Abstract:
A container processing installation includes a carousel with processing modules disposed around a periphery thereof, each pair of adjacent processing modules being separated a screened gap. The screen that screens this gap is a multi-part panel arrangement having a first panel mounted to a processing module such that it can swivel and a second panel having a connector mounted thereon. This connector interacts with a counter-connector that is either on an adjacent second processing module or on the container-processing installation.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This is the national stage, under 35 USC 371, of PCT/EP2014/067373, filed on Aug. 13, 2014, which claims the benefit of the August 20, 2013 priority date of German application DE 10 2013 109 004.4, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
       [0002]    The invention relates to a container processing installation having a rotating carousel with container-processing modules arranged on a peripheral circumference thereof, and in particular, to screening the space between the container-processing modules. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Container processing machines often include a rotating carousel. The carousel has processing modules arranged around a periphery thereof. Between each pair of processing modules is a space. 
         [0004]    It is useful to provide screens in the spaces between pairs of processing modules. Such screens serve two purposes. First, they discourage personnel from inserting limbs into the movement range of the carousel. Second, they protect personnel against containers that may become loose during operation. These containers might otherwise be flung out of the carousel and injure bystanders. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0005]    In one aspect, the invention features a container processing installation having a rotating carousel with processing modules arranged around a peripheral circumference thereof. These processing modules process containers. An inter-module gap separates each pair of processing modules. Within each gap is multi-part panel arrangement that forms a screen. One of the panels of this panel arrangement connects to one side to the processing installation and/or to one of the processing modules. Another panel in this panel arrangement has connectors that interact with corresponding counter-connectors that are arranged on the processing installation and/or immediately adjacent to the processing module. 
         [0006]    In some embodiments, the extent of the panel arrangement is greater than the inter-module gap to be screened. In these embodiments, the panels define an angle between them. This is advantageous because it means that a panel arrangement can be adjusted to screen inter-module gaps of different sizes, provided the sizes are within the tolerance defined by the panel arrangement&#39;s geometry. 
         [0007]    In some embodiments, the panel arrangement is arranged on the processing module so that it can be pivoted in one direction. In such embodiments, the counter-connectors are arranged on an adjacent processing module. In this way, the panel arrangement can close the inter-module gap in the simplest way. 
         [0008]    Other embodiments achieve a unilaterally pivotable connection of the panel arrangement to the processing module by having a tie bar of the panel arrangement be secured rigidly to the processing module. For example, the tie bar may be screwed to the processing module. A first panel connects to this tie bar in an articulated manner. In some embodiments, a rubber element or a rubber lip forms a joint or a combination of one or more mechanically supporting joints that absorbs vertical forces, repels dirt, and blocks light. Among these embodiments are those in which the tie bar or a vertical frame element of the first panel is connected in an articulated manner to the processing module, with the adjacent first panel being connected rigidly, i.e. in an immobile manner, to the tie bar or frame element. 
         [0009]    A second panel is arranged directly against the first panel. This second panel is connected in an articulated manner to the first panel, to which end similarly to the first embodiment, one or more suitable joints or a hinge suffice, or rubber elements or lips alone or in combination can be used as panels. The joint is naturally configured such that it is adapted to the load it is to take. The connector can now be directly arranged on the second panel. It is now possible to provide a third or even more panels, which as previously mentioned are connected to each other in an articulated manner, wherein the at least one connector is arranged on the in each case last panel. However, two panels are preferably provided, that can move relative to each other. 
         [0010]    Due to the articulated connection, the panels can be swiveled from the blocking position into a rest position and folded onto each other. In the rest position, the inter-module gap is open so that it becomes possible to service internal components. This provides a clear advantage since the panel arrangement is simply folded away without the need to push it upwards and hold it there with additional measures. And with the dismantling of the modules, the panel arrangement fixed on them is also completely removed so that the processing machine is optimally accessible. 
         [0011]    The panels of the panel arrangement can have dimensions that are identical or different. In particular, the longitudinal extension of the panels can be made the same size or different sizes. For example, the first panel may be wider than the second panel. 
         [0012]    To be able to actuate the panel arrangement, it is sufficient for only one of the panels to have an actuation element. In some embodiments, the actuation element is a rod handle. 
         [0013]    The connectors arranged opposite to secure the tie bar and the corresponding counter-connectors maintain the screen in a stable position as it closes the inter-module gap. In some embodiments, the connector is a permanent magnet. In other embodiments, the connector is an electrical safety switch having an interlock. Among these embodiments are those in which an electromagnet having an electrically excitable coil implements the interlock. Such a connector locks with a counter-connector. In some embodiments, the counter-connector is either a magnetizable component or a permanent magnet. 
         [0014]    In some embodiments, there is only a single connector with a corresponding counter-connector arranged in a corresponding position on the other adjacent processing module. Among these are embodiments in which the connector is arranged on a lower region of the panel arrangement. 
         [0015]    In some embodiments, the counter-connector is arranged on a corresponding holder that is arranged on the processing installation. Among these are embodiments in which the holder is a tie bar that is also arranged on the processing module to form a corresponding stop on a front face of the panel arrangement. 
         [0016]    In another arrangement, the connector is arranged on a free front face of the panel arrangement on a self-adjusting carrier element mounted thereon. 
         [0017]    In some embodiments, the connector is a self-adjusting connector. Among these embodiments are those in which the connector is mounted in a mobile manner on the panel arrangement. One implementation of such a mounting relies on a rubber bearing that is arranged between the panel and the connector, or between the panel and the electrical safety switch that forms the connector. 
         [0018]    In some embodiments, a holder holds the connector, or the safety switch. The holder is arranged such that it can move on the panel arrangement, i.e. on the corresponding panel. In an alternative embodiment, the counter-connector is alone or still held or mounted in a self-adjusting manner. 
         [0019]    In one aspect, the invention features a container processing installation having a carousel with processing modules disposed around a periphery thereof, each pair of adjacent processing modules being separated a screened gap. The screen that screens this gap is a multi-part panel arrangement having a first panel mounted to a processing module such that it can swivel and a second panel having a connector mounted thereon. This connector interacts with a counter-connector that is either on an adjacent second processing module or on the container-processing installation. 
         [0020]    In some embodiments, the panel arrangement extends over a greater length than a width of the gap. 
         [0021]    Embodiments include those I which panel arrangement is arranged on the container-processing installation, and those in which it is arranged on the processing module. In the former case, the panel arrangement swivels in one direction relative to the container-processing installation, whereas in the latter case, the panel arrangement swivels in one direction relative to the processing module. 
         [0022]    Also among the embodiments are those in which the panel arrangement further comprises a tie bar to which the first panel connects in an articulated manner. Among these embodiments are those in which the tie bar is arranged on the processing module and those in which it is arranged on the container-processing installation. 
         [0023]    In other embodiments, the first and second panels connect to each other in an articulated manner. 
         [0024]    Yet other embodiments include a joint between the two panels. The joint includes a rubber lip secured to the first and second panels. 
         [0025]    In some embodiments, the panel arrangement swivels between a blocking position and a rest position. In the blocking position, the screen screens the gap; whereas in the rest position, it doesn&#39;t. 
         [0026]    In some embodiments, the connector comprises an electrical safety switch having an interlock or a permanent magnet. In either case, there are embodiments which the counter-connector comprises a magnetic elbow, those in which it comprises a magnetizable elbow, and those in which it comprises a tie bar. 
         [0027]    Further embodiments include those in which the connector is arranged on a lower region of the panel arrangement and those in which it is arranged on a lower region of the second panel. 
         [0028]    Also among the embodiments are those in which either or both of the connector or the counter-connector is self-adjusting. 
         [0029]    The invention includes combinations of the foregoing features. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0030]    These and other features of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying figures, in which: 
         [0031]      FIG. 1  a section of a container processing installation in a perspective partial view; 
         [0032]      FIG. 2  shows a view from above the section shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         [0033]      FIG. 3  is magnified portion of  FIG. 2  showing a panel arrangement as seen from above; 
         [0034]      FIG. 4  shows alternative panel arrangements in which the two panels have the same or different widths; 
         [0035]      FIG. 5  a magnification from  FIG. 1  showing a connector with its associated counter-connector; 
         [0036]      FIG. 6  shows the connector of  FIG. 5  in greater detail; and 
         [0037]      FIG. 7  shows details associated with securing on a tie bar, and by means of a connector. 
     
    
       [0038]    In the various figures, the same parts are always given the same reference symbols, and hence they are generally also only described once. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0039]      FIG. 1  shows a container processing installation  1  that has processing modules  2  arranged around a carousel. The carousel itself has been omitted for clarity. Between each pair of processing modules  2  is an inter-module space. A screen  3  fills this inter-module space. 
         [0040]    The screen  3  is a multi-part panel arrangement  4  having first and second panels  5 ,  6 . In some embodiments, the first and second panels  5 ,  6  are transparent. This can be achieved by use of MAKROLON® or PLEXIGLAS®. 
         [0041]    Each of the first and second panels  5 ,  6  extends along a vertical direction and a horizontal direction. The extent along the vertical direction is the panel&#39;s “height” and the extent along the horizontal direction is the panel&#39;s “width.” 
         [0042]    One side of the first panel  5  connects to a processing module  2 . Referring now to  FIG. 3 , the second panel  6  has a connector  7  that interacts with a corresponding counter-connector  8 . As is best seen in  FIGS. 5 and 7 , the counter-connector  8  is arranged on another directly adjacent processing module  2 . 
         [0043]    As can be seen in  FIGS. 1 to 3 , the panel arrangement  4  is arranged on the processing module  2  so that it pivots in one direction. 
         [0044]    The panel arrangement  4  is too wide to fit in the inter-module space between processing modules  2  when it is fully extended. Accordingly, when installed, the first and second panels  5 ,  6  of the panel arrangement  4  form an angle relative to each other, as shown in  FIGS. 1-3 . 
