Patent ID: 6494017
Filing Date: 2002-12-17
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
A multi-function in-case filling and capping system for automated high-volume filling and capping of containers in cardboard cases, comprising;a servo-controlled indexing assembly for transporting at least two adjacent cases and for positioning said at least two cases into proper filling and capping positions; a filling apparatus including a plurality of filling nozzles mounted on a servo-controlled walking-beam extending along said servo-controlled indexing assembly, said walking beam providing vertical and horizontal motion of said nozzles in registration with containers in all of said at least two adjacent cases and synchronous thereto while being transported by said servo-controlled indexing assembly; a capping apparatus including a plurality of capping chucks mounted on a servo-controlled walking-beam extending along said servo-controlled indexing assembly, said walking beam providing vertical and horizontal motion of said chucks in registration with containers in all of said at least two adjacent cases and synchronous thereto while being transported by said servo-controlled indexing assembly; a programmable controller connected to said servo-controlled indexing assembly, said filling apparatus and said capping apparatus for synchronizing the travel of the indexing assembly with the travel of the walking-beam of said filling apparatus, and with the travel of the walking-beam of said capping apparatus, the plurality of nozzles of the filling apparatus thereby tracking said at least two cases of containers along the servo-controlled indexing assembly as liquid is dispensed and said plurality of capping chucks of said capping apparatus thereby tracking said at least two cases of containers along said servo-controlled indexing assembly as caps are applied.