DE202013004057U1 - Container equipment facility - Google Patents

Abstract

Container equipment (5) for printing on containers, having a conveyor system (92, 82, 83, 85, 18) for transporting the containers (7) through the equipment installation (5) along a predetermined transport path, with on the conveyor system (92, 82, 83, 85, 18) arranged receptacles (82, 83, 85) for receiving individual containers 7 or groups of containers, with at least two peripheral equipment devices (2) for equipping the containers (7), wherein a main conveying path 6 of the container (7 ) by the equipment system (5) has a change in direction, wherein at least one equipment device (2) before and an equipment device (2) is arranged after the change in direction, characterized in that the transport path in the region of change of direction has a section which at least partially different Has curvature, as the upstream equipment device (2) and its length at least one fifth of zurückgeleg th path of the container (7) in the upstream equipment device (2), and on which no decoration of the container (7).

Description

The present invention relates to a container equipment for the equipment of containers according to the features of the preambles of the independent claims.

State of the art

Container equipment usually provides information to containers that inform the end user of the contents of the container. Through their graphic design they serve u. a. also the sales promotion. A typical field of application is the food industry, where, for example, a beverage is filled in the containers. In addition to the content information, it may also be necessary to provide perishable food containers with perishable foods. This has been done for a long time by applying printed labels. Recently, however, the developments have also been to dispense with the label material and to print the containers directly. In systems in which the complete equipment is not done in one step, the containers go through several equipment machines, the space for setting up several equipment machines is sometimes very limited. For this purpose direction changes in the main conveying path are necessary in order to be able to realize, for example, a gorget-shaped arrangement of the equipment machines. In addition, with given equipment media or materials (for example, the currently realizable printing speeds are relatively low) and / or container sizes often relatively long treatment times are necessary, resulting in high output rates to large machine diameters. Therefore, it is endeavored to allow a decoration of the container as quickly as possible or over a large part of the scope of the equipment machine.

The object of the invention is in particular to provide a container equipment system which allows flexibility in installation with a high utilization of the possible treatment time in an equipment machine. This object is solved by the independent claims 1 and 2.

Furthermore, methods are shown how the process time can be reduced within a device for printing and / or the available treatment angle can be increased.

description

The invention relates to a container equipment for printing on containers, with a conveyor system for transporting the container through the equipment along a predetermined transport path, arranged on the conveyor system, in particular fixed, recordings for receiving individual containers or groups of containers and at least two rotating equipment for printing on the containers, wherein the equipment devices each have at least one print head for printing the container is arranged.

According to the invention, the equipment system has a plurality of similar modules. Through the use of individual modules, the system can be flexibly adapted to new requirements emerging at the site by easily exchanging, removing or adding individual modules.

The object is achieved in a particular arrangement of the equipment devices by a container equipment for furnishing containers, with a conveyor system for transporting the container through the equipment along a predetermined transport path, arranged on the conveyor system, in particular fixed, recordings for receiving individual containers or Groups of containers, comprising at least two rotating equipment for equipping the containers, wherein a main conveying path of the containers through the equipment system has a change of direction, wherein at least one equipment device before and an equipment after the change of direction is arranged. The transport path in the region of the change in direction in this case has a section which has an at least partially different curvature, such as the upstream equipment device.

According to the invention no decoration of the container takes place on this section and the length of the section is at least one fifth of the distance traveled by the container in the upstream equipment device.

By decoration is meant, for example, a surface printing of the container with pressure medium.

As a result, space can be created through the interposed conveying section without equipment in order to transport the containers to the most favorable entry point of the subsequent equipment device. This may - depending on the design of the conveyor section - Although the total space requirement of the system grow slightly, but this is deliberately accepted to ensure high performance or utilization of the equipment of the container. The conveyor section is compared to won by him Treatment time relatively inexpensive. In particular, the length of the conveying section can amount to at least a quarter or at least a third, or at least half of the transport path of the containers in the upstream equipment device, depending on which angle is to be realized in a main conveying path. In order not to make the conveyor section unnecessarily long, the section has, in particular, a shorter distance traveled by the containers than twice the distance traveled by the containers in an upstream equipment device. Depending on the system design, the distance of the conveyor section may also be longer.

In particular, the conveyor section or the transport path in the direction of change connects an outlet of the upstream in the transport direction equipment with an inlet of the downstream equipment such that the containers from the inlet to the outlet of the upstream equipment and the inlet to the outlet of the downstream equipment a treatment angle of more than 235 °, in particular more than 265 ° is available. For non-rotating equipment, the angles may also be considered as a function of the time or distance of one revolution - for example, the indicated 265 ° would be two hundred and sixty five, three hundred and sixtieth of the orbit or orbit.

The conveyor system transports the containers in the region of the rotating equipment in particular such that the transport path is at least in sections concentric with the circulation path of the equipment.

In particular, the conveying section can also have a different curvature sign. However, if, for example, it provides only a straightforward delivery of the containers, it merely has a different curvature. Furthermore, the container can be transported further away from a conveyor in certain embodiments of the system by the change in curvature, which is arranged in the transport direction in front of the conveyor, which transfers the container to the conveyor section. The curvature of the transport path may also change twice or three times or more on the conveyor section.

In particular, the conveyor section comprises an independent, circulating conveyor, on which a plurality of container receptacles, for example in the form of external grippers, in particular clamps, or the container inside holding holder mandrels, is arranged. This conveyor section may comprise in its entirety, for example, a belt conveyor or a circulating transport star. In particular, the containers are transferred to the receptacles of this conveyor section of the upstream equipment device and passed from the recordings of the conveyor to the downstream equipment device. The recordings then run empty until they are assigned the next container.

The conveyor section can also be two or more independent conveyor, z. B. promotional stars include.

The conveyor system may be directly attached to the equipment devices. Preferably, this is a system similar to that described for the conveyor section - the configuration of the images may, however, differ.

However, it may also be an independent (independent of the equipment devices) conveyor system, with which the containers are transported through the system. For example, it can be a shuttle transport system in which the containers are assigned to individual shuttles or "carriages" which travel on rails to the individual equipment machines. In particular, a plurality of electrical means for driving, in particular magnets, can be attached to the rails, which cooperate with means arranged on the shuttles, in particular permanent magnets, for the individual drive. The conveyor section according to the invention may in this case also comprise a rail instead of a conveyor with own gripping means for the containers.

If the equipment system consists of a multiplicity of continuous transport or equipment stars, the transport path traveled by the containers is substantially meander-shaped, whereby, depending on the design of the conveyor section arranged in the region of the change of direction, linear sections are also provided (eg by the use of a Belt transport) can give. If the conveying section likewise only has continuous transport stars, then the meandering shape is continuous, although the angle ranges passed through in the region of the conveying section can be smaller than those in the area of the equipment devices. The equipment stars with means for equipment arranged thereon can also provide the conveyor system itself by arranging receptacles for conveying the containers to them.

The main conveying path is not formed by every differentially small point of the transported transport route, but by the stations that have passed through as a whole. In the case of a variety lined up, round transport or Ausstattungssternen the main conveyor can be formed by the connection of the individual transfer points of the containers or bottles conveyor to conveyor. Another possibility is the resultant of connecting the centers of several stars.

In particular, at least two equipment devices are provided before and / or after the change of direction. The respective two equipment devices can directly or directly adjoin one another, d. H. that no intermediate conveyor is placed between them. This has the advantage of a very compact design.

The equipment devices are advantageously arranged to one another such that an equipment of the containers along at least two-thirds, in particular at least three quarters, of the total circumference is possible. For continuous equipment, this corresponds to a continuous angle of the circle segment of at least 240 °, in particular of at least 270 °. This can be achieved, for example, by a zigzag arrangement of the equipment devices relative to each other. The zigzag arises from the connection of the individual centers (axes of rotation) of the rotary. Theoretically, in this setup, a treatment angle of almost 300 ° is possible in this way, but depending on the size of the containers to be treated, a distance for their transport must be allowed past each other when the equipment devices are in the same plane.

The equipment devices are, in particular, devices for direct printing on the container outer surfaces, in particular on the side surfaces along the circumference of the containers. For this purpose, several print heads can be present per equipment device, which apply pressure medium to the container outer surface. The printing medium can be ink, paint, varnish or the like, in particular UV-curable ink. In particular, the print heads have a plurality of individually controllable nozzles and operate on the inkjet principle.

Furthermore, the printheads may be movably mounted on the equipment devices. In particular, it is possible that individual printheads accompany the containers during the entire circulation and thus circulate regularly. In the case of a transport system mounted on the equipment, then the printheads will run in synchronism therewith.

It may also be possible for individual printheads to accompany the containers only during part of the way through the equipment. In particular, the printheads are then moved back into their initial position against the accompaniment direction, but it would also be conceivable that they slow down or stop for a short time and accompany the next container briefly along a further portion of the circumference. Thus, there is virtually an intermittent circulation.

All of these variants can be carried out with a cyclic or continuous container transport.

It is also thought of a motor or manual adjustment of the printheads to the outer contours of the bottles. The adjustment can take place in a bottle format change, for example by reading CAD or image data of the new bottle but also by measuring the new bottle by means of a sensor or a camera. The motors could also be approached by hand to the new contours of the bottles and stored this setting so that they can be used again when printing the same bottles, so if they are used again in a time-lag behind production cycle. In particular, a height (in the vertical direction) of the print heads and / or an angle of attack can be adjusted via the motors. The angle of attack is in the plane formed by the machine rotation axis and the circumferential position of the print head on the equipment. Also, an angle of attack can be adjustable, which lies in the horizontal plane. This angle can change the resolution of the print image, especially if the print heads are provided with a plurality of nozzle rows which extend along the print head longitudinal axis. The printhead longitudinal axis is usually the one along which most of the nozzles of the printhead are located. In particular, the print head longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the transport plane when printing cylindrical containers that are being transported upright. Furthermore, a drive for linear adjustment of the print heads may be present, with which a distance of the print head is changed to the container, in particular parallel to the container transport plane, in particular in the horizontal direction. The printheads can also be adjusted in a vertical direction.

Based on the containers to be printed, the print heads can also be moved along the container longitudinal axis adjustable or even during printing. Alternatively, the containers can also be moved along their longitudinal axis.

Preferably, some equipment devices are direct printing modules, which essentially differ from one another only in that different colors and / or print motifs are applied to the containers with them.

Alternatively or additionally, other printing techniques such as screen printing or pad printing can also be used.

Likewise, at least one equipment device can also be formed by a labeling machine, in particular by one which applies stretchable, tubular labels to the containers.

As a device for equipment can also serve a labeling machine which attaches labels made of paper or plastic to the container from the side. For example, self-adhesive labels can also be used here, in particular in the "no-label look".

Furthermore, the container equipment system can also have independent modules for curing or crosslinking of UV-curable colors (pinning). Such a module has at least one UV lamp, which is directed to at least the area to which the ink is applied. For sterilization purposes, this area can also be extended or it is an additional UV lamp mounted in the mouth of the container, which sterilizes them. It is also intended to a retractable into the container UV lamp to harden the externally applied ink from the inside and at the same time to sterilize the inner wall of the container. The inward retractable UV lamp is mounted in particular co-rotating on a module. The UV lamps which treat an outside of the containers may also be co-rotating lamps, but it is also possible to make this module an enclosure in the form of a fixed tunnel fitted with UV lamps fixedly attached thereto , The embodiments mentioned in this paragraph can also find application in the conveyor section according to the invention.

In general, in the conveying section according to the invention, an intermediate treatment of the container can certainly take place, for example an intermediate pinning of the printing ink or an application of a best-before date. In particular, the funds are fixed in comparison to the sponsor.

Alternatively or additionally, curing and / or sterilization can also take place in the equipment modules. Alternatively or additionally, curing and / or sterilization may also take place in a station which is spatially spaced apart (for example by more than one meter) from the modules. In this way, a better shielding of the UV radiation can be made so that the least possible UV light strikes the print heads. In addition, sterilization with liquid or gaseous sterilization medium, such as hydrogen peroxide, could be carried out in the station, which is introduced into the container via a nozzle.

As an equipment module, a coating of the container with an adhesive may be upstream of the printing modules, for example, with which an adhesive layer is applied to the container on which in turn the ink is applied, the adhesion between the container and the adhesive layer is smaller than the adhesion between Adhesive layer and the printing medium. In particular, the adhesive layer is such that it can be detached from alkali. This is especially needed for recycling, where the ink is to be separated from the container material.

The containers are in particular PET bottles, in particular PET disposable bottles.

It is also possible to provide means for pretreating the containers, for example a plasma treatment device with which a thin silicon oxide layer is applied to the container outer or inner surface for improving the barrier properties. Also possible as a pretreatment unit is a container cleaning unit, a conditioning unit, in particular configured for drying and / or tempering the containers, a surface activation unit, in particular configured to increase the surface energy of the container surface, and / or an electrostatic unit for electrostatic discharge or charge the container surface.

The use of the mentioned pretreatment units or combinations thereof is essentially dependent on the customer requirements. In principle, the units can also be integrated into a modular concept of container-printing devices. These modules can be equipped with the same means of transport as the printing modules.

In general, a modular concept for the printing modules and / or pretreatment units is characterized in that further modules can be easily added or removed retrospectively. One point for this can be a uniform transfer of the containers between the modules. Also, a uniform size of the modules, in particular a uniform diameter at continuous modules, can provide an advantage in a modular concept in the installation to each other. It is also thought that each module also rotates at the same peripheral speed. It may also be advantageous that a container transfer between the modules takes place directly, ie without further interposed conveyor.

In a direct transfer between two modules in which the container receptacle a centering placed on a container mouth in the upper region of the container and the container is supported from below in the bottom area by another recording, in particular by a turntable, a direct transfer to another Module be made such that in addition to at least one module, a clamp is arranged, which at least temporarily record the container from the side or can hold - especially in neck handling (in the mouth of the container containers are usually not printed, so here could the clip also stay in constant operation).

It would also be possible to grasp the container in the body region with the clip, here it may be advantageous if the clip can be moved away at the moment of printing or treatment to release the container outer surface. This could then represent a sub-element of an enclosure (see below). The same applies to an above-mentioned Neckhandlingklammer if the container is to be printed in the area of its mouth yet.

The centering heads and the bottom receptacles of the transferring module can be moved so far apart, in particular in the vertical direction, for the transfer of the containers that the centering heads and the bottom receptacles of the receiving module intervene therebetween. After moving apart, the container is held only by the clip of the transferring module until the centering heads and the bottom receptacles of the receiving module are engaged with the container. Alternatively, brackets can also be arranged on the transferring and receiving module, which grip the containers, for example, alternately above a transport ring and below this ring. However, the centering heads and the bottom receptacles of at least one module would still have to be moved apart as just described.

