U.S. patent application number 17/353795 was filed with the patent office on 2021-12-16 for dosing assembly for use with a filler, a valve for a dosing assembly and a method of providing a fill material.
The applicant listed for this patent is HyVida Brands, Inc.. Invention is credited to Lon Kloosterman, Jeffrey Persenaire, Rick Smith.
Application Number | 20210387754 17/353795 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005800269 |
Filed Date | 2021-12-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210387754 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Smith; Rick ; et
al. |
December 16, 2021 |
DOSING ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH A FILLER, A VALVE FOR A DOSING
ASSEMBLY AND A METHOD OF PROVIDING A FILL MATERIAL
Abstract
A dosing assembly for a filler including a valve assembly, a
product hopper, a containment system and an attachment bracket. The
dosing assembly can be coupled to a filler (for example, after
filling, and prior to closing, capping or covering a container) for
dispensing a dose of a fill material into the container. The fill
material may comprise any number of different granular materials,
including, but not limited to magnesium particles.
Inventors: |
Smith; Rick; (Northridge,
CA) ; Kloosterman; Lon; (Zeeland, MI) ;
Persenaire; Jeffrey; (Hudsonville, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
HyVida Brands, Inc. |
Muskegon |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005800269 |
Appl. No.: |
17/353795 |
Filed: |
June 21, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16363425 |
Mar 25, 2019 |
11040787 |
|
|
17353795 |
|
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62648509 |
Mar 27, 2018 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65B 39/005 20130101;
B67C 3/204 20130101; B65B 3/14 20130101; G01F 11/14 20130101; B65B
3/30 20130101; B65B 37/20 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65B 3/30 20060101
B65B003/30; B65B 37/20 20060101 B65B037/20; B65B 39/00 20060101
B65B039/00; B65B 3/14 20060101 B65B003/14; G01F 11/14 20060101
G01F011/14 |
Claims
1. A valve assembly for a dosing assembly comprising: a valve body
having an inlet and an outlet, and a transverse slot in
communication with the inlet and the outlet; and a valve slider
plate positionable in the transverse slot, and having a transfer
dose cavity, the transfer dose cavity placeable in communication
with the inlet and the outlet of the valve body, upon selective
slidable movement of the valve slider plate.
2. The valve assembly of claim 1 wherein the slider plate is
structurally configured to move between a first slidable position
and a second slidable position, wherein in the first slidable
position, the transfer dose cavity is in communication with the
inlet of the valve body, and wherein in the second position, the
transfer dose cavity is in communication with the outlet of the
valve body.
3. The valve assembly of claim 2 further comprising a pneumatic
passage in fluid communication with the transfer dose cavity when
the transfer dose cavity is in the second position.
4. The valve assembly of claim 3 wherein the slider plate further
includes a second opening, the second opening being in fluid
communication with the pneumatic passage and the outlet when the
transfer dose cavity is in the first position.
5. The valve assembly of claim 4 wherein the second opening
comprises an elongated slot.
6. The valve assembly of claim 1 wherein the inlet defines an inlet
axis and the outlet defines an outlet axis, with the inlet axis and
the outlet axis being substantially parallel to each other, and
with the valve slider plate movable between the first position and
the second position along a path substantially perpendicular to
each of the inlet axis and the outlet axis.
7. The valve assembly of claim 1 further comprising an actuator
attachable to the valve slider plate, structurally configured to
move the slider plate between a first slidable position and a
second slidable position.
8. The valve assembly of claim 1 wherein the inlet further
comprises a funnel defining a substantially conical portion.
9. The valve assembly of claim 1 wherein the length of the outlet
includes an elongated dispensing tube that has a length that is
multiples of a thickness of the valve slider plate.
10. The valve assembly of claim 1 wherein the inlet, the outlet and
the transfer dose cavity each define a cross-sectional
configuration, with the cross-sectional configuration of each
substantially matching.
11. The valve assembly of claim 1 wherein the valve slider plate
has a substantially rectangular configuration, substantially
matching the transverse slot.
12. A dosing assembly for use with a filler, the dosing assembly
comprising: a valve assembly of claim 1; a product hopper having a
cavity placeable into fluid communication with the inlet of the
valve assembly.
13. The dosing assembly of claim 12 wherein the product hopper
further includes at least one frustoconical member extending from
the inlet, each of the at least one frustoconical members being
attachable in an end to end configuration;
14. The dosing assembly of claim 12 wherein the product hopper
further includes a pneumatic supply opening structurally configured
to provide a pneumatic supply to the cavity of the product
hopper.
15. The dosing assembly of claim 12 further comprising a
containment system defining a containment cavity, with the valve
assembly positionable therein.
16. The dosing assembly of claim 15 wherein the containment system
further includes a pneumatic opening structurally configured to
provide a pneumatic supply to the containment cavity.
17. A filler comprising: dosing assembly comprising: a valve
assembly of claim 1; a product hopper having a cavity placeable
into fluid communication with the inlet of the valve assembly; a
conveyor operably configured to carry a container thereon
positioned to traverse an opening of the container below the outlet
of the valve assembly.
18. A method of providing fill material to a container in a filler,
the method comprising the steps of: providing the valve assembly
having a valve body having an inlet and an outlet, and a transverse
slot in communication with the inlet and the outlet; and a valve
slider plate positionable in the transverse slot, and having a
transfer dose cavity, the transfer dose cavity placeable in
communication with the inlet and the outlet of the valve body, upon
selective slidable movement of the valve slider plate; first
directing a fill material into the inlet; second directing the fill
material from the inlet into the transfer dose cavity, the valve
slider plate being positioned in a first position wherein the inlet
is in fluid communication with the transfer dose cavity; slidably
moving the valve transfer plate toward and into the second position
wherein the outlet is in fluid communication with the transfer dose
cavity; third directing the fill material from the transfer dose
cavity through the outlet; positioning a container so as to have a
cavity thereof in communication with the outlet; fourth directing
the fill material into the cavity of the container.
19. The method of claim 18 wherein the steps of at least one of the
first, second, third and fourth directing of the fill material
occur due to gravity.
20. The method of claim 18 wherein the step of third directing
further comprises the step of directing a pneumatic force at the
transfer dose cavity when the valve slider plate is in the second
position.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 16/363,425 filed on Mar. 25, 2019, entitled "Dosing
Assembly For Use With A Filler, A Valve For A Dosing Assembly And A
Method Of Providing A Fill Material", which claims priority from
U.S. Prov. Pat. App. Ser. No. 62/648,509 filed on Mar. 27, 2018,
entitled "Dosing Assembly For Use With A Filler", the entire
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
1. Field of the Disclosure
[0002] The disclosure relates in general to container filling, and
more particularly, to a dosing assembly for use with a filler, a
filler with a dosing assembly and associated methods of supplying a
dose of a fill material to a container, preferably during the
filling process thereof.
2. Background Art
[0003] The filling process is well known in the art. Typically,
containers (rigid, flexible, metal, polymer) can be filled at high
speeds on filling equipment. Such equipment typically fills the
container and then applies a closure to the container (a double
seam top, a screw-on or snap on cap, etc.). Such equipment operates
at levels of from several containers per minute to thousands of
containers per minute.
[0004] While such equipment is well suited for the filling of, for
example, beverages and the like, that are flowable and liquid, it
has been problematic to add fill material (as defined below) into
the process (either before, during or after filling). Typically,
any fill type material is provided to the flowable material
(typically a liquid) prior to filling. This can lead to problems
with cleaning and can negatively impact the durability of the
equipment. Other solutions are difficult to implement and require
redesigning of equipment.
[0005] It would be advantageous to provide fill material to
containers in the filling process during the filling process
(before, during or after). It would further be advantageous to
provide dosing assemblies to a filler without requiring changes to
the fill equipment, or to require extensive modifications to
systems or to equipment.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0006] The disclosure is directed to a dosing assembly for use with
a filler. The dosing assembly includes a valve assembly. The valve
assembly includes a valve body and a valve slider plate. The valve
body has an inlet and an outlet, and a transverse slot in
communication with the inlet and the outlet. The valve slider plate
is positionable in the transverse slot, and has a transfer dose
cavity. The transfer dose cavity is placeable in communication with
the inlet and the outlet of the valve body, upon selective slidable
movement of the valve slider plate.
[0007] In some configurations, the slider plate is structurally
configured to move between a first slidable position and a second
slidable position. In the first slidable position, the transfer
dose cavity is in communication with the inlet of the valve body.
In the second position, the transfer dose cavity is in
communication with the outlet of the valve body.
[0008] In some configurations, the valve assembly further includes
a pneumatic passage in fluid communication with the transfer dose
cavity when the transfer dose cavity is in the second position.
[0009] In some configurations, the slider plate further includes a
second opening. The second opening is in fluid communication with
the pneumatic passage and the outlet when the transfer dose cavity
is in the first position.
[0010] In some configurations, the second opening comprises an
elongated slot.
[0011] In some configurations, the inlet defines an inlet axis and
the outlet defines an outlet axis. The inlet axis and the outlet
axis are substantially parallel to each other. The valve slider
plate is movable between the first position and the second position
along a path substantially perpendicular to each of the inlet axis
and the outlet axis.
[0012] In some configurations, the valve assembly further comprises
an actuator attachable to the valve slider plate, structurally
configured to move the slider plate between a first slidable
position and a second slidable position.
[0013] In some configurations, the inlet further comprises a funnel
defining a substantially conical portion.
[0014] In some configurations, the length of the outlet includes an
elongated dispensing tube that has a length that is multiples of a
thickness of the valve slider plate.
[0015] In some configurations, the inlet, the outlet and the
transfer dose cavity each define a cross-sectional configuration,
with the cross-sectional configuration of each substantially
matching.
[0016] In some configurations, the valve slider plate has a
substantially rectangular configuration, substantially matching the
transverse slot.
[0017] In another aspect of the disclosure, the disclosure is
directed to a dosing assembly for use with a filler. The dosing
assembly comprises a valve assembly and a product hopper having a
cavity placeable into fluid communication with the inlet of the
valve assembly.
[0018] In some configurations, the product hopper further includes
at least one frustoconical member extending from the inlet. Each of
the at least one frustoconical members being attachable in an end
to end configuration.
[0019] In some configurations, the product hopper further includes
a pneumatic supply opening structurally configured to provide a
pneumatic supply to the cavity of the product hopper.
[0020] In some configurations, the dosing assembly further includes
a containment system defining a containment cavity, with the valve
assembly positionable therein.
[0021] In some configurations, the containment system further
includes a pneumatic opening structurally configured to provide a
pneumatic supply to the containment cavity.
[0022] In another aspect of the disclosure, the disclosure is
directed to a filler comprising a dosing assembly and a conveyor.
The dosing assembly includes a valve assembly and a product hopper
having a cavity placeable into fluid communication with the inlet
of the valve assembly. The conveyor is operably configured to carry
a container thereon positioned to traverse an opening of the
container below the outlet of the valve assembly.
[0023] In yet another aspect of the disclosure, the disclosure is
directed to a method of providing fill material to a container in a
filler, the method comprising the steps of: providing the valve
assembly; a valve slider plate positionable in the transverse slot,
and having a transfer dose cavity, the transfer dose cavity
placeable in communication with the inlet and the outlet of the
valve body, upon selective slidable movement of the valve slider
plate; first directing a fill material into the inlet; second
directing the fill material from the inlet into the transfer dose
cavity, the valve slider plate being positioned in a first position
wherein the inlet is in fluid communication with the transfer dose
cavity; slidably moving the valve transfer plate toward and into
the second position wherein the outlet is in fluid communication
with the transfer dose cavity; third directing the fill material
from the transfer dose cavity through the outlet; positioning a
container so as to have a cavity thereof in communication with the
outlet; and fourth directing the fill material into the cavity of
the container.
[0024] In some configurations, the steps of at least one of the
first, second, third and fourth directing of the fill material
occur due to gravity.
[0025] In some configurations, the step of third directing further
comprises the step of directing a pneumatic force at the transfer
dose cavity when the valve slider plate is in the second
position.
[0026] It is contemplated that the fill material may comprise
magnesium metal particles, shavings, or the like.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] The disclosure will now be described with reference to the
drawings wherein:
[0028] FIG. 1 of the drawings is a perspective view of a dosing
assembly of the present disclosure, configured for use with a
filler, and shown directing a fill material into a container, which
container may be prefilled with a liquid, such as a beverage, or
another flowable material (or this may occur prior to filling);
[0029] FIG. 2 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
dosing assembly of the present disclosure;
[0030] FIG. 3 of the drawings is a perspective view of the valve
assembly of the dosing assembly of the present disclosure;
[0031] FIG. 4 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
valve assembly of the dosing assembly of the present
disclosure;
[0032] FIG. 5 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
valve body of the dosing assembly of the present disclosure;
[0033] FIG. 6 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
valve body of the dosing assembly of the present disclosure,
showing, in particular, the inlet of the valve body;
[0034] FIG. 7 of the drawings is a cross-sectional view of the
valve body of the dosing assembly of the present disclosure,
showing, in particular, the outlet of the valve body;
[0035] FIG. 8 of the drawings is a perspective view of the valve
slider plate, along with the output shaft of the valve actuator;
and
[0036] FIG. 9 of the drawings is a top plan view of the valve
slider plate, along with the output shaft of the valve
actuator.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0037] While this disclosure is susceptible of embodiment in many
different forms, there is shown in the drawings and described
herein in detail a specific embodiment(s) with the understanding
that the present disclosure is to be considered as an
exemplification and is not intended to be limited to the
embodiment(s) illustrated.
[0038] It will be understood that like or analogous elements and/or
components, referred to herein, may be identified throughout the
drawings by like reference characters. In addition, it will be
understood that the drawings are merely schematic representations
of the invention, and some of the components may have been
distorted from actual scale for purposes of pictorial clarity.
[0039] Referring now to the drawings and in particular to FIG. 1
and FIG. 2, the dosing assembly for use with a filler is shown
generally at 10. It will be understood that the dosing assembly is
configured for use with a filler of the type that fills containers,
such as cans, for example, and not to be deemed limiting, beverage
cans that are metal and the like. Additionally, the dosing assembly
is likewise configured for use in association with a filler that
fills polymer based rigid containers, such as those that are
typically used for beverages, that have a snap on or twist spout.
Further still, the dosing assembly is likewise suitable for use in
association with a filler that fills polymer based flexible
containers, such as those types of containers that utilize a rigid
spout coupled to a flexible body, such as those having metallic
liners which can retain the presence of gasses within the container
(i.e., carbonation or hydrogen, etc.) while not being limited
thereto.
[0040] It is contemplated that the dosing assembly is utilized with
various different types of fill material that is to be inserted
into the containers. Generally, the fill material comprises a
flowable granular material, such as, for example, and without
limitation, metal shavings (i.e., Mg, among others), mineral
elements, compositions, or materials, color based agents,
flavorings, sweeteners, encapsulated materials, particulates (i.e.,
glitter, etc.), flakes (i.e., gold or other flakes, etc.),
polymers, caffeine carriers, capsules, time release capsules,
additives, among other materials. It is contemplated that any such
materials that can flow through the valve assembly are contemplated
for use.
[0041] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the dosing
assembly 10 is shown as including valve assembly 12, product hopper
14, containment system 16 and attachment bracket 18. It will be
understood that the dosing assembly may be attached to a movable
stand or frame structure and may be positioned in the process of
filling after the product has been filled into the container, or
prior thereto (in other configurations). It will be understood that
the attachment may be achieved through the use of attachment
bracket 18. There is no particular limitation as to how and where
the dosing assembly is coupled to a filler. Additionally, it is
contemplated that multiple dosing assemblies can be coupled to a
single filler.
[0042] The valve assembly 12 is shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 as
comprising valve body 20, valve slider plate 50 and valve actuator
64. It will be understood that the valve body is structurally
configured to provide a repeatable dose to open containers (as the
filling process for those containers is proceeding). The valve body
20 includes inlet 21, outlet 22, pneumatic passage 28 and
transverse slot 26. With additional reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the
inlet 21, in the configuration shown defines a funnel having
conical portion 32 and cylindrical portion 34 that define the upper
opening 36 and the lower dispensing opening 38. It will be
understood that different shapes are contemplated for the inlet,
and in some configurations, there may be a smaller volume, with the
funnel omitted or being separately coupled to the valve body. In
the configuration shown, the valve body can maintain a volume of
the fill material within the funnel, and the funnel or other
structure may be sized to a number of different sizes.
[0043] Similarly, the lower dispensing opening can be appropriately
sized so as to provide the necessary amount of material at a
desired flow rate. That is, the size and shape of the lower
dispensing opening can be altered depending on a number of factors.
In the configuration shown, the lower dispensing opening is shown
as comprising a generally uniformly circular opening, while others
are contemplated. It will be understood that the inlet 21 is
generally configured to allow for gravity dispensing, and defines a
generally vertical axis of dispensing (that is, once material
leaves, the material will generally fall due to gravity along a
generally vertical axis defined by gravitational forces, which is
shown as axis 23). As set forth below, the region can be
encapsulated and can be filled with a gas (i.e., an inert gas, a
sterilized gas, or another gas) to preclude contamination and the
introduction of gasses.
[0044] The outlet 22 is shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 5 and 7, as comprising
elongated dispensing tube 25, which is generally oriented in the
vertical direction (i.e., the direction of gravity) and defines an
axis 24. It will be understood that both the inlet and the outlet
can be configured to be inclined or otherwise something other than
vertical or in line with gravitational forces, however, the axes
that are identified are generally the axis that are in the
direction of gravitational forces.
[0045] It will be understood that the inlet and the outlet are
offset, in the transverse direction, such that the axis 23 and the
axis 24 are spaced apart from each other, while being generally
aligned in a longitudinal direction (that is in the direction of
the transverse slot), that is, sufficiently aligned so that a
passage can be made in the valve slider plate to place the passage
selectively in communication with each. In the configuration shown,
both of the axes are substantially vertical and spaced apart from
each other in a parallel configuration.
[0046] The transverse slot 26 is defined within the valve body 20
and defines a substantially uniform cross-sectional configuration
44 between inlet 21 and the outlet 22. The transverse slot 26
extends from first end 46 to second end 48. Both the inlet 21 and
the outlet 22 are in fluid communication with the transverse slot.
The transverse slot, in the configuration shown, is perpendicular
to the axis 23 and the axis 24, and generally perpendicular to the
force of gravity. However, it is contemplated that the transverse
slot may be oblique to one or both of the axis 23 and 24, and that
that the transverse slot may be other than substantially
horizontal.
[0047] The pneumatic passage 28 includes a first end 40 providing
ingress into the valve body, and second end 42 in fluid
communication with the slot, generally opposite of the outlet 22.
In the configuration shown, the second end 41 of the pneumatic
passage lies in the same axis (at least partially) as the outlet
22. It will be understood that pneumatic forces can push/direct
fill material through the outlet 22 and through the elongated
dispensing tube, where desirable.
[0048] The valve slider plate 50 is shown in FIGS. 4, 8 and 9 as
comprising an elongated plate having a cross-sectional
configuration 51, and including top surface 52 and bottom surface
54. The valve slider plate extends between proximal end 55 and
distal end 56. In the configuration shown, the valve slider plate
comprises an elongated rectangular cubic configuration that is
substantially uniform and that substantially matches in
cross-sectional configuration with the transverse slot 26 of the
valve body. In the configuration shown, the height of the valve
slider plate is dimensionally the smallest, with the length being
the largest, and the width being between the height and length.
Variations are certainly contemplated wherein each of the
dimensions can be varied.
[0049] The valve slider plate 50 further includes transfer dose
cavity 58 defining a volume 61 that includes an entry opening 60
proximate the top surface 52 and exit opening 62 proximate the
bottom surface 54. The entry opening 60 can be placed in
communication with the lower dispensing opening of inlet 21 of the
valve body 20 when in a first slidable position within the
transverse slot. The exit opening can be placed in communication
with the outlet 22 of the valve body when in a second slidable
position within the transverse slot that is different than the
first slidable position. It will be understood that the first
slidable position and the second slidable position may comprise a
range of positions, but that the first and the second slidable
positions do not overlap. In that manner, the transfer dose cavity
is preferably in communication with only one of the inlet and the
outlet.
[0050] Additionally, the transfer dose cavity can be in
simultaneous communication with the outlet 22 and the second end 42
of the pneumatic passage. As such, pneumatic forces can be directed
through the second end 42 of the pneumatic passage and through the
transfer dose cavity 58 and the outlet 22, to, in turn, push fill
material through the outlet 22. It will be understood that the
transfer dose cavity may include an elongated slot 67 that remains
or is in fluid communication with each of the outlet 22 and the
second end 42 of the pneumatic passage so that the pneumatic
passage can be in communication with the outlet when the transfer
dose device is in the first position (so as to keep the passageway
clear and ready to receive additional doses).
[0051] It will be understood that the volume 61 can be varied in a
number of different manners, including, but not limited to the
cross-sectional configuration of the cavity between the top and
bottom surfaces, as well as the thickness of the valve slider
plate. It will be understood that the performance can be varied by
altering various dimensions of the cavity.
[0052] It will further be understood that in the configuration
shown, there is a one to one relationship between the inlet and the
outlet. It is contemplated that a plurality of inlets may be
directed to a single outlet, or a plurality of inlets may be
directed to a plurality of outlets, or that a single inlet may be
directed to a plurality of outlets. These variations are
contemplated. The inlets and outlets may be arranged sequentially
or may be arranged in a simultaneous fashion, or in a combination
of each.
[0053] The valve actuator 64 is shown in FIGS. 3 as having an
output shaft that coupled to the valve slider plate 50. The output
shaft can be translated between a first position (wherein the
transfer dose cavity 58 is in communication with the inlet 21 of
the valve body) and a second position (wherein the transfer dose
cavity 58 is in communication with the outlet 22 of the valve
body). In the configuration shown, the valve actuator comprises a
pneumatic cylinder, however other variations are contemplated,
including, but not limited to servos, lever actuators, continuously
running motors, and the like, with the understanding that the valve
actuator directs the valve slider plate between the first and
second positions. In the configuration shown, the actuator can be
directed in a first direction through one pneumatic force and in a
second direction through a second pneumatic force.
[0054] In the configuration shown, and with reference to FIGS. 1
and 2, the valve body 20 is coupled to a product hopper 14 that can
store additional fill material. The product hopper is shown as
defining cavity 72 having mating outlet 70 and pneumatic supply
opening 73. The cavity 72 may comprise one or more frustoconical
members 74 (to preferably provide a generally conical and
funnel-like configuration that directs fill material to the mating
outlet). The multiple frustoconical members may be coupled to each
other through the use of sanitary clamps (known to those of skill
in the art) equipped with gaskets between the different components.
A lid may seal the uppermost of the frustoconical members. The
pneumatic supply opening 73 may extend through the lid, and is
configured to provide pressure to the cavity 72. In some
configurations, it is contemplated that an inert gas may be
provided through the pneumatic supply opening so as to direct the
fill material toward the mating outlet and also to preclude the
ingress of moisture and/or contaminants. In other configurations,
this may be omitted. It is contemplated that additional
frustoconical members can be periodically removed and attached to
provide a substantially continuous supply of fill material. It is
further contemplated that the product hopper can be modified so as
to hold a greater or lesser amount of the fill material.
[0055] The containment system 16 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as
extending and surrounding the valve assembly 12. In the
configuration shown, the containment system 16 includes lower
housing 80 and upper cover 82, which are secured together through
sanitary clamp 84 (with gasket 85 therebetween). The lower housing
80 includes dispensing tube outlet 86 and upper rim 88. The cover
includes sealing rim 90 and pneumatic opening 92. When in the
operable configuration, the elongated dispensing tube 25 extends
through the dispensing tube outlet and the product hopper extends
through the cover (or may be formed with the cover). It will be
understood that the containment system defines cavity 89 which can
be maintained (by air or other gasses being directed through the
pneumatic opening. A number of fittings maybe presented on the
lower housing or the cover to allow for the coupling of, for
example, the valve actuator to pneumatic sources. The positive
pressure within the cavity 89 limits accumulation of moisture
and/or contaminants within the valve assembly.
[0056] In operation, the dosing assembly is positioned in an
operable position relative to the filler. In one configuration, the
dosing assembly can be positioned after the containers (in the
configuration shown, commonly known metal cans) are filled with a
fluid, such as a carbonated or non-carbonated beverage, including,
water, juices, soft drinks, beer, spiked seltzers, mixers, liquor,
etc., as well as with other materials, such as, for example, above
a conveyor that carries containers positioned thereon beyond the
dosing assembly. There is no particular limitation that the
assembly be used with beverages, and other uses are contemplated,
such as, for example, with other fluids, suspensions, flowable
materials, gels, and materials (i.e., paint, gels, flavorings,
etc.). The particular material within which the container is filled
is not limited to any particular fill. In other configurations, the
containers may be empty and either filled later, or only filled
with such information.
[0057] Once positioned, the desired fill material can be introduced
into the product hopper. Due to gravity (and pneumatic forces,
where utilized), the fill material is directed into the funnel of
the inlet 21 of the valve body. Initially, the valve slider plate
is in a first position so that the transfer dose cavity is aligned
with the inlet 21. As such, the fill material is directed through
the inlet 21 and into the volume 61 of the transfer dose cavity. It
will be understood that the volume 61 defines the dose of the
dosing assembly (and that varying the size of the cavity will vary
the dose delivered by the dosing assembly).
[0058] The valve actuator is activated to direct the valve slider
plate 50 from the first position toward and to the second position.
As the valve slider plate traverses through the transverse slot 26
of the valve body, the transfer dose cavity 58 is slid past the
inlet 21 so that the inlet 21 abuts the top surface 52 of the valve
slider plate. Once the plate moves sufficiently, the top surface 52
seals the inlet 21 and fill material is precluded form passing
therethrough in any meaningful amount.
[0059] As the valve slider plate 50 continues to traverse through
the transverse slot 26, eventually, the volume 61 of the transfer
dose cavity is placed in fluid communication with the outlet 22
(and, in turn, the elongated dispensing tube 25). Due to gravity,
the fill material exits from the transfer dose cavity and into the
dispensing tube 25. A pneumatic force can be directed through
second end 42 of the pneumatic passage 28 to assist the exiting of
the fill material from the transfer dose cavity, and/or, to speed
up the delivery of the fill material out of the elongated
dispensing tube.
[0060] It will be understood that a container is positioned below
the elongated dispensing tube so that the fill material exits the
elongated dispensing tube and is directed into the container and
captured thereby. It will be understood that the container may be
traversing across a path and that the container may only be
positioned below the elongated dispensing tube for a predetermined
period of time. Thus, the release of the fill material from within
the transfer dose cavity can be timed so as to occur when the
container is properly positioned below the elongated dispensing
tube.
[0061] Once the fill material has exited to a desired amount
(preferably entirely), the valve actuator 64 directs the valve
slider plate from the second position back to the first position.
As the valve slider plate returns to the first position,
eventually, the transfer dose cavity is in communication with the
inlet 21 of the valve body. Fill material is again directed into
the volume of the transfer dose cavity. The process can then be
repeated as often as desired to dispense the does that is in the
transfer dose cavity into a container. It will be understood that
through timing, the valve actuator can be cycled repeatedly to
provide a dose to sequential containers that are passing below the
elongated dispensing outlet, along, for example, the conveyor shown
in FIG. 1. For example, the containers can be positioned
sequentially along a conveyor, with the slidable movement between
the first position and second position timed so that the cycle is
repeated for each can positioned therebelow.
[0062] It is contemplated that, in a kit form, a number of
different valve slider plates can be provided so as to provide a
different volume. It will further be understood that in other
configurations, the stroke of the valve actuator may be changed to
provide a different dispensing pattern or the like. As indicated, a
number of inlets and outlets may be provided, as well as a number
of different transfer dose cavities on the valve slider plate. It
is further contemplated that a number of dosing assemblies can be
utilized and associated with a single filler.
[0063] The foregoing description merely explains and illustrates
the disclosure and the disclosure is not limited thereto except
insofar as the appended claims are so limited, as those skilled in
the art who have the disclosure before them will be able to make
modifications without departing from the scope of the
disclosure.
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