A filler device sub-assembly having a manipulator for manipulating a cap of a container comprising a first and second cap gripper arm and a member for controllably manipulating the cap gripper arms. The controllable manipulating member comprising an inner cam assembly, an outer cam assembly and a follower. The outer cam assembly extends at least partially about the inner cam assembly. One of the inner and outer cam assemblies coupled to the first and second cap gripper arms. The follower is associated with the inner cam assembly and the outer cam assembly. Movement of the lifter shaft imparts movement of the follower and relative movement of the inner cam assembly and the outer cam assembly, to in turn, longitudinally and rotatably move the cap gripper arms from a first position proximate to a container to a second position distally spaced from a container.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates in general to a filler device sub-assembly, and more particularly, to a filler device sub-assembly, which among other things, substantially precludes air and/or other matter from undesirably entering an associated container upon and/or prior to filling of the same, which facilitates reliable uncapping, capping, and/or recapping of the container and which facilitates the cleaning of the uncapping and retaining structures.

2. Background Art

Filling assemblies for use in association with filler devices have been known in the art for years and are the subject of numerous patents including: U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,683; U.S. Pat. No. 5,740,844; U.S. Pat. No. 5,690,151; U.S. Pat. No. 5,533,552; U.S. Pat. No. 5,531,253; U.S. Pat. No. 5,450,882; U.S. Pat. No. 5,402,833; U.S. Pat. No. 4,848,381; U.S. Pat. No. 4,437,498; U.S. Pat. No. 4,219,054; U.S. Pat. No. 3,774,658; U.S. Pat. No. 3,568,734; U.S. Pat. No. 3,430,639; EP Pat. No. 568,121 A1; and EP Pat. No. 554,951 A1. While the above-identified fill assemblies have become commercially available for use in association with filler devices, problems associated with precluding air and/or other undesirable matter from entering an associated container before filling as well as uncapping, capping, and/or recapping at an operatively acceptable speed remain largely problematic. Moreover, problems associated with excessive movement and travel of the cap member during uncapping, filling and capping have also been identified. Lastly, certain problems have been encountered relative to the cleaning of the various components of the uncapping and retaining structures.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a reliable, filler device sub-assembly for use in association with any one of a number of filler devices, including rotary fillers, which remedies the detriments and/or complications associated with conventional filler assemblies known in the art.

These and other objects of the present invention will become apparent in light of the present specification, claims, and drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention comprises a filler device sub-assembly having a manipulator for manipulating a cap of a container. The manipulator comprises a first and second cap gripper arm and means for controllably manipulating the cap gripper arms. The cap gripper arms are capable of cooperating to releasably retain a cap of a container. The controllable manipulating means comprises an inner cam assembly, an outer cam assembly and at least one follower. The outer cam assembly extends at least partially about the inner cam assembly. At least one of the outer cam assembly and the inner cam assembly is coupled to the cap gripper arms. The at least one follower is associated with the inner cam assembly and the outer cam assembly. The lifter shaft is associated with at least one of the inner and outer cam assemblies. Movement of the lifter shaft imparts movement of the follower and relative movement of the inner cam assembly and the outer cam assembly, to in turn, longitudinally and rotatably move the cap gripper arms from a first position proximate to a container to a second position distally spaced from a container.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner cam assembly is associated with the lifter shaft, the outer cam assembly is substantially stationary and the inner cam assembly is coupled to the cap gripper arms.

In another preferred embodiment, the outer cam assembly includes at least one slot assembly, which includes an upper slot and a lower slot. Similarly, the inner cam assembly includes at least one slot for each of the at least one slot assemblies of the outer cam assembly. The at least one slot of the inner cam assembly corresponds to one of the upper slot and the lower slot of the outer cam assembly.

In one such embodiment, the at least one slot of the inner cam assembly corresponds to the lower slot of the at least one slot assembly of the outer cam assembly.

In another such embodiment, the at least one follower comprises at least one follower associated with the inner cam assembly and corresponding to one of the upper and lower slots of the at least one slot assembly, and, at least one follower associated with the lifter shaft and corresponding the other of the upper and lower slots of the at least one slot assembly and corresponding to the at least one slot of the inner cam assembly.

In one such preferred embodiment, the at least one slot of each of the inner and outer assemblies which correspond to the at least one follower of the lifter shaft are oblique relative to each other.

In another such embodiment, the at least one slot interfacing with the at least one follower of the inner cam assembly includes a longitudinal section and a rotational section. The positioning of the at least one follower of the inner cam in the longitudinal section facilitates longitudinal movement of at least one of the inner cam assembly and the outer cam assembly. The positioning of the at least one follower of the inner cam in the rotational region facilitates rotational movement of at least one of the inner cam assembly and the outer cam assembly.

In one embodiment, the at least one slot of each of the outer cam assembly and the inner cam assembly interface with the at least one follower of the lifter shaft, to, in turn, control the rotation of the gripper arms upon positioning of the at least one follower of the inner cam assembly within the rotational region of the at least one slot interfacing therewith.

In one such embodiment, at least a portion of the upper slot and at least a portion of the lower slot are substantially collinear.

In another embodiment of the invention, the at least one follower comprises at least two followers, each follower cooperating with at least one of the inner cam assembly and the outer cam assembly. At least one of the at least two followers selectively facilitating one of longitudinal and rotational movement of the cap gripper arms, and, the other of the at least two followers facilitating the rotational movement of the cap gripper arms upon selective facilitation of such rotational movement.

In one embodiment of the invention, the inner cam assembly further comprises a body having a slot and an upper shaft member coupled to the first and second cap gripper arms. The outer cam assembly further comprises an upper slot and a lower slot. The at least one follower comprises at least one follower coupled to the inner cam and cooperating with the one of the upper and lower slots of the outer cam assembly, and at least one follower coupled to the lifter shaft and cooperating with each of the slot of the body of the inner cam assembly and the other of the upper slot and the lower slot. In one such embodiment, the lifter shaft further comprises a first end and a second end. The at least one follower that is associated with the lifter shaft is associated with the first end thereof. The first end of the lifter shaft is rotatively and longitudinally displaceable relative to the inner cam assembly.

In another embodiment, the at least one follower that is coupled to the inner cam cooperates with the upper slot of the outer cam assembly and the at least one follower that is coupled to the lifter shaft cooperates with the lower slot of the outer cam assembly.

Preferably, the upper slot of the outer cam assembly further comprises a longitudinal section and a rotational section. Additionally, the lower slot is substantially collinear with the longitudinal section of the upper slot.

In a preferred embodiment, the lower slot of the outer cam assembly is oblique to the slot of the body of the inner cam assembly.

In another embodiment, the outer cam assembly is substantially fixed and the inner cam assembly is capable of each of longitudinal motion and rotational motion relative to the outer cam.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and described herein in detail several specific embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments illustrated.

Referring now to the drawings and in particular toFIG. 1in particular, a schematic representation of a filler device sub-assembly10is shown, which generally comprises housing11, means12for retaining a rim of a container, means14for manipulating a cap of a container, means16for substantially sealing a portion of a container against a rim of a container (FIG.3), means18for ejecting a rim of a container, and means19for sensing the presence or absence of at least one of a cap or a rim of a container.

Referring now toFIGS. 8 and 9, filler device sub-assembly10is primarily intended for use in association with filler device9, which is capable of filling associated containers and/or bags with any one of a number of materials (i.e. product) in solid, liquid, and/or gaseous states.

Housing11is shown inFIG. 3as comprising base22, upper plate24, and riser posts26,27,28and29. As will be understood, housing11provides a structure for the attachment and operation of the remainder of the filler device sub-assembly components. For example, base22includes an opening and upper plate24includes an opening for receiving and retaining cap manipulating means14and rim retaining means12. Similarly, and as will be explained in greater detail herein, riser posts28and29provide a shaft upon which substantial sealing means16is linearly slidable. Housing11generally comprises a stainless steel material which is resistant to corrosion. Of course, other materials, such as aluminum and non-metals are likewise contemplated for use. Indeed, the housing is not limited to any particular material, and various materials may be utilized depending on the particular application. As shown inFIGS. 11-14and as will be explained in detail below, in certain embodiments, housing11may be optionally equipped with housing cleaning assembly23.

Rim retaining means12is shown inFIG. 2Bas comprising first gripper arm40, second gripper arm42, pivot axle41, means43for biasing the first gripper arm and the second gripper arm toward each other, and means45for guiding the rim into a desired gripped orientation. First gripper arm40includes first end44, second end46and pivot opening48. Similarly, second gripper arm42includes first end50, second end52and pivot opening54. The two gripper arms combine to define rim retaining region49, which accommodates and retains the rim of a particular container. The gripper arms are pivotally associated with pivot axle41which is fixed to the opening of upper plate24of housing11. The pivot openings of the gripper arms are positioned about pivot axle41so that the gripper arms can pivot thereabout. In a grasping position, the first ends44,50are in abutment and in contact with a stop, such as stop47(FIG. 4) and the second ends are in close proximity. In the extended position, the first ends are away from the stop, and the second ends are separated so as to be ready to receive a rim.

Gripper arm biasing means43is shown inFIGS. 2B and 4as comprising extension springs56,58which are releasably attached to each of the gripper arms. In a steady state condition, the springs are extended, and, in turn, biased such that the second ends of the gripper arms are forced toward and into contact with each other. An external force is required to overcome springs56,58, to, in turn, separate the ends of the gripper arms40,42from each other. In other embodiments, the retaining means may comprise compression springs which operate individually on each of the gripper arms. Of course other retaining means, such as gripper arms which utilize a hydraulic force or a pneumatic force to retain a rim are likewise contemplated for use.

Referring again toFIG. 2B, rim guiding means45comprises rim extending surfaces53,53′ which are associated with second ends46,52of the respective first and second gripper arms. The rim extending surfaces are positioned such that upon outside contact, by, for example, a rim of a container, the gripper arms are pivoted away from each other. In addition, the rim extending surfaces are angled toward the rim retaining region such that upon outside contact, by a rim of a container, the rim extending surfaces (that are in contact with the rim) guide the rim toward and into rim retaining region49. Preferably, the rim extending surfaces are angled toward the rim retaining region at an angle of about 15° to about 75°. To achieve cooperative operation, the two cap extending surfaces are angled at substantially identical angles.

Cap manipulating means14is shown inFIG. 2Aas comprising first cap gripper arm60, second cap gripper arm62, means63for biasing the cap gripper arms toward each other, means64for controllably manipulating the gripper arms (FIG.1), means65for guiding the cap into a gripped orientation. It will be understood that cap manipulating means14removes the cap from the container and directs the cap away from the container so that a fill valve can be introduced to the container, and the resulting container may be filled. Subsequently, the cap manipulating means returns the cap to the container so that the container can be resealed.

Specifically, as is shownFIG. 2A, first cap gripper arm60includes first end70, second end73and pivot opening74. Similarly, second cap gripper arm62includes first end77, second end79and pivot opening80. As with the gripper arms40,42of rim retaining means12, cap gripper arms60,62likewise define cap gripping region69which is configured to accept and retain caps of a particular configuration.

The cap gripper arms60,62are arranged so that the pivot openings74,80are positioned to pivot about the axis of upper shaft member120, from a grasping position to a released position. In a grasping position, the first ends are in abutment and in contact with a stop, such as stop47′, and the second ends are positioned in close proximity. In the extended position, the first ends are away from the stop and the second ends are separated so as to be ready to receive a cap.

As is shown inFIG. 2A, biasing means63forces cap gripper arms60,62into a retaining position. Specifically, biasing means63includes extension springs84,86which are releasably attached to each of the cap gripper arms to bias them toward each other. External force is required to overcome the springs so as to separate the ends of the cap gripper arms away from each other.

Cap guiding means65is shown inFIG. 2Aas comprising cap extending surfaces71,71′ associated with the respective second ends of the cap gripper arms. As with the rim retaining means, the cap extending surfaces are configured so that contact by, for example, a cap of a container, directs the cap gripper arm (in contact with the cap of a container) in an outward direction and simultaneously guides the cap toward cap gripping region69. To achieve this guiding of the cap, the cap extending surfaces are angled at an angle of about 15° to about 75°. To achieve substantially cooperative operation, the two cap extending surfaces are angled at substantially identical angles and at angles substantially identical to the rim extending surfaces53,53′.

Gripper arm controllable manipulating means64is shown inFIG. 1as comprising outer cam assembly102, inner cam assembly104and lifter shaft106. The gripper arm controllable manipulating means is capable of vertically moving (i.e., longitudinally moving) the cap from the rim of the container and rotatingly moving the cap away from the rim to permit the valve to engage the container and, in turn, fill same. Outer cam assembly102and inner cam assembly104are configured such that they are substantially coaxial with outer cam assembly102extending around inner cam assembly104, while other configurations are contemplated.

Outer cam assembly102is shown in detail inFIG. 5as comprising first end110, second end112, slot assembly114and attachment assembly116. It will be understood that while a single slot assembly114is shown inFIG. 5, outer cam102includes three slot assemblies positioned at 120° intervals about the circumference of the outer cam assembly. Of course a greater or a fewer number of slot assemblies are contemplated for use, and, various spatial arrangements are likewise contemplated for use. Slot assembly114is shown as comprising upper slot130and lower slot132. Upper slot130includes a substantially inverted “L-shaped” configuration, including longitudinal section131, rotational section133and transition section135. Lower slot132is substantially vertical. Longitudinal section131is substantially collinear with lower slot132. Of course, various different configurations are likewise contemplated which achieve similar functional results. Attachment assembly116comprises a plurality of openings which correspond to openings on base22of housing11, or on a structure which is secured thereto. Outer cam assembly102can be secured to housing11by way of fasteners, such as fasteners127(FIG. 1) which extend through attachment assembly116. Of course, it is contemplated that the attachment assembly may comprise, for example, an interference fit, welding, a friction fit, adhesive, etc. Indeed, the invention is not limited to any particular attachment assembly.

Inner cam assembly104is shown in detail inFIG. 6as comprising body118and upper shaft member120. In the embodiment shown, body118and upper shaft120comprise a single integrated member. Of course, in other embodiments, the body and the upper shaft may comprise a plurality of separate components. Body118includes first end134, second end136, at least one slot, such as slot138, and follower140. In the embodiment shown, three slots138and three followers140are positioned in a spaced apart relationship about the circumference of body118. Slot138is inclined at a desired angle with respect to the upper shaft. Each of the slots138are positioned about body118between the first and second ends thereof such that when the inner cam and the outer cam are assembled, slots138spatially correspond to lower slots132(FIG. 5) of outer cam assembly102(FIG. 5) and are oblique thereto. The particular angle at which the slot is positioned can be varied depending the desired movement characteristics of the particular embodiment. For example, the length and the slope of slot138controls the rate of rotation and the arcuate rotation is controlled by the travel of lifter shaft106. Of course, other variables in addition to the slope affect the rate at which the inner cam rotates.

Follower140is positioned proximate first end134of body118. Follower140is configured about body118such that when the outer cam assembly and the inner cam assembly are interfaced, follower140will extend through a respective upper slot130of upper cam assembly120.

Upper shaft member120is shown inFIG. 6as comprising first end142and second end144. First end142is attached to first end134of body118. Second end144emanates generally upwardly therefrom and is attached to the gripper arms60,62(FIG.1).

Lifter shaft106is shown inFIG. 1as comprising first end122, second end124and a plurality of followers, such as, follower126. First end122is positioned within the inner and outer cams proximate the first end of inner cam assembly104. Follower126is associated with first end122and configured so as to interface with each of lower slot132of slot assembly114of outer cam assembly102and with slot138of inner cam assembly104. Second end124extends downwardly away from first end122and interfaces with a control mechanism (not shown) which can control the vertical movement of the lifter shaft as desired.

As is shown inFIG. 3, substantial sealing means16includes pad housing30and linear movement means32. It will be understood that the substantial sealing means substantially seals the volume within the interior of the container from the outside of the rim of the container prior to and after filling a sufficient amount so as to preclude contamination of the container as the cap is removed and replaced. Pad housing30includes fill pad33and slidable housing34. Slidable housing34is slidably positioned on risers28,29of housing11. Linear bearings or the like may be utilized to facilitate the controlled low-friction movement of the slidable housing about risers28,29.

Linear movement means32, is shown inFIG. 3as comprising, force means35for upwardly directing pad housing30and means for downwardly directing pad housing30which direct slidable housing34between a first position proximate base22of housing11and a second position proximate upper plate24of housing11. Upward moving means35may comprise a cam actuated by the rotative movement of the sub-assembly relative to the remainder of filler device9(FIG.9), a pneumatic device, hydraulic device or electric device which is capable of overcoming return springs (not shown) mounted on riser posts28,29and to direct slidable housing34toward upper plate24of housing11. The return springs return the slidable housing toward and preferably into contact with base22of housing11. Of course, other assemblies which return pad housing30from upper plate24to base22, including fully pneumatic, hydraulic or electric systems are contemplated for use.

Rim ejecting means18is shown inFIGS. 2A and 2Bas comprising lever member88, rotation pivot90and means92for rotating the lever member about the rotation pivot. Lever member88includes bar93and arm94. Lever member88is configured so that, upon rotation about the rotation pivot, arm94is directed across second ends46,52of the gripper arms of rim retaining means12, to, in turn, dislodge and release a container retained by gripper arms40,42—as well as an associated cap. Rotating means92comprises a cam (not shown) which actuates, to, in turn, rotate the lever member about the rotation pivot. Various means for rotating the lever member are contemplated for use, including, but not limited to, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, or mechanical power.

Sensing means19is shown inFIG. 4as comprising at least one sensor positioned upon at least one of the rim retaining means and the cap gripping means. In one embodiment, the at least one sensor comprises a proximity type sensor associated with the cap gripping means and/or the rim retaining means. As such, the sensor facilitates the determination as to the presence or absence of a cap or a rim. Such a system can be alerted to a fault condition, and, in turn, the filling operation can be stopped in the event that a container rim or a cap is not present. Of course, other sensors, such as micro-switches, and/or optical sensors are contemplated for use in accordance with the present invention. While various configurations are contemplated, such sensors may be positioned on one or both of the rim gripping arms and/or the cap gripping arms.

In operation, and as is shown inFIGS. 9 and 10, filler device sub-assembly10is associated with filler device9. Filler device9includes such assemblies10for each of the ten separate fill stations on rotating carousel8. Of course, any number of assemblies are contemplated for use.

With reference toFIGS. 1 and 3, to prepare the assembly for receipt of a container, pad housing30of substantial sealing means16is placed in a first position wherein slidable housing34is positioned away from upper plate24and preferably proximate base22of housing11. Similarly, lifter shaft106is positioned at or near its lowest position. In such a position, cap gripper arms60,62are proximate upper plate24and substantially aligned with the rim gripper arms.

Once properly configured, a container is supplied via container feed7(FIGS.9and10). Referring now toFIGS. 2A and 2B, as the container contacts first and second gripper arms40,42of rim retaining means12, and first and second cap gripper arms60,62of cap manipulating means14, the container rim contacts rim extending surfaces53,53′ and the cap contacts cap extending surfaces71,71′. As the container (rim and cap) continue to move, the movement overcomes respective biasing means43and63and spreads the respective second ends of the gripper arms apart as the rim extending surfaces53,53′ and the cap extending surfaces71,71′ center the rim and cap, and, in turn, direct same into the respective retaining regions49,69. Once the cap and rim are received by the respective receiving regions49,69defined by the second ends of the gripper arms, the respective biasing means direct the gripper arms toward each other so as to grasp and retain the rim and cap in a desired engaged position.

After the rim is retained by first and second rim gripper arms40,42, and after the cap is retained by first and second cap gripper arms60,62, substantial sealing means16maybe activated (Of course, in certain embodiments, the substantial sealing means may be modified and/or omitted from the process entirely). Referring now toFIG. 3, in turn, linear moving means32is powered to move pad housing30. Specifically, upward moving means35of linear moving means32overcomes the return springs, and moves slidable housing34associated with pad housing30toward upper plate24of housing11. As the slidable housing34approaches upper plate24, fill pad33engages the lower surface of the container, which, in turn, engages a lower surface of the rim of the container. However, in certain instances it may be positioned such that the product within the container is displaced by the pad such that the product engages the lower surface of the rim of the container. As the slidable housing is forced upward, the lower surface of the container (or product within the container) becomes engaged with the lower surface of the rim and the volume defined by the container is substantially sealed and/or substantially isolated.

Next, the control mechanism imparts vertically upward movement of the lifter shaft. As a result, follower126of the lifter shaft begins to interact with each of lower slot132and slot138of the outer cam assembly and the inner cam assembly, respectively. Contemporaneously, follower140mounted upon body118of inner cam assembly104begins to interact with upper slot130. Such interaction of the slots directs the upper shaft member120in an upward direction. In particular, while the angled configuration of slot138would impart rotation of the inner cam relative to the outer cam, the cooperation of follower140with longitudinal portion131of upper slot130precludes rotative motion of the inner cam relative to the outer cam, and, instead substantially maintains the two cam assemblies substantially rotatively locked relative to each other. Thus, during this step, the gripper arms proceed in a longitudinal, or upward, direction detaching the cap from the rim.

As follower140reaches transition portion135of upper slot130, further upper movement of upper shaft member120is precluded. Thus, in such a position, the inner cam and the outer cam are longitudinally locked relative to each other, in the vertical direction. Through further upward movement of the lifter shaft, the inner cam assembly is rotated about a longitudinal axis by the interaction of follower126within each of slots138and132. Contemporaneously, follower140translates about the rotational portion133of upper slot130. Through such movement, the cap gripper arms, which to this point had vertically displaced the cap from the rim, are rotated away from the rim, thereby providing the valve assembly substantially unfettered access to the rim for filling of the container. Of course, it is contemplated that the slots can be configured in various configurations to impart varying degrees of rotation upon the cap gripper arms. In sum, as shown inFIG. 7, follower140proceeds from region131to region133within upper slot130. Similarly, follower126proceeds from position125to position127relative to each of slots132,138.

As, or after, the upper shaft member, gripper arms, and cap rotate away from the rim of the container, the fill valve is freely moved into position proximate the rim of the container. Once the fill valve is positioned into substantial engagement with the rim, slidable housing34is moved away from upper plate24, toward base22of housing11. At such time, the lower surface of the container (or the product) disengages from the rim thereby placing the volume defined by the container in fluid communication with fill valve. Subsequently, the fill valve is actuated, and the container is filled.

After the container is filled with product as desired, slidable housing34may be forced upward by upward moving means35until it again substantially seals the lower surface of the container relative to the lower rim of the container or product, to substantially isolate the fill valve from the volume defined by the container. Next, the fill valve is disengaged.

Once the valve is disengaged, the lifter shaft is directed by the control mechanism in a downward direction. Through downward movement of the lifter shaft, the interaction of follower126with slots138and132directs the inner cam assembly to rotate relative to the outer cam assembly. At the same time, the interaction between follower138and upper slot130facilitates the rotation of the cam assemblies relative to each other, but precludes longitudinal relative movement of the inner cam assembly and the outer cam assembly. Due to the motion of the inner cam assembly, the cap gripper arms, which are attached to the upper shaft member120of the inner cam assembly104, rotationally return to a position substantially overlying the rim.

As lifter shaft106proceeds in the downward direction, follower140enters longitudinal portion131of upper slot130. Slot130substantially rotationally locks the outer cam assembly relative to the inner cam assembly but facilitates longitudinal relative movement of same. Thus, as the lifter shaft continues in the downward direction, the inner cam likewise proceeds in a downward direction until follower140reaches at least one of the bottom of upper slot130and the bottom of lower slot132or until the lifter shaft stops movement. Correspondingly, at the conclusion of such movement of the lifter shaft, the gripper arms have lowered so as to force the cap onto the rim retained by the rim retaining means. In sum, as is shown inFIG. 7, at the completion of the downward movement of the lifter shaft, follower140returns to section131and follower126returns to position125.

Once the cap reseals the container, upward moving means35is disengaged, and the return springs return slidable housing34toward base22of housing11. Next, the container is removed from the fill assembly by way of rim ejecting means18. Specifically, rotating means92directs the rotation of lever member88about rotation pivot90. As lever member88rotates, arm94pushes against the rim of the container. In turn, the force of the arm against the container overcomes biasing means43of rim retaining means12and biasing means63of cap manipulating means14thereby separating first and second gripper arms40,42, and first and second cap gripper arms60,62. Once these are separated, the continued rotation of the lever member expels the rim and the cap from the gripper arms. Once disengaged, the container can be removed from the fill device. The lever member is returned to its original position, and the assembly is again ready to accept another container. The cycle is now ready to be repeated.

In a second embodiment, shown inFIG. 8, controllable cap gripper manipulating means64comprises inner cam152, outer cam156and means164for controlling rotation of upper shaft member120relative to lifter shaft106. Outer cam156is fixedly associated with base22of housing11. Outer cam156includes cam surface158which comprises a substantially vertical cam surface upon which follower154is permitted to travel.

Inner cam152includes cam surface160and upper end162. Cam surface160substantially corresponds to and cooperates with cam surface158of outer cam156. The specific shape of cam surface160comprises a vertical section combined with an upwardly angled extension. Inner cam152is coaxially positioned within outer cam156such that inner cam152is capable of rotating within the confines of outer cam156. As will be explained, follower154travels along cam surface160of inner cam152simultaneously with travel along surface158of outer cam156.

Upper shaft member rotation controlling means164is shown inFIG. 8as comprising slot166, roller168and locking assembly170(FIG.8). As shown inFIG. 8, slot166extends vertically along inner cam152. Roller168is fixedly associated with upper shaft member120and travels vertically upward and downward within the confines of slot166. As such, upper shaft member is capable of traveling vertically relative to inner cam152, but the interface and interaction of roller168and slot166preclude relative rotative movement of upper shaft member120and inner cam152.

Locking assembly170includes pin172, means174for upwardly biasing pin172, locking spheres175,176, sphere receiver177. Pin172includes top end178, bottom end179and cavity region180. Biasing means174comprises spring182which directs pin172in an upward direction. Sphere receiver177comprises a cavity which is associated with lifter shaft106. As will be explained in detail below, when spring182is biasing the pin in an upward direction, pin172forces locking spheres175,176in a first position wherein one of the locking spheres interfaces with sphere receiver177on lifter shaft106, thereby locking the lifter shaft and the upper shaft member to each other. To the contrary, when the biasing force of spring182is overcome and pin172is directed downward, cavity region180of pin172aligns with locking spheres175,176such that the locking spheres175,176return to a second position wherein one of the spheres interfaces with cavity region180, and the spheres no longer interface with sphere receiver177. In turn, upper shaft member120is then free to move relative to lifter shaft106. As will be explained, when in the second position, vertical movement of lifter shaft106directs the end of connecting rod184into the lifter shaft into interior region66′ of upper shaft member120.

In operation of such an embodiment, after the cap and rim are retained and the substantial seal is created between the rim and the lower surface of the container (as described with respect to the first embodiment), the cap manipulating means is activated and directs the lifter shaft in an upward direction. The upward movement first directs the gripper arms away from the rim, thereby removing the cap from the rim.

The continued upward movement directs follower154against cam surface160of inner cam152and cam surface158of outer cam156. During this time, spring182of locking assembly170maintains pin172in an upward orientation. In turn, locking spheres175,176are in a first position wherein the lifter shaft and the upper shaft member are locked together and the movement of the lifter shaft coincides with the movement of the upper shaft member. In addition, the movement of the upper shaft member directs roller168to proceed vertically along slot166of upper shaft member controlling means164.

As the vertical movement of the upper shaft member and lifter shaft proceeds, top end178of pin172is forced into contact with upper end162of inner cam152. At such time, upper end162overcomes the force of spring182and forces pin172in a relative downward direction. The relative downward movement of pin172eventually aligns cavity region180with locking spheres175,176, such that the locking spheres return to a second position free from locked contact and interaction with lifter shaft106and connecting rod184, collectively. At such time, upper shaft member120is freely movable relative to lifter shaft106and connecting rod184collectively.

As further upward movement of lifter shaft106is imparted, connecting rod184proceeds into cavity66′ of upper shaft member120. In addition, due to the vertically inclined configuration of cam surface160of inner cam152, follower154directs the inner cam to rotate along with upper shaft member120relative to housing11. Such rotation continues until the follower reaches the upper end of the respective cam surfaces160,158, or when no further upward movement of the lifter shaft is realized. At such time, the gripper arms, and the respective cap positioned therein have been moved both upwardly and rotatively away from the rim of the container, and the filling procedure can be completed.

Once the container has been properly filled, lifter shaft106begins its downward movement. Such downward movement directs the follower to rotate inner cam152, and upper shaft member120to the initial orientation which the capper gripper overlies the rim of the container. Eventually, the connecting rod184reaches the end of its travel relative to upper shaft member120, and further downward movement thereof likewise moves upper shaft member120in a downward direction. Next, pin172remains static as upper shaft member120axially displaces about the same. At the same time, spring182directs pin172in a relative upward direction. In turn, locking spheres175,176are forced into a first position wherein the connecting rod184is again locked to the upper shaft member. Continued movement along the path of the cam surfaces158,160returns the upper shaft member and the lifter arm to the original position wherein the cap is again repositioned upon the rim of the container.

In certain embodiments, such as, for example, embodiments used for the filling of food and other consumable products, housing cleaning assembly23, as is shown inFIGS. 11-14, may further be associated with housing11, and in particular mounted to upper plate24of the housing. Specifically, housing cleaning assembly23is shown inFIG. 11as comprising mounting plate212, means214for containing a portion of the capping turret, means216for attachment of the containing means to the mounting plate, means218for cleaning a portion of the capping turret, means220for providing a positive pressure gradient between the housing cleaning assembly and the surroundings, and means222for isolating a fill valve associated with the capping turret as well as, for example, opening5of the container to be filled by the fill valve. One such fill valve is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,338,370 B1 entitled “FILL VALVE ASSEMBLY FOR FILLER DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED METHOD,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

Mounting plate212is shown in detail inFIGS. 111 and 13, collectively, as comprising a substantially planar member having front surface230, back surface232, upper edge234, lower edge236and side edges237,238, respectively. In addition, mounting plate212includes pressure opening240and a plurality of cleaning openings, such as cleaning opening242. As will be explained below in detail, pressure opening240is associated with positive pressure gradient means220and cleaning openings242are associated with cleaning means218. Mounting plate212is releasably and integrally associated with the frame of the capping turret and/or the filling apparatus itself, and is substantially stationary relative to the capping turret.

Containment means214is shown inFIGS. 11 and 12, collectively, as comprising top panel246, front panel248, and side panels250,252, respectively. The top and side panels include proximal end254and distal end256. Proximal end254is associated with front surface230of mounting plate212. Top panel246, as is shown inFIG. 11, includes cleaning openings, such as cleaning opening258, and isolation opening259. As will be understood, cleaning openings258cooperate with cleaning means218and isolation opening259cooperates with isolation means222. The front and side panels of containment means214likewise include cleaning openings, such as cleaning opening258as well as means257for observing the interior of housing cleaning assembly23. The observing means may comprise a clear member, such as a plexiglass or tempered glass window which permits visual inspection of the containment means of the housing cleaning assembly.

Attachment means216is shown inFIG. 11as comprising means260for clamping containment means214to mounting plate212, means262for sealing the containment means to mounting plate212and means265for securing the containment means to the capping turret (not shown). Clamping means260, as is shown inFIGS. 12-14, includes first clamp266and second clamp267. First clamp266is associated with side panel252of containment means214and side edge238of mounting plate212. Second clamp267is associated with side panel250of containment means214and side edge237of mounting plate212.

Referring once again toFIG. 11, sealing means262comprises gasket264which is positioned on one or both of front surface230of mounting plate212and proximal end254of any of top panel246and side panels250,252of containment means214. It will be understood, as the clamps of clamping means260are actuated, gasket264is sandwiched between the respective portions of the mounting plate and containment means so as to provide a substantially fluid-tight seal therebetween.

Securing means265is shown inFIGS. 11 and 13, collectively, and includes attachment regions, such as attachment region268associated with side panels250,252of containment means214, and, fasteners, such as fasteners269. The fasteners are associated with the capping turret or the frame of the filler device and attachment region268is fastened thereby to the respective capping turret or frame. In certain embodiments, such as the embodiment shown inFIG. 11, the attachment regions268comprise c-channels which facilitate the removing and repositioning of the containment means without complete removal of fasteners269.

Cleaning means218is shown inFIGS. 11-14as comprising a plurality of cleaning nozzles270which are associated with supply lines272. The supply lines are associated with one or more fluid pressure lines capable of providing a supply at a predetermined elevated pressure. Cleaning nozzles270extend through at least some of the cleaning openings242of mounting plate212and the cleaning openings258of containment means214. The nozzles can be positioned in particular orientations and positions so as to be capable of effectively providing fluid (e.g., cleaning fluid, disinfecting fluid, water, etcetera) to all of the desired regions of housing cleaning assembly23. The particular orientation, quantity and operating pressure of the nozzles can be determined through experimentation.

Positive pressure gradient means220is shown inFIG. 12as comprising inlet274which is associated with a pressure supply. Inlet274extends through pressure opening240of mounting plate212. Generally, the pressure supply comprises a pressurized air supply which is capable of providing a particular supply rate and pressure of air through inlet274into the cavity defined by the mounting plate and containment means. As will be explained, the providing of pressurized air into the cavity tends to maintain debris, dust and other contaminants (such as insects, bacteria and other biological matter) outside of the housing cleaning assembly, and likewise serves to expel the cleaning fluid from within the housing cleaning assembly.

Isolating means222is shown inFIG. 11as comprising bellows285which is capable of moving in an upward and downward direction with the movement of the elements of the capping turret and/or fill valve, while substantially precluding the ingress of fluid from the nozzles of cleaning means218. Isolating means222also isolates containment means214from external exposure and/or contamination. While various materials are contemplated for use, isolating means222is preferably fabricated from a natural and/or synthetic plastic or rubber of requisite flexibility and durability.

To assemble housing cleaning assembly23, mounting plate212is first associated with the frame of a capping turret, or the capping turret itself. Once associated, the mounting plate is secured thereto. Next, the containment means is positioned in the proper orientation wherein the proximal end of the containment means is proximate front surface230of mounting plate212. In particular, attachment regions268are positioned in the proper orientation relative to respective fasteners269.

Next, mounting plate212and containment means214are attached to each other via attachment means216. Clamps266and267of clamping means260are secured and serve to compress gasket262positioned between the mounting plate and the containment means. At such time, any members of the fill device which are positioned within isolating means222are so positioned. For example, in the embodiment shown, the fill valve is positioned so as to be within isolating means222. Lastly, the fasteners269may optionally be tightened so as to restrain attachment regions268in secured retention.

Once fully secured, the respective supply lines272of cleaning means218are associated with the respective nozzles270and with the fluid supply tank or line. Likewise, inlet274of positive pressure gradient means220is associated with a proper supply. Once fully connected, the device is prepared for operation.

In operation, the cleaning means218can be selectively activated so as to deliver fluid through the respective nozzles at a predetermined supply pressure and for a predetermined duration. The fluid contacts the surfaces of predetermined regions within containment means214, such as, for example a capping turret, and disinfects and/or cleans the same. As the fluid is sprayed, under the force of gravity, the fluid falls down through containment means214to the ground or to drains positioned below the housing cleaning assembly.

At the same time, positive pressure gradient means220can be activated to supply pressurized air into the containment means so as to force the fluid from the cleaning means218out of the housing cleaning assembly. Furthermore, the positive pressure gradient means220can continue to operate even after the cleaning means has been deactivated to aid in the drying of the components within the housing cleaning assembly and to keep airborne pollutants from entering the housing cleaning assembly.

During operation of each and/or both of the cleaning means and the positive pressure gradient means, the operator can view the operation of same through the transparent observation means associated with the containment means.

Due to the positioning and construction of isolating means222, components such as the fill valve assembly and other sensitive components can be substantially unaffected by the operation of the cleaning means and the positive pressure gradient means within housing cleaning assembly23. Moreover, isolating means222can isolate containment means from external environments.