EP2251270A2 - Device and method for aligning containers, in particular bottles, in a labelling machine - Google Patents

Device and method for aligning containers, in particular bottles, in a labelling machine Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2251270A2
EP2251270A2 EP10162287A EP10162287A EP2251270A2 EP 2251270 A2 EP2251270 A2 EP 2251270A2 EP 10162287 A EP10162287 A EP 10162287A EP 10162287 A EP10162287 A EP 10162287A EP 2251270 A2 EP2251270 A2 EP 2251270A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
trigger signal
container
receiver
rotational position
unit
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Granted
Application number
EP10162287A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2251270A3 (en
EP2251270B1 (en
Inventor
Anton Niedermeier
Karl Aichinger
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Krones AG
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Krones AG
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Publication of EP2251270A3 publication Critical patent/EP2251270A3/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
    • B65C9/00—Details of labelling machines or apparatus
    • B65C9/06—Devices for presenting articles in predetermined attitude or position at labelling station
    • B65C9/067—Devices for presenting articles in predetermined attitude or position at labelling station for orienting articles having irregularities, e.g. holes, spots or markings, e.g. labels or imprints, the irregularities or markings being detected

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device and a method according to the preamble of patent claims 1 and 10, respectively.
  • the container is rotated at a constant angular velocity, which is to be maintained as accurately as possible in the detection of the characteristics.
  • the containers to be aligned must be moved past the cameras at a constant speed in order to control the rotational position of the containers and their position in the machine, such as, for example, B. the machine angle position of a transport carousel to be able to assign exactly.
  • the object of the invention is to provide a device and a method for exact alignment of the rotational position of the container with less time and space required.
  • This object is achieved with a proximity switch for triggering an image pickup function of the camera unit.
  • the triggering of individual camera pictures will be independent of the synchronization fluctuations. Since this increases the accuracy of the image analysis, the Rotary position of the container in one step, so even without fine alignment, be corrected.
  • acceleration and / or deceleration ramps of the container rotation can be included in the feature detection and the space required for this in the machine can be used.
  • the proximity switch preferably comprises a plurality of trigger signal generators provided on the holder at predetermined rotational angle intervals and a stationary receiver unit having at least one trigger signal receiver.
  • trigger signals can be generated, which depend primarily on the angular position of the trigger signal generator. This allows a particularly accurate determination of the rotational position and orientation of the container.
  • the apparatus further comprises a transport means which guides the holder along a reception area of the trigger signal receiver. This allows a continuous flow of containers to be aligned.
  • a plurality of trigger signal receivers are arranged in the receiver unit such that the transport means guides the holder successively along the reception areas of the trigger signal receivers. This allows multiple cameras to be triggered independently.
  • the trigger signal receivers are preferably distributed over at least two planes extending essentially parallel to the transport direction of the transport means. This may cause the trigger signal receivers to overlap.
  • the receiver unit comprises a plurality of trigger signal receivers, and the distances between adjacent trigger signal receivers are adapted to the course of an acceleration and / or deceleration ramp of the rotational movement of the holder.
  • acceleration and / or deceleration ramps can be included in the detection of the feature and the device can be made particularly compact.
  • the proximity switch is magnetic field sensitive. Magnetic proximity switches are particularly insensitive to contamination.
  • the apparatus further comprises a calculation unit for locating a feature on the depicted container and for calculating an actual rotational position of the container, as well as a control unit for approaching a desired rotational position of the container.
  • the container can be brought into a suitable for labeling rotational position.
  • the technical problem is also solved by a method in which a proximity switch triggers the imaging of the container.
  • a proximity switch triggers the imaging of the container.
  • the triggering of individual camera pictures will be independent of the synchronization fluctuations. Since this increases the accuracy of the image evaluation, the rotational position of the container can be corrected in one step, and thus without fine alignment.
  • acceleration and / or deceleration ramps of the container rotation can be included in the feature detection and the space required for this in the machine can be used.
  • trigger signalers rotate with the container, and at least every third trigger signal generator generates a trigger signal when approaching a fixed receiver unit. This enables reliable triggering that is independent of synchronization fluctuations.
  • the trigger signal reaches a predetermined trigger level in a rotational position of the trigger signal generator in which the latter each have a minimum distance to the receiver unit, so that a trigger control signal is output which triggers the imaging of the container.
  • the container is guided along at least one receiving area of the receiver unit. This allows a continuous container flow to be aligned.
  • the trigger signal is generated in different trigger signal receivers of the receiver unit. This allows multiple cameras to be triggered independently.
  • the method further comprises the steps of: locating a feature on the imaged container and calculating an actual rotational position of the container; and approaching a desired rotational position of the container.
  • the container can be brought into a suitable for labeling rotational position.
  • Fig. 1 and 2 includes the device 1, the z. B. may be a labeling machine, a plurality of rotatable holders 3, such. B. motor-driven turntable with centering device, for containers 5, in particular for bottles, which are to be aligned with respect to their rotational position ⁇ by rotation about its major axis.
  • the brackets 3 run on a means of transport 7, such. B. a transport carousel to.
  • the device further comprises a stationary camera unit 9 with an arbitrary number of cameras 10 for detecting a feature 5a of the container 5, such. B. a press seam or embossing.
  • the transport means 7 transports the container 5 for this purpose through the image area 9a of the camera unit 9, while the holder 3 unwinds the lateral surface 5b of the container 5 in front of the camera unit 9.
  • the image area 9 a can be composed of overlapping image areas of the cameras 10.
  • the collection of image data, such. B. recording a partial view of the surface to be unwound 5b, ⁇ is triggered by a proximity switch 11 respectively at predetermined rotational positions.
  • a receptacle of the container 5 is made.
  • ⁇ 1 trigger signal generator 13, such.
  • the receiver unit 15 outputs a trigger control signal S to the camera unit 9 for recording an image of the container 5.
