Patent Publication Number: US-2023150147-A1

Title: Clamp apparatus and transport apparatus

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a) of German Patent Application No. DE 10 2021 129 518.1 filed Nov. 12, 2021 entitled CLAMP APPARATUS AND TRANSPORT APPARATUS, and whose entire disclosure is incorporated by reference herein. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The invention relates to a clamp apparatus for retaining a container and a transport apparatus for transporting containers. 
     TECHNICAL BACKGROUND 
     In container treatment installations for cleaning, filling, closing, etcetera, containers, containers can be retained by means of gripper or clamp apparatuses and transported through the installation. 
     Generally, multifunctional fittings in the form of clamping starwheels for container transport in container treatment installations are mechanically actuated. This actuation is carried out, for example, by means of rollers which are controlled by means of curves. A cam control is also possible. Furthermore, in order to generate the retention force for container locking, resilient elements are generally required. These may, for example, be integrated in the clamp apparatuses themselves or be configured by means of separate springs. 
     Disadvantages of the conventional technology may, for example, involve mechanical components which are fitted to a rotating axle (rotary apparatus) being subjected to extreme wear. This wear originates from the actuation mechanism of the respective variant. Furthermore, the force for generating the retention force is configured once by the predefined resilient element and cannot be varied without replacing a component. The variation requires costly retrofitting. With conventional solutions, no different diameters can also be gripped on containers. Containers which are recessed, protruding, conical, etcetera, can only be retained with significant complexity or not at all by multi-fittings in the non-cylindrical region. Consequently, contoured bottles are gripped very near the bottom or deliberate gripping errors are accepted, which has significant effects on product quality and process reliability. 
     DE 10 2014 005 321 A1 discloses a transport apparatus for transporting and treating containers, wherein the containers are transported by the transport apparatus in a transport direction from an input location to an output location. The transport apparatus has at least one handling device which moves in the transport direction for handling one or more of the containers. The transport device has at least one motor by means of which the at least one handling device can be moved in a motorised manner in a direction different from the transport direction. 
     An object of the invention is to provide an improved technology for retaining containers which is preferably particularly variable, only subjected to a low level of wear and/or enables containers whose covering faces are shaped/sized differently to be held in an operationally reliable and nondamaging manner. 
     SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
     The object is achieved by the features of the independent claim  1 . Advantageous developments are set out in the dependent claims and the description. 
     One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a clamp apparatus for retaining a container for a container treatment installation. The clamp apparatus has a first clamp arm pair and a second clamp arm pair which are arranged one above the other for the simultaneous retention of the container (for example, on two levels). The clamp apparatus has a first drive unit which in order to actuate (for example, open and/or close) the first clamp arm pair is operationally connected to the first clamp arm pair. The clamp apparatus has a second drive unit which in order to actuate (for example, open and/or close) the second clamp arm pair is operationally connected to the second clamp arm pair (for example, independently of the first drive unit and/or the operational connection between the first drive unit and the second drive unit). 
     Advantageously, the two drive units enable the clamp arm pairs to be able to be opened and closed at any desired location or at any desired time. This advantage can optimise the transfer of the containers. No further compromises have to be made as a result of control elements which have been adjusted once. Each container can be adjusted in an optimal manner to the radially best transfer location thereof in accordance with the container format. A specific function of the container transport, such as, for example, the selective container discharge and the distribution of the containers to different connection stations, can also be carried out in a very simple manner. The retention force with which the container is retained can be varied in a simple manner. For example, depending on weight, size and diameter, a freely selectable value can be determined with respect to the retention force. A protective container handling and a reduced machine wear can be achieved. In addition, a loading of the drive (torque, power consumption, position errors, etcetera) which moves the transport apparatus to which the clamp apparatus is fixed, can be significantly reduced since no mechanical control also has to be driven by means of rollers or cams. Only the inertia moment from the mass of the transport apparatus itself has to be overcome. Advantageously, there is also produced a very hygienic embodiment since, for example, resilient elements can be dispensed with if desired and fewer difficult-toaccess locations (for example, cracks) for colonies of bacteria are present. Preferably, a very significant component minimisation and resultant complexity minimisation can also be produced since, for example, rollers, switching rods, sliding films, roller axles and/or springs are no longer required. On the whole, with the improved clamp apparatus a technical improvement towards high-end equipment can be achieved. Finally, it should also be mentioned that the clamp apparatus enables contoured containers (contour containers) to be gripped and retained securely in a very simple manner. 
     In one embodiment, the first drive unit and the second drive unit can be controlled independently of each other, preferably pneumatically. Alternatively or additionally, the first clamp arm pair can be actuated by means of the first drive unit and the second clamp arm pair can be actuated by means of the second drive unit independently of each other. Advantageously, an independent movement of the clamp arm pairs can thereby be enabled, which, for example, can be used for reliable and low-wear transportation of contoured containers. 
     In another embodiment, at least one from the first drive unit and the second drive unit is a pneumatic drive unit, preferably a pneumatic actuator. Advantageously, a simple and reliable implementation of the drive units which is favourable in terms of structural space can be enabled. 
     In another embodiment, a retention force, an opening time, a closure time and/or an adjustment path of the first clamp arm pair by means of the first drive unit and/or of the second clamp arm pair by means of the second drive unit can be adjusted in a variable manner, preferably pneumatically. Advantageously, therefore, for example, without retrofitting during operation or during an operational break, the retention force, the opening time, the closure time and/or the adjustment path of the first clamp arm pair and/or the second clamp arm pair can be adjusted. Advantageously, for example, it is consequently possible to optimise a transfer and a retention of the containers in accordance with the container format. Generally, a fully flexible operation of the clamp apparatus can be enabled. 
     In another embodiment, the clamp apparatus has a (for example, pneumatic) control unit for controlling the first drive unit and/or the second drive unit. Preferably, the control unit may be configured to operate at least one from the first drive unit and the second drive unit in different modes. Advantageously, the different modes may replace the generally necessary complex retrofitting, etcetera, and consequently on the whole enable an increased capacity and promote flexible operation. 
     Preferably, the term “control unit” may relate to a pneumatic control (for example, with pneumatic (for example proportional) valve(s) which can be controlled, for example, pneumatically). The “control unit” may perform control functions and/or regulation functions and/or processing functions depending on the construction. Even if the term “control” is used herein, so to speak “regulating” or “controlling with feedback” and/or “processing” may advantageously also be included or meant thereby. 
     In one embodiment, the different modes differ at least partially with respect to a retention force, an opening time, a closure time and/or an adjustment path of the respective clamp arm pair. Advantageously, the different modes may, for example, enable predetermined functions of the container transport, such as, for example, the transportation of different containers, a selective discharge of specific containers and/or the distribution of the containers to different connection stations. 
     In another embodiment, the different modes are configured for retaining different containers, wherein the different containers differ, preferably with respect to a container weight, a container size, a container shape, a container diameter and/or a container material. 
     In one embodiment, the operational connection between the first drive unit and the first clamp arm pair, the operational connection between the second drive unit and the second clamp arm pair, the first drive unit and/or the second drive unit is/are formed without a resilient spring element. Advantageously, therefore, a structurally simple and hygienic embodiment of the clamp apparatus can be enabled since it is possible to dispense with resilient elements. 
     In another variant, the clamp apparatus further has a, preferably substantially block-shaped and/or elongate, clamp carrier which carries the first clamp arm pair and/or the second clamp arm pair in a movable, preferably displaceable or pivotable, manner, in a particularly preferred manner at mutually opposing end regions of the clamp carrier (for example, at an upper end region and at a lower end region of the clamp carrier). 
     Preferably, the clamp carrier may be orientated in an upright manner. 
     In another variant, at least one from the first drive unit and the second drive unit is carried by the clamp carrier, preferably at a rear side of the clamp carrier which is opposite a front side of the clamp carrier facing the container which can be retained by the first clamp arm pair and the second clamp arm pair. Advantageously, at least one from the first drive unit and the second drive unit may be arranged on the rear side of the clamp carrier in such a manner that the first drive unit and/or the second drive unit is protected from container fragments by the clamp carrier in the event of container breakage of a container retained by the first clamp arm pair and the second clamp arm pair. 
     Preferably, the first clamp arm pair and the second clamp arm pair can be moved, preferably displaced or pivoted, independently of each other (for example, coaxially). 
     Preferably, the first clamp arm pair and the second clamp arm pair are constructed in a structurally identical and/or substantially mirror-symmetrical manner with respect to a horizontal plane. 
     For example, the first drive unit and the second drive unit can be arranged one above the other, in a structurally identical manner, substantially in a mirror-symmetrical manner with respect to a horizontal plane and/or be carried by a clamp carrier of the clamp apparatus. 
     Preferably, the first drive unit and/or the second drive unit may have a displaceable output element. 
     In a particularly preferred manner, a linear forward feed movement and backward feed movement of the output element of the first drive unit can be converted by a toggle joint into a pivot movement of the first clamp arm pair. 
     Alternatively or additionally, a linear forward feed and backward feed movement of the output element of the second drive unit can be converted by means of a toggle joint into a pivot movement of the second clamp arm pair. 
     It is possible for an output element of the first drive unit and/or a transfer element which is connected to the output element to extend in a displaceable manner through a clamp carrier of the clamp apparatus. Alternatively or additionally, an output element of the second drive unit and/or a transfer element which is connected to the output element may extend in a displaceable manner through a clamp carrier of the clamp apparatus. 
     In another variant, the first clamp arm pair has two first clamp arms, which are preferably coupled to each other, for abutting the container and which can preferably be moved, preferably pivoted or displaced, in opposing directions relative to each other. Alternatively or additionally, the second clamp arm pair has two second clamp arms, which are preferably coupled to each other, for abutting the container and which can preferably be moved in opposing directions relative to each other (and, for example, independently of the two first clamp arms) and are preferably pivotable or displaceable (for example, coaxially pivotable with respect to the first two clamp arms). 
     In one embodiment, the clamp apparatus further has two first pivot arms which are arranged in a V-shaped manner and which can be displaced back and forth in response to a mechanical input by means of the first drive unit and/or which are each pivotably fitted to one clamp arm of the first clamp arm pair. Alternatively or additionally, the clamp apparatus further has two second pivot arms which are arranged in a V-shaped manner and which can be displaced back and forth in response to a mechanical input by means of the second drive unit and/or which are each pivotably fitted to one clamp arm of the second clamp arm pair. 
     In another embodiment, the two first pivot arms are fitted so as to be able to be pivoted, preferably coaxially, to a displaceable first transfer element which is displaceably supported in a clamp carrier of the clamp apparatus, is rod-like and/or can be displaced by the first drive unit. Alternatively or additionally, the two second pivot arms are fitted so as to be able to be pivoted, preferably coaxially, to a displaceable second transfer element which is displaceably supported in a clamp carrier of the clamp apparatus, is rod-like and/or can be displaced by the second drive unit. 
     Preferably, an output element of the first drive unit can be connected (for example, directly) to the first transfer element, for example, secured to each other or constructed with each other integrally in one piece. Alternatively or additionally, an output element of the second drive unit can be connected (for example, directly) to the second transfer element, for example, secured to each other or constructed with each other integrally in one piece. 
     Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a transport apparatus, preferably a rotatable clamp starwheel for containers for a container treatment installation. The transport apparatus has at least one clamp apparatus as disclosed herein. The transport apparatus may further optionally have a rotary distributor which is connected to at least one from the first drive unt and the second drive unit, preferably pneumatically. The transport apparatus may advantageously achieve the same advantages which have already been described for the clamp apparatus. 
     Preferably, the container treatment installation may be configured to produce, clean, check, fill, close, label, print and/or package containers for liquid media, preferably drinks or liquid foods. 
     For example, the containers may be in the form of bottles, cans, canisters, cartons, flasks, etcetera. 
     The above-described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be freely combined with each other. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
       Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the appended drawings, in which: 
         FIG.  1    shows a perspective view of a clamp apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2    shows a sectioned view through the exemplary clamp apparatus of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    shows a plan view of the exemplary clamp apparatus of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  4    shows a perspective view of a transport apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5    shows a sectioned view through the exemplary transport apparatus of  FIG.  4   ; and 
         FIG.  6    shows a view from below of the exemplary transport apparatus of  FIG.  4   . 
     
    
    
     The embodiments which are shown in the Figures at least partially correspond so that similar or identical components are indicated with the same reference numerals and reference may also be made for the explanation thereof to the description of the other embodiments or Figures in order to avoid repetition. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
       FIGS.  1  to  3    show a clamp apparatus  10  in different views. The clamp apparatus  10  may retain or grip a container  12  (illustrated schematically only in  FIG.  2   ). The container  12  may have a container body with different outer circumferences along the length or height thereof. For example, the container  12  may be in the form of a so-called contour container. It is also possible for the container body of the container  12  to have a different shape, for example, a cylindrical shape. 
     The clamp apparatus  10  has a first clamp arm pair  14  and a second clamp arm pair  16 . The clamp apparatus  10  further has a first drive unit  20 , a second drive unit  22  and optionally a clamp carrier  18 . 
     Preferably, the clamp apparatus  10  is in the form of a dual clamp apparatus or a dual-level clamp apparatus having the two clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 . However, it is also possible for the clamp apparatus to have additional clamp arm pairs (not illustrated). Generally, the clamp apparatus  10  may be in the form of a multiple clamp apparatus or multi-level clamp apparatus having a plurality of clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 . 
     The first clamp arm pair  14  may have two first clamp arms  24 ,  26 . The second clamp arm pair  16  may have two second clamp arms  28 ,  30 . The clamp arms  24  and  26  (or  28  and  30 ) may be constructed separately, as illustrated in  FIGS.  1  and  2   . It is possible for the clamp arms  24  and  26  (or  28  and  30 ) to be constructed integrally in one piece with each other. It is also possible for additional clamp arms to be included. 
     Preferably, the second clamp arm pair  16  may be configured to be substantially structurally identical and/or functionally identical to the first clamp arm pair  14 . Preferably the first clamp arm pair  14  and the second clamp arm pair  16  are constructed to be substantially mirror-symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal centre plane of the clamp apparatus  10  or with respect to a horizontal plane (in the assembled state). The longitudinal centre plane divides the clamp apparatus  10  in the middle and may, for example, extend parallel with longitudinal axes or orientation planes of the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 . 
     The clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  may each be pivotably supported, as illustrated. The pivotable bearing is preferably arranged at an end of the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  opposite the container  12  or the free ends of the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 . The clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  may preferably be able to be pivoted coaxially with respect to each other or able to be pivoted about a common pivot axis. However, it is also possible for the clamp arm pairs  14  and/or  16  to be displaceably supported. 
     In detail, the first clamp arms  24 ,  26  can preferably be moved, preferably pivoted (as illustrated) or displaced, in opposite directions relative to each other. The second clamp arms  28 ,  30  can be moved, preferably pivoted (as illustrated) or displaced, in opposite directions relative to each other. In order to retain the container  12 , the first clamp arms  24 ,  26  can be moved (for example pivoted or displaced) with respect to each other until abutting the container  12  and the second clamp arms  28 ,  30  can be moved (for example, pivoted or displaced) with respect to each other until abutting the container  12 . In order to release the container  12 , the first clamp arms  24 ,  26  can be moved (for example, pivoted or displaced) away from each other and the second clamp arms  28 ,  30  can be moved (for example, pivoted or displaced) away from each other. 
     The first and second clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  are arranged one above the other in order to simultaneously retain the same container  12 . The first and second clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  are, for example, arranged vertically offset from one another with respect to a vertical axis of the container  12  or the clamp apparatus  10 . For example, the first clamp arm pair  14 /the two first clamp arms  24 ,  26  is/are arranged above the second clamp arm pair  16 /the two second clamp arms  28 ,  30 , as illustrated in  FIGS.  1  to  3   , or vice versa. 
     The first clamp arm pair  14  can retain the container  12  at a first outer circumferential portion or cover portion. The second clamp arm pair  16  can retain the container  12  on a second outer circumferential portion or cover portion. The first and second outer circumferential portion is preferably circumferential in each case or self-contained. The outer circumferential portions are arranged offset from each other with respect to a vertical axis of the container  12 . For example, the first outer circumferential portion is arranged above the second outer circumferential portion or vice versa. 
     It is possible for the first outer circumferential portion and the second outer circumferential portion to differ from each other in terms of shape and/or size or length. In the embodiment illustrated, for example, the shape of the first outer circumferential portion and the second outer circumferential portion is identical, that is to say, circular with respect to a container cross section or frustoconical with respect to the vertical axis of the container. The first and second outer circumferential portions differ in terms of size. The first outer circumferential portion has a smaller circumference and a smaller diameter than the second outer circumferential portion. 
     The container  12  may be retained in each case on the portions of the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  at the front or facing the container  12 . In detail, the container  12  may be retained between the free ends of the first clamp arms  24 ,  26  and between the free ends of the second clamp arms  28 ,  30 . The first clamp arms  24 ,  26  and the second clamp arms  28 ,  30  can engage around the container  12  at the free ends thereof. The first clamp arms  24 ,  26  and the second clamp arms  28 ,  30  may clamp the container  12  between the free ends thereof with a retention force being applied. The retention force of the first clamp arm pair  14  may be brought about by the first drive unit  20 . The retention force of the second clamp arm pair  16  can be brought about by the second drive unit  22 . 
     The two clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  may be able to be moved, preferably pivoted or displaced, independently or decoupled from each other. The first clamp arm pair  14  can be moved (for example, pivoted or displaced) without the second clamp arm pair  16  also moving and vice versa. An abutment pivot movement or abutment displacement movement of the first clamp arm pair  14  against the container  12  may, for example, not influence an abutment pivot movement or abutment displacement movement of the second clamp arm pair  16  against the container  12  and vice versa. The abutment pivot movement or abutment displacement movement of the second clamp arm pair  16  may, for example, continue, whilst the first clamp arm pair  14  is already in abutment against the container and vice versa (for example, depending on a shape and/or size of the outer circumferential portions of the container). For example, the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 , preferably under the action of one of the drive units  20  and  22 , may simultaneously begin the abutment movement and/or end it one after the other (for example, in each case at the time of abutment against the container  12 ). During the abutment pivot movement, the respective clamp arms  24 ,  26  or  28 ,  30  may pivot towards each other, whereas during the abutment displacement movement the respective clamp arms  24 ,  26  or  28 ,  30  can be displaced relative to each other. 
     A release movement (for example, release pivot movement or release displacement movement) of the second clamp arm pair  16  away from the container  12  can preferably not influence a release pivot movement of the first clamp arm pair  14  away from the container  12  and vice versa. The release movement of the first clamp arm pair  14  may, for example, begin before the release movement of the second clamp arm pair  16  begins and vice versa (for example, depending on a shape and/or size of the outer circumferential portions of the container  12 ). For example the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 , preferably under the action of an actuation of the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  by means of the drive units  20 ,  22 , can terminate the release movement simultaneously. During the release pivot movement, the respective clamp arms  24 ,  26  or  28 ,  30  may pivot away from each other, whereas during the release displacement movement the respective clamp arms  24 ,  26  or  28 ,  30  can be displaced away from each other. 
     The clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  may in each case have a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axes may extend substantially parallel with each other. The longitudinal axes may extend substantially perpendicularly to a vertical axis of the clamp apparatus  10  or the container  12 . In the assembled state, the longitudinal axes may extend substantially parallel with a horizontal plane. 
     The clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  may be movably, preferably pivotably or displaceably, supported on the clamp carrier  18 . The clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  may be supported at opposing sides of the clamp carrier  18  on the clamp carrier  18 . The clamp carrier  18  may be arranged between the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 , preferably with respect to a vertical axis of the clamp apparatus  10 . The clamp carrier  18  may carry the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 . The clamp carrier  18  is preferably configured in a block-like manner. The clamp carrier  18  extends preferably in an elongate manner parallel with the vertical axis of the container  12  or the clamp apparatus  10 . 
     For example, the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  may in each case be pivotably supported by means of a preferably elongate rotary pin  32 ,  34  of the clamp carrier  18 . In detail, the clamp arms  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  may each have a through-hole, for example, at an end of the respective clamp arm  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  opposite the free ends in each case. The rotary pins  32 ,  34  may extend through the through-holes. It is possible for sliding bushings to be arranged between the rotary pins  32 ,  34  and the through-holes. 
     The rotary pins  32 ,  34  may extend coaxially relative to a pivot axis of the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  or the clamp arms  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30 . The rotary pins  32 ,  34  may extend parallel with a vertical axis of the clamp apparatus  10  or the container  12 . The rotary pins  32 ,  34  may be arranged at opposite sides of the clamp carrier  18 . For example, the rotary pin  32  may be arranged at an upper side of the clamp carrier  18 . The rotary pin  34  may be arranged at a lower side of the clamp carrier  18 . 
     The first clamp arms  24 ,  26  may be fitted one above the other on the rotary pin  32 . The second clamp arms  28 ,  30  may be fitted one above the other on the rotary pin  34 . The first clamp arms  24 ,  26  may be secured axially on the rotary pin  32 . The second clamp arms  28 ,  30  may be secured axially on the rotary pin  34 . The respective axial securing can be carried out, for example, by means of a screw head of a screw which is screwed into a (for example, central) hole in the rotary pin  32 ,  34 , preferably coaxially relative to the pivot axis of the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  or the clamp arms  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30 . 
     Adjacent to the pivotable bearing with respect to the clamp carrier  18 , the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  may be reinforced. In detail, a material thickness of the clamp arms  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  may be increased adjacent to the pivotable bearing. The clamp arms  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  may, for example, have reinforcement ribs  36  adjacent to the pivotable bearing. The reinforcement ribs  36  may, for example, be in the form of wall elements at an upper side and/or a lower side of the clamp arms  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30 . The wall elements may be annular or circumferential structures. The reinforcement ribs  36  may be arranged in the portion of the clamp arms  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  which are opposite the free ends of the clamp arms  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30 . The reinforcement ribs  36  may taper in the direction towards the free ends of the clamp arms  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30 . 
     It is possible for the clamp arms  24  and  26  and  28  and  30 , for example, in the central portions thereof (with respect to the respective longitudinal axes) to have stops which face each other. At the stops, the clamp arms,  24  and  26  and  28  and  30  may abut each other in the closure position when they do not retain any container  12 . 
     The clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  can be moved by the drive units  20 ,  22 . The drive units  20 ,  22  can drive the movement of the clamp arms pairs  14 ,  16 . In detail, the first drive unit  20  in order to actuate, for example, to open and/or close, the first clamp arm pair  14  is operationally connected to the first clamp arm pair  14 . The second drive unit  22  is in order to actuate, for example, to open and/or close, the second clamp arm pair  16  operationally connected to the second clamp arm pair  16 . Preferably, the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  can be pivoted by the drive units  20 ,  22 . In a particularly preferred manner, the drive units  20 ,  22  can drive the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  in such a manner that they pivot closed in order to hold or receive the container  12  and pivot open in order to release the retained container  12 . As mentioned, however, it is also possible for the clamp arm pair  14 ,  16  to be displaceable rather than pivotable. Accordingly, the drive units  20 ,  22  may drive the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16  in such a manner that they are displaced. 
     The drive units  20 ,  22  are preferably pneumatic drive units. Preferably, the drive units  20 ,  22  are in the form of actuating drives or actuating motors. Preferably, the drive units  20 ,  22  are linear drive units. 
     The first drive unit  20  may have a first output element  20 . 1 . The second drive unit  22  may have a second output element  22 . 1 . The first output element  20 . 1  can move the first clamp arm pair  14 . The second output element  22 . 1  can move the second clamp arm pair  16 . Preferably, the output elements  20 . 1  and  22 . 1  can be moved or displaced in a linear manner. 
     The drive units  20 ,  22  may, for example, be in the form of pneumatic cylinder/piston units. The piston can be received in the cylinder so as to be able to be moved back and forth. The piston may be the output element  20 . 1 ,  22 . 1  of the respective drive unit  20 ,  22 . A supply of compressed air to a piston chamber in the cylinder can move the piston in a first direction, for example, in order to move out of the cylinder. A supply of compressed air to an annular chamber in the cylinder can be moved in a second direction opposite the first direction, for example, in order to move into the cylinder. 
     The drive units  20 ,  22  may preferably have a maximum limited travel for the respective output element  20 . 1 ,  22 . 1  in order, for example, to be able to grip a maximum possible container diameter. 
     The drive units  20 ,  22  may, for example, be controlled pneumatically. Preferably, the drive units  20 ,  22  may be able to be controlled independently of each other. 
     It is possible, for example, for a retention force, an opening time, a closure time and/or an adjustment path of the first clamp arm pair  14  to be able to be adjusted in a variable manner by means of the first drive unit  20  and/or the second clamp arm pair  16  by means of the second drive unit  22 . The variable adjustment can preferably be carried out during current operation and/or for example, require no retrofitting. 
     In order to control the drive units  20 ,  22 , a control unit  37  (only illustrated schematically in  FIGS.  1  and  2   ) may be included. The control unit  37  is preferably a pneumatic control unit. 
     The control unit  37  can in order to (actuate) control the drive units  20 ,  22 , for example, be pneumatically connected to the drive units  20 ,  22 . In a particularly preferred manner, the pneumatic connection between the control unit  37  and the first drive unit  20  is configured separately or independently of the pneumatic connection between the control unit  37  and the second drive unit  22 . For example, the control unit  37  may be pneumatically connected to a piston space and/or an annular space of the first drive unit  20  and to a piston space and/or an annular space of the second drive unit  22 . 
     The control unit  37  is preferably connected to control a plurality of drive units  20 ,  22  of a plurality of clamp apparatuses  10  of a transport apparatus, for example, a clamp starwheel. 
     The control unit  37  can operate the first drive unit  20  and/or the second drive unit  22 , preferably in different modes. It is possible to switch between the modes during operation or during an operational break. The switching of modes is possible without retrofitting the clamp apparatus  10  or the transport apparatus which includes the clamp apparatus  10  being required. 
     The different modes may, for example, differ in that a retention force of the respective clamp arm pair  14 ,  16  which is brought about by the respective drive unit  20 ,  22 , a closure time of the respective clamp arm pair  14 ,  16  which is brought about by the respective drive unit  20 ,  22 , an opening time of the respective clamp arm pair  14 ,  16  which is brought about by the respective drive unit  20 ,  22  and/or an adjustment path of the respective clamp arm pair  14 ,  16  which is brought about by the respective drive unit  20 ,  22  is at least partially different in the different modes. 
     The different modes may, for example, be configured and used to retain different containers  12 . For example, the different modes may enable containers  12  with different container weights, different container sizes, different container shapes, different container diameters and/or different container materials, to be able to be reliably received, retained and released by the clamp apparatus  10 . It is also possible for the different modes to be used to drive or operate the installation or the transport apparatus which comprises the clamp apparatus  10  differently. 
     The drive units  20 ,  22  are preferably constructed in a structurally identical and/or functionally identical manner. Preferably, the first drive unit  20  and the second drive unit  22  are constructed in a substantially mirror-symmetrical manner with respect to the longitudinal centre plane of the clamp apparatus  10  or with respect to a horizontal plane (in the assembled state). 
     The drive units  20 ,  22  may be arranged one above the other. The drive units  20 ,  22  may be carried on the clamp carrier  18 . Preferably, the drive units  20 ,  22  are arranged in a state protected on a rear side facing away from the container  12  of the clamp carrier  18 . 
     It is possible for the drive units  20 ,  22  to be connected directly or to be operationally connected to the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 . Alternatively, the drive units  20 ,  22  may be connected or be operationally connected to the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 , for example, by means of a respective connection device  38 ,  39 . The first connection devices  38  may drivingly connect the first drive unit  20  to the first clamp arm pair  14 . The second connection device  39  may drivingly connect the second drive unit  22  to the second clamp arm pair  16 . 
     The connection devices  38 ,  39  may be arranged between the first clamp arm pair  14  and the second clamp arm pair  16 , preferably with respect to a vertical axis of the clamp apparatus  10 . In detail, the second connection device  39  may be arranged at least partially on an upper side of the second clamp arm pair  16 . The first connection device  38  may be arranged at least partially on a lower side of the first clamp arm pair  14 . A respective longitudinal extent direction of the connection device  38 ,  39  can extend substantially parallel with the longitudinal axes of the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 . 
     The connection devices  38 ,  39  may be carried by the clamp carrier  18 . The connection devices  38 ,  39  may extend at least partially through the clamp carrier  18 , preferably in through-holes which extend from a rear side or a side of the clamp carrier  18  facing away from the container  12  to a front side or a side of the clamp carrier  18  facing the container  12 . 
     The connection devices  38 ,  39  may preferably be decoupled from each other so that they can move independently of each other. The first connection device  38  can move without the second connection device  39  moving and vice versa. 
     The first connection device  38  may in a portion between the free ends and the (for example, pivot) bearing of the first clamp arms  24 ,  26  be connected to the first clamp arms  24 ,  26 , preferably in central portions of the first clamp arms  24 ,  26  with respect to the respective longitudinal axis. The second connection device  39  may in a portion between the free ends and the (for example, pivot) bearing of the second clamp arms  28 ,  30  be connected to the second clamp arms  28 ,  30 , preferably in central portions of the second clamp arms  28 ,  30  with respect to the respective longitudinal axis. 
     The first connection device  38  may preferably have a transfer element  40 , a coupling element  42  and two pivot arms  44 ,  46 . It is possible for the components  40 ,  42 ,  44 , 46  to be at least partially integrated one in the other. The second connection device  39  with a transfer element  50 , a coupling element  52  and two pivot arms  54 ,  56  may be constructed and function in the same manner as the first connection device  38 . The following detailed statements relating to the first connection device  38  can consequently accordingly apply mutatis mutandis to the second connection device  39 . 
     The transfer element  40  may be displaceably supported in the clamp carrier  18 , preferably in a sliding bushing. The transfer element  40  may be elongate, preferably rod-like. The transfer element  40  may be displaced by the first output element  20 . 1 , preferably parallel with the longitudinal axis of the first clamp arm pair  14 . The transfer element  40  may preferably be fitted at the end to the first output element  20 . 1 . The transfer element  40  may carry the coupling element  42 , preferably at one end which is opposite the first output element  20 . 1 . 
     The coupling element  42  can be fitted to the transfer element  40 , preferably at the end face. For example, the coupling element  42  can be fitted to the transfer element  40  by means of a screw. If the transfer element  40  is displaced, the coupling element  42  can also be displaced. The coupling element  42  can couple the transfer element  40  to the pivot arms  44 ,  46 . 
     The pivot arm  44  may connect the clamp arm  24  to the coupling element  42 . The pivot arm  44  may be pivotably connected at one end to the coupling element  42 , for example, by means of a bolt or a rotary pin. The pivot arm  44  may be pivotably connected at an opposing end to the clamp arm  24 , for example, by means of a bolt or a rotary pin. 
     The pivot arm  46  may connect the clamp arm  26  to the coupling element  42 . The pivot arm  46  may be pivotably connected at one end to the coupling element  42 , for example, by means of a bolt or a rotary pin. The pivot arm  46  may be pivotably connected at the opposing end to the clamp arm  26 , for example, by means of a bolt or a rotary pin. 
     The pivot arms  44 ,  46  are preferably V-shaped and/or arranged one above the other (for example, with respect to a vertical axis of the clamp apparatus  10 ). The pivot arms  44 ,  46  can preferably be pivoted coaxially with respect to the coupling element  42 . For example, however, parallel pivot axes for the pivot arms  44 ,  46  with respect to the coupling element  42  are also possible. The pivot arms  44 ,  46  may be arranged with respect to a vertical axis of the clamp apparatus  10  preferably between the coupling element  42  or the transfer element  40  and the first clamp arm pair  14 . 
     A mechanical input by the first output element  20 . 1  of the first drive unit  20  can bring about a displacement of the transfer element  40  in the direction towards or away from the container  12 . A displacement of the transfer element  40  in the direction towards or away from the container  12  can bring about a displacement of the coupling element  42  in the direction towards or away from the container  12 . A displacement of the coupling element  42  in the direction towards or away from the container  12  can bring about a displacement of the ends of the pivot arms  44 ,  46  which are pivotably connected to the coupling element  42  in the direction towards or away from the container  12 . A displacement of the ends of the pivot arms  44 ,  46  which are pivotably connected to the coupling element  42  can bring about a pivoting of the pivot arms  44 ,  46  at these ends since the pivot arms  44 ,  46  are supported on the clamp arms  24 ,  26 . The pivoting of the pivot arms  44 ,  46  brings about a pivoting of the clamp arms  24 ,  26 , for example, a pivoting open or opening of the clamp arms  24 ,  26  in order to release the container  12  or a pivoting closed or closure of the clamp arms  24 ,  25  in order to grip the container  12 . 
     The transfer element  40 , the coupling element  42 , the pivot arms  44 ,  46  and the clamp arms  24 ,  26  may preferably together form a toggle lever or a toggle joint. 
     Preferably, the clamp arm pairs  14 ,  16 , the drive units  20 ,  22  and the connection devices  38 ,  39  have no resilient spring elements. However, it is in principle also possible, for example, for the drive units  20 ,  22  to have a resilient spring element so that the output element  20 . 1 ,  22 . 1  is pretensioned, for example, in the direction towards an opening position or a closure position. 
     The clamp apparatus  10  may have a securing device  62 . The securing device  62  may be constructed to secure the clamp apparatus  10  to a transport apparatus, for example, a transport carousel, for example, by means of a screw connection. The securing device  62  may have at least one positioning element. The positioning element can position the clamp apparatus  10  correctly on the transport apparatus during the securing to the transport apparatus. The positioning element may, for example, be in the form of a positioning pin. The securing device  62  may be secured to the clamp carrier  18 , for example, to a rear side, upper side and/or lower side of the clamp carrier  18 . 
       FIGS.  4  to  6    show different views of a transport apparatus  64  with a plurality of clamp apparatuses  10 . For the sake of greater clarity, only one clamp apparatus  10 , etcetera, is denoted with a reference numeral. 
     The transport apparatus  64  may preferably be included in a container treatment installation for transporting containers  12 . In the container treatment installation, the containers  12  may, for example, be produced, cleaned, checked, filled, closed, labelled, printed and/or packaged. It is possible for the transport apparatus  64  to be arranged, for example, as a star-like inlet member (inlet starwheel) or a star-like outlet member (outlet starwheel) of a container treatment apparatus. 
     The transport apparatus  64  is preferably configured as a rotatable transport carousel. The clamp apparatuses  10  are arranged, preferably in a uniform manner, around a circumference of the transport apparatus  64 . The transport apparatus  64  may be in the form of a so-called clamp(ing) starwheel. As a result of the dual-level nature of the clamp apparatuses  10 , the clamp starwheel is in the form of a dual-level clamp starwheel. 
     The transport apparatus  64  may have a drive unit  66  and a rotary distributor or a rotary transmission leadthrough  68 . 
     By means of the drive unit  66 , the transport apparatus  64  and consequently the clamp apparatuses  10  can be moved. Preferably, the drive unit  66  can rotate the transport apparatus  64  and consequently the clamp apparatuses  10  about a vertical centre axis of the transport apparatus  64 . The drive unit  66  can depending on the configuration, for example, be arranged at an upper side or a lower side of the transport apparatus  64 . 
     The rotary distributor  68  can be connected to the first drive unit  20  and the second drive unit  22 . The rotary distributor  68  may, for example, have a pneumatic interface which enables a pneumatic connection between a rotating portion of the rotary distributor  68  and a fixed portion of the rotary distributor  68 . For example, the housing of the rotary distributor  68  may be fixed. A portion of the rotary distributor  68  which is arranged inside the housing may in turn be rotatably supported and also rotate with the rotating transport apparatus  64  during operation. 
     The rotary distributor  68  may be constructed to enable a sealed transition of at least one fluid between a fixed member and a rotating member. The rotary distributor  68  may be single-flow (singlechannel or single-track) or multi-flow (multi-channel or multi-track). Preferably, the rotary distributor  68  has a (at least one) pneumatic flow or track for compressed air which is or can be connected to the drive units  20 ,  22 . Optionally, the rotary distributor  68  may, for example, have a product or filling material flow or track for a product which is intended to be introduced, that is to say, for example, when the transport apparatus  64  is integrated in a filler. 
     Depending on the embodiment, the control unit  37  may be arranged in the connection between the rotary distributor  68  and the drive units  20 ,  22 . Alternatively, the control unit  37  may not be connected or interposed between the rotary distributor  68  and the drive units  20 ,  22 . In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG.  4   , the control unit  37  is in the form of a pneumatic control unit and has, for example, at least one (for example, two) pneumatic valve islands by means of which a supply of compressed air to the drive units  20 ,  22  (for example, to the piston spaces and/or annular spaces thereof) can be controlled. For example, the at least one valve island is arranged at an upper side of the transport apparatus  64 . 
     The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Instead, a large number of variants and modifications which also make use of the notion of the invention and are therefore included within the protective scope are possible. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject-matter and the features of the dependent claims regardless of the claims which are referred to. In particular, the individual features of the independent claim  1  are disclosed independently of each other. In addition, the features of the subordinate claims are also disclosed independently of all the features of the independent claim  1  and are, for example, disclosed independently of the features relating to the presence and/or the configuration of the first clamp arm pair, the second clamp arm pair, the first drive unit and/or the second drive unit of the independent claim  1 . 
     LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS 
     
         
           10  Clamp apparatus 
           12  Container 
           14  First clamp arm pair 
           16  Second clamp arm pair 
           18  Clamp carrier 
           20  First drive unit 
           20 . 1  First output element 
           22  Second drive unit 
           22 . 1  Second output element 
           24  Clamp arm 
           26  Clamp arm 
           28  Clamp arm 
           30  Clamp arm 
           32  Rotary pin 
           34  Rotary pin 
           36  Reinforcement rib 
           37  Control unit 
           38  First connection device 
           39  Second connection device 
           40  Transfer element 
           42  Coupling element 
           44  Pivot arm 
           46  Pivot arm 
           50  Transfer element 
           52  Coupling element 
           54  Pivot arm 
           56  Pivot arm 
           62  Securing device 
           64  Transport apparatus 
           66  Drive unit 
           68  Rotary distributor