Patent Description:
The present valve group is intended to be mounted on filling machines advantageously employed in the field of industrial bottling plants, and are intended to be employed for filling containers, such as for example bottles and cans, with liquids of alimentary type, such as for example non-alcoholic sparkling drinks, mineral water, fruit juices, wines etc..

In addition, the invention involves a filling machine provided with at least one said filling valve group.

As is known, the filling valve groups intended to be installed on filling machines for filling containers, such as for example cans and bottles, with liquids are generally fixed below a containment tank within which the liquid of alimentary type is preserved, such as for example sparkling non-alcoholic drinks, fruit juices, wine etc. The valve groups of known type comprise a supply duct, which is placed in fluid communication with a containment tank of the filling machine for the flow of a liquid from the containment tank itself to a container to be filled with such liquid. The supply duct is extended with elongated shape between an inlet section, at which it is fixed to the containment tank and receives the liquid from the latter, and an opposite outlet section, at which a container to be filled is placed, which receives the liquid coming from the containment tank that transits along the supply duct.

In addition, the valve groups generally comprise a centering body, which is placed at the outlet section of the supply duct, and comprises a seal against which, during the filling step, the mouth of the container to be filled is placed in abutment.

The aforesaid centering body is placed coaxial with the supply duct, and has the function of centering the container with respect to the supply duct. In addition, if the filling machine is of isobaric type, hence usable for filling the containers with a liquid under pressure (such as for example a sparkling liquid), the centering bell, and in particular its seal, has the further function of ensuring the seal of the pressure within the container during the filling step, which in a known manner is maintained equal to the pressure of the containment tank, which is greater than the ambient pressure.

In addition, the valve groups of known type comprise an air return tube, which is placed to traverse the supply duct and has the function of suctioning the air coming from the container during the step of filling the latter, which is gradually substituted by the liquid itself within the container.

The valve groups comprise, in addition, a shutter which is placed to intercept the supply duct in order to allow or prevent the passage of the liquid through the supply duct. The shutters of known type are provided with a narrowing portion, generally fixed to the supply duct, and with an enlarged portion, generally fixed to the air return tube, which is movable with respect to the narrowing portion and is susceptible of interfering with this in order to prevent or allow the passage of the liquid through the supply duct.

In recent years, the need has arisen to be able to fill containers of different shapes with one same filling machine, so as to increase the efficiency and flexibility of production of the bottling plants. In particular, in order to fill containers of different shape, the valve groups equipping the filling machine must be adaptable to different container shapes.

More in detail, the containers can vary, for example with regard to the diameter of the neck of the bottle, and hence the supply duct must be sufficiently flexible from the operating standpoint in order to fill containers with diameter of the neck and of the opening that even differ greatly from each other.

For such purpose, valve groups were introduced on the market that are provided with a centering body removably fixed to a lower portion of the valve group itself, by means of quick coupling means, e.g. of bayonet type. In this manner, if the filling machine provided with such valve groups must be employed for filling containers of different size, an operator proceeds with the substitution of the centering body suitable for a first container shape with a different centering body suitable for a second container shape for each valve group of the filling machine. Since these are quick coupling means, such operation requires brief times, allowing the single valve group, and consequently the entire filling machine, to be reconfigured for filling containers, reducing machine stop times to the minimum, and hence also reducing the production costs.

Several examples of valve groups of the type briefly mentioned above are described in the documents <CIT> and <CIT>. <CIT> describes in more detail a filling valve group with a supply duct, an air return tube, a shutter, which is placed to intercept said supply duct and is provided with a narrowing portion and a centering body; wherein said centering body is removably fixed to the lower portion of said valve group by means of first quick coupling means; wherein said centering body carrying, fixed thereto, the narrowing portion of said shutter, wherein the valve group further comprises second quick coupling means removably fixing a stem, carrying, fixed thereto, the enlarged portion of said shutter.

Such filling valve groups of known type have in practice shown that they do not lack drawbacks.

The main drawback lies in the fact that the substitution of the centering body, even if necessary in order to allow centering the container with respect to the supply duct and to ensure the sealing of the pressure within containers of different size, does not modify the flow of the liquid from the supply duct to the containers themselves.

In particular, since the flow of liquid is independent of the centering body mounted on the valve group, it is evident that is is also independent of the shape of the container to be filled.

However, such characteristic of the valve groups of known type is a drawback, since it does not allow filling different containers with a same level of efficiency. Indeed, if the valve group is suitable for filling containers with narrower opening, e.g. bottles, with a corresponding requested flow of liquid, if such valve group is configured for filling containers with wider opening, e.g. cans, the flow of liquid that was previously set will not be optimal, for example there will be an increase of the foam in the case of sparkling drinks.

In this situation, the problem underlying the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks shown by the prior art known up to now, by providing a filling valve group for a filling machine, which is adaptable for filling containers with different shapes and which allows adjusting the flow of liquid as a function of the shape of the container to be filled.

Further object of the present invention is to provide a filling valve group for a filling machine, which provides for reduced machine stop times for the reconfiguration for filling containers of different size.

Further object of the present invention is to provide a filling valve group for a filling machine, which ensures a high operating flexibility.

Further object of the present invention is to provide a filling valve group for a filling machine that is structurally simple and entirely reliable in operation.

The technical characteristics of the invention, according to the aforesaid objects, are clearly seen in the contents of the below-reported claims and the advantages of the same will be more evident from the following detailed description, made with reference to the enclosed drawings, which represent a merely exemplifying and nonlimiting embodiment of the invention, in which:.

With reference to the enclosed drawings, reference number <NUM> overall indicates an embodiment of a filling valve group, object of the present invention.

The present valve group <NUM> is intended to be mounted on filling machines advantageously employed in the field of industrial bottling plants, which are intended to be employed for filling containers <NUM>, such as bottles and cans, with liquids of alimentary type such as non-alcoholic sparkling drinks, mineral water, fruit juices, wines etc..

The filling machines for alimentary liquid products are advantageously conventionally provided with a fixed support frame, on which a support structure <NUM> is mounted, which supports a containment tank <NUM>, preferably cylindrical, in which a liquid to be bottled is contained.

In addition, on the support structure <NUM>, a plurality of the aforesaid valve groups <NUM> are peripherally fixed, each of which in fluid communication with the containment tank <NUM> in order to convey the liquid from the containment tank <NUM> itself to the interior of the containers <NUM> to be filled, which are in general placed below the aforesaid valve groups <NUM>.

Advantageously, the support structure <NUM> is constituted by a rotary carousel <NUM>, which is rotatably mounted on the aforesaid support frame, and in such case the machine is of rotary type. In an entirely analogous manner, the support structure <NUM> of the filling machine can be a fixed structure, and in such case the filling machine is of linear type.

The filling valve group <NUM>, object of the present invention, comprises a supply duct <NUM> susceptible of being placed in fluid communication with the aforesaid containment tank <NUM> for the flow of a liquid from the containment tank <NUM> itself to a container <NUM> to be filled with the liquid.

Preferably, the valve group <NUM>, object of the present invention, is intended to be fixed to the support structure <NUM> of the filling machine and to be placed in fluid communication with the containment tank <NUM>.

According to an embodiment not represented in the enclosed figures, the valve group <NUM>, object of the present invention, is intended to be fixed below the aforesaid containment tank <NUM>, in fluid communication with the latter.

Advantageously, the containers <NUM>, which the valve group <NUM>, object of the present invention, is adapted to fill, are cans, which as is known can be of various size, and in particular they can have different height and diameter.

Advantageously, the filling machine on which the valve group <NUM>, object of the present invention, is adapted to be installed is an isobaric rotary machine, hence in particular it is suitable for filling containers <NUM> with liquids of alimentary type under pressure, such as beers, sparkling drinks etc..

More in detail, the supply duct <NUM> is extended along a main extension axis X between an inlet section <NUM>, and an opposite outlet section <NUM>, at which it is susceptible of being associated with the container <NUM> to be filled.

Advantageously, the supply duct <NUM> comprises an inlet opening <NUM>, which is placed at the inlet section <NUM> and through which the supply duct <NUM> is fed with the liquid coming from the containment tank <NUM>. In addition, the supply duct <NUM> comprises an outlet opening <NUM>, which is placed at the outlet section <NUM> and which is traversed by the liquid in order to feed the container <NUM>, which is preferably placed below the outlet opening <NUM>.

Preferably, the valve group <NUM> comprises a feed duct <NUM>, which is placed in fluid communication at least with the supply duct <NUM>, in particular at the aforesaid inlet opening <NUM>, and the containment tank <NUM>, so as to transfer the liquid from the containment tank <NUM> to the supply duct <NUM> itself.

Advantageously, the feed duct <NUM> is fixed to the supply duct <NUM>, laterally to the latter, in a manner such that the flow of the liquid from the feed duct <NUM> to the supply duct <NUM> is tilted with respect to the main extension direction X.

The valve group <NUM> comprises, in addition, an air return tube <NUM>, which is extended along the main extension axis X, advantageously between an upper end <NUM> and an opposite lower end <NUM>, and is placed at least partially within the supply duct <NUM>, in particular coaxial with the latter.

Advantageously, the return tube <NUM> defines a passage channel <NUM> through which, for example during a step of filling the container <NUM>, the air contained within the latter is intended to be evacuated. In this manner, the air initially present within the container <NUM> is progressively substituted by the liquid and its evacuation by means of the return tube <NUM> prevents the formation of a counter-pressure that opposes the descent of the liquid itself.

In addition, the valve group <NUM>, object of the present invention, comprises a shutter <NUM>, which is placed to intercept the supply duct <NUM> in order to selectively allow the passage of the liquid through the supply duct <NUM> itself. The aforesaid shutter <NUM> is provided with a narrowing portion <NUM> fixed to the supply duct <NUM> and an enlarged portion <NUM> fixed to the air return tube <NUM> and movable with respect to the aforesaid narrowing portion <NUM> in order to open and close the shutter <NUM> itself.

Advantageously, the enlarged portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> can be made in a single body with the air return tube <NUM>. Of course, without departing from the protective scope of the present invention, the enlarged portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> can be made separately with respect to the air return tube <NUM>.

Advantageously, the valve group <NUM> also comprises first actuator means <NUM>, which are mechanically connected to the upper end <NUM> of the air return tube <NUM> in order to move it along the main extension axis X between a closed position, in which the enlarged portion <NUM> acts in abutment against the narrowing portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> in order to prevent the passage of the liquid through the supply channel <NUM> (in such situation the shutter <NUM> is closed), and an open position, in which the enlarged portion <NUM> is placed spaced from the narrowing portion <NUM> in order to allow the passage of the liquid through the supply channel <NUM> (in such situation the shutter <NUM> is open).

More in detail, since the enlarged portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> is fixed to the return tube <NUM>, the movement of the latter by means of the first actuator means <NUM> involves the opening and the closing of the shutter <NUM> itself.

Preferably, the first actuator means <NUM> for example comprise an electropneumatic actuator, which since it is known in the field will not be described in more detail hereinbelow.

Advantageously, the shutter <NUM> comprises a seal which is at the point in which, in the closed position, the enlarged portion <NUM> abuts against the narrowing portion <NUM>, and for example is fixed to the enlarged portion <NUM>.

In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the enclosed figures, the enlarged portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> (fixed to the air return tube <NUM>) is placed above the narrowing portion <NUM> (fixed to the supply duct <NUM>). In particular, in such embodiment, in the open position the air return tube <NUM> is lifted, in a manner such to place the enlarged portion <NUM> spaced from the narrowing portion <NUM>, and in the closed position the air return tube <NUM> is lowered, in a manner such to bring the enlarged portion <NUM> to abut against the narrowing portion <NUM>.

In accordance with a different embodiment, the enlarged portion <NUM> is placed below the narrowing portion <NUM> and, in particular, in the open position, the air return tube <NUM> is lowered, so as to place the enlarged portion <NUM> spaced from the narrowing portion <NUM>, and in the closed position the air return tube <NUM> is lifted, such to bring the enlarged portion <NUM> in abutment against the narrowing portion <NUM>.

The valve group <NUM> comprises, in addition, a centering body <NUM>, mounted on a lower portion <NUM> of the valve group <NUM>, placed at the outlet section <NUM> of the supply duct <NUM> and comprising a seal <NUM> placed on a first lower surface <NUM> thereof susceptible of receiving in abutment the mouth of the container <NUM> to be filled, so as to center it with respect to the supply duct <NUM> and to ensure the seal of the pressure within the container <NUM> during a step of filling the container <NUM> itself.

With the expression "centering body" <NUM> it must be intended the body against which the mouth of the container <NUM> is intended to be sealingly abutted, regardless of an effective centering action of the container <NUM> with respect to the centering body <NUM> itself following the interaction between the two. In other words, advantageously but not exclusively, the centering body <NUM> will have a bell shape susceptible of centering the container <NUM> with respect to the supply duct <NUM> and nevertheless it could simply abut against the container <NUM>.

More in detail, the aforesaid centering body <NUM> is removably fixed to the lower portion <NUM> of the valve group <NUM> by means of first quick coupling means <NUM>.

Advantageously, the lower portion <NUM> of the valve group <NUM> comprises an annular support element <NUM>, which is in particular movable along the main extension axis X and is mechanically connected to second actuator means <NUM>. More in detail, the centering body <NUM> is fixed by means of the first quick coupling means <NUM> to the aforesaid annular support element <NUM>.

Preferably, the aforesaid second actuator means <NUM> comprise, in a per se known manner, a cam (not represented in the enclosed figures) susceptible of being fixed to the support frame of the filling machine, and a cam follower <NUM>, which is intended to be engaged with the cam.

In addition, the first actuator means <NUM> comprise at least one vertical rod <NUM>, preferably two placed parallel to each other, mechanically connected to the cam <NUM> and to the annular support element <NUM> in order to move it along the main extension axis X between a first position, in which the centering body <NUM> is placed spaced from the mouth of the container <NUM>, and a second position in which the centering body <NUM>, and in particular its seal <NUM>, is placed in abutment against the mouth of the container <NUM> to be filled.

According to a different embodiment not represented in the enclosed figures, the lower portion <NUM> is a fixed portion and hence the centering body <NUM> is fixed with respect to the supply duct <NUM>. In this situation, the filling machine on which the valve group <NUM> is intended to be installed comprises at least one movable plate, positioned below the valve group <NUM>, such movable plate susceptible of vertically translating in order to move the mouth of the container <NUM> closer to or further from the centering body <NUM>, and in particular to/from the seal <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, the first lower surface <NUM> is extended with substantially frustoconical shape around the main extension axis X and is tilted with respect to the latter by a second angle β. In particular, the second angle β varies with the variation of the shape of the container <NUM> to be filled in order to be adapted to the latter and center it with respect to the supply duct <NUM>.

For this reason, as seen in <FIG>, multiple centering bodies <NUM> can be provided, each provided with a seal <NUM> and a first lower surface <NUM> tilted by a aforesaid corresponding second angle β specially designed for centering a specific container <NUM> with respect to the supply duct <NUM> and to ensure the seal of the pressure at its interior.

According to the present invention, the valve group <NUM> comprises a fixed assembly <NUM> mechanically and rigidly connectable to the support structure of the filling machine <NUM>, which forms an upper section <NUM> of the supply duct <NUM>. Advantageously, in an entirely known manner, such fixed assembly <NUM> comprises a plurality of members such as for example valves <NUM>-<NUM> for the connection with operating fluids. More in detail, the fixed assembly <NUM> preferably comprises at least one return valve <NUM>, a pressurization valve <NUM>, a washing valve <NUM> and an exhaust valve <NUM>.

Preferably, the aforesaid return valve <NUM> selectively places in fluid communication the interior of the container <NUM> to be filled with the outside environment (or with a suitable gas recovery tank with which the filling machine is equipped) through the passage channel <NUM> of the return tube <NUM> in order to allow the evacuation of the air from the container <NUM> during a filling step.

Advantageously, the pressurization valve <NUM> selectively places in fluid communication the container <NUM> with the containment tank <NUM> or with a first auxiliary tank (not represented in the enclosed figures) containing inert gas, in particular through the passage channel <NUM> of the return tube <NUM>, in order to bring the pressure within the container <NUM> to a value equal to the pressure within the containment tank <NUM> before the filling step.

Preferably, the first auxiliary tank contains inert gas at a first pressure substantially equal to the pressure within the containment tank <NUM>.

Advantageously, the washing valve <NUM> selectively places in fluid communication the container <NUM> with the containment tank <NUM> or with a second auxiliary tank (not represented in the enclosed figures) containing inert gas, in particular by means of the passage channel <NUM> of the return tube <NUM>, in order to remove the air, oxygen-rich, within the container <NUM> before the filling step and substituting it with inert gas. Preferably, the second auxiliary tank contains inert gas at second pressure substantially lower than or equal to the pressure within the containment tank <NUM> and greater than the ambient pressure.

Advantageously, the valve group <NUM> comprises a compensation chamber <NUM>, which is in fluid connection with the interior of the container <NUM> and with the outside environment in order to allow the passage of air from the container <NUM> itself towards the outside environment.

Preferably, the valve group comprises a first exhaust valve <NUM>', which selectively places in fluid communication the container <NUM> with the outside environment, in particular by means of the compensation chamber <NUM>, in order to allow the evacuation of the gas moving within the container <NUM> during the step of washing the latter. In particular, the first exhaust valve <NUM>' is open when the washing valve <NUM> is open, such that, during the washing step, the inert gas coming from the containment tank <NUM> or from the second auxiliary tank, passing through the return tube <NUM>, reaches the container <NUM>, pushing outside of the latter the oxygen-rich air, through the compensation chamber <NUM>.

Preferably, the valve group comprises a second exhaust valve <NUM>", which selectively places in fluid communication the container <NUM> with the outside environment, in particular by means of the compensation chamber <NUM>, in order to bring the pressure within the container <NUM> back to a value equal to that of the atmospheric pressure at the end of the filling step.

In addition, according to the present invention, the valve group <NUM> comprises a removable tube <NUM>, which forms a lower section <NUM> of the supply duct <NUM> and is removably fixed to the aforesaid fixed assembly <NUM> by means of second quick coupling means <NUM>. More in detail, the removable tube <NUM> carries fixed thereto the narrowing portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM>.

Advantageously, the narrowing portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> is made in a single body with the removable tube <NUM>. Of course, without departing from the protective scope of the present invention, the narrowing portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> can be made separately with respect to the removable tube <NUM>.

As stated above, the shutter <NUM> intercepts the aforesaid supply duct <NUM>, and hence the liquid, which traverses the latter in order to pass from the containment tank <NUM> to the container <NUM> below the valve group <NUM>, interacts with the shutter <NUM>. More in detail, when the shutter <NUM> is open, the geometric shape of the latter, and in particular of its narrowing portion <NUM>, and optionally of its enlarged portion <NUM>, and the relative position between these two, determine the flow of the liquid from the supply duct <NUM> to the container <NUM> to be filled.

By flow of the liquid, it must be intended in this case the fluid-dynamic behavior of the liquid itself, and in particular its speed and its direction, in particular with respect to the internal wall of the container <NUM>, during its passage from the supply duct <NUM> to the container <NUM> itself.

More in detail, the interaction between the liquid and the container <NUM> (in particular with its mouth and its internal wall) during the filling step affects the efficiency and the quality of the bottling. In particular, in order to optimize the filling of a container <NUM> with a particular shape, the geometric characteristics of the shutter <NUM> are generally specially designed so as to optimize the flow of the liquid for the particular shape of the container <NUM> itself.

In the valve groups <NUM> suitable for filling containers <NUM> with shapes different from each other of known type, so as to pass from the filling of a first type of container <NUM> to the filling of a second type of container <NUM> with shape different from the first, only the centering body <NUM> is substituted, such to ensure the centering of the specific container <NUM> with respect to the supply duct <NUM>, and, in the case of isobaric filling machine, to ensure the seal of the pressure within the container <NUM> itself. In particular, multiple centering bodies <NUM> are generally provided, each of which provided with a seal <NUM> that is sized with respect to the type of container <NUM> to be filled.

Nevertheless, in such situation, since the shutter <NUM> is independent of the centering body <NUM>, this remains substantially equal to itself following the substitution of the centering body <NUM>. For this reason, in the valve groups <NUM> of known type, the flow of the liquid from the supply duct <NUM> to the container <NUM> is not adaptable to the specific type of container <NUM> to be filled.

With the valve group <NUM>, object of the present invention, instead, since the narrowing portion <NUM> of the shutter is fixed to the removable tube <NUM> and the latter can be substituted, it is evident that the narrowing portion <NUM> itself, and consequently the shutter <NUM>, can be modified in order to be adapted to the filling of different types of containers <NUM>. As is clear for example in <FIG>, multiple removable tubes <NUM> can be provided, each of which provided with a narrowing portion <NUM> shaped for optimizing the filling of a corresponding container <NUM>.

According to the invention the narrowing portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM>, which is fixed to the removable tube <NUM>, comprises a flared wall <NUM> that is extended from a narrow internal section <NUM> of the supply duct <NUM> to the enlarged outlet section <NUM> (enlarged with respect to the narrow internal section <NUM>) of the same supply duct <NUM> for the evacuation of the liquid towards the container <NUM> to be filled.

Preferably, the outlet section <NUM> of the supply duct <NUM> is provided with a first width L1, and the narrow internal section <NUM> is provided with a second width L2 smaller than or equal to the first width L1. In particular, the first width L1 is greater than the second width L2, such that the supply duct <NUM> widens going from the narrow internal section <NUM> to the enlarged outlet section <NUM>.

Advantageously, the second width L2 corresponds with the width of the supply duct at the narrowing portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM>, and it is the minimum width of the supply duct <NUM> itself.

By width in this case it must be intended the maximum width of the specific section measured transverse to the main extension axis X. In the event in which the supply duct <NUM> is extended with axial-symmetric shape along the main extension axis X, the width coincides with the diameter of the specific section.

Advantageously, the enlarged portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> is provided with a third width L3, which is greater than the second width L2 of the narrow internal section <NUM>. In this manner, the enlarged portion <NUM> of the shutter is susceptible of abutting against the narrowing portion <NUM>, preventing the passage of the liquid.

The narrowing portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> also comprises a tapered wall <NUM> which is extended around the main extension axis X starting from the narrow internal section <NUM> in opposite direction with respect to the flared wall <NUM> away from the main extension axis X itself. In particular, along such tapered wall <NUM>, the supply duct <NUM> narrows going towards the narrow internal section <NUM>.

In accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the enclosed figures, in which the enlarged portion <NUM> (fixed to the air return tube aria <NUM>) of the shutter <NUM> is placed above the narrowing portion <NUM>, the tapered wall <NUM> is susceptible of interfering with the enlarged portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> in order to close the shutter <NUM> itself when the air return tube <NUM> is in closed position.

In accordance with the aforesaid different embodiment in which the enlarged portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> is placed below the narrowing portion <NUM>, the flared wall <NUM> is susceptible of interfering with the enlarged portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> in order to close the shutter <NUM> itself when the air return tube <NUM> is in closed position.

Advantageously the two flared <NUM> and tapered <NUM> walls of the narrowing portion <NUM> of the shutter <NUM> define an annular nosepiece <NUM> whose shape is advantageously designed in order to be employed in association with a type of container <NUM> to be filled.

In particular, in operation, the flared wall <NUM> directs the flow towards the container <NUM> and has angle specially designed that depends on the shape of the container <NUM> itself.

Preferably the removable tube <NUM> is extended with shape elongated along the main extension axis X between a first end <NUM>, at which the outlet opening <NUM> of the supply duct <NUM> is placed, and an opposite second end <NUM>.

As seen in <FIG>, the flared wall <NUM> is extended with substantially frustoconical shape around the main extension axis X away from the latter towards the outlet section <NUM>. Advantageously, the flared wall <NUM> is tilted with respect to the main extension axis X by a first angle α.

Advantageously, the first angle α of the flared wall <NUM> determines the direction of the flow of the liquid from the supply duct <NUM> to the container <NUM>. In particular, the first angle α varies with the variation of the shape of the container <NUM> in order to be adapted to the latter.

For this reason, as is evident in <FIG>, multiple removable tubes <NUM> can be provided, each provided with an aforesaid annular nosepiece <NUM> and an aforesaid flared wall <NUM> tilted by a corresponding aforesaid first angle α specially designed for optimizing the filling of a corresponding container <NUM>.

Advantageously, in accordance with the embodiment illustrated in the enclosed figures, the lower end <NUM> of the air return tube <NUM> is positioned within the supply duct <NUM> below the narrow internal section <NUM> of the latter, preferably between the narrow internal section <NUM> and the outlet section <NUM>, in particular when the air return tube <NUM> is in closed position and, preferably, also when this is in open position.

According to the embodiment represented in the enclosed figures, the fixed assembly <NUM> comprises an internal channel <NUM>, which is extended along the main extension axis X. Preferably, the internal channel <NUM> is defined, in a first portion <NUM>' thereof, by the upper section <NUM> of the supply duct <NUM>, and is engaged, in a second portion <NUM>" thereof, internally and coaxially by the removable tube <NUM>. Advantageously, the second end <NUM> of the removable tube <NUM> is placed within the internal channel <NUM>, and the first end <NUM> projects with respect to the internal channel <NUM>.

According to the embodiment represented in the enclosed figures, the centering body <NUM> is placed at the first end <NUM> of the removable tube <NUM>, in particular outside and coaxial with the latter.

Preferably, the centering body <NUM> is placed, at least partially, within and coaxial with the internal channel <NUM> of the fixed assembly <NUM>.

Advantageously, the removable tube <NUM> and the centering body <NUM> are placed radially spaced from each other with a clearance that defines an annular channel <NUM>, which is susceptible of placing the interior of the container <NUM> in fluid communication with the compensation chamber <NUM>.

Advantageously, the second quick coupling means <NUM> comprise a first groove <NUM>, which is obtained externally on the removable tube <NUM>, and a blocking element <NUM> integral with the fixed assembly <NUM> and mechanically removably engaged in the first groove <NUM> in order to retain the removable tube <NUM> mechanically connected to the fixed assembly <NUM> itself.

Preferably, the first groove <NUM> is made on the external surface of the removable tube <NUM> and is extended as a ring around the main extension axis X.

Advantageously, the fixed assembly <NUM> comprises at least one retention seat <NUM>, within which the blocking element <NUM> is susceptible of being placed, at least partially. Advantageously, the blocking element <NUM> is engaged in the retention seat <NUM>, which is placed in connection with the first groove <NUM> of the removable tube <NUM>, and is movable, preferably along a direction substantially perpendicular to the main extension axis X, between a blocking configuration and a release configuration.

Preferably, in the blocking configuration, the blocking element <NUM> engages the retention seat <NUM> and the first groove <NUM> in order to prevent the movement of the removable tube <NUM> along the main extension axis X, and in the release configuration the blocking element <NUM> is disengaged at least from the first groove <NUM> in order to allow the removal of the removable tube <NUM> along the main extension axis X.

According to the embodiment represented in the enclosed figures, the blocking element <NUM> comprises a central body from which two retention arms are extended, in particular parallel to each other, each of which intended to be placed within the retention seat <NUM> and at least partially within the first groove <NUM> in order to prevent the sliding of the removable tube <NUM> along the main extension axis X.

Preferably, the retention seat <NUM> is placed in connection with the internal channel <NUM> of the fixed assembly <NUM>. In this manner, with the blocking element <NUM> placed within the retention seat <NUM> in the blocking position, each retention arm thereof projects within the internal channel <NUM>.

Advantageously, the removable tube <NUM> is placed within the internal channel <NUM> with the first groove <NUM> placed in connection with the retention seat <NUM>. In this manner, with the blocking element <NUM> in the blocking position, each retention arm thereof engages both the retention seat <NUM> and the first groove <NUM>, preventing the sliding of the removable tube <NUM> along the main extension axis X.

Advantageously, the central body of the blocking element <NUM> comprises a through hole <NUM> which is susceptible of being used by an operator, e.g. by inserting a hook or a finger therein, in order to move the blocking element <NUM> between the blocking position and the release position.

Preferably, the second quick coupling means <NUM> comprise at least one first presser <NUM>, advantageously ball presser, mounted integral with the fixed assembly <NUM>, which interferes in retention relationship with a corresponding first engagement seat <NUM> of the blocking element <NUM> in order to prevent the movement thereof from the blocking configuration to the release configuration.

Advantageously, the first engagement seat <NUM> is made on the central body of the blocking element <NUM>.

Preferably, with the blocking element <NUM> in the blocking configuration, the first presser <NUM> engages the first engagement seat <NUM> in shape relationship, with the blocking element <NUM> in the release position the first presser <NUM> is disengaged from the first engagement seat <NUM>.

Advantageously, the first quick coupling means <NUM> comprise at least one retention tab <NUM> fixed to the centering body <NUM> and extended radially with respect to the main extension axis X. Preferably, the retention tab <NUM> is made in a single body with the centering body <NUM>.

Preferably, the annular support element <NUM> is extended along a main extension axis X starting from an abutment element <NUM>, advantageously towards a second lower surface <NUM>, and on which an insertion seat <NUM> is made.

Advantageously, the abutment element <NUM> is extended on a first lying plane substantially perpendicular to the main extension axis X.

Advantageously, the centering body <NUM> is placed at least partially within the insertion seat <NUM> and the retention tab <NUM> is in abutment against the abutment element <NUM> in order to prevent the movement of the centering body <NUM> itself along the main extension axis X.

In this manner, when the movable support element <NUM> is moved by the second actuator means <NUM> from the second position to the first position (hence from bottom to top), the annular support element <NUM>, and in particular its abutment wall <NUM>, abuts against the retention tab <NUM> so as to move the centering body <NUM> integral with itself from bottom to top.

According to the embodiment represented in the enclosed figures, the first quick coupling means <NUM> comprise two retention tabs <NUM>, advantageously fixed to the centering body <NUM> in diametrically opposite positions with respect to each other, with respect to the main extension axis X. Advantageously, the retention tabs <NUM> are made in a single body with the centering body <NUM>.

Preferably, the first quick coupling means <NUM> comprise at least one slide seat <NUM>, made on the annular support element <NUM>, which is extended along the main extension axis X, is connected to the insertion seat <NUM> and is provided with a transverse section with respect to the main extension axis X that is counter-shaped with respect to the retention tab <NUM>.

According to the embodiment represented in the enclosed figures, the first quick coupling means <NUM> comprise two slide seats <NUM>, made on the annular support element <NUM>, placed in connection with the insertion seat <NUM> and in diametrically opposite positions with respect to each other, with respect to the main extension axis X.

More in detail, the centering body <NUM> is rotatable around the main extension axis X between an engagement position, in which each retention tab <NUM> is misaligned with respect to a corresponding slide seat <NUM> in order to prevent the movement of the centering body <NUM> along the main extension axis X, and a disengagement position, in which each retention tab <NUM> is aligned with respect to a corresponding slide seat <NUM> in order to allow the movement of the centering body <NUM> along the main extension axis X so as to extract it from the insertion seat <NUM> itself.

Advantageously, the centering body <NUM> comprises at least one abutment tab <NUM>, which is intended to abut against the second lower surface <NUM> of the annular support element <NUM>.

Preferably, each abutment tab <NUM> is placed vertically aligned with a corresponding retention tab <NUM> spaced from the latter along the main extension axis X. Without departing from the protective scope of the present invention, the centering body <NUM> comprises an abutment tab <NUM>, which is annularly extended around the main extension axis X.

In this manner, when the movable support element <NUM> is moved by the second actuator means <NUM> from the first position to the second position (hence from top to bottom), the annular support element <NUM>, and in particular its second lower surface <NUM>, acts in abutment against each abutment tab <NUM> so as to move the centering body <NUM> integral with itself from top to bottom.

Advantageously, the centering body <NUM> comprises at least one second engagement seat <NUM>, in particular made on a corresponding retention tab <NUM>.

Preferably, the first quick coupling means <NUM> comprise at least one second presser <NUM>, advantageously ball presser, mounted integral with the annular support element <NUM>, which interferes in retention relationship with a corresponding second engagement seat <NUM> of the retention tab <NUM> in order to prevent the rotation of the centering body <NUM> around the main extension axis X from the engagement position to the disengagement position.

Preferably, with the centering body <NUM> in the engagement configuration, the second presser <NUM> engages in shape relationship with a corresponding second engagement seat <NUM>, with the centering body <NUM> in the disengagement position the second presser <NUM> is disengaged from the corresponding second engagement seat <NUM>.

According to the embodiment represented in the enclosed figures, the first quick coupling means <NUM> comprise two first pressers <NUM> mounted integral with the annular support element <NUM> in a position diametrically opposite each other with respect to the main extension axis X, each of which susceptible of interfering with a corresponding aforesaid second engagement seat <NUM> made on a corresponding aforesaid retention tab <NUM>.

Also forming the object of the present invention is a filling machine for filling containers <NUM> with liquids, comprising at least one valve group <NUM> of the above-described type, regarding which the same numeric references will be maintained for the sake of description clarity.

Advantageously, the filling machine is conventionally inserted within a bottling plant downstream of a rinsing machine and upstream of a capping machine.

Preferably, the filling machine is an isobaric machine, hence in particular it is suitable for filling containers <NUM> with liquids of alimentary type under pressure, such as beer, sparkling drinks etc..

Advantageously, the filling machine, object of the present invention, is an isobaric filling machine for filling cans with liquids of alimentary type.

The filling machine, object of the present invention, comprises a rotary carousel <NUM>, provided with at least one containment tank <NUM> of a liquid to be bottled, and such containment tank <NUM> is schematically represented in <FIG>.

Advantageously, the filling machine also comprises a support frame, which is intended to be abutted against the ground and rotatably carries, mounted thereon, the aforesaid rotary carousel <NUM>. More in detail, the rotary carousel <NUM> is adapted to rotate around a substantially vertical rotation axis Y. Preferably, the rotary carousel <NUM> is adapted to rotate around a central rotation shaft thereof, advantageously parallel to the rotation axis Y, and such central rotation shaft is mounted on the support frame.

The containment tank <NUM> preferably has annular shape and is fixed coaxial with the rotary carousel <NUM> in order to rotate together with the latter during the operation of the filling machine.

More in detail, the aforesaid valve group <NUM> is fixed to the rotary carousel <NUM> and is placed in fluid communication with the containment tank <NUM>, in order to allow the passage of the liquid from the containment tank <NUM> to the container <NUM> to be filled through the aforesaid supply duct <NUM>.

Preferably, the valve group <NUM> is fixed to the rotary carousel <NUM> with the main extension axis X substantially parallel to the central rotation shaft of the filling machine.

Advantageously, the rotary carousel <NUM> carries, peripherally mounted thereon, a plurality of valve groups <NUM>, which, in particular, are placed equidistant from each other around the central rotation shaft of the rotary carousel <NUM> itself.

The valve group <NUM> of the filling machine can be suitably provided with one or more, preferably with all the characteristics described above and therefore will not be described in detail hereinbelow.

Also described below is a method for the substitution of a removable tube <NUM> of a valve group <NUM> of the above-described type, regarding which the same reference numbers will be maintained for the sake of description clarity.

Advantageously, the aforesaid method is applied in the event it is necessary, for various operating needs, to substitute the removable tube <NUM> of the valve group <NUM>. For example, if it is necessary to reconfigure the valve group <NUM> for filling a different container <NUM> type, the removable tube <NUM> is substituted with an analogous removable tube <NUM> with geometric characteristics that are different from that just removed, such to adapt the flow of the liquid to the different geometric shape of the new type of container <NUM> to be filled.

The method comprises a release step, in which the second quick coupling means <NUM> are actuated for releasing the sliding of said removable tube along said main extension axis X.

More in detail, in such step the blocking element <NUM> is moved from the blocking configuration, in which the blocking element <NUM> engages the retention seat <NUM> and the first groove <NUM> in order to prevent the movement of the removable tube <NUM> along the main extension axis X, to the release configuration, in which the blocking element <NUM> is disengaged at least from the first groove <NUM> in order to allow the movement of the removable tube <NUM> along the main extension axis X.

Subsequently, the method comprises a removal step, in which the removable tube <NUM> is completely disengaged from said fixed assembly <NUM>, in particular by moving it along the main extension axis X up to completely disengaging it from the second portion <NUM>'' of the internal channel <NUM> of the fixed assembly.

The method, in addition, comprises an insertion step, in which a different removable tube <NUM> is engaged with the fixed assembly <NUM>. More in detail, in such step, the removable tube <NUM> to be engaged with the fixed assembly is moved along the main extension axis X so as to insert it in the second portion <NUM>" of the internal channel <NUM>, and in particular coaxial with the latter.

Advantageously, the removable tube <NUM> is moved along the main extension axis <NUM> at a height such that the first groove <NUM> thereof is placed in connection with the retention seat <NUM>.

In addition, the method, object of the present invention, comprises a blocking step, in which the second quick coupling means <NUM> are actuated in order to prevent the movement of the removable tube along the main extension axis X.

More in detail, in such step the blocking element <NUM> is moved from the release configuration, in which the blocking element <NUM> is disengaged at least from the first groove <NUM> in order to allow the movement of the removable tube <NUM> along the main extension axis X, to the blocking configuration, in which the blocking element <NUM> engages the retention seat <NUM> and the first groove <NUM> in order to prevent the movement of the removable tube <NUM> along the main extension axis X.

For example, as can be seen in <FIG>, the valve group <NUM>, object of the present invention, can be configured for filling containers <NUM>, and in particular cans, with dimensions that differ from each other. In particular, with the variation of the dimensions of the can <NUM> to be filled, a removable tube <NUM> is installed on the valve group <NUM> with a first angle α specially designed for the shape of the specific can that is to be filled.

Advantageously, the centering body <NUM> is also substituted, such that with the variation of the dimensions of the can <NUM> to be filled, a centering body <NUM> is installed on the valve group <NUM> with a second angle β and a seal <NUM> specially designed for the shape of the specific can that is to be filled.

Claim 1:
Filling valve group (<NUM>) for a filling machine, comprising:
- a supply duct (<NUM>) susceptible of being placed in fluid communication with a containment tank (<NUM>) fixed to a support structure (<NUM>) of a filling machine for the flow of a liquid from said containment tank (<NUM>) to a container (<NUM>) to be filled with said liquid; said supply duct (<NUM>) extended along a main extension axis (X) between an inlet section (<NUM>), and an opposite outlet section (<NUM>), at which it is susceptible of being associated with said container (<NUM>) to be filled;
- an air return tube (<NUM>), which is extended along said main extension axis (X) and is placed at least partially within said supply duct (<NUM>);
- a shutter (<NUM>), which is placed to intercept said supply duct (<NUM>) and is provided with a narrowing portion (<NUM>) fixed to said supply duct (<NUM>) and an enlarged portion (<NUM>) fixed to said air return tube (<NUM>) and movable with respect to said narrowing portion (<NUM>) in order to open and close said shutter (<NUM>);
- a centering body (<NUM>), mounted on a lower portion (<NUM>) of said valve group (<NUM>), placed at the outlet section (<NUM>) of said supply duct (<NUM>) and comprising a seal (<NUM>) placed on a first lower surface (<NUM>) thereof susceptible of receiving in abutment the mouth of said container (<NUM>) to be filled; said centering body (<NUM>) being removably fixed to the lower portion (<NUM>) of said valve group (<NUM>) by means of first quick coupling means (<NUM>);
- a fixed assembly (<NUM>) mechanically and rigidly connectable to the support structure (<NUM>) of the filling machine, which forms an upper section (<NUM>) of the supply duct (<NUM>);
- a removable tube (<NUM>), which forms a lower section (<NUM>) of the supply duct (<NUM>) and is removably fixed to said fixed assembly (<NUM>) by means of second quick coupling means (<NUM>), said removable tube (<NUM>) carrying, fixed thereto, the narrowing portion (<NUM>) of said shutter (<NUM>);
wherein the narrowing portion (<NUM>) of said shutter (<NUM>) fixed to said removable tube (<NUM>) comprises a flared wall (<NUM>) that is extended from a narrow internal section (<NUM>) of said supply duct (<NUM>) to said enlarged outlet section (<NUM>) of said supply duct (<NUM>) for the evacuation of said liquid.