  • the device 1 further comprises a calculation unit 17 (not shown) for storing and further processing the image data.
  • the receiver unit 15 preferably includes individual, with respect to the transport direction of the transport means 7 successively arranged trigger signal receiver 19, such. B. Hall sensors, and preferably covers the entire image area 9a of the camera unit 9 from.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates the operation of the proximity switch 11 on the basis of two snapshots of a guided through the image area 9a holder 3, wherein adjacent brackets 3 have been omitted for clarity.
  • the holder 3 rotates at the angular velocity ⁇ 1 and the transport means 7 at the angular velocity ⁇ 2 .
  • trigger signal generators 13 are circumferentially evenly distributed, wherein the rotation angle interval ⁇ 1 in the example in each case 45 °. However, other rotational angle intervals ⁇ 1 are also possible.
  • the trigger signal receiver 19 are equally distributed to the positions A '- H' of the receiver unit 15, wherein the distance is defined by the angular interval ⁇ 2 .
  • the angular intervals ⁇ 1 and ⁇ 2 and the angular velocities ⁇ 1 and ⁇ 2 are adapted such that the trigger signal generators 13 each come to lie opposite a trigger signal receiver 19 in a position in which they have a minimum distance 14 from the signal receiver unit 15. within the reception range 20 covered by the trigger signal receiver 19, so that the trigger level P is respectively reached or exceeded in the case of opposite trigger signal transmitters 13 and trigger signal receivers 19.
  • the position D at the time of triggering is opposite the position D 'and the position F is opposite F' (dashed line).
  • E would be at the time of triggering E ', G versus G', etc. (not shown).
  • the number of trigger signal generator 13 and the trigger signal receiver 19 is identical, so that successive trigger control signals S are generated in adjacent trigger signal receivers 19. Consequently, the number of trigger signal generators 13 preferably corresponds to the number of camera images required per container handling. In the receiver unit 15, however, fewer trigger signal receivers 19 could also be provided as trigger signal generators 13 on the holder 3.
  • the reception area 20 is so large in the transport direction of the transport means 7 that the synchronization fluctuations that are typical in labeling machines, in particular with respect to the angular velocities ⁇ 1 and ⁇ 2 , can not result in a trigger signal generator 13 falsely striking the associated trigger signal receiver 19 and therefore no trigger signal.
  • the trigger signal receiver 19 can be arranged for this purpose so that the receiving regions 20 adjacent trigger signal receiver 19 overlap.
  • the trigger signal generator 13 and the trigger signal receiver 19 are then distributed to at least two, substantially parallel to the transport direction of the transport means 7 extending planes Y 1 , Y 2 . This is in Fig. 3 schematically indicated for the receiver unit 15. However, such a division on several levels Y1, Y2 may also be necessary if the diameter of the holder 3 is too small to arrange the required number of trigger signal generators 13 with a sufficient distance from each other.
  • the proximity switch 11 is preferably based on a magnetic action principle, d. H. he responds to the action of a magnetic field to ensure a pollution-insensitive operation of the device.
  • a proximity switch 11 but other non-contact units for position detection are conceivable, such.
  • the trigger signal generator 13 may be formed as reflective or backscattering surfaces.
  • the trigger signal generator 13 may be arranged at an arbitrary position of the holder 3, which allows a resolution of the rotational position ⁇ , z. B. on the underside, alternatively also on a drive unit of the holder 3, z. B. on a motor and / or a shaft (not shown).
  • the receiver unit 15 may comprise any magnetic field sensitive trigger signal receiver 19. Their number preferably corresponds at least to the number of detections of the feature 5a to be taken camera images or the partial views that are necessary for a complete settlement of the container 5.
  • the angular velocity ⁇ 1 does not have to be constant over the entire development of the surface 5 b.
  • acceleration and deceleration ramps of the rotational movement of the holder 3 can be included in the detection of the feature 5.
  • the distance or the angular interval ⁇ 2 is then adapted to the respective change in the angular velocity ⁇ 1 . Accordingly, the angular interval ⁇ 2 at a substantially constant angular velocity ⁇ 2 of the transport means 7 during an acceleration and / or deceleration ramp of the holder 3 would be greater than at a nominal value or maximum value of the angular velocity ⁇ 1 .
  • the transport 7 is not limited to a transport carousel, but may also be linear and / or curved and z. B. consist of a conveyor belt.
  • the arrangement of the trigger signal receiver 19 would then be adapted accordingly to the changed course of the transport means 7 in the image area 9a.
  • the angular interval ⁇ 2 would optionally be replaced by a comparable linear parameter.
  • the calculation unit 17 calculates an actual rotational position of the container 5.
  • the device 1 further comprises a control unit 21 which generates suitable control signals and to the drive units of the holders 3, such. As servomotors, sends.
  • the image data are subsequently evaluated, the feature 5a is localized, an actual position of the rotational position ⁇ of the container 5 is calculated and suitable control signals are transmitted to the holders 3 for aligning the containers in a desired position of the rotational position ⁇ .
  • the invention generally has the advantage that the trigger times, and thus the taking of camera images, depend only on the rotational angle positions ⁇ of the trigger signal generator 13 and thus are independent of the usual in labeling machines flutter of the transport means 7 and the brackets 3.
  • the temporal correlation between data acquisition and position determination is very accurate and is typically in the range of 100 microseconds. Due to the increased accuracy of the alignment, subsequent labeling is possible even without additional fine alignment of the container 5.
  • the device 1 or a labeling machine with container orientation can therefore be made more compact overall.
  • the positions of the trigger signal receiver 19 are to be arranged in this case only in suitable, different distances ⁇ 2 . The device 1 can then be made even more compact.
  • the handling of the container 5 is independent of the machine power. If the labeling machine moves more slowly than it is designed, the container surface 5b is correspondingly slower to unwind.

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  • Labeling Devices (AREA)

Abstract

The apparatus (1) has a rotatable holder (3) for a container (5) to be aligned, and a camera unit (9) for forming an image of the container. A proximity switch (11) triggers an imaging function of the camera unit. The proximity switch has a set of trigger signal generators provided on the holder at preset rotary angle intervals, and a stationary receiving unit with a trigger signal receiver. Each generator is positioned opposite to the trigger signal receiver, when the generator is at a rotary position (phi) at which the generator is located at a minimum distance from the receiving unit. An independent claim is also included for a method for aligning rotary position of containers in a labeler.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung und ein Verfahren nach dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1 bzw. 10.The invention relates to a device and a method according to the preamble of patent claims 1 and 10, respectively.

Beim Behandeln von Flaschen in Abfülllinien , insbesondere auch beim Etikettieren von Behältern in Etikettiermaschinen, kommt es häufig vor, dass die Drehlagen der Behälter ausgerichtet werden müssen, um sicher zu stellen, dass z.B. eine Pressnaht weit genug vom Etikett entfernt ist und/oder das Etikett bezüglich einer Glasprägung korrekt positioniert ist.When treating bottles in filling lines, especially when labeling containers in labeling machines, it often happens that the rotational positions of the containers have to be aligned in order to ensure that e.g. a press seam is far enough away from the label and / or the label is correctly positioned relative to a glass embossing.

Aus der EP 1 205 388 B2 ist es dazu bekannt, mit vier Kameras die Mantelfläche eines Behälters über seinen gesamten Umfang zu erfassen, geeignete Merkmale in den aufgenommenen Bildern auszuwerten und dem Antriebssystem Befehle für die Drehung des Behälters um seine Längsachse in eine Sollposition zu übergeben.From the EP 1 205 388 B2 It is known to use four cameras to detect the lateral surface of a container over its entire circumference, to evaluate suitable features in the recorded images and to give commands to the drive system for the rotation of the container about its longitudinal axis in a desired position.

Bei derartigen Vorrichtungen wird der Behälter mit einer konstanten Winkelgeschwindigkeit gedreht, die bei der Erfassung der Merkmale möglichst genau einzuhalten ist. Ebenso müssen die auszurichtenden Behälter mit konstanter Geschwindigkeit an den Kameras vorbei bewegt werden, um die Drehlage der Behälter und deren Position in der Maschine, wie z. B. die Maschinenwinkelposition eines Transportkarussells, exakt zuordnen zu können.In such devices, the container is rotated at a constant angular velocity, which is to be maintained as accurately as possible in the detection of the characteristics. Likewise, the containers to be aligned must be moved past the cameras at a constant speed in order to control the rotational position of the containers and their position in the machine, such as, for example, B. the machine angle position of a transport carousel to be able to assign exactly.

Auf Grund von Ungenauigkeiten (Spiel, Gleichlaufschwankungen oder dergleichen) im Zusammenspiel der Antriebssysteme, die den Behälter drehen bzw. den Behälter an den Kameras vorbei bewegen, und des Auslösezeitpunkts der Aufnahmen ist die Genauigkeit des oben beschriebenen Verfahrens jedoch oft unzureichend, so dass eine anschließende Feinausrichtung der Behälter mit Hilfe einer separaten Kamera nötig wird. Dafür sind in der Maschine zusätzliche Maschinenpositionen vorzusehen.Due to inaccuracies (play, jitter or the like) in the interaction of the drive systems that rotate the container or the container move past the cameras, and the triggering time of the recordings, however, the accuracy of the method described above is often insufficient, so that a subsequent Fine adjustment of the container with the help of a separate camera is necessary. For this, additional machine positions must be provided in the machine.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es, eine Vorrichtung und ein Verfahren zur exakten Ausrichtung der Drehlage der Behälter bei geringerem Zeitaufwand und Platzbedarf bereitzustellen.The object of the invention is to provide a device and a method for exact alignment of the rotational position of the container with less time and space required.

Diese Aufgabe wird mit einem Näherungsschalter zum Triggern einer Bildaufnahmefunktion der Kameraeinheit gelöst. Dadurch wird das Auslösen einzelner Kamerabilder unabhängig von Gleichlaufschwankungen. Da dies die Genauigkeit der Bildauswertung erhöht, kann die Drehlage des Behälters in einem Schritt, also auch ohne Feinausrichtung, korrigiert werden. Zudem können Beschleunigungs- und/oder Abbremsrampen der Behälterdrehung in die Merkmalserfassung einbezogen und der dafür in der Maschine benötigte Platz genutzt werden.This object is achieved with a proximity switch for triggering an image pickup function of the camera unit. As a result, the triggering of individual camera pictures will be independent of the synchronization fluctuations. Since this increases the accuracy of the image analysis, the Rotary position of the container in one step, so even without fine alignment, be corrected. In addition, acceleration and / or deceleration ramps of the container rotation can be included in the feature detection and the space required for this in the machine can be used.

Vorzugsweise umfasst der Näherungsschalter mehrere, in vorgegebenen Drehwinkelintervallen an der Halterung vorgesehene Triggersignalgeber und eine feststehende Empfängereinheit mit mindestens einem Triggersignalempfänger. Dadurch können Triggersignale erzeugt werden, die in erster Linie von der Winkelposition der Triggersignalgeber abhängen. Dies erlaubt eine besonders genaue Bestimmung der Drehlage und Ausrichtung des Behälters.The proximity switch preferably comprises a plurality of trigger signal generators provided on the holder at predetermined rotational angle intervals and a stationary receiver unit having at least one trigger signal receiver. As a result, trigger signals can be generated, which depend primarily on the angular position of the trigger signal generator. This allows a particularly accurate determination of the rotational position and orientation of the container.

Bei einer günstigen Ausgestaltung ist zumindest jeder dritte Triggersignalgeber in einer Drehlage, in der er einen minimalen Abstand zur Empfängereinheit hat, gegenüber dem Triggersignalempfänger positioniert. Dies ermöglicht eine verlässliche Triggerung.In a favorable embodiment, at least every third trigger signal transmitter in a rotational position in which it has a minimum distance to the receiver unit, positioned opposite to the trigger signal receiver. This enables reliable triggering.

Vorzugsweise umfasst die Vorrichtung ferner ein Transportmittel , das die Halterung an einem Empfangsbereich des Triggersignalempfängers entlang führt. Dadurch kann ein kontinuierlicher Strom von Behältern ausgerichtet werden.Preferably, the apparatus further comprises a transport means which guides the holder along a reception area of the trigger signal receiver. This allows a continuous flow of containers to be aligned.

In günstiger Weise sind in der Empfängereinheit mehrere Triggersignalempfänger so angeordnet, dass das Transportmittel die Halterung an den Empfangsbereichen der Triggersignalempfänger nacheinander entlang führt. Dadurch können mehrere Kameras unabhängig voneinander getriggert werden.Conveniently, a plurality of trigger signal receivers are arranged in the receiver unit such that the transport means guides the holder successively along the reception areas of the trigger signal receivers. This allows multiple cameras to be triggered independently.

Vorzugsweise sind die Triggersignalempfänger auf mindestens zwei, im Wesentlichen parallel zur Transportrichtung des Transportmittels verlaufenden Ebenen verteilt. Dadurch können sich die Triggersignalempfänger überlappen.The trigger signal receivers are preferably distributed over at least two planes extending essentially parallel to the transport direction of the transport means. This may cause the trigger signal receivers to overlap.

In günstiger Weise umfasst die Empfängereinheit mehrere Triggersignalempfänger, und die Abstände zwischen benachbarten Triggersignalempfängern sind an den Verlauf einer Beschleunigungs- und/oder Abbremsrampe der Drehbewegung der Halterung angepasst. Dadurch können Beschleunigungs- und/oder Abbremsrampen in die Erfassung des Merkmals einbezogen werden und die Vorrichtung besonders kompakt ausgeführt werden.Conveniently, the receiver unit comprises a plurality of trigger signal receivers, and the distances between adjacent trigger signal receivers are adapted to the course of an acceleration and / or deceleration ramp of the rotational movement of the holder. As a result, acceleration and / or deceleration ramps can be included in the detection of the feature and the device can be made particularly compact.

Bei einer besonders günstigen Ausgestaltung ist der Näherungsschalter magnetfeldsensitiv. Magnetische Näherungsschalter sind besonders unempfindlich gegen Verschmutzung. Vorzugsweise umfasst die Vorrichtung ferner eine Berechnungseinheit zum Lokalisieren eines Merkmals auf dem abgebildeten Behälter und zum Berechnen einer Ist-Drehlage des Behälters, sowie eine Steuereinheit zum Anfahren einer Soll-Drehlage des Behälters. Damit kann der Behälter in eine für die Etikettierung geeignete Drehlage gebracht werden.In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the proximity switch is magnetic field sensitive. Magnetic proximity switches are particularly insensitive to contamination. Preferably, the apparatus further comprises a calculation unit for locating a feature on the depicted container and for calculating an actual rotational position of the container, as well as a control unit for approaching a desired rotational position of the container. Thus, the container can be brought into a suitable for labeling rotational position.

Das technische Problem wird außerdem durch ein Verfahren gelöst, bei dem ein Näherungsschalter das Abbilden des Behälters triggert. Dadurch wird das Auslösen einzelner Kamerabilder unabhängig von Gleichlaufschwankungen. Da dies die Genauigkeit der Bildauswertung erhöht, kann die Drehlage des Behälters in einem Schritt, und somit ohne Feinausrichtung, korrigiert werden. Zudem können Beschleunigungs- und/oder Abbremsrampen der Behälterdrehung in die Merkmalserfassung einbezogen und der dafür in der Maschine benötigte Platz genutzt werden.The technical problem is also solved by a method in which a proximity switch triggers the imaging of the container. As a result, the triggering of individual camera pictures will be independent of the synchronization fluctuations. Since this increases the accuracy of the image evaluation, the rotational position of the container can be corrected in one step, and thus without fine alignment. In addition, acceleration and / or deceleration ramps of the container rotation can be included in the feature detection and the space required for this in the machine can be used.

Vorzugsweise drehen sich Triggersignalgeber mit dem Behälter mit, und zumindest jeder dritte Triggersignalgeber erzeugt bei Annäherung an eine ortsfeste Empfängereinheit ein Triggersignal. Dies ermöglicht eine verlässliche, von Gleichlaufschwankungen unabhängige Triggerung.Preferably, trigger signalers rotate with the container, and at least every third trigger signal generator generates a trigger signal when approaching a fixed receiver unit. This enables reliable triggering that is independent of synchronization fluctuations.

Bei einer besonders günstigen Ausgestaltung erreicht das Triggersignal in einer Drehlage der Triggersignalgeber, in der diese jeweils einen minimalen Abstand zur Empfängereinheit haben, einen vorgegebenen Triggerpegel, so dass ein Trigger-Steuersignal ausgegeben wird, das das Abbilden des Behälters triggert.In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the trigger signal reaches a predetermined trigger level in a rotational position of the trigger signal generator in which the latter each have a minimum distance to the receiver unit, so that a trigger control signal is output which triggers the imaging of the container.

Vorzugsweise wird der Behälter während des Abwickelns an mindestens einem Empfangsbereich der Empfängereinheit entlang geführt wird. Dadurch kann ein kontinuierlicher Behälterstrom ausgerichtet werden.Preferably, during unwinding, the container is guided along at least one receiving area of the receiver unit. This allows a continuous container flow to be aligned.

Bei einer günstigen Ausgestaltung wird das Triggersignal in unterschiedlichen Triggersignalempfängern der Empfängereinheit erzeugt. Dadurch können mehrere Kameras unabhängig voneinander getriggert werden.In a favorable embodiment, the trigger signal is generated in different trigger signal receivers of the receiver unit. This allows multiple cameras to be triggered independently.

Vorzugsweise umfasst das Verfahren ferner folgende Schritte: Lokalisieren eines Merkmals auf dem abgebildeten Behälter und Berechnen einer Ist-Drehlage des Behälters; und Anfahren einer Soll-Drehlage des Behälters. Damit kann der Behälter in eine für die Etikettierung geeignete Drehlage gebracht werden.Preferably, the method further comprises the steps of: locating a feature on the imaged container and calculating an actual rotational position of the container; and approaching a desired rotational position of the container. Thus, the container can be brought into a suitable for labeling rotational position.

Eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist in der Zeichnung dargestellt und wird nachstehend erläutert. Es zeigen:

Figur 1
eine schematische Draufsicht auf eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung zur Ausrichtung der Drehlage von Behältern;
Figur 2
eine schematische Detailansicht des Näherungsschalters aus Fig. 1; und
Figur 3
eine schematische Seitenansicht einer Empfängereinheit.
A preferred embodiment of the invention is shown in the drawing and will be explained below. Show it:
FIG. 1
a schematic plan view of an inventive device for aligning the rotational position of containers;
FIG. 2
a schematic detail view of the proximity switch Fig. 1 ; and
FIG. 3
a schematic side view of a receiver unit.

Gemäß Fig. 1 und 2 umfasst die Vorrichtung 1, die z. B. eine Etikettiermaschine sein kann, mehrere drehbare Halterungen 3, wie z. B. motorgetriebene Drehteller mit Zentriervorrichtung, für Behälter 5, insbesondere für Flaschen, die bezüglich ihrer Drehlage ϕ durch Drehung um ihre Hauptachse auszurichten sind. Die Halterungen 3 laufen auf einem Transportmittel 7, wie z. B. einem Transportkarussell, um.According to Fig. 1 and 2 includes the device 1, the z. B. may be a labeling machine, a plurality of rotatable holders 3, such. B. motor-driven turntable with centering device, for containers 5, in particular for bottles, which are to be aligned with respect to their rotational position φ by rotation about its major axis. The brackets 3 run on a means of transport 7, such. B. a transport carousel to.

Die Vorrichtung umfasst ferner eine ortsfeste Kameraeinheit 9 mit einer beliebigen Anzahl von Kameras 10 zum Erfassen eines Merkmals 5a des Behälters 5, wie z. B. einer Pressnaht oder einer Prägung. Das Transportmittel 7 transportiert den Behälter 5 zu diesem Zweck durch den Bildbereich 9a der Kameraeinheit 9, während die Halterung 3 die Mantelfläche 5b des Behälters 5 vor der Kameraeinheit 9 abwickelt. Der Bildbereich 9a kann sich aus überlappenden Bildbereichen der Kameras 10 zusammensetzen.The device further comprises a stationary camera unit 9 with an arbitrary number of cameras 10 for detecting a feature 5a of the container 5, such. B. a press seam or embossing. The transport means 7 transports the container 5 for this purpose through the image area 9a of the camera unit 9, while the holder 3 unwinds the lateral surface 5b of the container 5 in front of the camera unit 9. The image area 9 a can be composed of overlapping image areas of the cameras 10.

Das Erheben von Bilddaten, wie z. B. das Aufnehmen einer Teilansicht der abzuwickelnden Oberfläche 5b, wird durch einen Näherungsschalter 11 jeweils bei vorgegebenen Drehlagen ϕ auslöst. Im gezeigten Beispiel wird jeweils nach Weiterdrehen der Halterung 3 um ein Drehwinkelintervall Δϕ1 eine Aufnahme des Behälters 5 gemacht. Zu diesem Zweck sind an der Halterung 3 in den regelmäßigen Drehwinkelintervallen Δϕ1 Triggersignalgeber 13, wie z. B. Magnete, angeordnet, die bei Annäherung an eine ortsfeste Empfängereinheit 15 in dieser jeweils ein Triggersignal T erzeugen. Erreicht das Triggersignal T einen vorgegebenen Triggerpegel P, so gibt die Empfängereinheit 15 ein Trigger-Steuersignal S an die Kameraeinheit 9 zur Aufnahme eines Bilds des Behälters 5 aus. Die Vorrichtung 1 umfasst ferner eine (nicht dargestellte) Berechnungseinheit 17 zur Speicherung und Weiterverarbeitung der Bilddaten.The collection of image data, such. B. recording a partial view of the surface to be unwound 5b, φ is triggered by a proximity switch 11 respectively at predetermined rotational positions. In the example shown, after further rotation of the holder 3 by a rotation angle interval Δφ 1, a receptacle of the container 5 is made. For this purpose are on the holder 3 in the regular rotation angle intervals Δφ 1 trigger signal generator 13, such. As magnets, which generate when approaching a stationary receiver unit 15 in this one trigger signal T. When the trigger signal T reaches a predetermined trigger level P, the receiver unit 15 outputs a trigger control signal S to the camera unit 9 for recording an image of the container 5. The device 1 further comprises a calculation unit 17 (not shown) for storing and further processing the image data.

Die Empfängereinheit 15 beinhaltet vorzugsweise einzelne, bezüglich der Transportrichtung des Transportmittels 7 nacheinander angeordneten Triggersignalempfänger 19, wie z. B. Hall-Sensoren, und deckt vorzugsweise den gesamten Bildbereich 9a der Kameraeinheit 9 ab.The receiver unit 15 preferably includes individual, with respect to the transport direction of the transport means 7 successively arranged trigger signal receiver 19, such. B. Hall sensors, and preferably covers the entire image area 9a of the camera unit 9 from.

Fig. 2 verdeutlicht die Funktionsweise des Näherungsschalters 11 an Hand von zwei Momentaufnahmen einer durch den Bildbereich 9a geführten Halterung 3, wobei benachbarte Halterungen 3 der Übersichtlichkeit halber weggelassen wurden. Die Halterung 3 dreht sich mit der Winkelgeschwindigkeit ω1 und das Transportmittel 7 mit der Winkelgeschwindigkeit ω2. Fig. 2 illustrates the operation of the proximity switch 11 on the basis of two snapshots of a guided through the image area 9a holder 3, wherein adjacent brackets 3 have been omitted for clarity. The holder 3 rotates at the angular velocity ω 1 and the transport means 7 at the angular velocity ω 2 .

An den Positionen A - H der Halterung 3 sind Triggersignalgeber 13 umfänglich gleichmäßig verteilt, wobei das Drehwinkelintervall Δϕ1 im Beispiel jeweils 45° beträgt. Es sind jedoch auch andere Drehwinkelintervalle Δϕ1 möglich. Auch die Triggersignalempfänger 19 sind gleichmäßig auf die Positionen A' - H' der Empfängereinheit 15 verteilt, wobei deren Abstand durch das Winkelintervall Δϕ2 definiert ist.At the positions A - H of the holder 3 trigger signal generators 13 are circumferentially evenly distributed, wherein the rotation angle interval Δφ 1 in the example in each case 45 °. However, other rotational angle intervals Δφ 1 are also possible. The trigger signal receiver 19 are equally distributed to the positions A '- H' of the receiver unit 15, wherein the distance is defined by the angular interval Δφ 2 .

Die Winkelintervalle Δϕ1 und Δϕ2 sowie die Winkelgeschwindigkeiten ω1 und ω2 sind so angepasst, dass die Triggersignalgeber 13 in einer Stellung, in der sie einen minimalen Abstand 14 zur Signal-Empfängereinheit 15 haben, jeweils gegenüber einem Triggersignalempfänger 19 zu liegen kommen, und zwar innerhalb des von dem Triggersignalempfänger 19 abgedeckten Empfangsbereichs 20, so dass der Triggerpegel P bei sich gegenüberliegenden Triggersignalgeber 13 und Triggersignalempfänger 19 jeweils erreicht bzw. überschritten wird. Im gezeigten Beispiel liegt die Position D zum Triggerzeitpunkt gegenüber der Position D' und die Position F gegenüber F' (gestrichelt gezeichnet). Entsprechend wäre E zum Triggerzeitpunkt gegenüber E', G gegenüber G', usw. (nicht dargstellt).The angular intervals Δφ 1 and Δφ 2 and the angular velocities ω 1 and ω 2 are adapted such that the trigger signal generators 13 each come to lie opposite a trigger signal receiver 19 in a position in which they have a minimum distance 14 from the signal receiver unit 15. within the reception range 20 covered by the trigger signal receiver 19, so that the trigger level P is respectively reached or exceeded in the case of opposite trigger signal transmitters 13 and trigger signal receivers 19. In the example shown, the position D at the time of triggering is opposite the position D 'and the position F is opposite F' (dashed line). Correspondingly, E would be at the time of triggering E ', G versus G', etc. (not shown).

Gemäß Fig. 2 ist die Anzahl der Triggersignalgeber 13 und der Triggersignalempfänger 19 identisch, so dass aufeinander folgende Trigger-Steuersignale S in benachbarten Triggersignalempfängern 19 erzeugt werden. Demzufolge entspricht die Anzahl der Triggersignalgeber 13 bevorzugt der Anzahl der pro Behälterabwicklung benötigten Kamerabilder. In der Empfängereinheit 15 könnten jedoch auch weniger Triggersignalempfänger 19 vorgesehen sein als Triggersignalgeber 13 an der Halterung 3.According to Fig. 2 the number of trigger signal generator 13 and the trigger signal receiver 19 is identical, so that successive trigger control signals S are generated in adjacent trigger signal receivers 19. Consequently, the number of trigger signal generators 13 preferably corresponds to the number of camera images required per container handling. In the receiver unit 15, however, fewer trigger signal receivers 19 could also be provided as trigger signal generators 13 on the holder 3.

Beispielsweise könnte nur jede zweite oder dritte Position A' - H' mit einem Triggersignalempfänger 19 bestückt sein, so dass nur jeder zweite oder dritte Triggersignalgeber 13 bei Annäherung an die Empfängereinheit 15 ein Trigger-Steuersignal S auslöst. Würde trotzdem eine größere Anzahl an Trigger-Steuersignalen S benötigt als Triggersignalempfänger 19 vorgesehen sind, so könnten "fehlende" Triggerzeitpunkte aus den Zeitintervallen zwischen zuvor von den Triggersignalgebern 13 ausgelösten Trigger-Steuersignalen S berechnet werden. Es versteht sich von selbst, dass derartige Berechnungen, wie Interpolationen, auch bei einer identischen Anzahl von Triggersignalgebern 13 und Triggersignalempfängern 19 möglich sind. Damit können zusätzliche Kamerabilder an Zwischenpositionen innerhalb des Drehwinkelintervalls Δϕ1 aufgenommen werden.For example, only every second or third position A '- H' could be equipped with a trigger signal receiver 19, so that only every second or third trigger signal generator 13 triggers a trigger control signal S when approaching the receiver unit 15. Would nevertheless a larger number of trigger control signals S needed as a trigger signal receiver 19 are provided, so "missing" trigger times could be calculated from the time intervals between previously triggered by the trigger signalers 13 trigger control signals S. It goes without saying that such calculations, such as interpolations, are possible even with an identical number of trigger signal generators 13 and trigger signal receivers 19. Thus, additional camera images can be recorded at intermediate positions within the rotation angle interval Δφ 1 .

Der Empfangsbereich 20 ist in Transportrichtung des Transportmittels 7 so groß, dass die in Etikettiermaschinen üblichen Gleichlaufschwankungen, insbesondere bezüglich der Winkelgeschwindigkeiten ω1 und ω2, nicht dazu führen können, dass ein Triggersignalgeber 13 fälschlicherweise neben den zugehörigen Triggersignalempfänger 19 trifft und deshalb kein Trigger-Steuersignal S erzeugt. Die Triggersignalempfänger 19 können zu diesem Zweck so angeordnet werden, dass sich die Empfangsbereiche 20 benachbarter Triggersignalempfänger 19 überlappen. Die Triggersignalgeber 13 und die Triggersignalempfänger 19 sind dann auf mindestens zwei, im Wesentlichen parallel zur Transportrichtung des Transportmittels 7 verlaufenden Ebenen Y1, Y2 verteilt. Dies ist in Fig. 3 schematisch für die Empfängereinheit 15 angedeutet. Eine solche Aufteilung auf mehrere Ebenen Y1, Y2 kann aber auch notwendig werden, wenn der Durchmesser der Halterung 3 zu klein ist, um die benötigte Anzahl an Triggersignalgebern 13 mit ausreichendem Abstand voneinander anzuordnen.The reception area 20 is so large in the transport direction of the transport means 7 that the synchronization fluctuations that are typical in labeling machines, in particular with respect to the angular velocities ω 1 and ω 2 , can not result in a trigger signal generator 13 falsely striking the associated trigger signal receiver 19 and therefore no trigger signal. Control signal S generated. The trigger signal receiver 19 can be arranged for this purpose so that the receiving regions 20 adjacent trigger signal receiver 19 overlap. The trigger signal generator 13 and the trigger signal receiver 19 are then distributed to at least two, substantially parallel to the transport direction of the transport means 7 extending planes Y 1 , Y 2 . This is in Fig. 3 schematically indicated for the receiver unit 15. However, such a division on several levels Y1, Y2 may also be necessary if the diameter of the holder 3 is too small to arrange the required number of trigger signal generators 13 with a sufficient distance from each other.

Der Näherungsschalter 11 beruht bevorzugt auf einem magnetischen Wirkprinzip, d. h. er reagiert auf das Einwirken eines Magnetfelds, um einen gegen Verschmutzung unempfindlichen Betrieb der Vorrichtung zu gewährleisten. Als Näherungsschalter 11 sind aber auch andere berührungslos arbeitende Einheiten zur Positionserkennung denkbar, wie z. B. Lichtschranken. In diesem Fall könnten die Triggersignalgeber 13 als reflektierende oder rückstreuende Flächen ausgebildet sein.The proximity switch 11 is preferably based on a magnetic action principle, d. H. he responds to the action of a magnetic field to ensure a pollution-insensitive operation of the device. As a proximity switch 11 but other non-contact units for position detection are conceivable, such. B. Photocells. In this case, the trigger signal generator 13 may be formed as reflective or backscattering surfaces.

Die Triggersignalgeber 13 können an einer beliebigen Stelle der Halterung 3 angeordnet sein, die eine Auflösung der Drehlage ϕ erlaubt, z. B. auf deren Unterseite, alternativ auch an einer Antriebseinheit der Halterung 3, z. B. an einem Motor und/oder einer Welle (nicht gezeigt).The trigger signal generator 13 may be arranged at an arbitrary position of the holder 3, which allows a resolution of the rotational position φ, z. B. on the underside, alternatively also on a drive unit of the holder 3, z. B. on a motor and / or a shaft (not shown).

Die Empfängereinheit 15 kann beliebige auf Magnetfelder sensitive Triggersignalempfänger 19 umfassen. Deren Anzahl entspricht vorzugsweise mindestens der Anzahl der zur Erfassung des Merkmals 5a aufzunehmenden Kamerabildern bzw. der Teilansichten, die für eine vollständige Abwicklung des Behälters 5 nötig sind.The receiver unit 15 may comprise any magnetic field sensitive trigger signal receiver 19. Their number preferably corresponds at least to the number of detections of the feature 5a to be taken camera images or the partial views that are necessary for a complete settlement of the container 5.

Die Winkelgeschwindigkeit ω1 muss nicht über die gesamte Abwicklung der Oberfläche 5b konstant sein. Es können beispielsweise Beschleunigungs- und Abbremsrampen der Drehbewegung der Halterung 3 in die Erfassung des Merkmals 5 einbezogen werden. Anders als im gezeigten Beispiel ist der Abstand bzw. das Winkelintervall Δϕ2 dann an die jeweilige Änderung der Winkelgeschwindigkeit ω1 anzupassen. Demzufolge wäre das Winkelintervall Δϕ2 bei im Wesentlichen konstanter Winkelgeschwindigkeit ω2 des Transportmittels 7 während einer Beschleunigungs- und/oder Abbremsrampe der Halterung 3 größer als bei einem Nennwert bzw. Maximalwert der Winkelgeschwindigkeit ω1.The angular velocity ω 1 does not have to be constant over the entire development of the surface 5 b. For example, acceleration and deceleration ramps of the rotational movement of the holder 3 can be included in the detection of the feature 5. Unlike in the example shown, the distance or the angular interval Δφ 2 is then adapted to the respective change in the angular velocity ω 1 . Accordingly, the angular interval Δφ 2 at a substantially constant angular velocity ω 2 of the transport means 7 during an acceleration and / or deceleration ramp of the holder 3 would be greater than at a nominal value or maximum value of the angular velocity ω 1 .

Das Transportmittel 7 ist nicht auf ein Transportkarussell beschränkt, sondern kann auch linear und/oder kurvenförmig sein und z. B. aus einem Förderband bestehen. Die Anordnung der Triggersignalempfänger 19 wäre dann entsprechend an den geänderten Verlauf des Transportmittels 7 im Bildbereich 9a anzupassen. Ebenso würde das Winkelintervall Δϕ2 gegebenenfalls durch einen vergleichbaren linearen Parameter ersetzt.The transport 7 is not limited to a transport carousel, but may also be linear and / or curved and z. B. consist of a conveyor belt. The arrangement of the trigger signal receiver 19 would then be adapted accordingly to the changed course of the transport means 7 in the image area 9a. Likewise, the angular interval Δφ 2 would optionally be replaced by a comparable linear parameter.

Die Berechnungseinheit 17 berechnet eine Ist-Drehlage des Behälters 5. Um eine Soll-Drehlage anfahren zu können, umfasst die Vorrichtung 1 ferner eine Steuereinheit 21, die geeignete Steuersignale erzeugt und an die Antriebseinheiten der Halterungen 3, wie z. B. Servomotoren, sendet.The calculation unit 17 calculates an actual rotational position of the container 5. In order to approach a desired rotational position, the device 1 further comprises a control unit 21 which generates suitable control signals and to the drive units of the holders 3, such. As servomotors, sends.

Die oben beschriebenen Varianten der abgebildeten Ausführungsform können beliebig kombiniert werden.The variants of the illustrated embodiment described above may be combined as desired.

Mit der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung kann wie folgt gearbeitet werden:

  • Eine kontinuierlicher Strom von auszurichtenden Behältern 5, die jeweils zentriert auf den sich drehenden Halterungen 3 gehalten werden, wird von dem Transportmittel 7 dem Näherungsschalter 11 zugeführt. Sobald sich ein Triggersignalgeber 13 der Empfängereinheit 15 so weit annähert, dass in dieser der Triggerpegel P erreicht bzw. überschritten wird, gibt die Empfängereinheit 15 ein Trigger-Steuersignal S zur Aufnahme eines Kamerabildes an die Kameraeinheit 9 aus. Das Transportmittel 7 dreht sich indessen ebenso weiter wie die Halterung 3. Sobald sich der nächste Triggersignalgeber 13 der Empfängereinheit 15 ausreichend annähert, wird ein weiteres Trigger-Steuersignal S an die Kameraeinheit 9 ausgegeben. Die Erfassung von Messdaten wird auf diese Weise fortgesetzt, bis der Behälter 5 über seinen gesamten Umfang abgewickelt ist. Hierbei können sich mehrere Behälter gleichzeitig im Messbereich 9a befinden, die jeweils von unterschiedlichen Kameras 10 erfasst werden.
The device according to the invention can be used as follows:
  • A continuous stream of containers 5 to be aligned, which are each held centered on the rotating holders 3, is supplied by the transport means 7 to the proximity switch 11. As soon as a trigger signal generator 13 approaches the receiver unit 15 so far that the trigger level P is reached or exceeded, the receiver unit 15 outputs a trigger control signal S for recording a camera image to the camera unit 9. Meanwhile, the transport means 7 continues to rotate as well as the holder 3. As soon as the next trigger signal generator 13 approaches the receiver unit 15 sufficiently, a further trigger control signal S is output to the camera unit 9. The acquisition of measurement data is continued in this way until the container 5 is unwound over its entire circumference. In this case, a plurality of containers may be located at the same time in the measuring area 9a, which are each detected by different cameras 10.

Die Bilddaten werden anschließend ausgewertet, das Merkmal 5a lokalisiert, eine IstPosition der Drehlage ϕ des Behälters 5 errechnet und geeignete Steuersignale an die Halterungen 3 zur Ausrichtung der Behälter in eine Soll-Position der Drehlage ϕ übermittelt.The image data are subsequently evaluated, the feature 5a is localized, an actual position of the rotational position φ of the container 5 is calculated and suitable control signals are transmitted to the holders 3 for aligning the containers in a desired position of the rotational position φ.

Die Erfindung bietet generell den Vorteil, dass die Triggerzeitpunkte, und damit das Aufnehmen von Kamerabildern, nur von den Drehwinkelpositionen ϕ der Triggersignalgeber 13 abhängen und somit unabhängig von den in Etikettiermaschinen üblichen Gleichlaufschwankungen des Transportmittels 7 und der Halterungen 3 sind. Die zeitliche Korrelation zwischen Datenerfassung und Positionsbestimmung ist dabei sehr genau und liegt typischer Weise im Bereich von 100 µs. Durch die erhöhte Genauigkeit der Ausrichtung ist eine anschließende Etikettierung auch ohne zusätzliche Feinausrichtung des Behälters 5 möglich. Die Vorrichtung 1 bzw. eine Etikettiermaschine mit Behälterausrichtung kann deshalb insgesamt kompakter ausgeführt werden.The invention generally has the advantage that the trigger times, and thus the taking of camera images, depend only on the rotational angle positions φ of the trigger signal generator 13 and thus are independent of the usual in labeling machines flutter of the transport means 7 and the brackets 3. The temporal correlation between data acquisition and position determination is very accurate and is typically in the range of 100 microseconds. Due to the increased accuracy of the alignment, subsequent labeling is possible even without additional fine alignment of the container 5. The device 1 or a labeling machine with container orientation can therefore be made more compact overall.

Außerdem ist das Beschleunigen der Halterung 3 auf eine Nenndrehzahl vor der Erfassung des Merkmals 5 bzw. deren exakte Einhaltung währenddessen nicht mehr notwendig. Vielmehr können Beschleunigungs- und Abbremsrampen in die Abwicklung mit einbezogen werden. Die Positionen der Triggersignalempfänger 19 sind in diesem Fall lediglich in geeigneten, unterschiedlichen Abständen Δϕ2 anzuordnen. Die Vorrichtung 1 kann dann noch kompakter ausgeführt werden.In addition, the acceleration of the holder 3 to a rated speed prior to the detection of the feature 5 or their exact compliance while no longer necessary. Rather, acceleration and deceleration ramps can be included in the processing. The positions of the trigger signal receiver 19 are to be arranged in this case only in suitable, different distances Δφ 2 . The device 1 can then be made even more compact.

Die Abwicklung des Behälters 5 ist unabhängig von der Maschinenleistung. Fährt die Etikettiermaschine langsamer als ausgelegt, wird die Behälteroberfläche 5b dementsprechend langsamer abgewickelt.The handling of the container 5 is independent of the machine power. If the labeling machine moves more slowly than it is designed, the container surface 5b is correspondingly slower to unwind.

Claims (15)

Vorrichtung (1) zum Ausrichten der Drehlage (ϕ) von Behältern (5), insbesondere von Flaschen, in einer Etikettiermaschine, mit: - mindestens einer drehbaren Halterung (3) für einen auszurichtenden Behälter (5);
und - einer Kameraeinheit (9) zum Abbilden des Behälters (5),
gekennzeichnet durch
einen Näherungsschalter (11) zum Triggern einer Bildaufnahmefunktion der Kameraeinheit (9). Device (1) for aligning the rotational position (φ) of containers (5), in particular of bottles, in a labeling machine, with: - At least one rotatable support (3) for a container to be aligned (5);
and a camera unit (9) for imaging the container (5),
marked by
a proximity switch (11) for triggering an image pickup function of the camera unit (9). Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Näherungsschalter (11) mehrere, in vorgegebenen Drehwinkelintervallen (Δϕ1) an der Halterung (3) vorgesehene Triggersignalgeber (13) und eine feststehende Empfängereinheit (15) mit mindestens einem Triggersignalempfänger (19) umfasst.Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the proximity switch (11) comprises a plurality of predetermined rotational angle intervals (Δφ 1 ) on the holder (3) provided trigger signal generator (13) and a fixed receiver unit (15) with at least one trigger signal receiver (19). