EP0861205B1 - Rotary distributor rotating apparatus for the handling of objects, in particular containers, with a revolving joint for the transport of fluid between a support assembly and a rotating assembly - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a rotary device for the treatment of objects, in particular containers such as bottles, in particular for cleaning or / and filling or / and sealing or / and labeling or / and separating or / and sorting or / and aligning the containers or objects, according to the preamble of claim 1. Such a rotary device is disclosed in EP 0 408 851 A.

With such rotary devices, it is often necessary the inside of the cover wall facing the rotor assembly to be cleaned regularly. The cover wall can be act a protective wall against the touch of the rotor, the Protect treatment devices or other components should protect against noise (acoustic protection), the one Should give privacy or protect against pollution should. In the case of protection against pollution, for example the rotor group or the treatment devices be protected against external pollution if, for example the rotary device in a dusty atmosphere stands, or it can be the environment of the rotary device against one caused by the treatment of the objects Pollution are protected. As an example in particular on a rotary device in the form of a Bottle filling device referenced, with the bottles with a Fillers, such as a drink, are filled. It can happen that certain amounts of the filler be splashed during filling. The cover wall prevents then that the environment of the bottle filling device by the Filling agent is contaminated.

In conventional rotary devices of the type mentioned the cover wall and possibly other stationary components the facility previously cleaned manually, for example by Spray off with a hose, provided the cover wall is appropriate Has openings or the rotor assembly only partially encloses. For particularly high demands on the Purity or if the rotor assembly is complete enclosing cover no cleaning openings in this were provided, the cover wall could at least partially to be dismantled for cleaning the cover wall and to enable the other stationary components if necessary.

Against the background of the especially recently intensified Efforts to increase productivity are as described Cleaning options for both beverage filling facilities as well as in general in rotary facilities unsatisfactory for the treatment of objects. In the special case of beverage filling equipment, it is foreseeable that that at least in the long run the described Cleaning options due to increasing in the future Hygiene requirements will no longer be sufficient.

In contrast, it is an object of the invention to provide a rotary device of the type mentioned to provide a simple and reliable cleaning of the cover wall from the inside and possibly other stationary components of the facility. To solve this task, it is proposed that the at least one outflow opening via a rotary connection connected to a stationary cleaning fluid supply and that a pivot connection is provided on the stator assembly anti-twist connection stator and one with the rotor assembly for common rotation connected rotary connection rotor, these two Slewing ring components to each other by axially directed Sliding surfaces are rotatably mounted.

Because at least one outflow opening on the rotor assembly, preferably several outflow openings are provided, the cover wall can be easily and reliably cleaned from the inside become. For this purpose, the cleaning fluid, in particular the Cleaning liquid, via the rotary connection of the least an outflow and fed against the inside of the Cover wall and possibly on the other stationary components headed. The rotor assembly can be turned, so that the detergent covers the entire inside of the cover wall and all other stationary components to be cleaned reached. The rotor assembly can move during cleaning rotate continuously or at certain rotary positions be stopped, for example around particularly dirty Areas of the cover wall or particularly dirty to clean stationary components. The outflow openings are preferably designed as nozzles that a cleaning fluid jet on the cover wall or the others to be cleaned Straighten components. The cleaning fluid can do this to the nozzles supplied at a pressure which is substantially higher than normal pressure be, so that a high pressure cleaning effect like results in a high pressure cleaning device. Act it if the cleaning fluid is steam, for example a steam jet cleaning effect like a Steam jet cleaning device.

In addition to water, cleaning liquids may be used as cleaning liquids Additives, including special liquid cleaning chemicals into consideration. It is understood that after application of a special liquid cleaning chemical if necessary a final cleaning step with water can be used to remove residues of the cleaning chemical remove.

In all cases, cleaning can essentially be done mechanically take place without the cover wall or parts of the cover wall must be removed. The cover wall also does not need Have openings for cleaning purposes, since a manual Cleaning by hosing down with a hose or the like can be omitted. In addition to the at least one at the Rotor assembly arranged spout can also one or more stationary outlets, for example be provided on the cover wall, the machine cleaning enable the rotor assembly.

The invention is particularly advantageous in the case of a beverage filling device, since using the invention have the highest hygiene requirements met. On the inside the cover wall or other stationary components adhering, possibly dried drink can be reliable are removed, using special cleaning chemicals or steam can also be used. If steam is used, so in addition to the cleaning effect, there is also a heat sterilization effect.

The invention offers in particular the possibility of the cleaning operating phases fully automatically at certain intervals perform. Normally, this is the operating mode the rotary device, in particular the bottling plant of Beverage filling device for a respective cleaning operation phase interrupted. However, it cannot be ruled out that in special applications, the operation of the rotary device during the respective cleaning operation phase is continued.

As can be seen from the above, can the invention not only for beverage filling devices or Bottle filling devices are used appropriately. At the rotary device can, as already mentioned mentioned, also for a device for separating or / and Sorting and / or aligning objects, for example Containers such as bottles, or also lids for closing Trade containers. For example, these items (Container or lid) of the rotary device, in particular the rotor assembly in a plurality of objects Groups in which the objects are disordered, be fed. The objects are then in the rotary device isolated, sorted or sorted out if necessary and aligned if necessary. But it is also related to other applications, especially in production and processing technology to think about automatic milling machines, automatic ones Lathes, automatic drilling machines, other automatic Molding machines and the like.

Axial sliding surfaces are relatively easy to machine and in contrast to radial sliding surfaces less strict manufacturing tolerances are possible. It is even preferred that the two pivot connection components have radial play relative to each other. Because then the radial dimensions only relatively rough manufacturing tolerances must be met, the slewing ring can be very can be produced inexpensively. Even when assembling the There are large rotary connections on the rotary device Cost advantages, because here too no particularly strict tolerances must be observed. For example, by the radial play a certain deviation between the axis of rotation of the slewing ring rotor and the axis of rotation of the rotor assembly be balanced, the two axes of rotation need so not be completely coaxial with each other, it is enough when the axes are substantially parallel to each other and have such a distance from each other that this Distance can be compensated by the radial play. This point of view is particularly important if the slewing ring is replaced or when the slewing ring together with the at least one outflow opening (at corresponding Piping or the like) in a conventional one Rotary device is retrofitted.

Separate sealing lips can be used to seal the slewing ring, Sealing rings or the like, in particular adjacent to be provided with the sliding surfaces. Not just for cost reasons but it is particularly advantageous if the sliding surfaces are simultaneously formed as sealing surfaces. Sealing elements such as sealing lips, sealing rings and the like are common Made from materials that are softer and less abrasion resistant are as usual materials of sliding surfaces. Such Sealing elements can therefore wear out over time must then be replaced. According to the preferred Training simultaneously designed as sealing surfaces can be such that they cover the entire Sufficient lifespan of the rotary device Have sealing effect, so that there is less maintenance and Maintenance effort results.

On at least one of the two slewing ring components axially acting adjusting means can be attached to this are suitable, the two rotary connection components in sealing Keep plant relative to each other. The positioning means can be provided a certain abrasion on the Compensate sealing surfaces, so that despite the abrasion Sealing effect is retained. The actuators can also to be provided that the two rotary connection components not constantly in a sealing system relative to each other must be kept. The latter training is then preferred when cleaning the cover wall and possibly the other stationary components only in phases, not always performed during the operation of the rotary device becomes. As the slewing ring rotor mates with the rotor assembly rotates when working, it can lead to heating the sliding surfaces and, if applicable, the entire slewing ring due to the friction occurring between the sliding surfaces come. Such heating can occur in particular if if the sliding surfaces in the sealing system are relative are held to each other.

During a cleaning operation phase (if the fluid flow a certain minimum fluid flow) an excessive one Warming or heating of the sliding surfaces or entire slewing ring avoided by the The heat generated by friction is carried away by the cleaning fluid becomes. In a pure work operation without simultaneous Cleaning operation phase is such a removal of Frictional heat from the cleaning fluid is not possible. are the sliding surfaces are not in during pure work sealing system, so is the friction between the sliding surfaces reduced or, if necessary, essentially canceled, so that there is little or almost no frictional heat. There is then no risk that the sliding surfaces or the Overheating slewing ring in pure work mode and may be damaged by this.