Alternatively, one could make the clip (in its entirety) movable, ie telescopic / extendable or pivotable. This could, for example, "drive out" the container from the module subcircuit before the moment of transfer and transfer it to the next module (either to a clamp there or directly to the centering heads there and to the bottom receptacles). In this way, the stroke of the centering heads and / or the bottom seats would be smaller. Swinging or placing the staples toward the adjacent treatment position of one or both carousels would also be an option. For this purpose, the treatment positions of the receiving and transferring carousel can be offset by half a pitch to each other, so that the respective centering heads and the bottom seats of the two carousels mesh with each other - like two gears. By swiveling away or placing the clamps toward the adjacent treatment position at the transferring carousel by preferably a half pitch, a transfer to the receiving carousel could take place in which either a clamp takes over the container or directly the respective centering heads and the bottom receptacles. In this way, a very space-saving installation can be realized.

In particular, a continuous transport of the containers or the container groups takes place in the equipment system at least temporarily and at least in regions.

To each container can be positioned during printing a protection or the aforementioned housing, which is substantially sleeve-shaped. The protection can also be formed by a plurality of elements, wherein one element is fixed with respect to the carousel or the turntable and another element for removing the container from the protection is arranged movable. With it can be prevented that too much pressure mist is distributed in the machine. In particular, a suction is attached to the protection. The protection avoids in particular air turbulence. In particular, when a clip for holding the container is part of the guard, it has a seal with the clip at the locations where the clip must be moved to grip the container. As a seal, for example bellows, but also brushes can be used. In particular, the areas of protection have a recess for the movement of the clip.

The already mentioned turntables for rotating the containers during a treatment (in particular in the printing) are in particular connected to servomotors, which can set the respective desired rotational position of the container relatively accurately. For a more precise adjustment of the rotational position, a rotary encoder can also be arranged on the turntable or at least outside the housing of the turntable drive. In particular, it is arranged closer to the container to be printed as the housing of the drive. It would also be conceivable To provide a part of the shaft with a larger diameter and there to install the rotary encoder. The latter and the mounting on the turntable (the turntable usually has a larger circumference than the shaft of the servomotor) have the advantage that more increments along the circumference of the rotating part can be arranged and thus a rotational position can be detected more accurately. In particular, the encoder detects differently magnetized regions of the wave to be detected, but in certain embodiments it could also work optically. The encoder could also detect the rotational position of the container itself by optical means. Here it would be conceivable to inject reference marks into the container contour and / or to impress and / or inject and / or inject (into the preform, preferably not at the parts which are included in the stretch blow-molding process (eg the mouth)). Precise positioning is particularly important when using multiple modules when colors must be brought together to a specific position on the container. If slight tolerances occur here, these can add up and the quality of the pressure suffers all the more. In particular, in the equipment machine directly after the conveyor section according to the invention, a precise positioning can be very useful.

It may also be present on at least one equipment device, in particular on a module, a rotary encoder, with which the rotational position of the equipment device is detected. The detected values are in particular forwarded to a controller and serve to control the print heads or nozzles and / or the turntables.

In particular, it is also possible to connect the drives of the turntable motors with a controller, which is connected to another input with a camera (or the above-mentioned sensor, which detects a reference mark on the container). With a camera, it is possible to determine the current rotational position of a container before or at the beginning of an equipment module. The determined rotational position is evaluated by the controller and compared with a desired value which specifies in which rotational position an equipment or a pressure of the container should begin. The container is then rotated by the respective angular difference from actual to desired. Such a camera can sit in front of or on each individual equipment device, but in particular at least at the beginning of the installation, in particular also after or at the end of the conveyor section, at which no decoration of the containers takes place.

If a rotational position of a container in the transfer of an equipment to the next equipment by a form or friction, so to speak mechanically, can be ensured - for example, by using a slave running with the container or by a very precise transfer - so it is possible that the container between the equipment devices does not have to be aligned. Alignment prior to entry into the equipment installation may, for example, be done by camera or by maintaining the rotational orientation if the equipment installation is preceded by a blow molding machine. In the last possibility, the rotational position of the containers is predetermined in a blow mold by the analysis of the containers on the blow molding wall.

However, it should be noted that even if an orientation of the containers is predetermined, additional verification of the diameter will not do any harm, because it may vary widely depending on the manufacturing process of the containers. The check can also be done with a - preferably the same - camera. Depending on the diameter, a printing original can be matched to each individual container in the subsequent printing process, in which the original is scaled at least in the circumferential direction.

Depending on the angle which occupies a print image on the containers in the circumferential direction, a particular direct transfer of the container from one printing module to the next printing module can be carried out with or without reorienting the container. In the case of all-around circumferential pressure, the pressure could begin with a different color at a different rotational position along the circumference than the pressure in the upstream equipment module has ended or begun. In particular, the pressure of the downstream module may begin at a different angular range with respect to the container circumference than the pressure in the upstream module has commenced and / or ended. In particular, the region can be more than 5 ° away from one of the two ends. For example, if the printheads within the subcircuit of both modules passed through by the containers and the nozzles of the printhead fire the color in the radial direction outward on the container, the printhead of a downstream module is exactly offset by 180 ° compared to the printhead of the upstream module in relation to the container. In that case, the beginning of the printing of the downstream module could be offset by 180 ° from the print-forming end of the upstream module. An alignment could then be dispensed with and process time is gained.

This would also be conceivable if the pressure extends only 270 ° along the container circumference. Here then 90 ° (or 180 ° (depending on the direction of rotation)) of the In the following module, then skip 90 ° and finally print the remaining 90 ° (or 180 °). A similar principle can be used if the master is interrupted several times along the circumference, or if there are different masters for different angles - comparable to a back label and a torso or chest label.

Depending on the control of the printing process, the containers can also be rotated in the downstream module to the beginning or end of a pressure of the upstream module and the printing of the next color only started there. It would thus be conceivable, in principle, to align the container before or in a pressure module before the beginning of the pressure in such a way that the pressure begins at the same rotational position as in the upstream module. This is particularly advantageous if only a part of a circumference of a container to be printed. It is also intended to continue the pressure in the downstream module at the edge (end) of the pressure of the upstream module, which can be positioned faster (by the smaller angle of rotation) to the printhead of the downstream module upon handover by rotation of the container In other words, in the downstream module, the pressure is started at the edge which, after the takeover of the container in the circumferential direction, is closer to the position of the printhead of the receiving module. Thus it may be that the direction of rotation of the container changes about its longitudinal axis during the printing processes of two adjacent modules. This has the particular advantage that the time required for the rotation can be kept very small, which in turn has advantages with respect to the size of the equipment devices.

The rotational position of the container can also be changed during or after the transfer from one module to the next such that a pressure basically begins at the same position and the direction of rotation of the container about its longitudinal axis on each module is the same.

In general, if a change in the orientation of the container is desired in the downstream printing module, this can also be done already in the upstream printing module. This can also be regulated depending on the required process angles of the modules. If, for example, less color (lower resolution of one color, less angular range in which this color is needed) is required for printing the artwork in the upstream module than in the downstream module, the alignment can already take place in the upstream module. Generally speaking, the location (the module) where alignment of the containers takes place is predetermined based on the process time required in each module. This can be done automatically by detecting the artwork or manually set. The alignment can also be done in two steps by the container is rotated on the upstream module only a part of the required rotation angle after printing and on the subsequent module, the rest.

In principle, all of these scenarios for finding the correct position on adjacent equipment devices would also be possible with a conveyor system mounted therebetween - for example when a transport star is interposed. Also, this transport star could partially or completely take on the task of alignment.

A machine guard can also be arranged around the device for equipping the containers, the machine guard having two openings for introducing the containers and for dispensing the containers. Within this machine protection, a suction may be present, which sucks any resulting pressure mist - this may be particularly attached to the two openings. Also, a device for the entry of air may be present, with which (in spite of the suction) an overpressure within the machine protection can be generated, so that no dust particles from the outside reach the area of the print heads. The machine protection starts in particular before the first printing module. If a unit is provided for cleaning or surface treatment of the containers, these are at least partially housed within the shelter. This machine protection is to be seen separately from each container individually assigned protection (enclosure), which can be additionally present.

The individual printing modules can either be driven by a gearbox and a common main drive or have their own motors. The first variant is cheaper, but depending on the gearbox, inaccuracies may occur. The second variant can be configured such that each printing module has a direct drive, which means that the drive drives the carousel of the printing module without interposing a transmission. For example, this could be a magnetically acting drive with stator and rotor, with the stator is arranged on the stationary machine frame and the rotor on the rotating part. In particular, the stator and / or the rotor can extend only over a partial segment of the circumference of the module, which is in particular smaller than 90 °. There may also be two such opposite sub-segments.

In particular, the conveying section, in which no decoration of the container takes place, is connected via a transmission to a pressure module.

In particular, the conveyor section, in which no decoration of the container takes place, so scheduled that this is near a wall at the site (hall at the customer), due to the change of direction in the main conveyor is necessary.

In particular, at least two modules can be firmly connected to each other, so for example have a common frame and other modules are added separately. In particular, the modules are firmly connected to each other, which are present in virtually every printing press configuration. These are in particular the direct printing modules, which each apply a color to the container. The colors may be, for example, magenta, cyan, yellow, white or black.

• a) Eingabe eines Behälters in ein Druckmodul
• b) Ausrichten des Behälters am Anfang des Druckmoduls, insbesondere auf eine Markierung am Behälter oder Sklaven
• c) Durchfahren des Druckmoduls, insbesondere entlang eines Teilkreises, bei gleichzeitiger Drehung des Behälters um seine Längsachse, um eine Relativbewegung zum Druckkopf zu erzeugen, und Drucken der Druckvorlage auf die Außenoberfläche des Behälters von einer Anfangskante bis zu einer Endkante, insbesondere in Umfangsrichtung des Behälters
• d) Stoppen des Druckvorgangs und Übergabe des Behälters an ein nachfolgendes Druckmodul
• e) Ausrichten des Behälters, so dass sich die Anfangskante vor einem Druckkopf des nachfolgenden Druckmoduls befindet und Wiederholung des Schritts c)
• f) Drehen des Behälters während des Drucks in der gleichen Richtung in beiden Druckmodulen

If a partial image to be applied is to begin at an end edge of a previously applied partial image and the partial images are not all-round prints (<= 359 °), the following two methods are basically possible:

• a) input of a container in a printing module
• b) aligning the container at the beginning of the printing module, in particular to a mark on the container or slave
• c) traversing the printing module, in particular along a pitch circle, while rotating the container about its longitudinal axis to produce a relative movement to the print head, and printing the artwork on the outer surface of the container from an initial edge to an end edge, in particular in the circumferential direction of the container
• d) stopping the printing process and transferring the container to a subsequent printing module
• e) aligning the container so that the leading edge is in front of a printhead of the subsequent printing module and repeating step c)
• f) turning the container during printing in the same direction in both printing modules

• a) Eingabe eines Behälters in ein Druckmodul
• b) Ausrichten des Behälters am Anfang des Druckmoduls, insbesondere auf eine Markierung am Behälter oder Sklaven
• c) Durchfahren des Druckmoduls, insbesondere entlang eines Teilkreises, bei gleichzeitiger Drehung des Behälters um seine Längsachse, um eine Relativbewegung zum Druckkopf zu erzeugen, und Drucken der Druckvorlage auf die Außenoberfläche des Behälters von einer Anfangskante bis zu einer Endkante, insbesondere in Umfangsrichtung des Behälters
• d) Stoppen des Druckvorgangs und Übergabe des Behälters an ein nachfolgendes Druckmodul
• e) Ausrichten des Behälters, so dass sich die Endkante vor einem Druckkopf des nachfolgenden Druckmoduls befindet und Wiederholung des Schritts c)
• f) Drehen des Behälters während des Drucks in unterschiedlichen Richtungen in den beiden Druckmodulen

The other method comprises the following steps:

• a) input of a container in a printing module
• b) aligning the container at the beginning of the printing module, in particular to a mark on the container or slave
• c) traversing the printing module, in particular along a pitch circle, while rotating the container about its longitudinal axis to produce a relative movement to the print head, and printing the artwork on the outer surface of the container from an initial edge to an end edge, in particular in the circumferential direction of the container
• d) stopping the printing process and transferring the container to a subsequent printing module
• e) aligning the container so that the end edge is in front of a printhead of the subsequent printing module and repeating step c)
• f) rotating the container during printing in different directions in the two printing modules

These steps in these two methods can eliminate at least a "skip" of a non-printable area during printing within a module if the print is continuous in that area. The partial printing images overlap, in particular completely, so that the respective starting and ending edges are present at the same circumferential position. In particular, the containers are rotated to the respective edge by the shorter angle. The alignment is also possible at least partially in the upstream module.

Particularly advantageous examples of methods with spaced start and end edges, which ensure a short period of time for the orientation of the container and thus also solve the object set out above, are the following:
The invention relates to a method for printing on containers, in which a container of at least two circulating modules, at which at least temporarily circulating print heads are arranged, is provided with one partial print image per module, the containers being transferred directly from one module to the next and wherein the partial printing images in each case in the circumferential direction of the container have a spaced-apart start and end edge, wherein the container after completion of the first partial print image is aligned so that the print head of the following module begins the printing of the next partial print image at the beginning edge of the first partial print image.

Include here the partial pressure images in each case 180 ° on the container circumference, so no coarse alignment is necessary.

It is also possible to realize a method for printing on containers, in which a container of at least two circulating modules, on which at least temporarily co-rotating printheads are arranged, is provided with one partial image per module, wherein the container via an intermediate conveyor of a Module to be transferred to the next and wherein the partial printing images each in the circumferential direction of the container a spaced start and Having end edge, wherein the container after completion of the first partial print image is aligned such that the print head of the following module begins the printing of the next partial print image at the end edge of the first partial print image.

The distance between the beginning and end edge is in particular more than 10.

In particular, no further coarse alignment of the container takes place between completion of the first partial print image and the beginning of the printing of the second partial print image.

The following procedure is suitable for the purposes just mentioned as well as for a 360 ° wrap around:
Method for printing on containers, in which a container of at least two circulating modules, on which at least temporarily co-rotating printheads are arranged, each equipped with a partial image per module, wherein the containers are transferred from one module to the next directly or with an intermediate conveyor and wherein the partial printing images each have a beginning and an end edge in the circumferential direction of the container, wherein the container after the completion of the first partial print image remains aligned so that the printing of the second partial print image starts with the print head of the following module at a circumferential position of the container Distance from the beginning and end edge of the first partial print image has.

The beginning edge and the end edge respectively mean the beginning or the end of a (partial) printed image in the circumferential direction of the container.

If you still want to align the container for applying a partial print image to an edge, the container is preferably rotated so that the following partial printing starts on the edge closest to the next print head. In summary, one can say:
Method for printing on containers, in which a container of at least two circulating modules, on which at least temporarily co-rotating printheads are arranged, each equipped with a partial image per module, wherein the containers are transferred from one module to the next directly or with an intermediate conveyor and wherein the partial printing images each have a beginning and an end edge in the circumferential direction of the container, wherein the container after the completion of the first partial print image is aligned so that the beginning of the second partial image with the print head of the following module at the edge closest to the print head of the following module starts.

If one wishes to start with a subsequent pressure always on the starting edge of the preceding pressure, it is advantageous if the container is rotated in the direction in which an angle of the starting edge to be covered is smaller. Thus, a maximum of 180 ° must be turned. If one is flexible in the choice of the beginning of the following partial pressure (on the beginning or end edge), the path is on average even shorter.

In particular, all methods are performed by a control device which controls the processes. In particular, a calculation is also performed by the controller as to which directions of rotation of the containers are most favorable. However, these values can also be specified manually.

In principle, the methods can also be used in container printing machines, which are not necessarily designed as modules, but have a rotating about a vertical axis rotary with several distributed on the periphery printing stations, in which the containers are transported in addition in a direction perpendicular to the orbital plane and thereby In particular, at least two, arranged in different planes printheads are passed. The print heads are arranged in particular stationary with respect to the rotary. Before this the containers are turned. In principle, however, the relative movement can also be performed by rotating the print heads about a plane parallel to the orbital plane. As an alternative to the arrangement of the at least two print heads in two different planes, all print heads can also be arranged in a circle in a plane. There are also two such circles in different levels possible.

The object mentioned in the introduction is achieved in this embodiment, it is determined which edge of the container directly after completion of the first partial print image has the lowest possible angle of rotation to the circumferential position of the second print head or to a device for drying or curing the print medium of the first partial image and the container over this angle is turned.

It is also possible that reorientation of the containers occurs during the period in which the container is moved from a first vertical position on the rotary to a second vertical position.

If two printheads print immediately (with the exception of UV intermediate pinning) on the container and these are arranged in one plane, the methods described in the modular structure described steps are performed analogously when the printheads are opposed within the circle. If the at least two print heads are not facing each other, but are, for example, offset by 120 ° within the circle, then this angle is considered analogously.

In the first printhead plane in this case a first partial print image is applied to the container, in the second plane a second. By simultaneously moving the containers in the vertical direction and rotating the container about its longitudinal axis, process time can be saved. In particular, in the case of a print image, the container is aligned between the two planes if it does not extend over the entire circumference of the container and the print heads are not located exactly at the angle to each other which the image occupies. However, reorientation may also be necessary if two printheads arranged in different planes and to be used directly one after the other do not have exactly the same orientation and radial distance to the machine axis of rotation or to the vertical path of movement of the containers - in other words, if the printhead in the second level has a different circumferential position with respect to the container. The latter also applies to a wrap-around printing.

In particular, the container is then - as in the method above - rotated to the nearest edge.

On the way to the next level, a UV curing can take place, either by means of a arranged between the two print head planes full-scale UV tunnel, which is tubular, or via a arranged in between the two print head planes UV lamp, which only one Circumferential position can illuminate the container. In the second variant, it is necessary to rotate the container in front of the UV lamp once at least over the circumferential angle, which also occupies the partial image on the container. Alignment may be analogous to alignment with a subsequent printhead. In the tube version, the container can be rotated directly to the new print start edge by the shortest angle, since all sides of the container can be irradiated simultaneously.

If a UV pinning is carried out according to the second variant between two printing levels, it may behave in accordance with the rotation of the container on the printed edges analogous to approaching a printing plane.

However, it would also be conceivable to carry out the UV pinning in another plane, which lies below or above the two printing planes or in the printing plane.

In general, the following procedure can be carried out:
A container is successively printed by at least two, at least temporarily with a carousel rotating printheads and each print head is a partial print image applied. The partial printing images each have a beginning and an end edge in the circumferential direction of the container.

The two printheads
or
a print head and a device for drying or curing the print medium are arranged offset in the circumferential direction of the container. It is determined which edge of the container directly after completion of the first partial print image has the lowest possible angle of rotation to the circumferential position of the second print head or to a device for drying or curing the print medium of the first partial image and the container is rotated over this angle.

In this case, it is particularly advantageous that the printheads and / or the device for drying or curing the printing medium, in addition to the circumferential offset with respect to the container, have a height offset in the vertical direction to each other, wherein the container successively and gradually the planes in which these elements are arranged, passed through, and on the transport path between two levels for the next step, in particular completely, is aligned.

figure description

In the following, embodiments of the invention and their advantages with reference to the accompanying figures will be explained in more detail. The proportions of the individual elements to one another in the figures do not always correspond to the actual size ratios, since some shapes are simplified and other shapes are shown enlarged in relation to other elements for better illustration. The position sign 2 generally represents the modules 2.1 . 2.2 . 2.3 etc and if the reference numbers 1.1 . 1.2 . 3 . 4 are also designed as modules, including these.

1 shows a schematic plan view of an equipment device

2 shows a schematic plan view of a preferred embodiment of an equipment device

3 shows a schematic plan view of a preferred embodiment of an equipment device

4 shows a schematic plan view of a preferred embodiment of an equipment device

5 shows a schematic plan view of a preferred embodiment of an equipment device

6 shows in a plan view schematically different procedures between two direct printing modules

7 shows a sectional view of two direct printing modules

8th shows a sectional view of a direct printing machine

9a to 9c show variants of a bottle rotation

1 shows a stove 100 for heating preforms made of PET, which after heating via an input starter in a continuously rotating stretch blow molding machine 200 be handed over. This has at its periphery a plurality of blowing stations, by means of which the preforms are first stretched by means of a stretch rod and blown through a blow nozzle, then finished by high pressure against the inner wall of an openable blow mold. Subsequently, the finished shaped container with a sampling star 120 to a device 5 to provide containers.

The container equipment 5 includes several modules 2 , which are placed directly next to each other. 1.1 denotes a module in which a surface treatment, in particular a cleaning of the container takes place. 1.2 indicates a module in which a coating is applied to the containers. 2.1 indicates a module in which one or more print heads are arranged and with which the color white is applied to the container outer surface. 2.2 indicates a module in which one or more print heads are arranged and with which the color yellow is applied to the container outer surface. 2.3 indicates a module in which one or more print heads are arranged and with which the color magenta is applied to the container outer surface. 2.4 denotes a module in which one or more print heads are arranged and with which the color cyan is applied to the container outer surface. 2.5 indicates a module in which one or more print heads are arranged and with which the color black is applied to the container outer surface. 2.6 indicates a module in which one or more printheads are arranged and with which a special color can be applied to the container outer surface, which can only be made poorly by a combination of the other colors, such. B. Gold, will. 4 denotes a module in which one or more UV radiation emitters are mounted and in which the previously applied printing inks are dried. The modules 1.1 . 1.2 2.1 and 2.2 are set up in a zig-zag. The module 2.3 no longer falls under this pattern, since this has been set up so that the container is on a wall 10 can be bypassed. Through this lineup is in the module 2.2 a shorter treatment time or a shorter treatment angle 53 given as in the module 2.1 , reference numeral 52 refers to the treatment angle of the module 2.1 ,

The colors can also be applied in a different order, for example black first, then cyan, then magenta, then yellow and finally white.

After the passage of the container equipment 5 The containers are transported via further funding to a filling machine in which they are filled with a drink. Subsequently, the containers are closed by a capper by means of a closure.

In 2 was compared to 1 an additional transport star 3 placed between module 2.2 and module 2.3 was inserted. On this transport star (conveyor section), the containers are transported without being equipped. In this way, in the alley arrangement of the individual modules 2 the container equipment 5 a consistently large treatment angle can be achieved. On the transport star 3 the containers are transported by means not shown in detail brackets - especially in neck handling. The transport star 3 is larger in diameter than the printing modules 2 , To overcome smaller angles in the area of the change in direction of the main conveying path, the transport star 3 also smaller than the print modules 2 , The angle of change of direction shown here is approx. 180 °. It can also be seen that the conveying path of the container in the transport star 3 is shorter than the distance covered by the holding elements of the transport star.

It can also be seen that the curvature of the transport path of conveyors 2.2 to conveyors 3 changed. On the conveyor 2.2 the containers are transported - seen from above - in a counterclockwise direction and on the conveyor 3 in the Clockwise. On the conveyor 3 downstream conveyor 2.3 the transport direction is again counterclockwise. Here, therefore, the curvature has changed.

In 3 became the transport star 3 out 2 through a belt conveyor 3a replaced. The transport belt is stretched around two encircling stars not provided with position markings. On the belt a plurality of retaining elements such as brackets or mandrels is arranged. It can be seen that the belt conveyor 3a as a direction-changing element of the main conveyor in the direction of the bottom floor of the main conveyor way still requires less space than the transport star 3 , Also with this belt conveyor 3a the delivery path of the containers is shorter than the path taken by the holding elements of the belt conveyor 3a cover empty. Instead of the belt, a chain can also be used.

The curvature of the transport path changes here during the passage of the container conveyor 3 twice. It can be seen that the containers are still in the area of the belt spanning the stars, which have a different curvature than the linear area in between, both at the takeover and at the transfer.

Furthermore, in 3 to realize that around the device a protection 12 which shields individual modules from the environment. The enema in the shelter 12 is located at a pretreatment star 1.1 , the spout is after the last print module 2.5 and before the UV drying 4 arranged. The conveyor 3a is also inside the shelter. In addition, there is also a variant 13 of protection with dashed lines. This ends the protection 13 not within the equipment 5 but is consistently up to a filling and sealing area, not shown. This is particularly advantageous if the containers or preforms sterilization - for example, has taken place with UV irradiation. To prevent that no additional contaminations reach the container walls. For this purpose, an overpressure of about 3-30 Pa can be maintained within the protection. Furthermore, also suction can 14 be present to prevent the pressure mist from being dragged or dust in the protection 12 becomes. The suction 14 For example, they can be arranged in an inlet area. Furthermore, there are exhausts above each individual pressure module 2 appropriate. position mark 15 indicates an insufflation by means of clean, in particular germ-free, air, in order to be able to maintain the overpressure. The protective measures are also applicable to the other embodiments. The UV treatment star 4 is additionally enclosed by a separate protection, so that no UV radiation can penetrate into its environment.

In 4 is the main promotion route 6 the container shown. One recognizes the lane form with the lane soil existing on the left side. The change of direction is here essentially 180 °. But there are also direction changes of, for example, 90 ° conceivable. If there is no change of direction, it could also be on the conveyor 3 . 3a be waived.

5 illustrates a variant with a rail transport system 18 on which a variety of shuttles run along. The individual modules 2 with the elements for treating the containers also run around here constantly about a central axis of rotation. The shuttles on the transport system 18 are suitable for receiving one or more containers. Again, there is a linear conveyor section, with which the treatment time in the modules can be increased at the change of direction. The shuttles with the containers on top are here in the range of the individual modules 2 at the same angular velocity about the module axis of rotation as the modules 2 rotate. It can also be a cyclic transport of the shuttles with a simultaneous cyclic rotation of the modules 2 be done.

An advantage of this system is that no complicated handovers of a container must be made, but the containers are constantly added to lying on the shuttle support member. The holding element is in particular rotatable to the relative movement of the container surface to the printheads of the modules 2 during the printing process.

position mark 19 Features a return route of shuttles to the start of the track system 18 at position 1.1 , The containers, after passing through the container equipment, are moved to another transport system by position 4 to hand over. It would also be conceivable to let the shuttle transport go to a filler or capper. It is also thought, the shuttle transport continuously from the blowing device 200 or the oven 100 to be held.

The 6a to 6g show examples of the container rotation on two consecutive mounted printing modules 2 , The container is with position mark 7 provided, the area to be printed on the container 7 is bold and with position number 8th characterized. The printheads running in this case 9 are directed in particular perpendicular to the container outer wall and point from the central axis of the modules 2 radially outward. Per module 2 is just a printhead 9 drawn, however is a variety of printheads 9 on a module 2 arranged at equidistant intervals, which with the module 2 preferably rotate continuously in the direction of rotation. You can see snapshots of a single container in each figure 7 with a single associated printhead 9 ,

In all 6a to 6g become the containers 7 to the left module 2.3 supplied from above, run in this along its circumference about 270 ° to the counterclockwise, are printed with a color of a multi-color print image and are then to the right module 2.4 with which a second color is applied to the container outer surface and in which they are clockwise (exception: 6e ) are transported on.

In the 6a to 6f becomes a container 7 only provided along a part of its circumference with a printed image, in 6g with a wrap-around print. The rotation of the container 7 about its longitudinal axis is hereinafter referred to in relation to the relative movement of the container 7 to the rotating module 2 portrayed.

In 6a it can be seen that the container 7 clockwise during printing while being transported counterclockwise along the circumference of the module. In the left position in the left module, the print is already half finished. Approximately after half of a complete cycle of the module 2.3 , So after about 180 ° (in the lower position), the partial print image is completely applied in a first color. Now the container can 7 even before the handover to the next module 2.4 be brought into the correct orientation. This is in the left module 2.3 to be seen in the lower right position. The container 7 is further rotated clockwise until the beginning edge of the first partial print image back to the printhead of the first module 2.3 facing (right position of the left module). The end edge of the first partial print image is at the transfer to the next module 2.4 the printhead associated with the next module 9 facing, so this printhead 9 begins its printing at the end edge of the first partial print image. The container 7 will now be in the next module 2.4 transported in a counterclockwise direction while turning clockwise around its axis during printing. For realignment, the container must 7 be rotated by its recording (turntable) relative to the carousel on further rotation in the same direction by 180 °.

In 6b the steps until the completion of the first partial print image are identical to 6a , After its completion (left module, position below) the rotation is stopped. Due to the fact that the partial print image extends exactly over 180 ° along the container circumference, the beginning edge of the first partial print image is located at the transfer to the next module 2.4 exactly at the position in which they are the printhead 9 of the next module 2.4 is facing. The print can start immediately at the edge in the next module 2.4 to be continued. The direction of rotation of the container 7 (clockwise) is retained in the next module. Here you can see how treatment time can be gained in principle. But it can also be beneficial to the container 7 as in 6a shown by default continue to rotate in the same direction until the first leading edge of the printhead 9 of the next module 2.4 is facing.

In 6c the steps until the completion of the first partial print image are identical to 6a , only the printed image extends in a circumference of 90 °. After its completion (left module, position below), the direction of rotation to the orientation of the container 7 maintained. It is used for printing in the next module in the direction in which it was rotated during printing 2.4 aligned in such a way that the printing of the next partial image begins with a different color at the same point (starting edge) at which the first partial printing also started. At a print image of 90 ° along the circumference of the container 7 In this way, only one turn to align 90 ° is necessary. If you wanted to start printing on the end edge of the first partial pressure in the next module, you would need a rotation of 180 °.

The same time savings will be in 6d reached, in which the printed image extends 270 ° along the container circumference. Here, the recording is controlled so that after completion of the first partial image, the direction of rotation of the container 7 changed to the orientation for the next module. Since only 90 ° rotation is required to align with the start edge, this variant is selected.

It can be seen from these examples that it is always cheaper in terms of process time, if the initial edge of a first applied partial print image also corresponds to the beginning edge of the next partial print image.

In other words, the container 7 can be aligned faster in a rotational position in which the printhead 9 of the next module is located at an edge of the first sub-print, when the leading edge of the first sub-print image is oriented to correspond to the print head 9 of the next module 2.4 is facing. However, this only applies to a direct transfer between two modules 2 ,

Should, as in 6e , an intermediate conveyor 3 between two modules 2 be arranged in which no alignment takes place, so it is best if the container 7 right after the Completion remains aligned so that the end edge on the printhead 9 is aligned. By the intermediate conveyor, the end edge is automatically the printhead 9 of the next module 2.4 facing. If the next partial pressure in this case to start on the starting edge of the previous partial pressure, so it is best to the container 7 rotate at a print image of greater than 180 ° counter to the direction of rotation, which was taken in the previous partial pressure and the container 7 continue to rotate in the printing direction of rotation of the first partial image when the print image is smaller than 180 °.

If an alignment in the intermediate conveyor 3 can take place, it is the cheapest, this also in the intermediate conveyor 3 perform. This could be done immediately with an intermediate drying or curing, in relation to fixed UV lamps anyway a rotation of the container 7 must be completed around its longitudinal axis, around the entire circumference of the container 7 to turn to the UV lamps (not shown). Here also a horizontal UV tunnel could be used.

With two intermediary intermediate conveyors (not shown), the same conditions apply as in the situation of the 6a to 6d ,

In 6f is shown that an orientation of the container 7 on the printheads of the following module 2.4 partly on the previous module 2.3 and partly on the following module 2.4 can be done - depending on how much process time on the previous module 2.3 is available. The pressure in the following module 2.4 (right) starts in the upper left position (at half past 11 o'clock). The container 7 could therefore be completely aligned only in the module for the pressure in which it should take place. In particular, this can be flexibly adjusted or even regulated via a controller, depending on the print original and / or container.

In 6g the special case is shown, in which a (overlap as possible) all-round pressure on the container 7 is applied. The orientation could also according to the examples according to the 6a to 6f take place - but is shown an embodiment in which the container 7 when transferring from a module 2.3 to another 2.4 is not aligned at all (when a print is to be aligned to surface features (eg bumps or panels), a one-time alignment is required before entering a first module 2.1 already necessary). The beginning edge of the printed image, which is in Modul 2.3 is applied with a nose 8a characterized. It will be in the upstream module 2.3 the whole available treatment angle and the container exploited 7 no longer aligned. The container 7 is passed so that the opposite side of the container 7 to the beginning and end edge 8a the first partial print the printhead 9 of the next module 2.4 is facing. There, the pressure in the middle of the partial print image of the previous module 2.3 began. In other words, the two start and end edges of two partial print images are at a distance from each other. The distance is in particular greater than 5 °, in the case shown it is 180 °.

In 7 is the transfer situation of a container 7 between two modules 2.3 and 2.4 shown. Only one half of a module is shown at a time. The upper part of a module 2 is by means of ball slewing connectors 88 rotatably mounted. On a middle column shown halfway 92 is right next to the ball pivot connection of the runners 90 a magnetic direct drive attached. The stator 89 is fixed to the frame 93 connected on a hall floor 93a stands. The rotatable column also provides the ink supply to a print head via a rotary distributor, not shown 9 ready. This one is over lead 91 with a supply channel inside the column 92 connected. The printhead 9 is exactly like the turntable 85 , the drive for the turntable 87 , a gripper 82 for the containers 7 and a centering head 83 for the containers 7 mounted on the rotating part. The centering head 83 is via a magnetically acting linear drive with rotor 81 and stator 80 height-adjustable. The turntable 85 and his drive 87 is via a magnetically acting linear drive with rotor 86 and stator 87 height-adjustable. When driving 87 In particular, it is also a servo drive, which with a sensor 98 for exact rotational position positioning of the containers 7 interacts. The sensor 98 is outside the housing of the servo 87 attached and thus can cooperate with a part of the drive shaft, which has a larger diameter. On the larger diameter more increments can be applied to measure the rotational position. Here are the increments on the turntable 85 self-attached.

To transfer the container from module 2.3 on module 2.4 after printing with the first partial print image and after a possible alignment of the centering moves 83 upwards and the turntable 85 down, leaving the container 7 only from grapple 82 is held. The gripper 82 of the module 2.4 is then by means of linear drive 84 extended and engages at a different location along the longitudinal axis of the container 7 (not shown, preferably alternately the areas above and below a support ring are gripped) and pulls the container 7 to the module 2.4 over and positions the container 7 between the turntable 85 and the centering head 83 of the module 2.4 , Subsequently, these two elements 83 . 85 of the module 2.4 for gripping and turning the container 7 placed on each other and the container 7 will be either still aligned or directly via inkjet printhead 9 printed. Likewise it would be possible that the gripper 82 of the module 2.3 moves out and the tank to module 2.4 passes. It would also be a move out of both grippers 82 conceivable, so that the container 7 in the middle between both modules 2 is handed over.

It would also be conceivable, all shown drives 80 . 81 . 84 . 86 . 93 . 87 to realize as curve control. All combinations are possible.

Also remembered is the gripper 82 to open during printing and turning to avoid friction.

The containers may be round containers but may also be mold containers having a geometric element (for example a nose), by means of which they can be positioned in the individual modules, for example by the centering head 83 or the turntable 85 or the bracket 82 a counter element (for example, a groove), in which the element can engage. To find the position, a relative movement could, for example, between turntable 85 and containers 7 be carried out until a catch occurs. The involved drives 80 . 81 . 84 . 86 . 93 . 87 could be force-controlled for this process. This example is particularly suitable for a first orientation of the container 7 before or at the inlet to the container equipment 5 ,

The gripper claws of the clamps 82 could also have their own drive.

Some elements of this figure are shown for clarity not hatched.

In 8th is another embodiment of a printing device according to the invention 300 to see. This has a carousel, which is continuous around the vertical axis 301 rotates. The not provided with reference numerals elements (drives, sensors, etc.) work analogously to those in the 7 , The bottles are inserted into the carousel between the downwardly driven centering head and the base plate in level E0 and clamped by these elements. Subsequently, the bottle is raised in level E1, where the first partial pressure with the printheads 9.1 and or 9.4 is carried out. Subsequently, the bottle is attached to the annular shields 303 over to UV curing 302 transported in plane E2, where the first partial pressure is dried. Subsequently, the bottle is transported to the plane E3 where the remaining colors for the printed image are applied.

On the planes E1, E2, E3, the bottle is rotated by at least the angle that occupies the printed image on the bottle circumference. Comes with two printheads 9.1 - 9.4 printed per printing plane, the bottle can be briefly moved between the two steps in the UV curing plane and then again in the same printing plane E1, E3. It would also be conceivable to arrange all the print heads in a printing plane like a ring and to apply the methods described in the general part only between E2 and E1. E2 can also be arranged below or above all printing levels. Also, multiple levels may be present for pinning the ink, for example, between levels E3 and E4 and level E2.

After printing, the bottle may either be above all printheads 9 and UV stations 302 be output in level E4 or be returned to the output from the carousel in level E0. E4 would have the advantage that a larger process angle on the carousel could be exploited because an output can almost take place (the centering and the stand plate still need time to return to plane E0) at the same circumferential position of the carousel as the input. Here, in particular, a second pinning plane between E3 and E4 may be present.

During printing, the bottle can 7 stay in one plane as long as she is turned to do so. Shall the bottle 7 be printed over a height which is greater than the length Ld of the printhead 9 so the bottle may be in front of the same printhead 9 take two different positions vertically in succession. Corresponding nozzles that are in a position that has already been printed remain inactive in the second position.

It would also be conceivable that the bottle 7 in relation to the printhead 9 Performs a combined linear and rotary motion and thus spirally on the bottle 7 is printed. To create a straight, horizontal top and bottom edge (OK, UK), the bottle may also stop for a short time. For example, if you start printing at the lower edge of the UK with a wrap-around print, the bottle becomes 7 first of all in front of the printhead 9 turned while she lingers at a height. After that turn on further rotation about the longitudinal axis of the bottle 7 slowly more and more nozzles of the printhead 9 from top to bottom (along the printhead height) while the bottle is being moved up. When the upper edge of the OK is reached, the bottle remains vertical again and only rotates once more through 360 °.

In 9a a variant of the successive rotational movements is shown in which the pressure is about 90 ° of the bottle circumference. In E1, the print just got out of printhead 9.4 finished. On the way to level E2 or E3, the bottle is rotated in the same direction by 90 ° as before, so that it is aligned with the printhead 9.2 or UV lamp 302 arrives with the beginning edge of the first partial print image and can be directly further printed or dried.

In 9b the bottle is in the same starting position after completion in plane E1 as in 9a , In the plane E2 or E3 but then a drying or printing with element 9.5 occur. Therefore, the original direction of rotation is changed during the application of the first partial image and the end edge of the first partial image is rotated back by about 30 ° so that it is in front of the element 9.5 comes to a standstill, with which they will next be printed / irradiated. If the bottle continued to turn, then 330 ° would have to be further rotated, which can cost process time. If in level E3 only printheads are concerned, the ring-shaped arrangement is clearly visible in the lower picture.

9c shows a UV tunnel with a curved curved UV lamp 302 , Instead of the curved lamp, a plurality of individual lamps could also be arranged around the vertical container transport path.

Claims (14)

Container equipment ( 5 ) for printing on containers, with a conveyor system ( 92 . 82 . 83 . 85 . 18 ) for transporting the containers ( 7 ) by the equipment ( 5 ) along a predetermined transport path, with at the conveyor system ( 92 . 82 . 83 . 85 . 18 ) ( 82 . 83 . 85 ) for receiving individual containers 7 or groups of containers with at least two rotating equipment ( 2 ) for equipping the containers ( 7 ), being a main funding route 6 the container ( 7 ) by the equipment ( 5 ) has a change of direction, wherein at least one equipment device ( 2 ) and a fitting device ( 2 ) is arranged after the change of direction, characterized in that the transport path in the region of the change in direction has a portion which has an at least partially different curvature, as the upstream equipment device ( 2 ) and whose length is at least one fifth of the distance traveled by the containers ( 7 ) in the upstream equipment device ( 2 ), and on which no decoration of the container ( 7 ) he follows. Container equipment ( 5 ) for printing on containers, with a conveyor system for transporting the containers ( 7 ) by the equipment ( 5 ) along a predetermined transport path, with at the conveyor system ( 92 . 82 . 83 . 85 . 18 ), in particular fixed, recordings ( 82 . 83 . 85 ) for receiving individual containers ( 7 ) or groups of containers and with at least two rotating equipment ( 2 ) for printing on the containers ( 7 ), with the equipment ( 2 ) at least one printhead ( 9 ) for printing on the containers ( 7 ), characterized in that the equipment ( 5 ) several similar modules ( 2 ) having. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least two equipment devices ( 2 ) are arranged before and / or after the change of direction and the respective two equipment devices ( 2 ) immediately before and / or after the change of direction. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that both in the equipment ( 2 ) before and in the equipment device ( 2 ) after the change of direction one circulation of the containers ( 7 ) along at least two-thirds, in particular at least three quarters, of the total circumference of the respective equipment ( 2 ) is realized. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is in the equipment devices ( 2 ) to substantially identical direct printing modules ( 2 ), on which several print heads ( 9 ) are arranged for direct application of pressure medium on the container outer surface. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims 1, 3 to 5, characterized in that a device for intermediate drying of the pressure medium is arranged in the region of the section. Container equipment facility 5 according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the print heads ( 9 ) with a drive ( 89 . 90 . 86 . 93 ) and they are the containers ( 7 ) over at least part of its transport path through the equipment devices ( 2 ) accompany. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each group of containers or each container ( 7 ) continuously through the equipment devices ( 5 ). Container equipment ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a drive ( 87 ) for rotating the containers ( 7 ) about its longitudinal axis during the Printing process is provided and it is the drive ( 87 ) is in particular a turntable drive with associated servomotor and that each drive is a sensor ( 98 ) for detecting the rotational position of the container ( 7 ) or the drive axle or the turntable ( 85 ), the sensor ( 98 ) outside the range of the drive ( 87 ) is arranged. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the containers ( 7 ) An enclosure is arranged during printing. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that along the periphery of the container equipment ( 2 ) a plurality of equidistant container receptacles ( 82 . 83 . 85 ) is arranged, wherein the container receptacles ( 82 . 83 . 85 ) in particular from a turntable ( 85 ) and a centering head ( 83 ) for at least indirect centering of the container mouth exists. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each container ( 7 ) or any group of containers with a slave for more accurate uptake of the containers ( 7 ) and after the last equipment ( 2 ) of the equipment ( 5 ) means for separating the containers ( 7 ) is arranged by their slaves and for the return of the slaves. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sterilization device ( 4 ) in the field of equipment ( 2 ) or in the area after the equipment ( 2 ) for at least partial sterilization of the containers ( 7 ) is provided with radiation. Container equipment ( 5 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that before the first equipment module ( 2 ) An institution ( 1.1 . 1.2 ) is provided for pretreatment of the container outer surface, in particular for coating the container ( 7 ) with an adhesive layer, which detachment of the printing medium of this adhesive layer or a detachment of the adhesive layer including the pressure medium from the container ( 7 ).

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