device for example to the right-hand
conveying device 6. In this case it is possible for the observation
device to check the sets of containers 10 directly, but it would
also be possible for the beam path, as shown in FIG. 11b, to be
guided by way of a reversing device such as a mirror.
[0109] FIG. 12 explains a further observation of the sets of
containers, in which case in particular the end faces can also be
projected into the receiving region of a camera by way of the two
observation devices 82a and 82b. In this case two cameras are
provided which observe the pack path obliquely from above.
[0110] In addition, it is also possible for only one camera also to
be used by way of optical elements (in particular mirrors) and for
the necessary views to be projected into the illustration region of
this camera or the (at least one) camera respectively.
[0111] FIG. 13 reproduces an illustration of a possible image
recording. In this case the line L shown in the upper partial image
can show the actually measured deviation from an ideal packaging
dimension, for example a lateral face. The two lower lines can
represent the corresponding deviations in the two other directions.
In these illustrations threshold values can be formed which are
still regarded as being acceptable. If these are exceeded, an
information output device can inform the user that the set of
containers in question has been packaged defectively and for this
reason has to be separated out for example. In this way, a
separating device arranged downstream could separate out the
respective set of containers in reaction to such a result. In
addition, it would be possible for a processing unit situated in
the conveying direction of the set 10 of containers to be regulated
or for the operation thereof to be modified in a manner dependent
upon such a result. It is advantageous, however, for a separation
of this type to take place (fully) automatically.
[0112] FIGS. 14a to 14c reproduce three illustrations of the
shrinking device 4. This shrinking device is designed in each case
in the form of a so-called shrink tunnel in this case. The
observation device 8 is provided directly adjoining the shrinking
device.
[0113] FIG. 14b shows a further embodiment of the shrinking device
4. In this embodiment two rows of sets of containers are conveyed
parallel to each other. The reference numbers 24 and 28 refer to
stressing devices which are arranged at the side and which act upon
the set of containers with hot air from the side. A further
stressing device 32, which allows the two sets of containers to be
acted upon from both sides in each case, is situated between the
conveying paths of the sets 10 of containers. The sets of
containers are also acted upon with hot air from below by means of
a further stressing device 26. It is preferable for a distance
between the lateral stressing devices 24, 28 and 32 to be capable
of being set or altered respectively. In addition, it would be
possible for a vertical level of the individual stressing devices
24, 28 and 32 with respect to the conveying device or the stressing
device 26 respectively to be capable of being altered.
[0114] FIG. 14c reproduces a further illustration of a shrinking
device 4. In this case too, three stressing devices 24, 28 and 26
are again provided which act upon the sets of containers 10 with
the packaging material arranged thereon with hot air from the sides
as well as from below.
[0115] The Applicant reserves the right to claim all the features
disclosed in the application documents as being essential to the
invention, insofar as they are novel either individually or in
combination as compared with the prior art.
LIST OF REFERENCES
[0116] 1 apparatus according to the invention [0117] 2 packaging
material [0118] 4 shrinking device [0119] 6 conveying device [0120]
8 observation device [0121] 10 set of containers [0122] 12
packaging material [0123] 14 opening in the packaging material
[0124] 16 position detection device [0125] 18 separation device
[0126] 20 individual container [0127] 20a container heads [0128]
24, 26, 28, 32 stressing device [0129] 22 group imaging device
[0130] 82 observation device/line scanner [0131] 82a, 82b
image-recording devices [0132] 84 output device [0133] 86 lens
member [0134] 92 illumination devices [0135] 96 mirror elements
[0136] A, B, C dimensions of the sets of containers [0137] H
tolerance for imprint [0138] G tolerance for central axis of the
opening [0139] D, E shape tolerances for the offset [0140] F amount
of the shift [0141] T conveying path [0142] L line
* * * * *