One of the two rotary connection components can be connected to each other facing sliding surfaces and the other of each two slewing ring components can be turned away from each other Be formed sliding surfaces. Preferably form the two slewing ring components together an annular chamber for the fluid distribution, i.e. for the distribution of the cleaning fluid, the annular chamber particularly in the area of Sliding surfaces is sealable or sealed. By provision the annular chamber is an even fluid distribution with im substantially constant pressure conditions possible. The annular chamber can also be provided for several in it fed to the annular chamber through corresponding feed openings Mix fluids in the annulus so that out of the annulus through one or more corresponding outlet openings Fluid mixture emerges.

One of the two rotary connection components can be one form radially open annular groove, within which the respective other pivot connection component added with their sliding surfaces is. The slewing ring can thus be relatively easily and inexpensive to manufacture, which also reduces manufacturing costs of the entire rotary device accordingly reduced are. The inexpensive manufacturability of the slewing ring but is especially in the case of retrofitting Slewing rings important because the one Retrofitting makes it easier for decisive people are convinced that retrofitting is worthwhile.

The annular chamber can be located radially between a bottom of the annular groove the one rotary joint component and a peripheral surface of the other pivot connection component. The ring groove can be open radially outwards or radially inwards. Provided there is enough space in the radial direction is, however, the variant with the radially outward open Ring groove preferred. The slewing ring can then be special simply assemble and from the in the ring groove with yours Sliding surfaces incorporated rotary connection component can pipelines or the like for supply or discharge of fluid extend radially outward.

The one pivot connection component can be in between their two facing sliding surfaces Division level composed of two partial components his. The two slewing ring components can be used with it easily assemble to the slewing ring. In particular, lets to take up with their sliding surfaces in the annular groove Slewing ring component between the two partial components insert in a sandwich.

At least one of the two facing sliding surfaces can on an axially movable flange of a rotary connection component be arranged, this flange preferably the action of on this one slewing ring component arranged axially acting actuators exposed is. The above results in connection with the Advantages specified means, the specified here Type of execution without great constructive and technical manufacturing Effort is to be realized. It is particularly advantageous if the axially acting actuating means from an inflation hose are formed, which is adjacent to the flange Supported surface of a rotary connection component supported or is supportable. With the use of an inflation hose a uniform force is applied to the Flange over the entire length of the hose when inflated Hose possible. The inflation hose is preferably ring-shaped, So designed as a ring hose, so that the sliding surfaces to the sealing system over the entire respective ring surface can be evenly loaded.

Due to the simple structure, adjusting means result in shape of an inflatable hose is particularly reliable (Reliability, low susceptibility to repairs) and the constructive and manufacturing expenditure is extreme low, so that there are great cost advantages over others Adjustment means, such as servomotors or the like. The inflation hose can be mixed with a gas, in particular with air, or with a suitable liquid to apply pressure be inflated on the sliding surfaces over the flange.

The inflation hose can be in an annular groove on the flange adjacent support plate of a slewing ring component be included. The manufacturing effort for one such ring groove is small. The support plate can with the a pivot connection component by tie rods, for example Screws, sandwiched, these tie rods in the case of subdivision of the one rotating connection component in partial components, these partial components if desired stick together.

One of the two rotary connection components can Metal, preferably stainless steel, and the other plastic be made. For the manufacture of the slewing ring component plastic can be used in particular polyethylene become. However, other plastics can also be considered.

Preferably, the one rotary connection component is designed with an axially movable flange this rotary connection component made of plastic and if desired with at least one the axial deflectability of the flange favoring weakening recess executed. The relevant slewing ring component can be easily produce and the flange is made of an elastic plastic elastic to either a desired compressive force to exercise the sliding surfaces or, in the case of actuators, especially the inflation hose (if it is not inflated is a suitable restoring force to relieve the sliding surfaces to provide. By appropriate dimensioning of the at least one weakening recess can be on the sliding surfaces exerted force or the restoring force set become; in the latter case, the actuators may only need apply a relatively small force to move the flange.

The slewing ring stator can be attached to the cover wall or on a separate support structure, on which the cover wall is also attached. Preferably at least a driver of the rotor assembly for driving the slewing rotor intended. The driver can immediately attack the slewing rotor, or on an Rotary connection rotor fixed, if necessary with the annulus in Connected fluid transport pipe or the like.

As already mentioned above, the sliding surfaces can work the rotary device essentially free of sealing force face each other and are for cleaning operation phases sealable against each other. Will be at work the rotary device not at the same time also cleaned, there is a "dry running" of the Slewing ring, so there is harmful heating or heating the sliding surfaces or the slewing ring due to Frictional heat avoided.

The slewing ring stator can have an axis-containing cross section U-shaped with a radially open annular groove be, the rotary connection rotor preferably as an annular body accommodated in the groove with a radial fluid connection is executed.

The rotary connection can be ring-shaped and, if desired enclose part of the rotor assembly. For example, if the rotor assembly is one Filling device for filling containers, in particular a beverage filling device, the filler (in particular the drink) of the rotor assembly over conventional Rotary distributors with axial filler supply are fed while the cleaning fluid of the rotor assembly is non-axial is fed. Relate the terms "axial" and "non-axial" referring to the essentially coincident or close adjacent axes of rotation of the rotor assembly or of the rotary connection rotor. Axial supply means that the filler fed substantially along the axis of rotation of the rotor assembly and non-axial delivery means that the fluid is not fed to the rotary distributor along the axis of rotation. Due to the annular design of the slewing ring many conventional rotary devices with the rotating connection and a corresponding line system with at least an outflow opening can be retrofitted.

On the rotor assembly, holders for objects, in particular the container. The treatment devices can be stationary or shared Rotation connected to the rotor assembly. The cover wall can have openings for article conveyors, in particular have container conveyors which Objects, especially the containers, of the rotor assembly feed in or out. The rotary connection is preferably in an upper area or above the rotor assembly arranged.

As already indicated in the above, can the rotary device and the at least one outflow opening have line system. At least that a line system having an outlet opening and / or the The slewing ring can be retrofitted to the essentially ready-to-run rotary device. Consequently conventional rotary devices can be combined into one Rotary device according to the present invention or convert.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a slewing ring for the transport of fluids between a stand assembly and a rotor assembly, especially in a rotary device as described above. The slewing ring includes one on the stator assembly against rotation fixed or definable slewing ring stator and one connectable to the rotor assembly for common rotation or connected rotary connection rotor, these two Slewing ring components to each other by axially directed Sliding surfaces are rotatably mounted. The slewing ring can remaining at least one further feature of the slewing ring a rotary device according to the invention according to the have the preceding description.

Reference is made in particular to the design of the slewing ring with radial play between the slewing ring stator and the rotary connection rotor, the annular configuration of the Slewing ring as well as the possibility of sliding surfaces to be designed as sealing surfaces, the sliding surfaces possibly are not constantly held together in a sealing system. The advantages explained above result.

Figur 1

zeigt ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Rundläufereinrichtung in Form einer Flaschenfülleinrichtung in einer seitlichen Ansicht mit geschnitten dargestellter Abdeckwand.

Figur 2

zeigt eine Detailvergrößerung der Figur 1, wobei die Drehverbindung der Flaschenfülleinrichtung geschnitten dargestellt ist.

Figur 3

zeigt eine Draufsicht auf bzw. eine Sicht von oben in die oben offene Flaschenfülleinrichtung.

Figur 4

zeigt die Drehverbindung der Flaschenfülleinrichtung teilgeschnitten in Draufsicht mit einem Schnitt nach Linie IV-IV in Figur 5a.

Figur 5

zeigt in den Figuren 5a und 5b einen Schnitt nach VAB-VAB der Figur 4 in zwei verschiedenen Betriebszuständen der Drehverbindung und in Figur 5c einen Schnitt nach Linie VC-VC in Figur 4 im Betriebszustand der Drehverbindung entsprechend Figur 5b.

The invention is explained below with reference to an embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 5.

Figure 1

shows an embodiment of a rotary device according to the invention in the form of a bottle filling device in a side view with a cover wall shown in section.

Figure 2

shows an enlarged detail of Figure 1, wherein the rotary connection of the bottle filling device is shown in section.

Figure 3

shows a top view or a view from above into the bottle filling device open at the top.

Figure 4

shows the rotary connection of the bottle filling device partially cut in plan view with a section along line IV-IV in Figure 5a.

Figure 5

5a and 5b show a section according to VAB-VAB of FIG. 4 in two different operating states of the rotary connection and in FIG. 5c a section according to line VC-VC in FIG. 4 in the operating state of the rotary connection corresponding to FIG. 5b.

The bottle filling device 1 shown in the figures, for example for dispensing beverages includes a stand assembly 10 in the manner of a base cabinet and one relative to the Stator assembly 10 rotatably mounted rotor assembly 14, the essentially overhung in the stator assembly 10 or in the stand assembly 10 and on a support structure 12 is stored. The carrier structure extends in the vertical direction from the top of and on the stator assembly 10 attached vertical beams 12a and at the upper ends of the vertical beams 12a attached horizontal beams 12b, which are above of the rotor assembly 14 extend. The rotor assembly is thus between the stand assembly 10 and the horizontal beam 12b arranged.

With regard to the structure of the support structure, there are many different ones Variants conceivable, with Figure 1 and Figure 3 easy shows different variants. According to the execution of Figure 3 are three horizontal beams 12b and accordingly three vertical beams 12a are provided, two adjacent ones Horizontal beam about an angle of 120 ° between them lock in. Other deviations between Figure 1 and the Figure 3 are due to the fact that in Figure 3 not all Components shown in Figure 1 are shown, or that it slightly different exemplary embodiments acts. These are for the explanation of the invention Deviations without any relevance, so that these deviations in following do not have to be further considered.

The rotor assembly 14 has a conveying and filling rotor 16 on, which is also referred to briefly below only as a conveyor rotor 16 becomes. The conveyor rotor 16 is about a vertical axis of rotation on a stationary, vertically extending rotor shaft structure 18 rotatably mounted. The top end of the rotor shaft structure 18 is attached to the vertical beams 12a.

The conveying and filling rotor 16 is by means of an inside the stator assembly 10 arranged rotary drive, the rotary drive continuously or / and can drive in cycles. The funding and Filling rotor 16 during the filling of those shown in Figure 1 Bottles 20 continuously, so a particularly high Filling performance (number of bottles filled per unit of time) to reach.

The conveying and filling rotor 16 is from a cover wall 22 in the type of a circular cylindrical jacket coaxial with the conveyor rotor axis of rotation enclosed, as in Figure 3 in particular detect. The cover panel extends from the top of the Stand assembly up to the top of the vertical beams. In order to the rotor assembly is completely enclosed, the cover wall 22 additionally one not shown in the figures, comprise plate-shaped wall section with a circular outline, which in is arranged on a horizontal plane and located on the upper Edge of the circular cylinder jacket section of the cover wall 22 connects. The rotor assembly 14 would then be completely of the Cover wall 22 and the stand assembly 10 enclosed.

The bottle filling device 1 is only in Figures 1 to 3 shown in detail as far as it is for understanding the Invention is necessary. With regard to the general structure A wide variety of bottle filling devices are available well known; In this respect, Figures 1 to 3 represent the bottle filling device only schematically. For example the cover wall 22, of course, through openings for the bottles and there are bottle conveyors provided that the bottles 20 the conveying and filling rotor 16 in a suitable manner and this from dissipate this again.

The conveying and filling rotor 16 comprises an upper circular cylindrical one Section 16a and a lower circular cylindrical Section 16b. At the circular cylindrical section 16b are direct Above the stand assembly 10 arranged brackets for the bottles to be filled attached. The brackets are distributed over the circumference of the conveyor rotor 16 and have equidistant Distances in the circumferential direction between adjacent Mounts on. Of the brackets are in Figures 1 and 3 only holder plate 24 is shown on which the bottles 20 come to a standstill. In addition to the bracket plates 24 are not yet shown holding means provided the bottles 20 especially against slipping down from the holder plates 24 secure under centrifugal force.

A treatment device is shown in FIG Form of a filling device 26 assigned. More precisely, above each bracket plate 24 is opposite (in the vertical direction the holder plate) a respective filling device 26 on the upper circular cylindrical section 16a of the conveyor and filling rotor 16 attached. The filling devices 26 are so just like the bracket plate 24 for common Rotation connected to the conveyor and filling rotor 16. Each Filling device 26 comprises an axially stationary, over a web 28 connected to the conveyor rotor section 16a Section 26a and a telescope in the stationary section 26a recorded and in axial, d. H. vertical direction movable lower section 26b. The lower section 26b has a filler neck and can be used with the filler neck to the respective holder plate 24 arranged bottle 20 are lowered to this with a Filler, especially a drink. The lower Section 26b has a filling sleeve 26c at the lower end on the filler neck when filling the respective bottle and surrounds the top portion of the bottle neck avoid splashing of the filler as much as possible. Nevertheless, contamination can occur when filling the bottles of the interior of the bottle filling device within the cover wall 22, in particular the inside of the cover wall 22 and other, arranged in this interior Components of the bottle filling device are not complete be prevented.

The filler is the filling device from the inside of the Conveying and filling rotor 16 supplied. For this purpose Delivery hoses and the like are, however, in the figures 1 to 3 not shown for the sake of simplicity. The filler the delivery and filling rotor 16 via the rotor shaft structure 18 fed, either from below through the stator assembly 10 or from above through at least one of the vertical supports 12b. As can be seen in Figure 2, is a horizontal beam 12b designed as a tube. The rotor assembly 14 includes accordingly a feed pipe for the filler. The Feed pipe runs coaxially to the axis of rotation of the conveyor and Filling rotor 16 and it is a conventional, well-known and also provided as a rotary distributor, which the feed pipe with corresponding, to the filling devices 26 leading pipes of the conveyor and filling rotor 16 connect.

To control the filling devices 26 and the holder plates 24 associated holder means are on the Vertical supports 12 a two to the axis of rotation of the conveyor rotor 16 coaxial annulus control cams 30 attached; the annulus control curves 30 are stationary. Every filling facility 26 are associated with two cam scan stamps 32, which two control curves with one on a respective control curve 30 scan along scanning head. The scanning stamp 32 are dependent on the respective control curve depending on the reached rotational position of the delivery and filling rotor 16 more or less radially inward. The resulting Radial positions of the scanning stamps correspond to control commands for the respective filling device and the respective Bracket means. In particular, depending on the radial position of at least one associated scanning stamp 32 actuates a filler valve of the filling device 26 and the lower portion 26b of the filling device is raised or lowered. The actuation of the valves and the lower section 26b can be purely mechanical or, for example, also done pneumatically; in the latter case is a separate one Provide compressed air supply.

As mentioned above, there is some pollution of the Interior of the bottle filling device with filler is not to avoid completely. Especially in the case of drinks hygienic problems (settlement with germs) arise when the interior of the bottle filling device including the inside of the cover wall 22, the other stationary components and of course the Rotor assembly 14 itself is not regularly cleaned thoroughly become. For this purpose, the bottle filling device has a first one Cleaning device 40 for cleaning the inside of the cover wall 22, the control curves 30 and other stationary, in individual components, not shown, in the interior 2 of the bottle filling device on. The first cleaning device 40 comprises a rotary connection which can also be designated as a rotary distributor 42 and one for common rotation with the conveyor and Filling rotor 16 connected and connected to the rotary connection 42 Line system 44 with a plurality of nozzles Outflow openings 46. The first cleaning device further comprises 40 a supply line 48 from a cleaning fluid supply to the rotary connection attached to the support structure 12 42.

The line system 44 consists of a first section 44a and one related to the axis of rotation of the conveying and filling rotor 16 diametrically opposite section 44b. The two line system sections each comprise one of the rotary joint 42 first extending radially outward and then the pipe bends down in the vertical direction, branch off from the pipeline sections at their Ends of the nozzles 46 are arranged. As shown in FIG. 1 has four line system sections 44a and 44b Nozzles with which in particular the circular ring control curves 30 can be sprayed from above and below. It can of course, even more nozzles can be provided. For example the interior 2 of the bottle filling device too closed at the top by a corresponding wall section, so it is preferred that this wall section through appropriate nozzles can be sprayed.

In a cleaning operation phase of the bottle filling device the conveying and filling rotor 16 is set in rotation and Cleaning fluid, especially a cleaning liquid, over the feed line 48, the slewing ring 42, which is with the Conveying and filling rotor 16 rotating line system 44 den Outflow openings or nozzles 46 supplied. Align the nozzles 46 in each case a fluid jet onto a respective cover wall section or another stationary section of the bottle filling device. The directed towards a cover wall section Cleaning fluid jet migrates when the Conveying and filling rotor 16 over an annular surface of the Inner cover wall, so that the entire inner circumference of the cover wall 22 sprayed with the cleaning fluid and thus cleaned can be. The same applies to the stationary components in the interior of the beverage filling device. To repeated revolutions of the feed and filling rotor 16 are the entire inner circumference of the cover wall 22 and by means of the first cleaning device 40 to be cleaned staionaires Components have been sprayed several times with cleaning fluid. It it is understood that several different ones in succession Cleaning fluids can be used, for example as first a liquid cleaning chemical, then water to Remove the cleaning chemical and possibly also steam for sterilization. It can therefore be extremely high Achieve purity and sterile conditions.

It should also be added that the bottle filling device is additional a second to the first cleaning device 40 Have cleaning device for cleaning the rotor assembly 14 can. The second cleaning device preferably has a stationary one, on the inside of the cover wall 22 or line system attached to the support structure 12 and stationary, preferably outflow openings designed as nozzles on, the cleaning fluid to clean the rotor assembly judge them. It can thus be the entire interior of the Clean the bottle filling device very thoroughly and if necessary also sterilize.

In the following, the first cleaning device 40 is in particular with regard to the formation of the rotary connection 42 closer is described (in particular, FIGS. 2, 4 and 5 referenced).

The slewing ring 42 essentially consists of two components, namely one made of plastic (polyethylene) Slewing ring stator 50 and one made of stainless steel manufactured rotary connection rotor 52. The annular (circular) Slewing ring stator is made up of three partial components 50a, 50b and 50c sandwiched and is by tie rods in the form of screws 54a with a respective Mother 54b held together. For this purpose, the rotating connection stator 50 a plurality of themselves through the partial components 50a, 50b and 50c extending through holes 56 into which the screws 54a are inserted from one side and on the other hand tightened with a respective nut are. As can be seen in Figure 4, the through holes 56 equidistant on a circle in the circumferential direction and about halfway between the inner edge 58a and the Outer edge 58b of the rotary connection stator 50 arranged. The Number of through holes 56 and thus the tie rod or Screws 54a are dimensioned such that the three partial components 50a, 50b and 50c along that of the through holes 56 defined circle evenly pressed together become. For this purpose, they are also touching Areas of the partial components (underside of the partial component 50a and top of the partial component 50b and the Underside of partial component 50b and the top of the Partial component 50c) executed plan.

An axis of symmetry can be assigned to the rotary connection stator 50 with respect to which the rotary connection stator 50 (without Consideration of through holes 56 and other holes) is largely rotationally symmetrical. The through holes 56 run parallel to this to the top and Undersides of the partial components of an orthogonal axis of symmetry.

The rotary connection stator 50 is in the interior 2 of the bottle filling device 1 above the conveying and filling rotor 16 stationary attached such that it the rotor shaft structure 18th encloses; the rotor shaft structure 18 thus extends through the ring hole 60 of the rotary connection stator 50. The rotary connection stator 50 is below the horizontal beam 12b by three fastening anchors 62 on these horizontal beams 12b attached. For this purpose, the rotary connection stator 50 has three further through holes 64 with a larger diameter than the through holes 56, which are closer to the inner edge 58a than the through holes 56 and corresponding to the Arrangement of the horizontal beams 12b are arranged so that each horizontal beam 12b an anchor 62 and Through hole 64 is assigned.

The respective fastening anchor 62 is designed as a threaded rod and extends in the vertical direction through a corresponding through hole in the horizontal beam 12b and through the through hole 64 through all three partial components 50a, 50b and 50c. The fastening anchors or threaded rods are each by means of two nuts 63 on the respective Horizontal beam 12b set, and the slewing rotor 52 is attached to the respective one by means of two further nuts 63 Fixing anchors attached. The rotary link rotor 52 is arranged such that its axis of symmetry essentially with the axis of rotation of the conveying and filling rotor 16 coincides.

In the outer peripheral surface of the rotary connection stator 50 an annular groove 70 open to the radially outward is formed in the lower end region of the uppermost partial component 50a and in the upper end region of the middle partial component 50b. The both partial components 50a and 50b lie in a horizontal Division level to each other, this horizontal Partition plane, the annular groove 70 in a lower and in one upper section divided, which are symmetrical to each other.

The annular groove 70 comprises an axially wider, radially outer section and one less in the axial direction wide, radially inner section that step together adjoin. The radially outer section is considered by two Sliding surfaces trained, in a respective horizontal plane lying ring surface 72a and 72b in the axial direction limited. These two, hereinafter referred to as sliding surfaces Annular surfaces 72a and 72b thus face each other.

In the radially outer section of the annular groove 70 is the rotary connection rotor 52 added as the rotationally symmetrical Ring body (with a vertical axis of symmetry in the described Arrangement) is executed. The slewing ring rotor 52 has on its top and on its bottom an annular surface 74a lying in a horizontal plane or 74b; these ring surfaces are also as sliding surfaces executed and are in the following as a sliding surface 74a or sliding surface 74b addressed. Of the two, each other sliding surfaces 74a and 74b facing away from the sliding surface 74a opposite the sliding surface 72a and the sliding surface 74b of the Opposite sliding surface 72b.

The rotary link stator 50 and the rotary link rotor 52 are against each other via the sliding surfaces 72a, 72b and 74a and 74b stored. As can be seen from FIG. 5, the rotary connection rotor has 52 radial play relative to the rotary connection stator 50, since one on the inner circumference 81 of the rotary connection rotor 52 related diameter is larger than one on the circular cylindrical interface between the inner and the outer portion of the annular groove 70 related diameter. At the Transition between the radially inner and the radially outer Section of the annular groove 70 is on the upper partial component 50a and one each on the lower partial component 50b Circular cylindrical ring surface 76a and 76b formed that the radial play of the rotary link rotor 52 relative to the rotary link stator Limit 50. These areas can therefore expediently also referred to as stop surfaces 76a and 76b become.

Between the inner peripheral surface 81 of the rotary joint rotor 52 and a bottom 80 of the annular groove 70 lying opposite this an annular chamber 82 is formed; this annulus corresponds essentially the radially inner portion of the annular groove 70. With the annular chamber 82 there are two axial blind bores that extend through partial component 50a and end in partial component 50b. These blind holes 84, which are diametrically opposed to each other, function as connections for the cleaning fluid to this the To feed annular chamber 82. The blind holes 84 are therefore hereinafter also referred to as connection bores. To the each of the two connection bores 84 is one from the supply line 48 dispensing supply section 48a or an end section 78b of the supply line 48 connected.

The rotary connection rotor 52 has two diametrically opposite, through holes extending in the radial direction 90a and 90b. These through holes 90a and 90b also act as connections to which the section 44a or 44b of the line system 44 is connected. The Connection is via one in the respective through hole 90a and 90b defined pipe section 45a and 45b of the pipe system section 54a and 54b produced. The respective Pipe section 45a or 45b is essentially rigid with connected to the rotary link rotor 52 and extending into radial direction.

On the top of the conveyor and filling rotor 16 are two Carriers 92a and 92b set each one, itself have in the axial direction extending finger portion. In the upper end section of the respective finger section a through hole is provided through which the pipe section 45a or 45b extends. The drivers are there only slightly compared to the rotary connection rotor 52 radially offset on the outside, so that the drivers close to the rotary connection rotor 52 engage the pipe section 45a or 45b. During the rotation of the conveying and filling rotor 16 takes this via the drivers 92a and 92b and the pipe sections 45a and 45b the rotary link rotor 52 with, due to the points of engagement of the drivers close to the rotary connection rotor 52 damage to the pipe sections, in particular Bending of the pipe sections due to lever effects increased forces acting on the pipe sections avoided becomes. The rotary connection rotor 52 is thus connected to the conveyor and filling rotor 16 and thus with the entire rotor assembly 14 connected for common rotation while the rotary connection stator 50 on the stand assembly 10 via the support structure 12 is fixed against rotation.

The rotary connection 42 has two operating states. In a first operating state, which is also referred to as a "dry running operating state" can be designated, the sliding surfaces act 52a, b and 54a, b alone as sliding surfaces and enable a low friction twist of the slewing rotor 52 relative to the rotary connection stator 50. In this first operating state are the sliding surfaces 72a and 74a and Sliding surfaces 72b and 74b only with slight exertion of force to each other. The axial distance between the sliding surfaces 74a and 74b of the rotary connection stator 50 can be the axial Distance between the sliding surfaces 74a and 74b of the rotary connection rotor Slightly exceed 52. The annular chamber 82 is not radially outward in the first operating state sealed.

In a second operating state, which is also called the "fluid transport operating state" can be called the sliding surfaces 72a and 74a and the sliding surfaces 72b and 74b pressed actuating means to be described in more detail, so that these sliding surfaces also act as sealing surfaces. The Annular chamber 82 is in this second operating state by acting as sealing surfaces radially outward sealed. Because of the sealing contact of the sliding surfaces the pressing force is now the friction between the sliding surfaces 72a and 74a and between the sliding surfaces 72b and 74b increased. The resulting frictional heat is then removed without further ado if Fluid from the supply line 48, through the connection holes 84, through the annular chamber 82, and through the through holes 90a and 90b flows into the line system 44.

To provide the two operating states of the rotary connection 42 is the sliding surface 72b on an axially movable flange 94 the middle partial component 50b. The flange 94 is with a weakening recess in the form of an ax open top groove 98 designed for axial mobility or deflectability of the flange 94 and thus the sliding surface Reinforce 72b.

The actuating means for deflecting the flange 94 comprise one ring groove open to the top axially, semicircular in cross section 100 in the top of the lower partial component c. In this annular groove 28 is an inflatable, annular tube 102 added, which also as inflation hose or ring hose can be designated. As a hose, for example a simple bicycle tube can be used. The hose 102 has a connecting piece 104 (in the case of a bicycle tube the bicycle valve holder), which extends axially extends below and over the underside of the lower partial component 50c protrudes. At the connecting piece 104 is one Compressed air line 106 connected so that the inflation hose 102 can optionally be pressurized, i.e. inflated or the air in the inflation hose 102 can be released again can. If the inflation hose 102 is inflated, it feels it Ring groove 100 completely and presses against the bottom the middle partial component 50b mainly in the area of the flange 94. The inflation hose is supported on the Partial component 50c; this partial component 50c can are accordingly also referred to as a support plate.

The two operating states can be clearly seen in FIG. 5. In Figure 5a, the inflation hose 102 is not or only insignificantly inflated so that it has essentially no compressive force exerts on the flange 94. The slewing ring 49 is accordingly in the first operating state. In Figures 5b and 5c the inflation hose is inflated and exerts an axial upward movement directed compressive force on the flange 94, so that this for sealing contact of the sliding surfaces 72a and 74a and the Sliding surfaces 72b and 74b is deflected to one another. The slewing ring Accordingly, 42 is in the second operating state.

With regard to the sealing of the annular chamber 82 is still too complete that this is sealed radially inwards. For this is on the underside of the uppermost partial component 50a an annular groove 110 open axially downward is provided, in a 0-ring 112 is received. This O-ring 122 is only indicated in Figure 5b.

The described design of the rotary connection 42 now makes it possible that when filling bottles, i.e. during work the bottle filling device, the sliding surfaces 72a and 74a and the sliding surfaces 72b and 74b essentially free of sealing force face each other so that only one extreme little friction occurs between them. The slewing ring 42 is in the first operating state (dry-running operating state) brought by no compressed air on the inflation hose 102 is present or air contained in the hose is discharged, so that it is not inflated.

The bottle filling device will operate at certain intervals interrupted for cleaning operating phases. The sliding surfaces are in these cleaning operating phases 72a and 74a and the sliding surfaces 72b and 74b sealing pressed against each other by compressed air on the inflation hose 102 is applied to inflate it and the for pressing the necessary pressure forces on the flange 94 to exert the sliding surfaces. The rotary connection 42 is then in the second Operating state (fluid transport operating state) and it will Cleaning fluid from the cleaning fluid supply via the Supply line 48, the annular chamber 82, the line system 44 to the nozzles 46 transported. The nozzles 46 direct as above already described, a respective cleaning fluid jet, especially cleaning liquid jet on the inside the cover wall 22 and other stationary components (such as e.g. B. the annulus control curves 30) to clean them. At the end of cleaning, i.e. after the cleaning operation phase has been completed the air from the inflation hose 102 drained again, so that the rotary connection 42 again occupies the first operating state and with the operation of the Bottle filling device can be continued.

It is obvious that the rotary connection 42 in all Cases can be applied where fluid is from a stator assembly must be transferred to a rotor assembly. It depends on the orientation of the axis of rotation of the rotor assembly not doing so. The axis of rotation of the rotor assembly can therefore also horizontally or with respect to the horizontal or vertical be arranged inclined, with appropriate orientation the axis of rotation of the slewing rotor. The invention Rotary connection with adjusting means is particularly special then beneficial if the fluid is not constantly from the stator assembly must be transferred to the rotor assembly. As long as no fluid has to be transferred to the rotor assembly, the slewing ring is in the first operating state (Dry running operating state) brought so that between the Slewing ring stator and slewing rotor only slight Friction occurs. Wear of the slewing ring is thereby reduced and there is no risk of Overheating of the slewing ring due to frictional heat. For Transfer of the fluid to the rotor assembly becomes the slewing ring then in the second operating state (fluid transport operating state) brought. The due to the sealing system the sliding surfaces occurring in this operating state increased Friction is - as stated - harmless, since the resulting one Frictional heat is removed via the fluid. For retrofitting purposes is the rotary connection according to the invention with radial Clearance between the slewing rotor and the slewing stator and possibly particularly advantageous in the form of a ring.

In summary, the invention relates to a rotary device for the treatment of objects, especially containers, for example to fill the container. The rotary device includes a stator assembly and one opposite of the stand assembly rotatable and by a rotary drive driven rotor assembly. According to the invention is on the rotor assembly at least one outlet for the outlet a cleaning fluid for cleaning one during turning operation the rotor assembly stationary cover wall and possibly other stationary components are provided. The least an outflow opening is connected to a rotary connection stationary cleaning fluid supply connected. For the slewing ring it is proposed that the slewing ring one of the stand assembly against or against rotation Slewing ring stator and one with the rotor assembly connectable or connected for common rotation Rotary link rotor comprises, these two rotary link components to each other through axially directed sliding surfaces are rotatably mounted.

In addition to the embodiments of the invention proposed above Rotary device (in which, in deviation from the At the beginning, the rotor assembly is at least partially specified enclosing, during the rotating operation of the rotor assembly stationary cover wall can also be omitted and in the at least one outflow opening for the rotor assembly A cleaning fluid emerges for cleaning the cover wall or / and other stationary components of the rotary device can be arranged) or the invention Slewing rings are further advantageous configurations possible. It is proposed as a particularly advantageous training that at least one sliding surface at least one of the two rotary connection components on an elastically deformable Ring plate is formed and that this ring plate a loading zone at a radial distance from the sliding surface for the application of an axially directed actuating force has, wherein in a further ring zone, in particular in an intermediate zone between the sliding surface and the application zone a support zone for the ring plate is provided is so that by actuating the loading zone axial movement of the sliding surface occurs, in particular an axial movement that is opposite to the direction the actuating force is.

This results in a particularly simple structure of the invention Slewing ring, reducing their manufacturing costs be kept low. Furthermore, the invention Slewing ring according to this proposal in the axial direction be of particularly low construction, for example characterized in that any provided actuating means against the Sliding surfaces primarily in the radial direction and at most only are insignificantly offset in the axial direction, ie essentially in the same axial area of the slewing ring as that Sliding surfaces are arranged. For the low height of the slewing ring in the axial direction also contributes when the elastic deformable ring plate made of metal, for example Stainless steel is made, so that particularly small dimensions the ring plate in the axial direction are possible.

The elastically deformable ring plate preferably forms its sliding surface a boundary wall of an annular, in radial direction open ring groove, which is the other Includes slewing ring component. The ring plate can a ring plate carrier (for example made of plastic) under Formation of the support zone between the ring plate and the ring plate carrier be stored. In this context, it is proposed that on the ring plate carrier in the area of the loading zone axially acting adjusting means (for example in Form of at least one inflation hose) are arranged.

Two ring plates can be arranged on the ring plate carrier be, the sliding surfaces of the other rotating connection component record between them. This training of the rotary device or the slewing ring is particularly preferred.

The sliding surface of the ring plate is preferably absent an external force other than sealing contact with a associated mating sliding surface of the respective other rotary connection component, where the sliding surface and the counter sliding surface by introducing an actuating force from outside and sealing contact are transferable. The sliding surfaces can thus a first operating state of the rotary connection (working mode the rotary device) essentially free of sealing force face each other and are for a second Operating status of the slewing ring (cleaning operating phase the rotary device) can be pressed against one another in a sealing manner. In the first operating state, therefore, is provided in spite of any Rotational movement of the two rotating connection components excessive warming or heating relative to each other the sliding surfaces avoided due to frictional heat.

The actuating force only needs to set the second operating state be applied so that the necessary provided actuating means only during this second operating state be claimed. In the absence of the Actuating force, for example due to a failure of the actuating means or a possibly provided pressure medium supply for the actuating means, the first operating state is inevitable a, so that the normal operation of the rotary device is not disturbed.

To overheating or overheating the sliding surfaces or the slewing ring also in the second operating state In the event of rotation of the rotary joint components relative to prevent each other is proposed as particularly advantageous that the slewing connection supply means for a Has sliding or / and heat dissipation fluid, which is the supply of the sliding and / or heat dissipation fluid to the sliding surfaces of the Allow slewing ring.

By appropriate supply of the sliding and / or heat flow fluid can reduce the friction between the sliding surfaces and thus minimizes the resulting frictional heat or excessive Frictional heat can be dissipated, so that the slewing ring can have a particularly long service life and requires essentially no or minimal maintenance.

The sliding or / and heat dissipation fluid can be from the cleaning fluid be educated. A separate sliding or / and heat dissipation fluid supply compared to that provided according to the invention stationary cleaning fluid supply is therefore unnecessary.

The supply of sliding and / or heat dissipation fluid to the sliding surfaces can take effect outside of cleaning periods be, for example, in that outside of cleaning periods a reduced compared to the cleaning periods, only the purpose of reducing friction or heat dissipation serving cleaning fluid flow is supplied or that outside of cleaning periods versus the cleaning fluid separate sliding and / or heat dissipation fluid (in particular a sliding or / and heat dissipation liquid, for example Water) is supplied.

For the supply of the sliding and / or heat dissipation fluid can independent of a line system of the cleaning fluid Supply means may be provided.

With regard to a low axial height of the slewing ring it is preferred if of the connections cleaning fluid connection on the rotating connection stator, cleaning fluid connection on the slewing ring rotor, possibly provided sliding or / and heat dissipation fluid connection of the rotary connection and (in In the case of actuators), if applicable, provided pressure medium connection the slewing ring at least one connection, preferably all Connections are designed as radial connections.

Figur 6

zeigt in Figur 6a einen Querschnitt durch eine erfindungsgemäße Drehverbindung nach Linie A-A in Figur 6b, die bei der erfindungsgemäßen Rundläufereinrichtung der Figur 1 anstelle der Drehverbindung der Figuren 4 und 5 vorgesehen sein könnte, und in Figur 6b eine Draufsicht auf die Drehverbindung der Figur 6a gemäß der durch den Pfeil B angedeuteten Sichtrichtung.

Figur 7

zeigt in Figur 7a einen Schnitt durch die Drehverbindung der Figur 6 nach Linie VIIA-VIIA in Figur 6b und in Figur 7b einen Schnitt durch diese Drehverbindung nach Linie VIIB-VIIB in Figur 6b.

The invention is explained in more detail below with the aid of a further exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

Figure 6

6a shows a cross section through a rotary connection according to the invention along line AA in FIG. 6b, which could be provided in the rotary device according to the invention in FIG. 1 instead of the rotary connection in FIGS. 4 and 5, and in FIG. 6b a plan view of the rotary connection in accordance with FIG. 6a the direction of vision indicated by arrow B.

Figure 7

shows in Figure 7a a section through the slewing ring of Figure 6 along line VIIA-VIIA in Figure 6b and in Figure 7b a section through this slewing ring along line VIIB-VIIB in Figure 6b.

The second embodiment of Figures 6 and 7 is in following only in terms of differences from that first embodiment of Figures 1 to 5 described; insofar as expressly refers to the previous description of the first embodiment. Components of the second embodiment, the function correspond to those of the first embodiment are with the same reference numbers, but each increased by the number 200 provided.

The one running essentially vertically according to FIG. 6a Axis of symmetry S except for deviations recognizable in FIG. 6 essentially rotationally symmetrical slewing ring Like the rotary connection 42 of FIGS. 1 to 5, 242 comprises one Slewing link stator 250 and slewing rotor 252. The rotary link stator 50 includes two on an annular Ring plate carrier 322 at its axial ends by means of tie rods (Screws 254a with nuts 254b) attached ring plates 320a and 320b extending radially over the ring plate carrier 322 protrude on the outside and follow them over the ring plate carrier 322 radially outwardly protruding, facing surfaces serve as sliding surfaces 272a and 272b.

The ring plates 320a and 320b are made of stainless steel and elastically deformable. Through the tie rods 254a, 254b the ring plates are in the area opposite the sliding surfaces radially further inward support zone held axially, the ring plates in the area of the annular support zone and also radially further inside on the ring plate carrier 322 issue.

Radially outside that defined by the tie rods 254a, 254b Support zone is the axial dimension of the ring plate carrier 122, As can be seen in Figure 7, slightly reduced, so that the axial Distance between the sliding surfaces 272a and 272b below corresponding elastic deformation of the ring plates 320a, 320b and also (to a certain extent) the tie rod by exercising a corresponding force on the ring plates in one area lying radially further inward from the support zone can be reduced. To this end, they are radial with respect to the support zone Positioning means located further in the form of two inflation hoses 302a and 302b are provided.