         [0045]    The panel arrangement  4  includes a tie bar  9 , best seen in  FIG. 3 , to facilitate the one-sided pivotable connection between the panel arrangement  4  and the processing module  2 . The tie bar  9  is secured rigidly to the processing module  2 , for example by screwing the tie bar  9  to the processing module  2 . The arrangement of the tie bar  9 , the counter-connector  8 , and the connector  7  causes the panel arrangement  4  to maintain a stable position that fills the inter-module gap and thus isolates the space within the carousel. 
         [0046]    The first panel  5  connects to the tie bar  9  in an articulated manner, as shown in  FIG. 3 . The second panel  6  is arranged adjacent to the first panel  5  with a joint  10  providing an articulated connection between the first and second panels  5 ,  6 . A rubber lip  11 , which is secured to both the first and second panels  5 ,  6 , extends along the height of the first and second panels  5 ,  6 . The connector  7  is directly arranged on the second panel  6 . As a result of the articulated connection, the first and second panels  5 ,  6  can be swiveled from a blocking position  12 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , into a rest position in which they are folded against each other. 
         [0047]    The dimensions of the first and second panels  5 ,  6  can be identical or different. For example, the right-hand portion of  FIG. 4  shows first and second panels  5 ,  6  having the same width. The central portion of  FIG. 4  shows a second panel  6  having a width greater than that of the first panel  5 . The left-hand portion of  FIG. 4  shows a second panel  6  having a width smaller than that of the first panel  5 . 
         [0048]    The tie bar  9  secures the first panel  5  to the processing module  2 . A rod handle  13 , which can be seen in  FIG. 3 , serves as an actuator for actuating the panel arrangement  4 . Only one rod-handle  13  is required to actuate the panel arrangement  4 . In the illustrated embodiment, the rod handle  13  is on the second panel  6 . However, in other embodiments, the rod handle  13  is on the first panel  5 . 
         [0049]    An advantageous feature is that only one mounting is needed to guide the panel arrangement  4  as it pivots. The tie bar  9  serves as this mounting. In some embodiments, there is also a bearing on the top circumferential periphery of the container-processing machine  1 . Such a bearing is arranged vertically relative to the mounting. 
         [0050]    For each panel arrangement  4 , it is enough to have one connector  7  with its corresponding counter-connector  8  arranged in a corresponding position on a directly adjacent processing module  2 , as can best be seen in  FIGS. 5 to 7 . In some embodiments, the connector  7  is arranged on a lower region of the panel arrangement  4 . 
         [0051]    The counter-connector  8  can be implemented as a magnetic elbow  14 , as shown in  FIG. 5 . However, the counter-connector  8  can also be arranged on a holder  15  that is arranged on the processing installation  2 , as shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         [0052]    In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 , the holder  15  is implemented a tie bar  9 . The holder  15  is arranged on the processing module  2  to form a corresponding stop on the front face seen in the vertical direction of the panel arrangement  4 , as shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         [0053]    In some embodiments, the connector  7  is an electrical safety switch. In these embodiments, the counter-connector  8  is a magnetizable section or permanent magnet on the tie bar  9 . 
         [0054]    In a preferred arrangement, the connector  7  is a safety switch that is arranged in such a way on a free front face  16  of the panel arrangement  4 . In particular, as shown in  FIG. 7 , the connector  7  is arranged as on the free front face  16  of the second panel  6 . 
         [0055]    A rubber bearing  17  arranged between the second panel  6  and the connector  7  ensures its ability to move relative to the panel arrangement  4 . As a result of this mobility, the connector  7  is self-adjusting. 
         [0056]    In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 6 , a holder  18  that is arranged so that it can move relative to the panel arrangement  4  holds the connector  7 . The illustrated holder  18  is movably mounted to the free front face  16  of the second panel  6 . This too provides the mobility needed to ensure that the connector  7  is self-adjusting. 
         [0057]    One way to open the inter-module space is to fold back or pivot the first and second panels  5 ,  6 . Another way to open the inter-module space is to dismantle the panel arrangement  4 . To do so, only a tie bar  9  needs to be released. 
         [0058]    In some cases, it may become necessary to interchange the processing modules  2 . When this is carried out, the panel arrangement  4  can be removed and fitted on the new module. Alternatively, the panel arrangement  4  can remain on a particular interchangeable processing module  2 . This saves assembly and dismantling time. 
         [0059]    In some cases, interchanging processing-modules  2  can change the inter-module gap. However, since the first and second panels  5 ,  6  are arranged to form an angle between them, it is possible to adjust for different inter-module gaps by changing this angle. This means that even though the dimension of the inter-module space changes, the panel arrangement  4  still provides reliable screening. 
         [0060]    In some embodiments, multiple first panels  4  are arranged around a rotary table to fully screen the container processing installation  1 . 
         [0061]    Having described the invention, and a preferred embodiment thereof, what is claimed as new, and secured by letters patent is: