US20070267095A1 - Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout - Google Patents
Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout Download PDFInfo
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- US20070267095A1 US20070267095A1 US11/417,702 US41770206A US2007267095A1 US 20070267095 A1 US20070267095 A1 US 20070267095A1 US 41770206 A US41770206 A US 41770206A US 2007267095 A1 US2007267095 A1 US 2007267095A1
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- Prior art keywords
- filling spout
- filling
- container
- sensing component
- distance
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B1/00—Packaging fluent solid material, e.g. powders, granular or loose fibrous material, loose masses of small articles, in individual containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, or jars
- B65B1/04—Methods of, or means for, filling the material into the containers or receptacles
- B65B1/18—Methods of, or means for, filling the material into the containers or receptacles for filling valve-bags
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B51/00—Devices for, or methods of, sealing or securing package folds or closures; Devices for gathering or twisting wrappers, or necks of bags
- B65B51/10—Applying or generating heat or pressure or combinations thereof
- B65B51/22—Applying or generating heat or pressure or combinations thereof by friction or ultrasonic or high-frequency electrical means, i.e. by friction or ultrasonic or induction welding
- B65B51/225—Applying or generating heat or pressure or combinations thereof by friction or ultrasonic or high-frequency electrical means, i.e. by friction or ultrasonic or induction welding by ultrasonic welding
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B57/00—Automatic control, checking, warning, or safety devices
- B65B57/02—Automatic control, checking, warning, or safety devices responsive to absence, presence, abnormal feed, or misplacement of binding or wrapping material, containers, or packages
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to an apparatus and method for filling and/or sealing containers and, more particularly, to an apparatus and method for accurately sensing whether a container has been properly positioned about a filling spout of a filling machine.
- Conventional bag filling machines may include a mechanical device or component for detecting whether a bag is positioned on a filling tube.
- Some conventional filling machines include a wand or a paddle that extends over a bag support within the filling station. As the bag is positioned onto the filling tube, the bag urges the wand or paddle to move and activate a relay component, such as a contact or switch, to indicate that the bag is positioned on the filling tube.
- Other conventional filling machines include a clamp that secures the bag to the filling tube.
- the clamp includes an air supply flow path configured to allow air to flow through the clamp.
- a corresponding hole is formed through a side wall of the filling tube and in initial flow communication with the air supply flow path.
- a supply of air indicates whether the bag is positioned on the filling tube. For example, if a bag is positioned on the filling tube, the hole formed through the side wall of the filling tube is covered and flow communication between the air supply flow path and the hole is prevented. An increase in pressure and/or a decrease in air flow are detected to indicate that the bag is positioned on the filling tube. If the bag does not cover the hole, the supply of air flows into the filling tube to indicate that no bag is positioned on the filling tube.
- the conventional methods for determining whether the bag is positioned on the filling tube require physical manipulation of the bag. Further, the conventional methods may result in false confirmation that the bag is positioned on the filling tube. For example, false confirmations may result from placing the bag adjacent to, but not about, the filling tube and moving the wand or paddle. Similarly, placing the bag adjacent to, but not about, the filling tube may also cover the hole to prevent flow communication between the air supply flow path and the hole formed within the filling tube. Such situations will result in a false confirmation that the bag is positioned on the filling tube.
- an apparatus for filling at least one container defining an opening.
- the apparatus includes a filling spout in flow communication with a source of filling material.
- the filling spout is configured to enable the opening of the at least one container to fit about the filling spout.
- At least two stationary sensor assemblies are positioned about the filling spout. The at least two stationary sensor assemblies are configured to detect whether a container is positioned about the filling spout.
- a detection system for determining whether a container is positioned about a filling spout of an apparatus for filling at least one container.
- the filling spout is in flow communication with a source of filling material and configured to enable an opening defined by the container to fit about the filling spout.
- the detection system includes at least two stationary sensor assemblies positioned about the filling spout. Each stationary sensor assembly of the at least two stationary sensor assemblies includes a sensing component.
- the sensing component is configured to measure a first distance from a sensing component location to a first spatial location on an outer surface of the filling spout and a second distance from the sensing component location to a second spatial location on an outer surface of the container positioned about the filling spout.
- a method for filling at least one container defining an opening.
- An apparatus is positioned along a processing path.
- the method includes placing a container on a support configured for receiving, in succession, a plurality of containers.
- the support is configured to maintain each successive container in an orientation, with the opening extending toward the apparatus.
- the method includes confirming that the container is positioned about a filling spout of the apparatus.
- the filling spout is in flow communication with a source of filling material and configured to enable the opening of a container to fit about the filling spout.
- the container is then filled with filling material.
- a method for determining whether a container is positioned about a filling spout of an apparatus for filling at least one container.
- the filling spout is in flow communication with a source of filling material and configured to enable an opening defined by the container to fit about the filling spout.
- the method includes providing at least two stationary sensor assemblies positioned with respect to the filling spout.
- Each stationary sensing assembly of the at least two stationary sensor assemblies includes a sensing component.
- Each sensing component is calibrated to measure a first distance from a sensing component position to a position on an outer surface of the filling spout. A second distance between each sensing component position and a position on an outer surface of the container positioned about the filling spout is then measured.
- FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of an exemplary filling and sealing apparatus, in which the rear bag flaps are open;
- FIG. 2 is a front end elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a fragmentary top plan view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 , in which the rear bag flaps are shown in an open position and a closed position;
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged fragmentary side elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 , showing the filling spout in an extended position and the rear bag flaps in the open position;
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged fragmentary side elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 , showing the filling spout in a retracted position and the rear bag flaps in the open position;
- FIG. 6 is a fragmentary side elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 , showing the filling spout in a retracted position and further showing a bag being sealed with the rear bag flaps in the closed position;
- FIG. 7 is a fragmentary front elevation view of an exemplary filling and sealing apparatus
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 9 is a fragmentary front elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 7 with a sealable valve bag properly positioned about a filling spout;
- FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of an exemplary sensor assembly for the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of the exemplary sensor assembly shown in FIG. 10 with a portion of a housing removed;
- FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of an exemplary array of sensor assemblies position about a filling spout of the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of an alternative exemplary array of sensor assemblies position about a filling spout of the filling and sealing apparatus shown in FIG. 7 .
- the present invention provides an apparatus and method for determining whether a container, such as a bag, including a sealable or non-sealable valve bag, is properly positioned about a filling spout of a filling apparatus.
- An array of sensor assemblies is positioned about the filling spout to sense or detect whether the container is properly positioned about the filling spout.
- Each sensor assembly is configured to transmit a confirmation signal to a controller in operational control communication with a filling system of the apparatus indicating that a container is properly positioned about the filling spout. Further, in one embodiment each sensor assembly is configured to transmit a container positioning error signal or no confirmation signal if the sensor assembly detects that a container is not properly positioned about the filling spout.
- the present invention is described below in reference to its application in connection with and operation of a filling apparatus for filling sealable or non-sealable valve bags.
- a filling apparatus for filling sealable or non-sealable valve bags.
- the present invention is likewise applicable to any apparatus including a filling system, with or without a sealing system, for use with any suitable bags including, without limitation, multiple wall bags, such as valve bags fillable through a generally horizontally positioned filling tube or spout and open-mouth bags fillable through a generally vertically positioned filling tube or spout.
- the present invention may be applied to systems for filling and/or sealing any suitable container, including bags, boxes, cartons and/or display trays.
- FIGS. 1-13 show an exemplary filling apparatus 10 .
- Filling apparatus 10 includes a filling tube or spout 12 , which is connected to a source of filling material (not shown).
- filling spout 12 is mounted to a frame assembly 13 of apparatus 10 .
- Frame assembly 13 provides sufficient support for the various functional stationary and/or moving components of apparatus 10 , as may be required or desired by the dictates of any particular installation.
- Filling spout 12 includes a nozzle 14 configured for insertion into an opening defined in a container, such as a valve structure of a valve bag.
- Such valve bags are known in the art and may include sealable valve bags such as disclosed in Kelley et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,092,930.
- the bag is vertically supported by a support 16 , such as a bag chair.
- Support 16 may be a stationary support or representative of a conveyor belt, roller table, indexing conveyor structure or similar structure, such that support 16 is configured to repeatably position individual bags in alignment with filling spout 12 .
- filling apparatus 10 includes a sealing system having a sealer 18 with a heating element or ultrasonic horn 20 that is suitably mounted for reciprocable vertical movement into and out of contact with an upper surface of a protruding valve structure of a sealable valve bag. Suitable controls and operating systems for actuating and generating heat and/or ultrasonic vibrations are provided.
- a pivotable sealer anvil 22 is pivotably mounted for movement about an axis 23 (shown in FIG. 2 ) that passes more or less perpendicularly relative to a longitudinal axis 24 (shown in FIG. 1 ) of filling spout 12 with filling spout 12 in an extended position, as shown in FIG. 1 .
- filling spout 12 is horizontally and pivotally reciprocably mounted to frame assembly 13 .
- Suitable linkage elements such as linkage cylinder 25 , front linkage 26 and/or rear linkage 28 , are provided for facilitating enabling selective coordinated combined longitudinal/pivotal reciprocation of filling spout 12 .
- FIG. 3 is a fragmentary top plan view of filling apparatus 10 , in particular showing filling spout 12 and a mechanism for moving filling spout 12 in and out of the valve structures of the bags.
- a flexible tube 30 is connected to an end portion of filling spout 12 distal to nozzle 14 .
- flexible tube 30 may be fabricated from any suitable leak and sift proof flexible material, which may need to be a food-grade material, as requirements dictate. As shown and described herein, flexible tube 30 accommodates the horizontal and pivoting movement of filling spout 12 .
- flexible tube 30 is replaced with a rigid tube having an end portion architecture configured to permit an adjacent end of filling spout 12 to be pivotably moved away from the rigid tube as filling spout 12 moves to a retracted position.
- Suitable gasketing is used to provide an adequate seal at the interface of the adjoining tube ends with filling spout 12 in the extended position.
- any suitable connecting tube constructions may be employed to permit or accommodate the pivoting movement of filling spout 12 .
- At least one bag side support 31 is mounted to frame 13 for facilitating stabilizing the bag as the bag is filled and/or sealed.
- bag side supports 31 have any suitable configuration such that the lateral spacing of bag side support 31 is sufficiently close to the width of a bag as the bag is being filled and sealed such that the bag is prevented from shifting or moving to either side. Tipping of the bags may lead to spillage and/or incomplete or inaccurate sealing of the bag valves.
- apparatus 10 includes two rear bag flaps 50 , which are located proximate the outer end of support 16 .
- Rear bag flaps 50 are mounted for reciprocating pivoting movement about vertical axes 51 .
- each rear bag flap 50 includes an elongated rectangular paddle that is substantially longer in a transverse direction than a vertical height. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that rear bag flaps 50 may have any suitable or desired size and/or shape.
- Rear bag flaps 50 are moved between a closed position and an open position, as shown in FIG. 3 , by corresponding rear bag flap actuators 52 .
- rear bag flap actuators 52 are pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder and piston arrangements, such as shown in FIG. 3 .
- any suitable type of actuator that is controlled by a suitably programmed control system may be used to move rear bag flaps 50 .
- rear bag flaps 50 When rear bag flaps 50 are in the closed position, rear bag flaps 50 are either close to or in actual contact with the back (the side opposite the valve tube) of a bag that is positioned on support 16 . This prevents a bag being filled and/or sealed from being pushed away (e.g., by the rising sealer anvil prior to sealing) or falling away from filling spout 12 or the sealer mechanism. Rear bag flaps 50 thus facilitate ensuring a complete and cleaner fill of the bags and a more positively positioned seal of the bag valves.
- bag side supports 31 and rear bag flaps 50 are shown in particular configurations, other configurations for bag side supports 31 and/or rear bag flaps 50 may be used, as desired or required by a particular installation.
- apparatus 10 includes a dust collecting mechanism.
- a flexible shroud 56 is positioned to surround the end portion of filling spout 12 distal to nozzle 14 .
- Shroud 56 is connected to a dust collection tube 58 , which is connected to a vacuum source (not shown).
- Shroud 56 has any suitable shape and/or is made of any suitable flexible material generally known in the art of bag filling apparatus. As is typically done, filling spout 12 enters into shroud 56 through a substantially sealed aperture (not shown).
- the dust collection mechanism including shroud 56 and dust collection tube 58 , is substantially stationary, although those portions of shroud 58 that are directly coupled to filling spout 12 are sufficiently flexible to accommodate the movements of filling spout 12 and maintain a substantially sealed relationship to filling spout 12 throughout its movements.
- FIG. 4 is a slightly enlarged view of filling apparatus 10 , showing filling spout 12 in an extended position.
- FIG. 5 shows filling spout 12 in a retracted position.
- FIG. 6 is a fragmentary side elevation of filling apparatus 10 of FIGS. 1-5 , showing the filling spout in the retracted position and further showing a bag being sealed.
- containers such as valve bags, including sealable or non-sealable valve bags
- any suitable mechanism including, without limitation, a conveyor belt, powered roller table, bag holding and/or indexing mechanism.
- the bag is positioned in an upright position with the protruding valve structure pointing toward filling apparatus 10 .
- a gripping mechanism as a known in the art, may squeeze the top of the bag slightly, so as to pop open the end of the valve structure for facilitating entry of nozzle 14 and/or filling spout 12 .
- a pushing device (not shown) may be employed for slightly moving the bag toward nozzle 14 or, in an alternative embodiment, for simply holding the bag in place while nozzle 14 is inserted into the valve tube of a stationary bag.
- filling spout 12 is in an extended position and is stationary when a valve bag 40 is placed on support 16 .
- valve bag 40 may include a sealable or non-sealable valve structure. Further, other suitable bags may be filled with filling apparatus 10 , as described herein.
- Valve bag 40 is then pushed onto nozzle 14 to assume the position shown in phantom in FIG. 4 , such as by a piston actuated pusher or bag gripping device (not shown).
- nozzle 14 is inserted into the open valve tube of a stationary valve bag 40 .
- nozzle 14 In either embodiment, the movement of nozzle 14 is the same or similar.
- cylinder(s) 25 is/are actuated to withdraw the pistons.
- Linkages 26 and 28 pivot forward and filling spout 12 moves in a complex arc from the position shown in FIG. 5 to the position shown in FIG. 1, 3 or 4 .
- filling of valve bag 40 can commence.
- the material to fill valve bag 40 is supplied from a source, such as a hopper 54 and flows in the direction indicated by arrow 55 .
- linkage cylinder(s) 25 include a hydraulic or pneumatic piston and cylinder assembly.
- flexible tube 30 is collapsed and folded downward.
- suitable wiring, tubing and control mechanisms are provided for the selective and/or automated actuation of cylinder(s) 25 between the retracted position and the extended position.
- filling spout 12 is generally pivoted backward from, and nozzle 14 tilted upward with respect to, valve bag 40 such that nozzle 14 is removed from valve structure 42 .
- Apparatus 10 thus returns to the configuration shown in FIG. 5 .
- valve bag 40 is pushed onto a stationary nozzle 14 or nozzle 14 is pushed into a stationary valve bag 40 , the relative positions of the pivot points for the linkages and/or the lengths of the linkages are selected such that during the pivoting movement of filling spout 12 away from valve bag 40 , the initial movement of the nozzle 14 is to actually initially dip downwardly relative to valve structure 42 before filling spout 12 , as a whole, pivots backward away from and tilts upward relative to valve bag 40 .
- Such a pivoting movement may be readily accomplished by one of ordinary skill in the art having the present disclosure before them.
- the linkages coupled to filling spout 12 are coupled to the lower side of filling spout 12 and are positioned generally below filling spout 12 .
- the linkages are further configured such that filling spout 12 pivots up and away from valve bag 40 in the retracted position.
- apparatus 10 includes a bag detection system 60 positioned with respect to filling spout 12 for facilitating detecting whether a bag, such as a valve bag 40 , has been properly and accurately positioned about filling spout 12 and/or nozzle 14 prior to beginning the bag filling process.
- a bag such as a valve bag 40
- detection system 60 includes an array 62 of stationary sensor assemblies positioned about filling spout 12 and a controller 64 in operational communication with each sensor assembly of array 62 .
- FIG. 7 is a fragmentary end view of apparatus 10 including array 62 positioned with respect to filling spout 12 .
- FIG. 8 is a fragmentary perspective view of apparatus 10 including array 62 positioned about filling spout 12 .
- FIG. 9 is a fragmentary end view of apparatus 10 including array 62 and a valve bag 40 properly and accurately positioned about filling spout 12 .
- array 62 includes at least two sensor assemblies. As shown in FIGS.
- array 62 includes three sensor assemblies 65 , 66 and 67 positioned with respect to filling spout 12 and/or nozzle 14 and configured to detect or sense whether valve bag 40 is positioned about filling spout 12 .
- array 62 includes any suitable number of sensor assemblies, i.e., less than three sensor assemblies or more than three sensor assemblies.
- Each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is mounted to frame 13 using any suitable mounting component known to those skilled in the art.
- sensor assemblies 65 , 66 , 67 are positioned about filling spout 12 and configured to detect or sense whether valve bag 40 is properly and accurately positioned about filling spout 12 .
- each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is contained within a housing 68 to protect the internal sensor components from undesirable contact with and/or exposure to dust or debris introduced during the bag filling process.
- housing 68 protects the sensor assembly components from being covered with product or filling material being moved into the bags on filling apparatus 10 . Such product or filling material may prevent or limit sensor assemblies 65 , 66 , 67 from working properly.
- housing 68 is air purged with a suitable amount of air to provide positive pressure within housing 68 and prevent the product or filling material from entering housing 68 as the purge air escapes from within housing 68 .
- Purge air is supplied to each housing 68 through an efficient circuit of hoses, as shown in FIGS. 7-9 .
- housing 68 includes a transparent panel 69 fabricated from a suitable transparent material, such as a Lexan® material available from General Electric Company located in Schenectady, N.Y. or any suitable transparent or semi-transparent material, for facilitating monitoring the operation of the sensor assembly components housed within housing 68 .
- housing 68 may include a solid, non-transparent panel in lieu of transparent panel 69 .
- Each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 includes a laser sensing component 70 positioned within housing 68 that emits a light beam against an outer surface 72 of filling spout 12 . As shown in FIG. 10 , laser sensing component 70 emits one light beam 71 . However, in an alternative embodiment, laser sensing component 70 is configured to emit a plurality of light beams directed at varying directional angles against outer surface 72 of filling spout 12 .
- each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 includes an ultrasonic sensing component, a photoeye sensing component or any suitable sensing component known in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided in lieu of laser sensing component 70 for facilitating detecting or sensing whether valve bag 40 is properly and accurately positioned about filling spout 12 .
- each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 including corresponding housing 68 is coupled to frame 13 using a suitable mechanical component, such as a bracket 74 shown in phantom lines in FIGS. 10 and 11 .
- each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is in independent operational communication with controller 64 via a suitable wire or cable 76 , as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 .
- laser sensing component 70 of each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is positioned such that laser sensing component 70 emits a light beam 71 directed at outer surface 72 at a spatial location on outer surface 72 .
- Each spatial location is positioned with respect to adjacent spatial locations of directed light beams emitted from corresponding sensor assemblies.
- laser sensing component 70 of each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is configured such that the corresponding light beam emitted from laser sensing component 70 is directed at a spatial location on outer surface 72 at a radial distance of about 120° with respect to a spatial location of adjacent emitted light beams.
- each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is positioned with respect to filling spout 12 and/or calibrated to measure a first or initial distance between corresponding laser sensing component 70 and outer surface 72 .
- each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is positioned with respect to filling spout 12 and/or calibrated such that a first or initial distance between laser sensing component 70 of sensor assembly 65 and outer surface 72 is substantially equal to a first or initial distance between laser sensing component 70 of sensor assembly 66 and outer surface 72 and a first or initial distance between laser sensing component 70 of sensor assembly 67 and outer surface 72 , as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 .
- Each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is configured to measure a corresponding first or initial distance between a location of laser sensing component 70 to the corresponding spatial location on outer surface 72 of filling spout 12 where the emitted light beam contacts outer surface 72 .
- each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is positioned such that corresponding laser sensing component 70 emits a light beam directed at outer surface 72 at a spatial location on outer surface 72 , as desired, i.e., the corresponding light beam emitted from laser sensing component 70 is directed at a spatial location on outer surface 72 at a radial distance of less than or greater than about 120° with respect to a spatial location of adjacent emitted light beams.
- the sensors are suitably positioned about filling spout 12 such that a corresponding laser sensing component emits a light beam directed at outer surface 72 at a spatial location on outer surface 72 , as desired.
- sensor assemblies 65 , 66 , 67 are positioned such that corresponding laser sensing component 70 emits a light beam directed at outer surface 72 at a spatial location on outer surface 72 substantially planar to the spatial locations of the other emitted light beams, e.g., each spatial location of the emitted light beams is positioned within a plane perpendicularly intersecting longitudinal axis 24 of filling spout 12 .
- at least one sensor assembly of array 62 is positioned within a plane generally parallel to a plane in which at least one other sensor assembly is positioned.
- sensor assembly 65 is positioned with respect to a first location along a length of filling spout 12 such that corresponding laser sensing component 70 emits a light beam directed at outer surface 72 at a spatial location within a first plane intersecting filling spout 12 along the length of filling spout 12 .
- sensor assembly 66 and/or sensor assembly 67 is positioned with respect to a second location along the length of filling spout 12 different from the first location such that corresponding laser sensing component 70 emits a light beam directed at outer surface 72 at a spatial location within a second plane different from the first plane and intersecting filling spout 12 along the length of filling spout 12 .
- Each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is configured for facilitating determining whether valve bag 40 is properly positioned about filling spout 12 . Further, each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 is configured to transmit a confirmation signal to controller 64 indicating that valve bag 40 is properly positioned about filling spout 12 or, in one embodiment, a bag positioning error signal indicating that valve bag 40 is not properly positioned about filling spout 12 .
- controller 64 activates a filling mechanism of apparatus 10 to begin the bag filling process. In this embodiment, the bag filling process will not begin until each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 transmits a confirmation signal indicating that valve bag 40 is properly positioned about filling spout 12 .
- valve bag 40 With valve bag 40 properly positioned about filling spout 12 , a portion of valve bag 40 interferes with the light beam emitted from each laser sensing component 70 such that a second distance shorter than the first distance is detected or sensed by each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 resulting in a status change.
- the detected second distance represents a measurement between the location of laser sensing component 70 and a corresponding location on an outer surface 82 of valve bag 40 fit or positioned about filling spout 12 .
- each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 transmits a confirmation signal to controller 64 indicating such and confirming that valve bag 40 is properly and accurately positioned about filling spout 12 .
- each laser sensing component 70 is configured to accurately measure a distance of about 0.001 inch; thus, allowing sensor assemblies 65 , 66 , 67 to accurately detect or sense valve bag 40 positioned about filling spout 12 .
- At least one sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 does not sense or detect a second distance different than the first distance or senses or detects a measured second distance equal to the measured first distance resulting in no status change.
- the sensing of a measured second distance equal to the measured first distance or not sensing a second distance indicates that valve bag 40 is not interfering with the light beam emitted from corresponding laser sensing component 70 and, hence, valve bag 40 is not properly positioned about filling spout 12 .
- sensor assembly 65 , 66 and/or 67 does not sense a second distance or senses the measured second distance equal to the measured first distance, sensor assembly 65 , 66 and/or 67 does not transmit a confirmation signal and/or transmits a bag positioning error signal to controller 64 indicating that valve bag 40 is not properly positioned about filling spout 12 . If controller 64 receives the bag positioning error signal, controller 64 is configured to prevent the initiation of the bag filling process or discontinue the bag filling process until the bag positioning error is resolved.
- controller 64 Upon confirmation that valve bag 40 is properly positioned about filling spout 12 , controller 64 , in operational control communication with apparatus 10 and/or filling spout 12 , transmits an initiation signal to activate the filling mechanism to fill valve bag 40 with the filling material. In one embodiment, upon detecting that the measured second distance is less than the measured first distance, each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 transmits a confirmation signal to controller 64 indicating that a valve bag 40 is properly positioned about filling spout 12 .
- sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 detects that the measured second distance is equal to the measured first distance (indicating that valve bag 40 has not interfered with at least one emitted light beam)
- sensor assembly 65 , 66 and/or 67 detecting the measured second distance does not transmit a confirmation signal to controller 64 .
- sensor assembly 65 , 66 and/or 67 detecting the measured second distance transmits a bag positioning error signal to controller 64 indicating that a valve bag 40 is not properly positioned about filling spout 12 .
- controller 64 Upon receiving no confirmation signal from sensor assembly 65 , 66 and/or 67 or receiving the transmitted bag positioning error signal from sensor assembly 65 , 66 and/or 67 , controller 64 prevents a flow of filling material through filling spout 12 until each sensor assembly 65 , 66 , 67 confirms the detection of the measured second distance less than the measured first distance.
- a method for determining whether a container, such as valve bag 40 , is properly positioned about filling spout 12 for filling at least one container with filling material.
- Filling spout 12 is in flow communication with a source of filling material and configured to enable the structure of the container defining the opening to fit about filling spout 12 .
- An array of sensor assemblies 62 is provided that includes a plurality of stationary sensor assemblies radially positioned about the filling spout. Each sensor assembly includes a sensing component, such as a laser sensing component, that is calibrated to measure a first distance from a sensing component position or location to a spatial position or location on an outer surface of the filling spout.
- Each sensor assembly is configured to measure a second distance indicating that a container is positioned about filling spout 12 .
- the measured second distance is equal to a distance between each sensing component position or location and a corresponding position or location on an outer surface of the container positioned about the filling spout.
- the corresponding sensor assembly Upon each sensing component detecting a measured second distance less than the measured first distance, the corresponding sensor assembly transmits a confirmation signal to a controller in operational control communication with the filling mechanism confirming that a container is positioned about the filling spout.
- the controller In response to the confirmation signal received from each sensor assembly (indicating that the container is properly positioned about the filling spout), the controller initiates activation of the filling mechanism, which allows flow of the filling material through the filling spout to fill the container properly positioned about the filing spout.
- the corresponding sensor assembly sensing no second distance or sensing such measured second distance transmits a container positioning error signal to the controller indicating that a container is not properly positioned about the filling spout.
- the controller prevents activation of or deactivates the filling mechanism to prevent flow of the filling material through the filling spout. Such flow of the filing material is prevented until each sensor assembly transmits a confirmation signal to the controller indicating that the container is properly positioned about the filing spout.
- a sealing apparatus including sealer 18 and anvil 22 .
- sealer 18 employs an ultrasonic vibration horn 20
- anvil instead of the horn
- anvil 22 is in the position shown in solid lines in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5 .
- anvil 22 is rotated outwardly and upwardly, in the direction indicated by arrow 90 in FIG. 5 , to the position indicated in FIG. 6 .
- Anvil 22 may be pivotably mounted and propelled by suitable linkages and propulsion mechanisms, similar to those employed moving filling spout 12 , or by other mechanisms understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. More or less simultaneously, horn 20 is lowered, in the direction of arrow 92 , as shown in FIG. 5 (e.g., by a suitably controlled piston and cylinder system or other mechanism), until valve structure 42 is clamped between horn 20 and anvil 22 , as shown in FIG. 6 . Ultrasonic vibrations and/or heat are then applied for a sufficient period of time and to a sufficient degree to activate the adhesive or sealable liner of valve structure 42 .
- horn 20 is raised and anvil 22 is pivoted downwardly and away from the container.
- the filled and sealed container is moved away from support 16 and replaced by a successive empty container with the opening structure ready to receive nozzle 14 or to be pushed onto nozzle 14 .
- the above-described apparatus and method for filling at least one container allows containers to be accurately filled without spillage. More specifically, the apparatus and method facilitate sensing or detecting whether a container has been properly and accurately positioned about the filling spout prior to initiating the container filling process. As a result, containers are reliably and efficiently filled without false confirmations that a container is properly positioned about the filling spout.
- an apparatus and method for filling at least one container are described above in detail.
- the apparatus and method are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather, components of the apparatus and/or steps of the method may be utilized independently and separately from other components and/or steps described herein. Further, the described apparatus components and/or method steps can also be defined in, or used in combination with, other apparatus and/or methods, and are not limited to practice with only the apparatus and method as described herein.
Abstract
Description
- This invention relates generally to an apparatus and method for filling and/or sealing containers and, more particularly, to an apparatus and method for accurately sensing whether a container has been properly positioned about a filling spout of a filling machine.
- Conventional bag filling machines may include a mechanical device or component for detecting whether a bag is positioned on a filling tube. Some conventional filling machines include a wand or a paddle that extends over a bag support within the filling station. As the bag is positioned onto the filling tube, the bag urges the wand or paddle to move and activate a relay component, such as a contact or switch, to indicate that the bag is positioned on the filling tube.
- Other conventional filling machines include a clamp that secures the bag to the filling tube. The clamp includes an air supply flow path configured to allow air to flow through the clamp. A corresponding hole is formed through a side wall of the filling tube and in initial flow communication with the air supply flow path. A supply of air indicates whether the bag is positioned on the filling tube. For example, if a bag is positioned on the filling tube, the hole formed through the side wall of the filling tube is covered and flow communication between the air supply flow path and the hole is prevented. An increase in pressure and/or a decrease in air flow are detected to indicate that the bag is positioned on the filling tube. If the bag does not cover the hole, the supply of air flows into the filling tube to indicate that no bag is positioned on the filling tube.
- The conventional methods for determining whether the bag is positioned on the filling tube require physical manipulation of the bag. Further, the conventional methods may result in false confirmation that the bag is positioned on the filling tube. For example, false confirmations may result from placing the bag adjacent to, but not about, the filling tube and moving the wand or paddle. Similarly, placing the bag adjacent to, but not about, the filling tube may also cover the hole to prevent flow communication between the air supply flow path and the hole formed within the filling tube. Such situations will result in a false confirmation that the bag is positioned on the filling tube.
- In one aspect, an apparatus is provided for filling at least one container defining an opening. The apparatus includes a filling spout in flow communication with a source of filling material. The filling spout is configured to enable the opening of the at least one container to fit about the filling spout. At least two stationary sensor assemblies are positioned about the filling spout. The at least two stationary sensor assemblies are configured to detect whether a container is positioned about the filling spout.
- In another aspect, a detection system is provided for determining whether a container is positioned about a filling spout of an apparatus for filling at least one container. The filling spout is in flow communication with a source of filling material and configured to enable an opening defined by the container to fit about the filling spout. The detection system includes at least two stationary sensor assemblies positioned about the filling spout. Each stationary sensor assembly of the at least two stationary sensor assemblies includes a sensing component. The sensing component is configured to measure a first distance from a sensing component location to a first spatial location on an outer surface of the filling spout and a second distance from the sensing component location to a second spatial location on an outer surface of the container positioned about the filling spout.
- In another aspect, a method is provided for filling at least one container defining an opening. An apparatus is positioned along a processing path. The method includes placing a container on a support configured for receiving, in succession, a plurality of containers. The support is configured to maintain each successive container in an orientation, with the opening extending toward the apparatus. The method includes confirming that the container is positioned about a filling spout of the apparatus. The filling spout is in flow communication with a source of filling material and configured to enable the opening of a container to fit about the filling spout. The container is then filled with filling material.
- In another aspect, a method is provided for determining whether a container is positioned about a filling spout of an apparatus for filling at least one container. The filling spout is in flow communication with a source of filling material and configured to enable an opening defined by the container to fit about the filling spout. The method includes providing at least two stationary sensor assemblies positioned with respect to the filling spout. Each stationary sensing assembly of the at least two stationary sensor assemblies includes a sensing component. Each sensing component is calibrated to measure a first distance from a sensing component position to a position on an outer surface of the filling spout. A second distance between each sensing component position and a position on an outer surface of the container positioned about the filling spout is then measured.
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FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of an exemplary filling and sealing apparatus, in which the rear bag flaps are open; -
FIG. 2 is a front end elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a fragmentary top plan view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 1 , in which the rear bag flaps are shown in an open position and a closed position; -
FIG. 4 is an enlarged fragmentary side elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 1 , showing the filling spout in an extended position and the rear bag flaps in the open position; -
FIG. 5 is an enlarged fragmentary side elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 1 , showing the filling spout in a retracted position and the rear bag flaps in the open position; -
FIG. 6 is a fragmentary side elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 1 , showing the filling spout in a retracted position and further showing a bag being sealed with the rear bag flaps in the closed position; -
FIG. 7 is a fragmentary front elevation view of an exemplary filling and sealing apparatus; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9 is a fragmentary front elevation view of the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 7 with a sealable valve bag properly positioned about a filling spout; -
FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of an exemplary sensor assembly for the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of the exemplary sensor assembly shown inFIG. 10 with a portion of a housing removed; -
FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of an exemplary array of sensor assemblies position about a filling spout of the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 7 ; and -
FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of an alternative exemplary array of sensor assemblies position about a filling spout of the filling and sealing apparatus shown inFIG. 7 . - The present invention provides an apparatus and method for determining whether a container, such as a bag, including a sealable or non-sealable valve bag, is properly positioned about a filling spout of a filling apparatus. An array of sensor assemblies is positioned about the filling spout to sense or detect whether the container is properly positioned about the filling spout. Each sensor assembly is configured to transmit a confirmation signal to a controller in operational control communication with a filling system of the apparatus indicating that a container is properly positioned about the filling spout. Further, in one embodiment each sensor assembly is configured to transmit a container positioning error signal or no confirmation signal if the sensor assembly detects that a container is not properly positioned about the filling spout.
- The present invention is described below in reference to its application in connection with and operation of a filling apparatus for filling sealable or non-sealable valve bags. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that the present invention is likewise applicable to any apparatus including a filling system, with or without a sealing system, for use with any suitable bags including, without limitation, multiple wall bags, such as valve bags fillable through a generally horizontally positioned filling tube or spout and open-mouth bags fillable through a generally vertically positioned filling tube or spout. Further, the present invention may be applied to systems for filling and/or sealing any suitable container, including bags, boxes, cartons and/or display trays.
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FIGS. 1-13 show anexemplary filling apparatus 10. Fillingapparatus 10 includes a filling tube orspout 12, which is connected to a source of filling material (not shown). In one embodiment, fillingspout 12 is mounted to aframe assembly 13 ofapparatus 10.Frame assembly 13 provides sufficient support for the various functional stationary and/or moving components ofapparatus 10, as may be required or desired by the dictates of any particular installation. Fillingspout 12 includes anozzle 14 configured for insertion into an opening defined in a container, such as a valve structure of a valve bag. Such valve bags are known in the art and may include sealable valve bags such as disclosed in Kelley et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,092,930. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that other suitable bags, as well as any suitable container, may be used with the apparatus and method of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 1 , in one embodiment the bag is vertically supported by asupport 16, such as a bag chair.Support 16 may be a stationary support or representative of a conveyor belt, roller table, indexing conveyor structure or similar structure, such thatsupport 16 is configured to repeatably position individual bags in alignment with fillingspout 12. - In one embodiment, filling
apparatus 10 includes a sealing system having asealer 18 with a heating element orultrasonic horn 20 that is suitably mounted for reciprocable vertical movement into and out of contact with an upper surface of a protruding valve structure of a sealable valve bag. Suitable controls and operating systems for actuating and generating heat and/or ultrasonic vibrations are provided. - A
pivotable sealer anvil 22 is pivotably mounted for movement about an axis 23 (shown inFIG. 2 ) that passes more or less perpendicularly relative to a longitudinal axis 24 (shown inFIG. 1 ) of fillingspout 12 with fillingspout 12 in an extended position, as shown inFIG. 1 . - In an alternative embodiment, filling
spout 12 is horizontally and pivotally reciprocably mounted to frameassembly 13. Suitable linkage elements, such aslinkage cylinder 25,front linkage 26 and/orrear linkage 28, are provided for facilitating enabling selective coordinated combined longitudinal/pivotal reciprocation of fillingspout 12.FIG. 3 is a fragmentary top plan view of fillingapparatus 10, in particularshowing filling spout 12 and a mechanism for moving fillingspout 12 in and out of the valve structures of the bags. Aflexible tube 30 is connected to an end portion of fillingspout 12 distal tonozzle 14. Depending upon the material that is being put in the bags,flexible tube 30 may be fabricated from any suitable leak and sift proof flexible material, which may need to be a food-grade material, as requirements dictate. As shown and described herein,flexible tube 30 accommodates the horizontal and pivoting movement of fillingspout 12. - In alternative embodiments,
flexible tube 30 is replaced with a rigid tube having an end portion architecture configured to permit an adjacent end of fillingspout 12 to be pivotably moved away from the rigid tube as fillingspout 12 moves to a retracted position. Suitable gasketing is used to provide an adequate seal at the interface of the adjoining tube ends with fillingspout 12 in the extended position. Alternatively, any suitable connecting tube constructions may be employed to permit or accommodate the pivoting movement of fillingspout 12. - In one embodiment, at least one
bag side support 31 is mounted to frame 13 for facilitating stabilizing the bag as the bag is filled and/or sealed. As shown inFIGS. 1-3 , bag side supports 31 have any suitable configuration such that the lateral spacing ofbag side support 31 is sufficiently close to the width of a bag as the bag is being filled and sealed such that the bag is prevented from shifting or moving to either side. Tipping of the bags may lead to spillage and/or incomplete or inaccurate sealing of the bag valves. - In one embodiment,
apparatus 10 includes two rear bag flaps 50, which are located proximate the outer end ofsupport 16. Rear bag flaps 50 are mounted for reciprocating pivoting movement aboutvertical axes 51. In this embodiment, eachrear bag flap 50 includes an elongated rectangular paddle that is substantially longer in a transverse direction than a vertical height. It is apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that rear bag flaps 50 may have any suitable or desired size and/or shape. Rear bag flaps 50 are moved between a closed position and an open position, as shown inFIG. 3 , by corresponding rearbag flap actuators 52. In one embodiment, rearbag flap actuators 52 are pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder and piston arrangements, such as shown inFIG. 3 . In alternative embodiments, any suitable type of actuator that is controlled by a suitably programmed control system may be used to move rear bag flaps 50. When rear bag flaps 50 are in the closed position, rear bag flaps 50 are either close to or in actual contact with the back (the side opposite the valve tube) of a bag that is positioned onsupport 16. This prevents a bag being filled and/or sealed from being pushed away (e.g., by the rising sealer anvil prior to sealing) or falling away from fillingspout 12 or the sealer mechanism. Rear bag flaps 50 thus facilitate ensuring a complete and cleaner fill of the bags and a more positively positioned seal of the bag valves. - While bag side supports 31 and rear bag flaps 50 are shown in particular configurations, other configurations for bag side supports 31 and/or rear bag flaps 50 may be used, as desired or required by a particular installation.
- In one embodiment,
apparatus 10 includes a dust collecting mechanism. Aflexible shroud 56 is positioned to surround the end portion of fillingspout 12 distal tonozzle 14.Shroud 56 is connected to adust collection tube 58, which is connected to a vacuum source (not shown).Shroud 56 has any suitable shape and/or is made of any suitable flexible material generally known in the art of bag filling apparatus. As is typically done, fillingspout 12 enters intoshroud 56 through a substantially sealed aperture (not shown). In one embodiment wherein fillingspout 12 is movable (whether pivoting or longitudinally reciprocating), the dust collection mechanism, includingshroud 56 anddust collection tube 58, is substantially stationary, although those portions ofshroud 58 that are directly coupled to fillingspout 12 are sufficiently flexible to accommodate the movements of fillingspout 12 and maintain a substantially sealed relationship to fillingspout 12 throughout its movements. -
FIG. 4 is a slightly enlarged view of fillingapparatus 10, showing fillingspout 12 in an extended position.FIG. 5 shows filling spout 12 in a retracted position.FIG. 6 is a fragmentary side elevation of fillingapparatus 10 ofFIGS. 1-5 , showing the filling spout in the retracted position and further showing a bag being sealed. - In operation, containers, such as valve bags, including sealable or non-sealable valve bags, are placed at
support 16 by any suitable mechanism including, without limitation, a conveyor belt, powered roller table, bag holding and/or indexing mechanism. Atsupport 16, the bag is positioned in an upright position with the protruding valve structure pointing toward fillingapparatus 10. Typically, in the process of raising the bags, a gripping mechanism, as a known in the art, may squeeze the top of the bag slightly, so as to pop open the end of the valve structure for facilitating entry ofnozzle 14 and/or fillingspout 12. A pushing device (not shown) may be employed for slightly moving the bag towardnozzle 14 or, in an alternative embodiment, for simply holding the bag in place whilenozzle 14 is inserted into the valve tube of a stationary bag. - In one embodiment, filling
spout 12 is in an extended position and is stationary when avalve bag 40 is placed onsupport 16. As described above,valve bag 40 may include a sealable or non-sealable valve structure. Further, other suitable bags may be filled with fillingapparatus 10, as described herein.Valve bag 40 is then pushed ontonozzle 14 to assume the position shown in phantom inFIG. 4 , such as by a piston actuated pusher or bag gripping device (not shown). In an alternative embodiment,nozzle 14 is inserted into the open valve tube of astationary valve bag 40. - In either embodiment, the movement of
nozzle 14 is the same or similar. To extendnozzle 14, cylinder(s) 25 is/are actuated to withdraw the pistons.Linkages spout 12 moves in a complex arc from the position shown inFIG. 5 to the position shown inFIG. 1, 3 or 4. Once pivoting of fillingspout 12 has been completed andvalve 42 has been placed on nozzle 14 (ornozzle 14 inserted into valve structure 42), filling ofvalve bag 40 can commence. Using a pump or other suitable means, the material to fillvalve bag 40 is supplied from a source, such as ahopper 54 and flows in the direction indicated byarrow 55. - In one embodiment, linkage cylinder(s) 25 include a hydraulic or pneumatic piston and cylinder assembly. In order to accommodate the upward pivoting of filling
spout 12,flexible tube 30 is collapsed and folded downward. - In the embodiments as described herein, suitable wiring, tubing and control mechanisms (suitably programmed or coupled to control actuators using known control techniques) are provided for the selective and/or automated actuation of cylinder(s) 25 between the retracted position and the extended position.
- After filling is complete (based upon timing of flow, volumetric measurement upstream of filling
spout 12, or measurement of weight atsupport 16, among other possible cut-off determination techniques), fillingspout 12 is generally pivoted backward from, andnozzle 14 tilted upward with respect to,valve bag 40 such thatnozzle 14 is removed fromvalve structure 42.Apparatus 10 thus returns to the configuration shown inFIG. 5 . - Whether
valve bag 40 is pushed onto astationary nozzle 14 ornozzle 14 is pushed into astationary valve bag 40, the relative positions of the pivot points for the linkages and/or the lengths of the linkages are selected such that during the pivoting movement of fillingspout 12 away fromvalve bag 40, the initial movement of thenozzle 14 is to actually initially dip downwardly relative tovalve structure 42 before fillingspout 12, as a whole, pivots backward away from and tilts upward relative tovalve bag 40. Such a pivoting movement may be readily accomplished by one of ordinary skill in the art having the present disclosure before them. - As shown in
FIGS. 1-6 , in one embodiment the linkages coupled to fillingspout 12 are coupled to the lower side of fillingspout 12 and are positioned generally below fillingspout 12. The linkages are further configured such that fillingspout 12 pivots up and away fromvalve bag 40 in the retracted position. - Referring to
FIGS. 7-13 , in oneembodiment apparatus 10 includes abag detection system 60 positioned with respect to fillingspout 12 for facilitating detecting whether a bag, such as avalve bag 40, has been properly and accurately positioned about fillingspout 12 and/ornozzle 14 prior to beginning the bag filling process. - In one embodiment,
detection system 60 includes anarray 62 of stationary sensor assemblies positioned about fillingspout 12 and acontroller 64 in operational communication with each sensor assembly ofarray 62.FIG. 7 is a fragmentary end view ofapparatus 10 includingarray 62 positioned with respect to fillingspout 12.FIG. 8 is a fragmentary perspective view ofapparatus 10 includingarray 62 positioned about fillingspout 12.FIG. 9 is a fragmentary end view ofapparatus 10 includingarray 62 and avalve bag 40 properly and accurately positioned about fillingspout 12. In one embodiment,array 62 includes at least two sensor assemblies. As shown inFIGS. 7-9 , in thisembodiment array 62 includes threesensor assemblies spout 12 and/ornozzle 14 and configured to detect or sense whethervalve bag 40 is positioned about fillingspout 12. In alternative embodiments,array 62 includes any suitable number of sensor assemblies, i.e., less than three sensor assemblies or more than three sensor assemblies. Eachsensor assembly - Referring further to
FIGS. 10-13 ,sensor assemblies spout 12 and configured to detect or sense whethervalve bag 40 is properly and accurately positioned about fillingspout 12. In one embodiment, eachsensor assembly housing 68 to protect the internal sensor components from undesirable contact with and/or exposure to dust or debris introduced during the bag filling process. In this embodiment,housing 68 protects the sensor assembly components from being covered with product or filling material being moved into the bags on fillingapparatus 10. Such product or filling material may prevent or limitsensor assemblies housing 68 is air purged with a suitable amount of air to provide positive pressure withinhousing 68 and prevent the product or filling material from enteringhousing 68 as the purge air escapes from withinhousing 68. Purge air is supplied to eachhousing 68 through an efficient circuit of hoses, as shown inFIGS. 7-9 . - As shown in
FIG. 10 , in oneembodiment housing 68 includes atransparent panel 69 fabricated from a suitable transparent material, such as a Lexan® material available from General Electric Company located in Schenectady, N.Y. or any suitable transparent or semi-transparent material, for facilitating monitoring the operation of the sensor assembly components housed withinhousing 68. In alternative embodiments,housing 68 may include a solid, non-transparent panel in lieu oftransparent panel 69. - Each
sensor assembly laser sensing component 70 positioned withinhousing 68 that emits a light beam against anouter surface 72 of fillingspout 12. As shown inFIG. 10 ,laser sensing component 70 emits onelight beam 71. However, in an alternative embodiment,laser sensing component 70 is configured to emit a plurality of light beams directed at varying directional angles againstouter surface 72 of fillingspout 12. -
Housing 68 defines anaperture 73, as shown inFIG. 11 , through whichlight beam 71 travels. In alternative embodiments, eachsensor assembly laser sensing component 70 for facilitating detecting or sensing whethervalve bag 40 is properly and accurately positioned about fillingspout 12. In this embodiment, eachsensor assembly housing 68 is coupled to frame 13 using a suitable mechanical component, such as abracket 74 shown in phantom lines inFIGS. 10 and 11 . Further, eachsensor assembly controller 64 via a suitable wire orcable 76, as shown inFIGS. 12 and 13 . - Referring further to
FIGS. 12 and 13 ,laser sensing component 70 of eachsensor assembly laser sensing component 70 emits alight beam 71 directed atouter surface 72 at a spatial location onouter surface 72. Each spatial location is positioned with respect to adjacent spatial locations of directed light beams emitted from corresponding sensor assemblies. In a particular embodiment,laser sensing component 70 of eachsensor assembly laser sensing component 70 is directed at a spatial location onouter surface 72 at a radial distance of about 120° with respect to a spatial location of adjacent emitted light beams. Further, eachsensor assembly spout 12 and/or calibrated to measure a first or initial distance between correspondinglaser sensing component 70 andouter surface 72. In a particular embodiment, eachsensor assembly spout 12 and/or calibrated such that a first or initial distance betweenlaser sensing component 70 ofsensor assembly 65 andouter surface 72 is substantially equal to a first or initial distance betweenlaser sensing component 70 ofsensor assembly 66 andouter surface 72 and a first or initial distance betweenlaser sensing component 70 ofsensor assembly 67 andouter surface 72, as shown inFIGS. 12 and 13 . Eachsensor assembly laser sensing component 70 to the corresponding spatial location onouter surface 72 of fillingspout 12 where the emitted light beam contactsouter surface 72. - In an alternative embodiment, each
sensor assembly laser sensing component 70 emits a light beam directed atouter surface 72 at a spatial location onouter surface 72, as desired, i.e., the corresponding light beam emitted fromlaser sensing component 70 is directed at a spatial location onouter surface 72 at a radial distance of less than or greater than about 120° with respect to a spatial location of adjacent emitted light beams. In further alternative embodiments including less than three sensors or more than three sensors, the sensors are suitably positioned about fillingspout 12 such that a corresponding laser sensing component emits a light beam directed atouter surface 72 at a spatial location onouter surface 72, as desired. - Further, in the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 7-13 ,sensor assemblies laser sensing component 70 emits a light beam directed atouter surface 72 at a spatial location onouter surface 72 substantially planar to the spatial locations of the other emitted light beams, e.g., each spatial location of the emitted light beams is positioned within a plane perpendicularly intersectinglongitudinal axis 24 of fillingspout 12. In an alternative embodiment, at least one sensor assembly ofarray 62 is positioned within a plane generally parallel to a plane in which at least one other sensor assembly is positioned. For example, in alternative embodiment,sensor assembly 65 is positioned with respect to a first location along a length of fillingspout 12 such that correspondinglaser sensing component 70 emits a light beam directed atouter surface 72 at a spatial location within a first planeintersecting filling spout 12 along the length of fillingspout 12. Additionally,sensor assembly 66 and/orsensor assembly 67 is positioned with respect to a second location along the length of fillingspout 12 different from the first location such that correspondinglaser sensing component 70 emits a light beam directed atouter surface 72 at a spatial location within a second plane different from the first plane andintersecting filling spout 12 along the length of fillingspout 12. - Each
sensor assembly valve bag 40 is properly positioned about fillingspout 12. Further, eachsensor assembly controller 64 indicating thatvalve bag 40 is properly positioned about fillingspout 12 or, in one embodiment, a bag positioning error signal indicating thatvalve bag 40 is not properly positioned about fillingspout 12. When eachsensor assembly controller 64 indicating thatvalve bag 40 is properly positioned about fillingspout 12, controller activates a filling mechanism ofapparatus 10 to begin the bag filling process. In this embodiment, the bag filling process will not begin until eachsensor assembly valve bag 40 is properly positioned about fillingspout 12. - With
valve bag 40 properly positioned about fillingspout 12, a portion ofvalve bag 40 interferes with the light beam emitted from eachlaser sensing component 70 such that a second distance shorter than the first distance is detected or sensed by eachsensor assembly laser sensing component 70 and a corresponding location on anouter surface 82 ofvalve bag 40 fit or positioned about fillingspout 12. Upon detecting or sensing that the measured second distance is less than the measured first distance, eachsensor assembly controller 64 indicating such and confirming thatvalve bag 40 is properly and accurately positioned about fillingspout 12. In one embodiment, eachlaser sensing component 70 is configured to accurately measure a distance of about 0.001 inch; thus, allowingsensor assemblies sense valve bag 40 positioned about fillingspout 12. - In a situation wherein
valve bag 40 is not properly positioned about filingspout 12, at least onesensor assembly valve bag 40 is not interfering with the light beam emitted from correspondinglaser sensing component 70 and, hence,valve bag 40 is not properly positioned about fillingspout 12. Ifsensor assembly sensor assembly controller 64 indicating thatvalve bag 40 is not properly positioned about fillingspout 12. Ifcontroller 64 receives the bag positioning error signal,controller 64 is configured to prevent the initiation of the bag filling process or discontinue the bag filling process until the bag positioning error is resolved. - Upon confirmation that
valve bag 40 is properly positioned about fillingspout 12,controller 64, in operational control communication withapparatus 10 and/or fillingspout 12, transmits an initiation signal to activate the filling mechanism to fillvalve bag 40 with the filling material. In one embodiment, upon detecting that the measured second distance is less than the measured first distance, eachsensor assembly controller 64 indicating that avalve bag 40 is properly positioned about fillingspout 12. However, when at least onesensor assembly valve bag 40 has not interfered with at least one emitted light beam),sensor assembly controller 64. In a particular embodiment,sensor assembly controller 64 indicating that avalve bag 40 is not properly positioned about fillingspout 12. Upon receiving no confirmation signal fromsensor assembly sensor assembly controller 64 prevents a flow of filling material through fillingspout 12 until eachsensor assembly - In one embodiment, a method is provided for determining whether a container, such as
valve bag 40, is properly positioned about fillingspout 12 for filling at least one container with filling material. Fillingspout 12 is in flow communication with a source of filling material and configured to enable the structure of the container defining the opening to fit about fillingspout 12. An array ofsensor assemblies 62 is provided that includes a plurality of stationary sensor assemblies radially positioned about the filling spout. Each sensor assembly includes a sensing component, such as a laser sensing component, that is calibrated to measure a first distance from a sensing component position or location to a spatial position or location on an outer surface of the filling spout. Each sensor assembly is configured to measure a second distance indicating that a container is positioned about fillingspout 12. The measured second distance is equal to a distance between each sensing component position or location and a corresponding position or location on an outer surface of the container positioned about the filling spout. - Upon each sensing component detecting a measured second distance less than the measured first distance, the corresponding sensor assembly transmits a confirmation signal to a controller in operational control communication with the filling mechanism confirming that a container is positioned about the filling spout. In response to the confirmation signal received from each sensor assembly (indicating that the container is properly positioned about the filling spout), the controller initiates activation of the filling mechanism, which allows flow of the filling material through the filling spout to fill the container properly positioned about the filing spout. However, upon at least one sensing component not sensing a second distance or at least one sensing component sensing a measured second distance equal to the measured first distance, the corresponding sensor assembly sensing no second distance or sensing such measured second distance transmits a container positioning error signal to the controller indicating that a container is not properly positioned about the filling spout. In response to at least one sensor assembly transmitting a container positioning error signal (indicating that the container is not properly positioned about the filling spout), the controller prevents activation of or deactivates the filling mechanism to prevent flow of the filling material through the filling spout. Such flow of the filing material is prevented until each sensor assembly transmits a confirmation signal to the controller indicating that the container is properly positioned about the filing spout.
- After the container, such as
valve bag 40, is filled with the filling material, the container is sealed by a sealingapparatus including sealer 18 andanvil 22. One possible mechanism that may be used may be identical or similar to that employed in Wadium et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,244,532 (in which sealer 18 employs an ultrasonic vibration horn 20), except that the anvil (instead of the horn) is pivotably mounted. When a container is being filled, or moved in or out of the filling station,anvil 22 is in the position shown in solid lines inFIGS. 1, 4 and 5. - Once filling has been completed,
anvil 22 is rotated outwardly and upwardly, in the direction indicated byarrow 90 inFIG. 5 , to the position indicated inFIG. 6 .Anvil 22 may be pivotably mounted and propelled by suitable linkages and propulsion mechanisms, similar to those employed moving fillingspout 12, or by other mechanisms understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. More or less simultaneously,horn 20 is lowered, in the direction ofarrow 92, as shown inFIG. 5 (e.g., by a suitably controlled piston and cylinder system or other mechanism), untilvalve structure 42 is clamped betweenhorn 20 andanvil 22, as shown inFIG. 6 . Ultrasonic vibrations and/or heat are then applied for a sufficient period of time and to a sufficient degree to activate the adhesive or sealable liner ofvalve structure 42. - Upon completion of the sealing step,
horn 20 is raised andanvil 22 is pivoted downwardly and away from the container. The filled and sealed container is moved away fromsupport 16 and replaced by a successive empty container with the opening structure ready to receivenozzle 14 or to be pushed ontonozzle 14. - The above-described apparatus and method for filling at least one container, such as a valve bag, allows containers to be accurately filled without spillage. More specifically, the apparatus and method facilitate sensing or detecting whether a container has been properly and accurately positioned about the filling spout prior to initiating the container filling process. As a result, containers are reliably and efficiently filled without false confirmations that a container is properly positioned about the filling spout.
- Exemplary embodiments of an apparatus and method for filling at least one container are described above in detail. The apparatus and method are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather, components of the apparatus and/or steps of the method may be utilized independently and separately from other components and/or steps described herein. Further, the described apparatus components and/or method steps can also be defined in, or used in combination with, other apparatus and/or methods, and are not limited to practice with only the apparatus and method as described herein.
- While the invention has been described in terms of various specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the claims.
Claims (33)
Priority Applications (7)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/417,702 US20070267095A1 (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2006-05-04 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout |
CA002651046A CA2651046A1 (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2007-05-03 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout |
EP07761846A EP2013087A2 (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2007-05-03 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout |
PCT/US2007/068169 WO2007131125A2 (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2007-05-03 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout |
MX2008013929A MX2008013929A (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2007-05-03 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout. |
AU2007247961A AU2007247961A1 (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2007-05-03 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout |
US12/045,439 US20090056282A1 (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2008-03-10 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout |
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US11/417,702 US20070267095A1 (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2006-05-04 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout |
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US12/045,439 Continuation-In-Part US20090056282A1 (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2008-03-10 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout |
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US11/417,702 Abandoned US20070267095A1 (en) | 2006-05-04 | 2006-05-04 | Apparatus and method for sensing a container positioned about a filling spout |
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US (1) | US20070267095A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2013087A2 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2007247961A1 (en) |
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WO (1) | WO2007131125A2 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN105129153A (en) * | 2015-08-11 | 2015-12-09 | 安徽远鸿机械自动化有限公司 | Bag opening and filling control method |
CN107462172A (en) * | 2017-09-19 | 2017-12-12 | 徐工集团工程机械有限公司 | Nozzle opening degree detection means, big gun head and fire water monitor |
US20180189275A1 (en) * | 2008-03-04 | 2018-07-05 | Christopher Procyshyn | Robotic filling systems and methods |
CN113942702A (en) * | 2021-10-22 | 2022-01-18 | 常州艾布纳机械有限公司 | Ultrasonic wave valve bag packagine machine |
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- 2007-05-03 CA CA002651046A patent/CA2651046A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-05-03 WO PCT/US2007/068169 patent/WO2007131125A2/en active Application Filing
- 2007-05-03 AU AU2007247961A patent/AU2007247961A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-05-03 MX MX2008013929A patent/MX2008013929A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2007-05-03 EP EP07761846A patent/EP2013087A2/en not_active Withdrawn
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US3830266A (en) * | 1973-03-23 | 1974-08-20 | Okinkraft Inc | Drop-down fill spout for bag filling machine |
US4086746A (en) * | 1976-06-10 | 1978-05-02 | Robert Christy Engineering Limited | Packaging machines |
US4158943A (en) * | 1977-06-23 | 1979-06-26 | Canadian Industries Limited | Method and apparatus for placing a valve bag on a filling spout |
US4310037A (en) * | 1980-03-17 | 1982-01-12 | Harold Seals | Apparatus for mounting valve bags to filling spouts of filling machines |
US4574851A (en) * | 1982-09-28 | 1986-03-11 | Champion International Corporation | Apparatus for filling a valve bag |
US4537015A (en) * | 1983-09-02 | 1985-08-27 | Inglett & Company, Inc. | Bag placer for a packaging machine |
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Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20180189275A1 (en) * | 2008-03-04 | 2018-07-05 | Christopher Procyshyn | Robotic filling systems and methods |
US10261940B2 (en) * | 2008-03-04 | 2019-04-16 | Vanrx Pharmasystems, Inc. | Robotic filling systems and methods |
US10901941B2 (en) * | 2008-03-04 | 2021-01-26 | Vanrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Robotic filling systems and methods |
US11630801B2 (en) | 2008-03-04 | 2023-04-18 | V Anrx Pharmasystems Inc. | Robotic filling systems and methods |
CN105129153A (en) * | 2015-08-11 | 2015-12-09 | 安徽远鸿机械自动化有限公司 | Bag opening and filling control method |
CN107462172A (en) * | 2017-09-19 | 2017-12-12 | 徐工集团工程机械有限公司 | Nozzle opening degree detection means, big gun head and fire water monitor |
CN113942702A (en) * | 2021-10-22 | 2022-01-18 | 常州艾布纳机械有限公司 | Ultrasonic wave valve bag packagine machine |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2007131125A8 (en) | 2008-12-11 |
AU2007247961A1 (en) | 2007-11-15 |
MX2008013929A (en) | 2008-12-10 |
WO2007131125A2 (en) | 2007-11-15 |
CA2651046A1 (en) | 2007-11-15 |
EP2013087A2 (en) | 2009-01-14 |
WO2007131125A3 (en) | 2008-06-26 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SMURFIT-STONE CONTAINER ENTERPRISE, INC., ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:WADIUM, CHRISTOPHER STEPHAN;PACE, LAMONT STEWART;REEL/FRAME:017866/0274 Effective date: 20060503 |
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Owner name: BLUEGRASS CONTAINER COMPANY, LLC, TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SMURFIT-STONE CONTAINER ENTERPRISES, INC.;REEL/FRAME:018840/0317 Effective date: 20060630 |
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Owner name: ALTIVITY PACKAGING, LLC, ILLINOIS Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:BLUEGRASS CONTAINER COMPANY, LLC;REEL/FRAME:018864/0586 Effective date: 20060822 |
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Owner name: BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, IL Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BLUEGRASS CONTAINER HOLDINGS, LLC;REEL/FRAME:020723/0748 Effective date: 20080310 Owner name: BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT,ILL Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BLUEGRASS CONTAINER HOLDINGS, LLC;REEL/FRAME:020723/0748 Effective date: 20080310 |
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Owner name: GRAPHIC PACKAGING INTERNATIONAL, INC., GEORGIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ALTIVITY PACKAGING, LLC;REEL/FRAME:021535/0305 Effective date: 20080825 Owner name: GRAPHIC PACKAGING INTERNATIONAL, INC.,GEORGIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ALTIVITY PACKAGING, LLC;REEL/FRAME:021535/0305 Effective date: 20080825 |
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