Patent Application
20240417188
The invention relates to a buffer apparatus.
It is known from the field of filling technology that products filled into containers in a system with a filler must be pasteurized, for example in a pasteurizer. Other processes, such as inspecting the containers in an inspection machine and drying the containers in a dry section, can follow the pasteurization process. In order to be able to take account of any errors that may occur in these machines-filler, pasteurizer, inspection machine, dry section-a buffer can be provided between the filler and the pasteurizer, between the pasteurizer and inspection machine and between the inspection machine and the dry section. The buffers can each be designed to buffer the containers for a period of up to 60 seconds. Using these multiple buffers, possible errors in the individual machines can be rectified without having to stop the entire production line.
The nominal line output in such a system can correspond to the nominal output of the pasteurizer. The filler upstream of the pasteurizer can be oversized by 10% to 20%, for example, in order to be able to refill the buffer between the filler and the pasteurizer after an error in the filler. The machines downstream of the pasteurizer can be oversized by 20%, for example, in order to be able to maintain high line efficiency and to be able to reduce the number of containers accumulated on the respective buffer after an error, for example.
A large amount of space is required to move the buffers in mass transport. In addition, the buffer between the filler and the pasteurizer, for example, is only used to buffer containers in the event of errors in the filler. It is not intended to use the buffer between the filler and the pasteurizer for buffering in the event of errors in the pasteurizer and/or the inspection machine and/or the dry section.
DE 44 34 176 A1 discloses a method for an output-based supply of machines in container treatment systems, so that otherwise unavoidable machine stops within such a container treatment system can be avoided or reduced. The method provides that, depending on the throughput rate or the degree of filling of the conveyors and/or machines upstream and downstream of the cleaning machine, the filling state of the cleaning machine can be adjusted by changing the number of containers to be cleaned. If there is a container shortage in the system, the downstream machines can continue to operate without any problems as a result of the reserve in the cleaning machine, without having to stop prematurely.
The task of the invention is to provide a buffer apparatus that can be operated in a space-saving manner and in which the forces acting on the containers can be reduced.
This object is achieved by the buffer apparatus. Further features of the invention are disclosed.
The buffer apparatus comprises a container feed apparatus, a buffer downstream of the container feed apparatus and a container discharge apparatus downstream of the buffer. The container feeding apparatus for feeding containers to the buffer is designed to transport containers in a first direction by means of first conveyor belts. The buffer comprises a drivable buffer belt or a plurality of drivable buffer belts arranged in parallel or in series, which is/are each designed to transport containers in a second direction, the second direction running transversely to the first direction. The container discharge apparatus is for discharging and separating containers from the buffer in the first direction or in a third direction opposite to the first direction.
The container discharge apparatus can be located on an opposite side to the container feed apparatus. The container discharge apparatus can work in the same or opposite direction as the container feed apparatus.
The drivable buffer belt can be designed or the several drivable buffer belts arranged in parallel can each be designed to be drivable in the second direction or to stand still. It may be provided that it is not possible to drive the drivable buffer belt or the several drivable buffer belts arranged in parallel in a direction opposite to the second direction. Containers cannot be transported in a direction that is opposite to the second direction.
The drivable buffer belt can be further designed or the several drivable buffer belts arranged in parallel can each be further designed to transport containers in a fourth direction, wherein the second and the fourth direction can be opposite to each other and the fourth direction can run transversely to the first direction.
The buffer belt or the buffer belts can each be driven at a speed of 0 m/min to 20 m/min, for example in the second direction or in the fourth direction.
The terms “first” and “second” are used here and hereafter only to distinguish between identical terms and have no further limiting meaning.
A compact and space-saving design of the buffer apparatus is possible by feeding separated containers by means of the container feed apparatus, which transports containers in the first direction transversely to the buffer and thus feeds the containers to the buffer, and by removing and separating containers from the buffer by means of the container discharge apparatus, which removes and separates containers in the first or third direction transversely to the buffer.
At least one transition area can be arranged between the container feed apparatus and the buffer, wherein a length of the transition area can be shorter than a length of the buffer. It is also conceivable that the length of the transition area could be greater than the length of the buffer. For example, the transition area can be designed as a single drivable belt that can transport containers in the second direction or in the third direction. Or, for example, the transition area can comprise the same number of drivable belts as the buffer, wherein the drivable belts can be designed to transport containers in the second or third direction. The transition area can also be designed in such a way that it can only transport containers in the second direction, but not in the third direction; the transition area can also be stationary. The transition area can be designed to be driven only in the second direction.
The transition area can serve as a buffer feed, so that containers that can be fed by the container feed apparatus first enter the transition area and only then the buffer, for example onto the one or more buffer belts.
The buffer belt or buffer belts can be driven at a speed of −20 m/min to 60 m/min (m/min corresponds to meters per minute), for example −10 m/min to 30 m/min or for example −5 m/min to 15 m/min. For example, if there are several drivable buffer belts arranged in parallel, a separate drive can be provided for each of the buffer belts or, for example, a common drive can be provided for the buffer belts. With a separate drive for each of the buffer belts, the buffer belts can have the same or different speeds. With a common drive, the buffer belts each had the same speed. The buffer belts can also be driven together, but not at the same speed. For this end, individual sprockets of the buffer belts are different sizes and have different speeds due to a different transmission ratio.
The specified limit values of the speed ranges may be included. A speed with a positive value can correspond to a drive in which containers can be transported in the second direction, for example by the drivable buffer belt or one or more or all of the several buffer belts arranged in parallel. A speed of 0 m/min can correspond to a standstill of the drivable buffer belt or one or more or all of the several buffer belts arranged in parallel. A speed with a negative value can correspond to a drive in which containers can be transported in the third direction, for example by the drivable buffer belt or one or more or all of the several buffer belts arranged in parallel.
One length of the buffer belt or buffer belts can be dimensioned such that, in buffer operation, buffering of containers is possible on the buffer belt or belts for a period of from 0 to 30 minutes, 0 to 20 minutes, 0 to 10 minutes, 0.15 to 15 minutes, or for example 0.1 to 10 minutes or for example 0.1 to 5 minutes.
To determine the length, for example, a speed of the buffer belt, generally an average speed, during the buffer operation can be taken into account.
The buffer device may further comprise a control device for the buffer, which may be designed to execute a method for controlling the buffer.
The extraction nozzle can further be designed
In normal operation, the main conveyor belt can be driven at the first speed at the first value in the first direction, and the buffer belt can be driven at the second speed at the second value in the first direction.
Furthermore, the switching can comprise:
The simultaneous increase of the third speed of the buffer belt/belts back to the second speed in the second direction can take place incrementally over one or more, in each case higher intermediate speeds, or continuously.
“Incrementally” can mean that the third speed can be increased by a given or adjustable percentage to a particular intermediate speed until the second speed is reached. For example, an increase by 15 to 20% can be provided in each case. The intermediate speed reached can be maintained for a given or adjustable period of time before increasing to a next intermediate speed or to the second speed. The given or adjustable periods of time can be of different duration or the same duration for the different intermediate speeds.
Alternatively, the switching from the normal operation to the buffer operation of the thermal container treatment apparatus can further comprise:
The deceleration of the buffer belt from the second speed at the second value in the second direction (via the third speed at the third value in the second direction) to the fourth speed at the fourth value in the third direction can take place continuously or substantially continuously; or instead, the deceleration can take place incrementally.
The switching from the normal operation to buffer operation of the buffer belt can further comprise:
For example, 30% to 40% of the buffer belt or buffer belts can be filled if the containers transported onto the buffer belt or buffer belts by the container feed apparatus and the containers returned from the buffer belt or buffer belts fill the starting area of the buffer belt.
The sixth speed in the second direction can be maintained as long as the fault downstream of the buffer has not been corrected and until the buffer belt or belts is/are completely filled with containers or as long as the buffer belt or belts is/are not completely or substantially not completely filled with containers, for example as long as the buffer belt is less than 90% to 95% filled with containers.
The control method may further comprise:
The simultaneous increase can take place incrementally over one or more, in each case higher intermediate speeds or continuously.
“Incrementally” can mean that the sixth speed can be increased by a given or adjustable percentage to a particular intermediate speed until the seventh speed is reached. For example, an increase by 15 to 20% can be provided in each case. The intermediate speed reached can be maintained for a given or adjustable period of time before increasing to a next intermediate speed or to the seventh speed. The given or adjustable periods of time can be of different duration or the same duration for the different intermediate speeds.
If the fault downstream of the buffer has not been corrected and the buffer belt or buffer belts is/are completely or substantially completely filled with containers, for example if the buffer belt or the buffer belts is/are filled to equal or more than 90% to 95% with containers, the method can further comprise:
These steps of the method can also be part of the switching from the normal operation to the buffer operation of the buffer. The transition area can also be braked when the buffer belt or buffer belts are braked in this method.
The method can further comprise:
The twelfth value can result from a permissible overpower of the buffer belt, which allows the containers present on the buffer belt to be transferred to the outlet belts with the permissible overpower.
The simultaneous increase can take place incrementally over one or more, in each case higher intermediate speeds or continuously.
For example, the one or more, in each case higher intermediate speeds can be the same when simultaneously increasing (a) from the sixth speed to reach the seventh speed and (b) from the tenth speed (0 m/min) to reach the twelfth speed. In the two cases (a) and (b), the given or adjustable periods of time for which the intermediate speeds achieved are maintained before increasing to a next intermediate speed or to the seventh or twelfth speed can be the same or different. The given or adjustable periods of time can be of different duration or the same duration for the different intermediate speeds.
The control device can also be designed to:
Acquire error data of a fault upstream or downstream of the buffer, for example error data of a further apparatus which may be upstream or downstream of the buffer, analyzing the error data and obtaining control data for controlling the buffer and controlling a fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation on the basis of the control data.
In order to be able to flexibly take into account any faults that may occur before or after the buffer by buffering containers on the buffer belt or buffer belts, the error data and/or control data of the fault are recorded before or after the buffer. By analyzing the error data, control data are obtained which are then used for controlling the buffer and a fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation. During a fault, the fill level of the buffer belt or the buffer belts may deviate from the fill level during normal operation.
If there is a fault upstream of the buffer, the buffer belt or buffer belts may gradually run empty during the fault. In the event of a fault downstream of the buffer, the buffer belt can gradually fill up during the fault.
Therefore, by controlling the fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation, the available buffer time in the event of faults can be adjusted. For example, if it is considered that more faults occur upstream of the buffer, a higher fill level of the buffer conveyor during normal operation can ensure a longer buffer time than a lower fill level. For example, if it is considered that more faults occur downstream of the buffer, a lower fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation can ensure a longer buffer time than a higher fill level.
Another apparatus that can be placed upstream of the buffer can be a filler. The filler can also comprise an inspection, rejection and/or turning device in addition to the filler. A capper can also be provided. In the case of glass containers, a washing apparatus can be provided and in the case of PET containers, a neck sterilizer can be provided.
A further apparatus that can be arranged downstream of the buffer can be an inspection machine or a dry section. Both an inspection machine and a dry section can also be provided. A labeling machine can also be provided. In the case of glass containers, a packer can be provided.
When controlled to a fill level of 30%, also referred to as the first fill level, a fault upstream of the buffer can be buffered by the buffer belt or buffer belts for at least 20, 30, 40, 50 or 60 seconds, and a fault downstream of the buffer can be buffered by the buffer belt or buffer belts for at least 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110 or 120 seconds.
Furthermore, when controlling for a second fill level that is lower than the first fill level, a fault before the buffer can be buffered by the buffer belt or buffer belts for less than 60 seconds and a fault after the buffer can be buffered by the buffer belt or buffer belts for more than 120 seconds.
By providing a lower fill level, for example, it is possible to take account of the fact that more faults have been found to occur downstream of the buffer.
For example, when controlling to a third fill level that is greater than the first fill level, a fault upstream of the buffer can be buffered by the buffer belt or buffer belts for more than 60 seconds and a fault downstream of the buffer can be buffered by the buffer belt or buffer belts for less than 120 seconds.
By providing a higher fill level, it is possible, for example, to take account of the fact that more faults have been found to occur upstream of the buffer.
The terms “first”, “second” and “third” fill level are only used to distinguish between the different fill levels mentioned.
Controlling can arrange the fill level of the buffer conveyor to 30%.
A buffer time for a fault upstream from the buffer can be at least 60 seconds.
It can be provided that a buffer time for a fault downstream from the buffer can be at least 120 seconds.
Alternatively, it can be provided that a first buffer time for a first fault upstream from the buffer can be at least 60 seconds and that a second buffer time for a second fault of a second fault downstream from the buffer can be at least 60 seconds.
The error data may comprise: information that a fault has occurred upstream or downstream of the buffer and/or information on downtimes, including, for example, frequency of faults, fault duration and/or reduced output, and/or information on time dependencies of faults during production, and/or information on ambient pressure and/or ambient temperature and/or time of day during faults, and/or the number of faults upstream and/or downstream of the buffer and/or the number of faults upstream and/or downstream of the buffer that have caused the buffer belt or the buffer belts to run completely empty or completely full, and/or accumulated duration of faults, and/or classified error data.
For example, a classification may take into account why an error occurred and whether it could occur again within a given time frame. If the error could occur again within the given time frame, this can be taken into account for controlling the buffer apparatus within the given time frame. If the error could not occur again within the given time frame, the error does not need to be taken into account for controlling the buffer apparatus.
For example, an error may occur in the dry section if foil is not added in time. The dry section then stops because there is no more foil. Once the foil supply has been replenished, the error has ended and will not occur again within a given time frame, for example one hour, as the foil supply has been replenished.
The control data can be obtained by means of automatic analysis, for example by means of an analysis program and/or machine learning.
A setpoint value for the fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts can be increased or decreased on the basis of the error data and the increased or decreased setpoint value can be used to control the fill level.
Capturing the error data for the fault, analyzing the error data and obtaining control data and controlling the fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation can be performed at regular intervals, for example every 10 seconds to 20 seconds, every 5 minutes to 45 minutes, once per hour, once per day or once per week, on the basis of the control data.
It can also be provided that only the error data of the fault are captured at regular intervals, for example every 10 seconds to 20 seconds, every 5 minutes to 45 minutes, once per hour, once per day or once per week. Analyzing the error data, obtaining control data and controlling the fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation on the basis of the control data are not carried out, for example, directly after the error data relating to the fault are captured at regular intervals.
Alternatively, it may be provided that capturing the error data relating to the fault and analyzing the error data and obtaining control data can be performed at regular intervals, for example every 10 seconds to 20 seconds, every 5 minutes to 45 minutes, once per hour, once per day or once per week. Controlling the fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation, performed on the basis of the control data, for example, is not directly linked to the regular capturing of error data relating to the fault, analysis of the error data and obtaining of control data.
Controlling the fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation on the basis of the control data can be performed after capturing the error data relating to the fault and analyzing the error data and obtaining control data.
Controlling the fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation of the filling line on the basis of the control data can occur: after exceeding a first given maximum number of faults upstream and/or downstream of the buffer and/or after exceeding a second given maximum number of faults upstream and/or downstream of the buffer that have caused the buffer belt or buffer belts to run completely empty or completely full.
The fill level of the buffer belt or buffer belts during normal operation can be controlled using the control data after a given maximum number of accumulated fault durations of faults before and/or after the buffer belt have been exceeded.
The container feed apparatus comprises a single-track infeed conveyor that can be driven in the third direction and is designed to convey containers in the third direction. Further, the container feed apparatus comprises a first group of several first conveyors arranged in parallel adjacent to the single-track infeed conveyor, wherein the former can be driven in the third direction and are designed to convey containers in the third direction, and a second group of several second conveyors arranged in parallel adjacent to the first group of several first conveyors arranged in parallel, wherein the former can be driven in the first direction and are designed to convey containers in the first direction. The containers can be discharged from the second group of several parallel second conveyors transversely to the first direction in the second direction to the buffer.
The containers can include glass bottles, PET bottles and/or cans. Also included are screw-top jars for food as well as food or tin cans.
The single-track infeed conveyor can be regarded as an infeed to the first group. The first group can comprise a number of n>1 first conveyors, for example n=3. The first (n=1) of the first conveyors can be arranged adjacent to the single-track infeed conveyor, the second (n=2) of the first conveyors can be arranged adjacent to the first (n=1) of the first conveyors and the third (n=3) of the first conveyors can be arranged adjacent to the second (n=2) of the first conveyors.
The second group can comprise a number of m>1 second conveyors, for example m=3 (the number of conveyors in the first and second group can also be different). The first (m=1) of the second conveyors can be arranged adjacent to the third (n=3) of the first conveyors, the second (m=2) of the second conveyors can be arranged adjacent to the first (m=1) of the second conveyors and the third (m=3) of the second conveyors can be arranged adjacent to the second (m=2) of the second conveyors and the buffer.
Parallel can mean that between the single-track infeed conveyor and/or the conveyors and/or a conveyor and the buffer, a distance can be provided that can be smaller than the diameter of a container, or a transfer plate with a width that can be smaller than the diameter of a container.
The first group can summarily describe the several first conveyors that can be driven in the first direction. The multiple first conveyors can be designed to be individually drivable. Drive speeds can be controlled by means of a control device, which can be included in the container feed apparatus. The drive speeds can be the same or different for the several first conveyors. The first conveyors can each comprise a transport surface, wherein the transport surfaces can be coplanar. The same applies to the second group, which can summarily describe the several second conveyors that can be driven in the first direction.
Downstream of the buffer, the container discharge apparatus can comprise a first group of several first conveyors arranged in parallel, which can be driven in a first direction transverse to the second direction of the buffer and are designed to separate containers and convey them in the first direction. Further, the container discharge apparatus comprises, following in parallel the first group of several first conveyors arranged in parallel, a second group of several second conveyors arranged in parallel, which can be driven in a third direction and are designed to convey the separated containers in the third direction, and one or more third conveyors, whose number is smaller than the number of second conveyors, wherein the third conveyor or conveyors is/are designed to transport away the separated containers.
By providing conveyors arranged in parallel which are arranged transversely to the buffer and which are also used to separate the containers, a compact design and thus a saving of space can be achieved.
The terms “first”, “second”, “third” or “fourth” are merely used to differentiate, but are not otherwise to be understood as further limiting.
A buffer apparatus comprises a container cleaning apparatus, a buffer downstream of the container cleaning apparatus and a container discharge apparatus downstream of the buffer, wherein the container cleaning apparatus is designed to transport containers in a first direction. The buffer comprises a drivable buffer belt or several drivable buffer belts arranged in parallel, each of which is designed to transport containers in a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction extend in the same direction. The container discharge apparatus is designed to discharge and separate containers from the buffer in a third direction, which is transverse to the first and second directions. Features of the container discharge apparatus may correspond to the examples and embodiments of the container discharge apparatus as described above and below. The first direction mentioned there in connection with the container discharge apparatus is then a fourth direction (to distinguish it from the first direction of the container cleaning device), wherein the fourth direction may be opposite to the third direction. Properties of the buffer may correspond to the examples and embodiments of the buffer as described above and below.
The drivable buffer belt can be further designed or the several drivable buffer belts arranged in parallel can each be further designed to transport containers in a fourth direction, wherein the second and the fourth direction can be opposite to each other and the third direction can run transversely to the fourth direction. Features of the container discharge apparatus may correspond to the examples and embodiments of the container discharge apparatus as described above and below. The first direction mentioned there in connection with the container discharge apparatus is then a fifth direction (to distinguish it from the first direction of the container cleaning apparatus), wherein the fifth direction may be opposite to the fourth direction. Properties of the buffer may correspond to the examples and embodiments of the buffer as described above and below.
The container cleaning apparatus can be used for reusable glass containers.
The containers can be unpacked from boxes in which they can be transported, for example, and then placed on a mass conveyor belt that can feed the containers to the inlet of a container cleaning apparatus. At the infeed, the containers can be guided into lanes over a fixed width (e.g. 3 to 5 meters) and fed into the container cleaning apparatus, for example by means of bottle carriers.
The accompanying figures show, by way of example, aspects and embodiments of the invention for better understanding and illustration. In the figures:
The container feed 230 is shown in detail in
The container feed apparatus 229 shown in
A first group 240 of several first conveyors arranged in parallel, each of which can be driven in the fourth direction 239, is provided parallel to the single-track infeed conveyor 238. Containers can be conveyed in the fourth direction 239 on the respective transport surfaces of the first conveyors.
Parallel to the first group 240, a second group 233 of several second conveyors arranged in parallel is provided, each of which can be driven in the first direction 234. Containers can be conveyed in the first direction 234 on the respective transport surfaces of the second conveyors. The first and fourth directions 234, 239 are opposite to each other.
Above the transport surfaces of the single-track infeed conveyor 238 and the transport surfaces of the first and second groups 240, 233, railings 243, 244 are provided, which are explained in more detail in connection with
The container discharge apparatus is explained in more detail in
The container discharge apparatus 232 shown in
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 232 comprises, following in parallel the first group 241, a second group 251 of second conveyors arranged in parallel, which can be driven in a second direction 234. The second conveyors are designed such that they can convey the separated containers in the first direction 234.
In addition, the container discharge apparatus 232 here comprises a third conveyor which is designed such that it can transport the separated containers away in the first direction 234.
Above the transport surfaces of the third conveyor and the transport surfaces of the first and second groups 241, 251, railings 245, 246 are provided, which are explained in more detail in connection with
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 1 comprises, following in parallel the first group 4 of the three parallel first conveyors 5, 6, 7, a second group 9 of, here, nine second conveyors 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 arranged in parallel, which can be driven in a second direction 19. The second direction 19 is opposite the first direction 8. The second conveyors 10-18 are designed such that they can convey the separated containers in the second direction 19.
In addition, the container discharge apparatus 1 here comprises three third conveyors 20, 21, 22, which are designed in such a way that they can transport the separated containers away in the second direction 19.
At the beginning of the first conveyors 5-7, a first railing 23 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the first conveyors 5-7, the straight portion of which railing extends transversely to the first conveyors 5-7, with a 90° curve following the straight portion.
Above the transport surfaces, a second railing 24 is provided between the first group 4 and the second group 9, which railing is straight and is designed in such a way that a transition region 25 for containers is provided between the first group 4 and the second group 9. The second railing 24 is connected to the first railing 23.
Above the transport surfaces of three of the second conveyors 10, 11, 12, a third railing 26 is provided which leaves the transition region 25 free and extends to the middle of the third conveyor 21. The third railing 26 is straight and is connected to the second railing 24.
At the end of the three first conveyors 5-7 and at the beginning of the nine second conveyors 10-18, a concave railing 27 is provided above the transport surfaces. Here, the concave railing 27 comprises a curve that describes an angle of 180°.
Following the concave railing 27, a fourth railing 28 is provided, which is initially provided above and to the side of one of the second conveyors 18 and then above three of the second conveyors 16, 17, 18, and extends to the middle of the third conveyor 21.
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 1 comprises a flexible element 29, which is provided at a distance above, i.e., above the transport surfaces, of five of the second conveyors 12-16. In addition, the flexible element 29 extends at a distance above, i.e., above the transport surfaces, of the three third conveyors 20-22. Because the flexible element 29 is provided at a distance above the transport surfaces of five of the second conveyors 12-16, overturned containers and broken containers, for example, can be ejected into a first collecting apparatus 30 which is arranged below the container discharge apparatus 1. Three second conveyors 13-15 of the five second conveyors 12-16 are made shorter than the remaining second conveyors 10-12, 16-18. This ensures access to the first collecting apparatus 30.
A second collecting apparatus 31 can be provided below, next to the middle one of the third conveyors 21 and following one of the third conveyors 22. For example, overturned containers and broken containers can be ejected into the second collecting apparatus 31.
The transport surfaces of the first conveyors 5-7 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of 0° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity, i.e., they run horizontally.
The transport surface of the first conveyor 7 and the transport surface of the second conveyor 10 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions.
The transport surfaces of four of the second conveyors 10-13 (only the second conveyors 10-12 are visible) are arranged in adjacent regions without steps, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of −5° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity. The transport surface of the second conveyor 14 (not visible) encloses an angle of 0° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity. The transport surfaces of four of the second conveyors 15-18 (only the second conveyors 16-18 are visible) are arranged in adjacent regions without steps, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of +5° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity. All transport surfaces of the second conveyors 10-18 are arranged in adjacent regions without steps.
The transport surface of the third conveyor 20 encloses an angle of −5° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity. The transport surface of the third conveyor 21 encloses an angle of 0° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity. The transport surface of the third conveyor 22 encloses an angle of +5° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 33 comprises, following in parallel the first group 34 of the five first conveyors 35-39 arranged in parallel, a second group 41 of, here, six second conveyors 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47 arranged in parallel, which can be driven in a second direction 48. The second direction 48 is opposite to the first direction 40. The second conveyors 42-46 are designed such that they can convey the separated containers in the second direction 47.
In addition, the container discharge apparatus 33 here comprises a third conveyor 49 which is designed such that it can transport the separated containers away in the second direction 48.
At the beginning of the first conveyors 35-39, a first railing 50 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the first conveyors 35-39, the straight portion of which railing extends transversely to the first conveyors 35-39, with a 90° curve following the straight portion.
Above the transport surfaces, a second railing 51 is provided between the first group 34 and the second group 41, which railing is straight and is designed in such a way that a transition region 52 for containers is provided between the first group 34 and the second group 41. The second railing 51 is connected to the first railing 50.
A third railing 53 is provided above the transport surfaces of the second conveyors 42-47, which railing leaves the transition region 52 free and extends to the third conveyor 49. The third railing 53 is straight and is connected to the second railing 51.
At the end of the five first conveyors 35-39 and at the beginning of three of the six second conveyors 42-44, a concave railing 54 is provided above the transport surfaces. Here, the concave railing 54 comprises a curve that describes an angle of 180°.
The transport surfaces of the first conveyors 35-39 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of −10° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the first conveyor 39 and the transport surface of the second conveyor 42 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions.
The transport surfaces of the second conveyors 42-47 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of +5° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the third conveyor 49 encloses an angle of +5° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
Optionally, the container discharge apparatus 33 can comprise a flexible element 56 arranged in a region between the second conveyor 47 and the third conveyor 49. A first collecting apparatus 57 can be provided parallel below and next to the third conveyor 49. A second collecting apparatus 58 can be provided arranged partly below the end of the second conveyors 42-44.
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 59 comprises, following in parallel the first group 60, a second group 67 of, here, six second conveyors 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73 arranged in parallel, which can be driven in a second direction 74. The second direction 74 is opposite the first direction 66. The second conveyors 68-73 are designed such that they can convey the separated containers in the second direction 74.
In addition, the container discharge apparatus 59 here comprises a third conveyor 75 which is designed such that it can transport the separated containers away in the second direction 74.
At the beginning of the first conveyors 61-65, a first railing 76 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the first conveyors 61-65, the straight portion of which railing extends transversely to the first conveyors 61-65, with a 90° curve following the straight portion.
Above the transport surfaces, a second railing 77 is provided between the first group 60 and the second group 67, which railing is straight and designed in such a way that there is a transition region for containers between the first group 60 and the second group 67. The second railing 77 is connected to the first railing 76.
A third railing 78 is provided above the transport surfaces of the second conveyors 68-73, which railing leaves the transition region free and extends to the third conveyor 75. The third railing 78 is straight and is connected to the second railing 77.
At the end of the five first conveyors 61-65 and at the beginning of four of the six second conveyors 68-71, a first concave railing 79 is provided above the transport surfaces. Here, the first concave railing 79 comprises a curve that describes an angle of 180°.
The transition region is divided by a second concave railing 80 into a first partial transition region 82 and a second partial transition region 83, wherein the second concave railing 80 is arranged above three of the first conveyors 63, 64, 65 and two of the second conveyors 68, 69. The second concave railing 80 is triangularly tapered on the surface 81 opposite the concave surface. Following the end of the second concave railing 80, which is located above the second conveyor 69, a fourth railing 84 is provided which extends parallel to the third railing 78 and up to the second conveyor 72.
The transport surfaces of the first conveyors 61-65 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of 0° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the first conveyor 65 and the transport surface of the second conveyor 68 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions.
The transport surfaces of the second conveyors 68-73 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of +15° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the third conveyor 75 encloses an angle of +15° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
Optionally, the container discharge apparatus 59 can comprise a flexible element 86, which is arranged partially above the second conveyor 73 and the third conveyor 75. A first collecting apparatus 87 can be provided parallel below and next to the third conveyor 75. A second collecting apparatus 88 can be provided arranged partly below the end of the second conveyors 68-71.
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 89 comprises, following in parallel the first group 90, a second group 96 of, here, four second conveyors 97, 98, 99, 100 arranged in parallel, which can be driven in a second direction 101. The second direction 101 is opposite the first direction 95. The second conveyors 97-100 are designed such that they can convey the separated containers in the second direction 101.
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 89 comprises, following in parallel the first group 96, a third group 102 of, here, three third conveyors 103, 104, 105 arranged in parallel, which can be driven in the first direction 95. The third conveyors 103-105 are designed in such a way that they can convey the separated containers in the first direction 95.
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 89 comprises a fourth conveyor 106, which is designed such that it can transport away the separated containers in the first direction 95.
At the beginning of the first conveyors 91-94, a first railing 107 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the first conveyors 91-94, the straight portion of which railing extends transversely to the first conveyors 91-94, with a 90° curve following the straight portion.
Above the transport surfaces, a second railing 108 is provided between the first group 90 and the second group 96, which railing is straight and is designed such that there is a first transition region 109 for containers between the first group 90 and the second group 96. The second railing 108 is connected to the first railing 107.
A third railing 110 is provided above the transport surfaces of the second conveyors 97-100, which railing leaves the first transition region 109 free and extends to the second conveyor 98. The third railing 110 is straight and is connected to the second railing 108. A first concave railing 111 is provided downstream of the third railing 110. Here, the concave railing 111 comprises a curve that describes an angle of 180°. The concave railing 111 extends to the third conveyor 105.
At the end of the first conveyors 91-94 and at the beginning of three of the second conveyors 97-99, a second concave railing 112 is provided above the transport surfaces. Here, the second concave railing 112 comprises a curve that describes an angle of 180°.
At the beginning of the second conveyors 97-100, a first railing 113 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the second conveyors 97-100, the straight portion of which railing extends transversely to the second conveyors 97-100, with a 90° curve following the straight portion.
Above the transport surfaces, a fifth railing 114 is provided between the second group 96 and the third group 102, which railing is straight and is designed such that there is a second transition region 115 for containers between the second group 96 and the third group 102. The fifth railing 114 is connected to the fourth railing 113.
Above the transport surfaces of the third conveyors 103-105, a fifth railing 116 is provided, which leaves the second transition region 115 free and extends to the fourth conveyor 106. The fifth railing 116 is straight and is connected to the fourth railing 114.
The transport surfaces of the first conveyors 91-94 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of 0° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the first conveyor 94 and the transport surface of the second conveyor 97 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions.
The transport surfaces of the second conveyors 97-100 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of +10° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the second conveyor 100 and the transport surface of the third conveyor 103 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions.
The transport surfaces of the third conveyors 103-105 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of +10° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the third conveyor 105 and the transport surface of the fourth conveyor 106 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions.
The transport surface of the fourth conveyor 106 encloses an angle of +10° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
At the end of the second conveyors 97-100, the containers 117 jostle and as a result, and due to the second concave railing 112, reach the second transition region 115 and move towards the third conveyors 9103-105, by which they are moved in the first direction 95. Due to the fifth railing 116 and the transport in the first direction 95 by the third conveyors 103-105, the containers 117 are transported towards the fourth conveyor 106.
Optionally, the container discharge apparatus 89 can include a flexible element 118 arranged in a region between the third conveyor 105 and the fourth conveyor 106. A first collecting apparatus 119 can be provided parallel below and next to the fourth conveyor 106. A second collecting apparatus 120 can be provided arranged partly below the end of the second conveyors 97-100 and of the third conveyors 103-105.
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 121 comprises, following in parallel the first group 122, a second group 128 of, here, eight second conveyors 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136 arranged in parallel which can be driven in a second direction 137. The second direction 137 is opposite to the first direction 127. The second conveyors 129-136 are designed such that they can convey the separated containers in the second direction 137.
In addition, the container discharge apparatus 121 comprises, following the second conveyors 129-136, a first roller belt 138 arranged transversely thereto and, following the first roller belt 138, a second roller belt 139, also arranged transversely to the second conveyors 129-136. Following the second roller belt 139, there is arranged a third conveyor 140, which can be driven in the second direction 137 and which is designed such that it can transport away the separated containers in the second direction 137.
At the beginning of the first conveyors 123-126, a first railing 141 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the first conveyors 123-126, the straight portion of which railing extends transversely to the first conveyors 123-126, with a 90° curve following the straight portion.
Above the transport surfaces, a second railing 142 is provided between the first group 122 and the second group 128, which railing is straight and is designed in such a way that a transition region 143 for containers is provided between the first group 122 and the second group 128. The second railing 142 is connected to the first railing 141.
A third railing 144 is provided above the transport surfaces of the first roller belt 138, which third railing is oriented obliquely over the one half of the first roller belt 138 and extends up to the second roller belt 139. The third railing 144 is straight and is connected to the second railing 142.
At the end of the first conveyors 123-126 and at the beginning of the second conveyors 129-136, a concave railing 145 is provided above the transport surfaces. Here, the concave railing 145 comprises a curve that describes an angle of 180°. Following the concave railing 145, a fourth railing 146 is arranged above and next to the second conveyor 136, which railing runs parallel to the second conveyor 136 and is straight. Following the fourth railing 146, there is arranged a fifth railing 147 which is oriented above the transport surfaces of the second roller belt 139 at an angle, over two-thirds of the second roller belt 139, and extends to above the third conveyor 140. Following the fifth railing 147, there is provided a sixth railing 148 which extends above the third conveyor 140 and is arranged parallel to the second railing 142.
In addition, a flexible element 150 is arranged above the transport surface of the second roller belt 139 in the region accessible for containers to be discharged and separated, which element is designed to be movable at one end about a pivot point 149.
The transport surfaces of the first conveyors 123-126 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of −5° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the first conveyor 126 and the transport surface of the second conveyor 129 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions.
The transport surfaces of the second conveyors 129-1367 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of 0° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surfaces of the first roller belt 138, the second roller belt 139, and the third conveyor 140 enclose an angle of −15° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
Optionally, the container discharge apparatus 121 can comprise a first collecting apparatus 152 below the end of the second roller belt. In addition, a second collecting apparatus 153 can be provided below the third conveyor 140, towards the first conveyors 123-126.
Furthermore, the container discharge apparatus 154 comprises, following in parallel the first group 155, a second group 161 of, here, seven second conveyors 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168 arranged in parallel and which can be driven in a second direction 169. The second direction 169 is opposite to the first direction 160. The second conveyors 162-168 are designed such that they can convey the separated containers in the second direction 169.
In addition, the container discharge apparatus 154 here comprises a third conveyor 170 which is designed such that it can transport the separated containers away in the second direction 169.
At the beginning of the first conveyors 156-159, a first railing 171 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the first conveyors 156-159, the straight portion of which railing extends transversely to the first conveyors 156-159, with a 90° curve following the straight portion.
Above the transport surfaces, a second railing 172 is provided between the first group 155 and the second group 161, which railing is straight and is designed in such a way that a transition region 177 for containers is provided between the first group 155 and the second group 161. The second rail 172 is connected to the first rail 171. Following the second railing 172, above the transport surfaces of the second conveyors 162-166, there is arranged a convex railing 173, which is straight and is designed such that the transition region 177 for containers is provided between the first group 155 and the second group 161.
In addition, a curved railing 174 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the second conveyors 162-165, which railing is connected to the second railing 172. Following the curved railing 174, a third railing 175 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the second conveyor 165. The third railing is straight.
At the end of the first conveyors 156-159 and at the beginning of the second conveyors 162-168, a concave railing 176 is provided above the transport surfaces. Here, the concave railing 176 comprises a curve that describes an angle of 180°. Following the concave railing 176, a fourth railing 178 is provided which runs above and to the side of the third conveyor 170.
In addition, a flexible element 179 is arranged above the transport surfaces of the second conveyors 162-168 and the third conveyor 170, which element is designed to be movable at one end about a pivot point 180.
The transport surfaces of the first conveyors 156-159 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of −15° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the first conveyor 159 and the transport surface of the second conveyor 162 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions.
The transport surfaces of the second conveyors 162-168 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions, and the individual transport surfaces enclose an angle of −30° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity.
The transport surface of the third conveyor 170 encloses an angle of −30° with a plane perpendicular to the direction of action of gravity. The transport surface of the second conveyor 168 and the transport surface of the third conveyor 170 are arranged without steps in adjacent regions.
Optionally, the container discharge apparatus 154 can comprise a first collecting device 183 which can be arranged below the region between the second railing 172 and the third railing 175. A second collecting apparatus 184 can be arranged partly below the beginning of the second conveyors 162-168. A third collecting apparatus 185 can be arranged partly below and to the side of the third conveyor 170.
The container feed apparatus 186 comprises a single-track infeed conveyor 187, which can be driven in a first direction 201 and can, for example, convey containers transported on its transport surface in the first direction.
A first group 193 of several first conveyors 188, 189, 190, 191, 192 arranged in parallel is provided parallel to the single-track infeed conveyor 187, each of which can be driven in the first direction 201. Containers can be conveyed in the first direction 201 on the respective transport surfaces of the first conveyors 188-192.
Following in parallel to the first group 193, a second group 199 of second conveyors 194, 195, 196, 197, 198 arranged in parallel is provided, which can be driven in a second direction 202. Containers can be conveyed in the second direction 202 on the respective transport surfaces of the second conveyors 194-198. The first and second directions 201, 202 are opposite to each other.
A railing 211 with five deflectors 212 is arranged above a transport surface of the single-track infeed conveyor 187 and the transport surfaces of the first and second of the first conveyors 188, 189. This railing 211 merges above the transportation surface of the end of the second of the first conveyors 189 into a concave railing 213, which is provided above the transportation surfaces at the end of the second, third, fourth and fifth of the first conveyors 189-192 and at the beginning of the first to fifth of the second conveyors 194-198. Here, the concave railing 213 comprises a curve that describes an angle of 180°.
Above the transport surfaces of the first and second group 193, 199, a straight railing 215 is provided between the first group 193 and the second group 199, which is designed in such a way that a transition region 216 for containers is provided between the first group 193 and the second group 199. Above the transportation surfaces of the first and second groups 193, 199 between the first group 193 and the second group 199 can mean above and between the transportation surface of the last of the first conveyors 192 and the first of the second conveyors 194.
The transition region 216, viewed along the first or second direction 201, 202, has a length 219 whose value is greater by a factor of 1.8 to 3 than a value of a conveying width 220, 221 of the first or second group 193, 199.
A railing 217 with two steps 218 is provided above the transport surfaces of the several parallel second conveyors 194-198, which leaves the transition area 216 free for the containers. The straight railing 215 merges into the railing 217 with the two steps 218.
Above the transport surfaces of the several parallel first conveyors 188-192, a further straight railing 224 is arranged, which extends from the single-track infeed conveyor 187 to the straight railing 217.
The containers can be discharged from the second group 199 by several second conveyors 194-198 arranged in parallel transversely to the second direction 202 in the direction 207 towards the buffer 203. For example, the containers can be discharged from the fifth of the second conveyors 198 transversely to the second direction 202 in the direction 207 towards the buffer 203.
A discharge region 204 (indicated by the hatching), in which the containers can be discharged from the fifth of the second conveyors 198 transversely to the second direction 202 in the direction 207 to the buffer 203, has a length 205 which is at least twice as large as a conveying width 206 of the container feed apparatus 186. The conveyor width 206 is made up of the sum of the conveyor widths 220, 221 of the single-track infeed conveyor 187, the first conveyors 188-192 and the second conveyors 194-198.
The drive speeds of the single-track infeed conveyor 187, the first conveyors 188-192 and the second conveyors 194-198 can be controlled individually by means of a control device (not shown). The mathematical amount of drive speeds starting from the single-track infeed conveyor 187 to the several parallel arranged first conveyors 188-192 can decrease in each case, the mathematical amount of drive speeds of the several parallel arranged second conveyors 194-198 can first increase and then decrease again.
A mathematical amount of a drive speed of the buffer 203 in the direction 207 may be the smallest.
In the second embodiment of the container feed apparatus 210, a further single-track infeed conveyor 200 is provided parallel downstream of the second group 199 of several second conveyors 194-198 arranged in parallel. Several further single-track infeed conveyors can also be provided next to each other, which connect to the second group. The further single-track infeed conveyor 200 is drivable in the first direction 201 and is designed to convey containers in the first direction 201, for example on a transport surface. Containers from the further single-track infeed conveyor 200 can be discharged transversely to the first direction 202 in the direction 207 to the buffer 203. The same applies if several additional single-track infeed conveyors are provided.
The further single-track infeed conveyor 200 comprises a feed length section 208 (indicated by the hatching), along which the containers can be fed from the further single-track infeed conveyor 200 to the buffer 203. The feed length region 208 has a length 209 that is at least twice as great as a conveyor width 228 of the container feed apparatus 210. The same applies if several additional single-track infeed conveyors are provided.
This conveyor width 228 is made up of the sum of the conveyor widths of the single-track infeed conveyor 187, the first conveyors 188-192, the second conveyors 194-198 and the further single-track infeed conveyor 200 or the several further single-track infeed conveyors. The conveyor widths can be measured perpendicular to the first or second direction.
The length 209 of the feed length portion 208 may be measured along the first or second direction 201, 202. The infeed length portion 208 extends along a portion of the transport surface of the further single-track infeed conveyor 200. Since the length 209 of the feed length section 208 is at least twice as large as the conveying width 228 of the container feed apparatus 210, the containers can be delivered to the buffer 203 without a high back pressure forming between the containers.
Above the transport surface at the end of the further single-track infeed conveyor 200, a further concave railing 214 is provided, which comprises a 90° bend. The further concave railing 214 merges into the concave railing 213.
Due to the further concave railing 214, containers that are discharged from the further single-track infeed conveyor 200 to the buffer 203 can also be easily discharged into an area of the buffer 203 that is opposite the end of the further single-track infeed conveyor 200 (in the illustration, the right-hand corner area of the buffer 203).
The railing 211 with the deflectors 212, the concave railing 213, the straight railing 215, the railing 217 with the steps 218 and the further straight railing 224 are also inclined and form an angle with a plane 227 perpendicular to the direction of action 223 of gravity, which can lie in a range from 0.5° to 14° (including range limits), or for example an angle from 0.5° to 11°, or for example an angle from 0.5° to 8°.
The transport surfaces are arranged coplanar in a plane 226. The plane 226 includes an angle 222 with a plane 227 perpendicular to the direction of action 223 of gravity, which can lie in a range from 0.5° to 14° (range limits included), or for example an angle from 0.5° to 11°, or for example an angle from 0.5° to 8°.
The railing 211 with the deflectors 212, the concave railing 213, the straight railing 215, the railing 217 with the steps 218, the further straight railing 224 and the further concave railing 214 are also arranged in an inclined manner and form an angle with a plane 227 perpendicular to the direction of action 223 of gravity, which can lie in a range from 0.5° to 14° (range limits included), or for example an angle from 0.5° to 11°, or for example an angle from 0.5° to 8°.
After the occurrence of a fault downstream of the buffer 231 at the time t1, it may be necessary to buffer containers on the buffer belt 235. For this purpose, normal operation of buffer 231 is switched to buffer operation of buffer 231. The buffer belt 235 is decelerated from 8 m/min in the first direction 236 continuously or substantially continuously to 0 m/min and accelerated again to 3 m/min in the second direction 237. The acceleration can take place in stages. The buffer belt 235 is thus driven backwards and can transport containers located on the buffer belt 235 back to a starting region of the buffer belt 235, where these containers can come closer to and contact other containers supplied by the container feed apparatus 230.
The speed of the buffer belt 235 of 3 m/min in the second direction 237 is maintained until that container on the buffer belt 235 that is arranged furthest from the container feed apparatus 230 contacts a container following on from the container feed apparatus 230. The speed of the buffer belt of 3 m/min in the second direction 237 is then increased to a speed of 1 m/min in the first direction 236.
In
The speed of 1 m/min is maintained as long as the fault exists and the buffer belt 235 is not completely or substantially not completely filled with containers.
The fault is remedied at the time t2. There is then a switch from buffer operation to normal operation of the buffer 231.
The speed of the buffer belt 235 is increased incrementally over several, in each case higher, intermediate speeds of 1 m/min to 8 m/min in the first direction 236. In the illustration, the intermediate speeds are approximately 1.2 m/min, 1.5 m/min, 1.73 m/min, 2.1 m/min, 2.5 m/min, 3 m/min, 3.6 m/min, 4.25 m/min, 5.1 m/min, 6.1 m/min and 7.5 m/min. The durations for which the different intermediate speeds are used in each case are different. In the illustration, the durations are approximately such that a reduction in the filling/occupancy of the buffer belt 235 is linear or substantially linear as a function of time until the filling of the buffer belt 235 corresponds to a filling/occupancy during normal operation, here approximately 15%. This filling of the buffer belt 235 is achieved at the time t3.
The buffer 231 can then be operated again in normal operation, i.e., the buffer belt 235 is driven at a speed of 8 m/min in the first direction 236.
After the occurrence of a fault downstream of the buffer 231 at the time t1, it may be necessary to buffer containers on the buffer belt 235. For this purpose, normal operation of buffer 231 is switched to buffer operation of buffer 231. The buffer belt 235 is decelerated from 8 m/min in the first direction 236 continuously or substantially continuously to 0 m/min and accelerated again to 3 m/min in the second direction 237. The buffer belt 235 is thus driven backwards and can transport containers located on the buffer belt 235 back to a starting region of the buffer belt 235, where these containers can come closer to and contact other containers supplied by the container feed apparatus 230 and possibly come into contact with them.
The speed of the buffer belt 235 of 3 m/min in the second direction 237 is maintained until a container on the buffer belt 235 that is arranged furthest from the container feed apparatus 230 contacts a container following on from the container feed apparatus 230. The speed of the buffer belt 235 of 3 m/min in the second direction 237 is then increased to a speed of 1 m/min in the first direction 236.
This is the case, for example, when approximately 35% of the buffer belt 235 is filled with containers.
The speed of 1 m/min is maintained as long as the fault exists and the buffer belt 235 is not completely or substantially not completely filled with containers.
When the buffer belt 235 is approximately 90% filled, the buffer belt 235 stops (speed 0 m/min) and the container feed apparatus 230 stops (speed 0 m/min).
The fault is remedied at the time t2. The speed of the buffer belt 235 is initially increased to 1.2 m/min in the first direction 236, and the speed of the container feed apparatus 230 is increased to that in normal operation.
The speed of the buffer belt 235 is then increased further incrementally over several, in each case higher, intermediate speeds of 1.2 m/min to 8 m/min in the first direction 236. In the illustration, the intermediate speeds are approximately 1.5 m/min, 1.73 m/min, 2.1 m/min, 2.5 m/min, 3 m/min, 3.6 m/min, 4.25 m/min, 5.1 m/min, 6.1 m/min and 7.5 m/min. The durations for which the speed of 1.2 m/min and the different intermediate speeds are used in each case are different. In the illustration, the durations are approximately such that a reduction in the filling/occupancy of the buffer belt 235 is linear or substantially linear as a function of time until the filling of the buffer belt 235 corresponds to a filling/occupancy during normal operation, here approximately 15%. This filling of the buffer belt 235 is achieved at the time t3.
The buffer 231 can then be operated again in normal operation, i.e., the buffer belt 235 is driven at a speed of 8 m/min in the first direction 236.
The occupancy of the buffer, also known as the fill level of the buffer conveyor, determines the buffer times that are available for errors upstream and downstream of the buffer conveyor. The higher the fill level of the buffer belt in normal operation, the more time is available for buffering in the event of faults upstream of the buffer, but the less time is available in the event of faults downstream of the buffer. The lower the fill level of the buffer belt in normal operation, the more time is available for buffering in the event of faults downstream of the buffer, but the less time is available in the event of faults upstream of the buffer.
The ratio of buffer times for buffering upstream and downstream of the buffer can be adjusted by the fill level in normal operation. For example, the adjustment can be made during operation of the filling line, taking into account faults upstream and/or downstream of the buffer, their frequency, their duration, and/or their correlation with environmental conditions and/or production conditions.
An error in the dry section begins at time tbdry section, approximately 175 seconds, and the error in the dry section ends at time tedry section, approximately 195 seconds. When the fault begins, no more containers are dispensed from the buffer belt to the downstream components and an outfeed downstream of the buffer belt, e.g. the container discharge apparatus, stops. The buffer conveyor begins to buffer containers that are transferred to it, which increases the occupancy of the buffer conveyor. The buffer time here is 60 seconds, for example. After the end of the error in the dry section, the outfeed, the inspection device and the dry section start to operate at 120% of the nominal output. When the buffer conveyor has been reduced to the fill level of the buffer conveyor in normal operation at time tecomplete, dry section, approximately 295 seconds, the outfeed, inspection device and dry section run again at 100% of the nominal output. The pasteurizer operates continuously at 100% of its nominal output.
The buffer time is 60 seconds respectively for the fault upstream of the buffer and for the fault downstream of the buffer, resulting in a total buffer time of 120 seconds.
The fault in the filler ends at time tefiller. As soon as the fault ends, the filler runs at 120% of the nominal output. The main conveyor belt of the pasteurizer transports the containers at 120% of the nominal output. The buffer gradually fills up as no containers are dispensed from the buffer belt due to the ongoing fault in the dry section.
The fault in the dry section ends at time tedry section. After the end of the fault in the dry section, the buffer (incl. e.g. the buffer outfeed), the inspection device and the dry section start to operate at 120% of the nominal output. The fill level of the buffer belt is still a few %, for example 3%, above the fill level in normal operation. At time tecomplete, filler, approximately 135 seconds, the filler is brought back to 100% of the nominal output. At time tecomplete, filler, approximately 148 seconds, the buffer (incl. e.g. the buffer outfeed), the inspection device and the dry section are brought back to 100% of the nominal output. The fill level of the buffer belt has been reduced to such an extent that it corresponds to the fill level in normal operation. The different times at which the output of the filler is brought back to 100% of the nominal output or the output of the dry section is brought back to 100% of the nominal output can result from the design and dimensioning of the buffer belt and the filling line.
In the second period 15, the maximum susceptibility to errors of the filler, i.e. the number of errors occurring in the filler, is also four and the maximum susceptibility to errors of the dry section, i.e. the number of errors occurring in the dry section, is also one, although the duration of the errors in the filler is different to that of the first period 14.
In the third period 16, the maximum susceptibility to errors of the filler and the dry section is one each.
No errors occur in the fourth period 17.
In the fifth period 18, the maximum susceptibility to errors of the filler is one and the maximum susceptibility to errors of the dry section is two.
In the sixth period 19, the maximum susceptibility to errors of the filler, i.e. errors occurring in the filler, is two and the maximum susceptibility to errors of the dry section is four.
At times t1, t2 and t3, the buffer times are adjusted on the basis of the determined susceptibilities to errors by adjusting the fill level of the buffer during normal operation. Since the errors upstream of the buffer predominate in the first period 14, the fill level of the buffer is increased during normal operation. Since the errors upstream and downstream of the buffer are equally frequent in the third period 16, the fill level of the buffer is reduced during normal operation. Since the errors downstream of the buffer predominate in the fifth period 18, the fill level of the buffer is further reduced during normal operation.
The container discharge apparatus was explained in more detail in
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 2021 130 465.2 | Nov 2021 | DE | national |
This application is a 371 National Stage of International Application No. PCT/EP2022/082179, filed Nov. 17, 2022, which claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2021 130 465.2, filed Nov. 22, 2021, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/EP2022/082179 | 11/17/2022 | WO |