The inflation hoses 302a and 302b are each in one in the axial Direction open, from a radially inner ring section of the ring plate 320a or 320b covered ring groove 300a or 300b of the preferably made of plastic Ring plate carrier 322 arranged and serve to act of the axially opposite ring section of the respective Ring plate 320a or 320b with an axially directed Actuating force to one to the direction of the actuating force opposite axial movement of the sliding surface 274a or 274b to achieve when the sliding surfaces 274a and 274b with the each assigned axially opposite sliding surface 274a or 274b for the most part (also in the area of the sliding surfaces 274a and 274b) rotary joint rotor made of plastic 252 brought into sealing contact or sealing engagement should be (second operating state of the slewing ring 242).

To exert the axially directed actuating forces on the ring plates 320a, 320b become the areas of exposure Pressure hoses 302a and 302b by introducing a Pressure medium expanded via pressure medium lines 306a, 306b. To the rotary connection 242 from the second operating state (Fluid transport operating state) back to the first operating state To bring (dry running operating state) the pressure medium (especially compressed air) again from the inflation hoses drained so that one from the elastic deformation of the ring plates 320a and 320b are elastic Restoring force the sliding surfaces 274a, 274b axially from each other removed and thus out of sealing engagement with the sliding surfaces 274a and 274b of the rotary link rotor 252.

For sealing the annular chamber 282 for the fluid transport operating state radially inward, the axial between the ring plates 320a, 320b and radially between the bottom 280 of the Ring groove 270 forming the outer peripheral surface of the ring plate carrier 322 and the inner peripheral surface 281 of the annular rotary connection rotor 252 is limited, are two in each Ring groove of the ring plate carrier 322 arranged O-rings 312a and 312b are provided radially outside the tie rods 254a, 254b on the mutually facing, the sliding surfaces 272a and 272b surfaces of the ring plates 320a and Attack 320b sealingly.

To in the first operating state (dry-running operating state) due to a lack of sealing interference between the associated ones Sliding surfaces 272a and 274b or 272b and 274b already significantly reduced friction or, accordingly, due to this reduced friction to be able to dissipate reduced frictional heat independently from the supply of the to be transported in the second operating state Fluids (e.g. cleaning liquid in the case the bottle filling device 1) via the connection bores 284 the rotary connection stator 250 faces the annular chamber 282 in addition to the radial in the described embodiment directed connection bores 284 another, also radially directed connection bore 330 (see FIG. 6), via which in particular in the first operating state (dry-running operating state) one compared to that in the second operating state transporting fluid separate fluid (sliding or heat dissipation fluid, e.g. water) to the annular chamber 282 and thus supplied to the sliding surfaces 272a, 274a, 272b, 274b can be. Because of the missing in the first operating state Sealing engagement between the mutually assigned sliding surfaces this sliding or heat dissipation fluid between the sliding surfaces emerge to a certain extent. But this can especially if it is the sliding or heat dissipation fluid is simple water, in favor of a further reduced Friction or improved heat dissipation in the first operating state and thus further increased service life of the slewing ring be accepted, the emerging amount of Sliding or heat dissipation fluid will not be very large, when this fluid is supplied to the annular chamber 282 at low pressure becomes what is generally considered a substantial reduction the friction between the sliding surfaces will be sufficient. in the second operating state serving the fluid transport however, often work with comparatively high pressures that for this operating state, the sealing intervention in general between the mutually assigned, axially directed sliding surfaces 272a, 274a and 272b, 274b due to otherwise failing high fluid pressure occurring large loss of fluid indispensable will be.

As already mentioned, the connection bores 284 are for the Fluid supply radially directed in the second operating state, see above that the fluid to be transported from the radially inside of the annular chamber 282 is supplied. In Figure 6b are adjacent Connection hole 284 two threaded holes 232 for attachment a connecting flange of a corresponding fluid supply line on Rotary connection stator 250 can be seen. Also the supply of the Pressure medium to the inflation hoses 302a and 302b is from radially inside (see FIG. 7a) and the fluid outflow from the annular chamber 282 via the rotary connection rotor 252 also takes place in FIG radial direction, namely radially outward (see through hole 290a and pipe section 245a in Figure 7b). Same thing applies to the possible supply of a sliding or / and heat dissipation fluid via the likewise radially directed bore 330 in Slewing ring stator 250. Because of this radial orientation all fluid or pressure medium connections result in one particularly low overall height of the rotary connection 242 in the axial Direction (axis S). The pivot connection 242 can thus often even in particularly cramped conditions with an im essential operational rotary device (for example Bottle filling device).

It must be added to the rotary connection rotor 252 that this in a radially open annular groove in a plastic manufactured, ring-shaped main rotor part 334 a stainless steel ring 336 carries that with the through holes 290 aligned holes 338 for the passage of the to be transported Has fluids and on which the pipe sections 245 (pipe section 245a in Figure 7b) are welded, so that the Bores 290, 338 and the annular chamber 282 a fluid connection between the connection bores 284 and the pipe sections 245 subsequent pipe system (which in the case of the Embodiment of Figure 1 leads to the nozzles 46) is. For sealing is concentric to the bore 338 in Stainless steel ring 336 between the main rotor part 334 and the Stainless steel ring 336 sealing sealing ring 340 is provided.

Rotational connection of the rotary connection rotor 252 can be carried out at one Application according to Figure 1 as shown there the pipe sections 245 take place. Alternatively, it is suggested the rotary connection rotor 252 via flexible tension elements, For example, pulling ropes to turn on a rotary drive Rotor assembly on the one hand and on the slewing ring rotor attack on the other hand, preferably via an between the rotor assembly and the tension element and / or between the Tension element and the rotary connection rotor effective securing element, for example in the form of a shear pin. Hereby is a malfunction of the operation of the rotary device due to one possibly due to incorrect operation (sealing intervention of the sliding surfaces when the slewing rotor rotates without the supply of fluid to be transported and without the supply of Sliding or heat dissipation fluid) blocking rotary connection rotor avoided because after the fuse element has responded to release the rotary drive connection between the rotor assembly and the slewing rotor rotates freely Rotor assembly is possible. Such a shear pin on which the traction element attacks, for example, in one or several of the four axial bores 342 in FIG Rotary connection rotor 252 may be used.

Claims (36)

1. A rotating apparatus (1) for handling of objects, in particular of containers such as bottles (20), in particular for cleaning or/and filling or/and closing or/and labelling or/and singling or/and sorting or/and aligning the containers (20) or objects,
   comprising a stationary assembly (10), a rotating assembly (14) driven by a rotary drive and rotatable with respect to the stationary assembly (10), receptacles (24) for the objects (20) and associated to the circumference of said rotating assembly (14), handling devices (26) for the handling of the objects (20),
   wherein there is arranged at least one discharge opening (46) at the rotating assembly (14) for discharge of a cleaning fluid, in particular a cleaning liquid, for cleaning of stationary components (30) of the apparatus (1), in particular a shielding wall (22) which at least partially encloses the rotating assembly (14) and which is stationary during the rotational operation of the rotating assembly (14),
   characterized in that said at least one discharge opening is connected with a stationary cleaning fluid supply via a revolving joint (42; 242), and
   that said revolving joint (42; 242) comprises a revolving joint stationary unit (50; 250) which is fixed to the stationary assembly (10) to prevent rotation, and a revolving joint rotating unit (52; 252) which is connected with the rotating assembly (14) for rotating together, wherein these two revolving joint components (50, 52; 250, 252) are rotatably supported at each other by axially directed sliding surfaces (72a, 74a, 72b, 74b; 272a, 274a, 272b, 274b).
2. The rotating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the two revolving joint components (50, 52; 250, 252) have radial play with respect to each other.
3. The rotating apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sliding surfaces (72a, 72b, 74a, 74b; 272a, 272b, 274a, 274b) are simultaneously formed as sealing surfaces.
4. The rotating apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that there are provided setting means (102; 302a, 302b) which are mounted on at least one of the two revolving joint components (50; 250) and which are axially effective and adapted to hold the two revolving joint components (50, 52; 250; 252) in sealing abutment which respect to each other.
5. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that one (50; 250) of the two revolving joint components (50, 52; 250; 252) is formed with sliding surfaces (72a, b; 272a, b) facing each other and the respective other (52; 252) of the two revolving joint components (50, 52; 250, 252) is formed with sliding surfaces (74a, b; 274a, b) turned away from each other.
6. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the two revolving joint components (50, 52; 250, 252) commonly form a ring chamber (82; 282) for the fluid distribution which is sealed or sealable in the region of the sliding surfaces (72a, 74a, 72b, 74b; 272a, 274a, 272b, 274b).
7. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that one (50; 252) of the two revolving joint components (50, 52; 150, 152) forms an annular groove (70; 270) which is radially open and in which the respective other revolving joint component (52; 252) is received with its sliding surfaces (74a, b; 274a, b).
8. The rotating apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the ring chamber (82; 282) is defined radially between a bottom (80; 280) of the annular groove (70; 270) of said one revolving joint component (50; 250) and a circumferential surface (81; 281) of said other revolving joint component (52; 252).
9. The rotating apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the annular groove (70; 270) is open radially outwardly.
10. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that said one revolving joint component (50) comprises at least two partial components (50a, 50b; 320a, 320b, 322) which are combined in a dividing plane disposed between its two sliding surfaces (72a, b; 272a, b) facing each other.
11. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that at least one (72b; 272a, b) of the two sliding surfaces (72a, b; 272a, b) facing each other is arranged on a flange (94; 320a, b) of said one revolving joint component (50; 250) which flange is axially movable, and that this flange (94; 320a, b) is exposed to the influence of setting means (102; 302a, b) which are axially effective and disposed on said one revolving joint component (50; 250).
12. The rotating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the setting means being axially effective are formed by an inflating tube (102; 302a, b) which preferably is annular and which is supported or supportable on a supporting surface of said one revolving joint component (50; 250) which supporting surface is neighboring to the flange (94; 320a, b).
13. The rotating apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that the inflating tube (102; 302a, b) is received in an annular groove (100; 300a, b) of a supporting plate (50c; 322) of said one revolving joint component (50; 250) which supporting plate abuts against the flange (94; 320a, b).
14. The rotating apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that said supporting plate (50a; 322) is connected sandwich-like with said one revolving joint component (50; 250) by tension rods (54a, b; 254a, b) wherein in the case of the division of said one revolving joint component (50; 250) in partial components (50a, 50b; 320a, 320b, 322) these tension rods - if desired - also hold these partial components (50a, 50b) together.
15. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that one revolving joint component (52; 250) of the two revolving joint components (50, 52; 250, 252) in the region of its sliding surfaces (74a, 74b; 272a, 272b) is manufactured from metal, preferably stainless steel, and the other revolving joint component (50; 252) in the region of its sliding surfaces (72a, 72b; 274a, 274b) is manufactured from plastic.
16. The rotating apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that in case of construction of one revolving joint component (50) with a flange (94) which is axially movable, this revolving joint component (50) is manufactured from plastic and - if desired - is constructed with at least one weakening recess (98) which favors the axial deflectability of the flange (94).
17. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that there is provided a shielding wall (22) which at least partially encloses the rotating assambly (14) and which is stationary during the rotational operation of the rotating assembly (14) and in that the revolving joint stationary unit (50; 250) is mounted on the shielding wall.
18. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the revolving joint rotating unit (52; 252) is drivable by means of at least one entrainment means (52a, 52b) of the rotating assembly (14).
19. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 4 to 18, characterized in that the sliding surfaces (72a, 74a, 72b, 74b; 272a, 274a, 272b, 274b) are arranged opposite each other substantially without sealing force during working operation of the rotating apparatus (1) and are adapted to be sealingly pressed against each other for cleaning operation phases.
20. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the revolving joint stationary unit (50; 250) is formed U-shaped with a radially outwardly open annular groove (70; 270) in a cross section containing the axis and that the revolving joint rotating unit (52; 252) is formed as a ring body which is received in the groove (70; 270) and has a radial fluid connection (90a, b; 290).
21. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the revolving joint (42; 242) is formed annular and - if desired - encloses a part of the rotating assembly (14).
22. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that there are provided holding means (24) for the objects (20) on the rotating assembly (14).
23. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the handling devices (26) are disposed stationary or are connected with the rotating assembly (14) for rotating together.
24. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that there is provided a shielding wall (22) which at least partially encloses the rotating assambly (14) and which is stationary during the rotational operation of the rotating assembly (14) and in that the shielding wall (22) has passing-through openings for object conveying means which supply objects (20) to the rotating assembly or remove the same from the rotating assembly.
25. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that the revolving joint (42; 242) is disposed in an upper region the rotating assembly (14) or above the same.
26. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that a conduit system (44) which has the at least one discharge opening (46) or/and said revolving joint (42; 242) are adapted for retrofitting to the rotating apparatus (1) which is substantially ready for operation.
27. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 15 and 17 to 26, characterized in that at least one sliding surface (272a, b) of at least one (250) of the two revolving joint components (250, 252) is formed on a ring plate (320a, b) which is elastically deformable, and that this ring plate (320a, b) has a loading zone in radial distance from the sliding surface (272a, b) for loading by an axially directed setting force, with a supporting zone for the ring plate (320a, b) being provided in a further ring zone, in particular in an intermediate zone between the sliding surface (272a, b) and the loading zone, so that by loading of the loading zone with setting force an axial movement of the sliding surface (272a, b) is introduced, in particular an axial movement, which is opposed to the direction of the loading with the setting force.
28. The rotating apparatus according to claim 27, characterized in that said elastically deformable ring plate (320a, b) forms with its sliding surface (272a, b) a limiting wall of an ring-shaped, radially open annular groove (270) which receives the respective other revolving joint component (252).
29. The rotating apparatus according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that said ring plate (320a, b) is supported on a ring plate carrier (322) with formation of the supporting zone between the ring plate (320a, b) and the ring plate carrier (322) and that there are arranged setting means (302a, b) on the ring plate carrier (322) in the region of the loading zone, which are axially effective.
30. The rotating apparatus according to claim 29, characterized in that two ring plates (320a and 320b) are arranged on the ring plate carrier (322), the sliding surfaces (272a, b) thereof receive the respective other revolving joint component (252) between them.
31. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 27 to 30, characterized in that in the absence of an external setting force the sliding surface (272a, b) of the ring plate (320a, b) is out of sealing contact with an associated countersliding surface (274a, b) of the respective other revolving joint component (252) and can be brought into sealing contact by introduction of a setting force from the outside.
32. The rotating apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 31, characterized in that the revolving joint (52; 252) has supply means (48, 48b, 84; 320 or 248b, 284) for a sliding or/and heat carry-off fluid which allows the supply of the sliding or/and heat carry-off fluid to sliding surfaces (72a, b, 74a, b; 272a, b, 274a, b) of the revolving joint (52; 252).
33. The rotating apparatus according to claim 32, characterized in that the sliding or/and heat carry-off fluid is formed by the cleaning fluid.
34. The rotating apparatus according to claim 32 or 33, characterized in that the supply of sliding or/and heat carry-off fluid to the sliding surfaces (272a, b, 274a, b) is effective timewise out of cleaning periods.
35. The rotating apparatus according to claim 34, characterized in that supply means are provided for the supply of the sliding or/and heat carry-off fluid which are independent of the conduit system (48) of the cleaning fluid.
36. A revolving joint for the transport of fluid for installation between a stationary assembly (10) and a rotating assembly (14), in a rotating apparatus (1) according to one of claims 1 to 35, characterized in that said revolving joint (42; 242) comprises a revolving joint stationary unit (50; 250) which formed for fixing to the stationary assembly (10) to prevent rotation, and a revolving joint rotating unit (52; 252) which is formed for connecting with the rotating assembly (14) in the sense of common rotation with the same, wherein these two revolving joint components (50, 52; 250, 252) are rotatably supported at each other by axially directed sliding surfaces (72a, 74a, 72b, 74b; 272a, 274a, 272b, 274b).

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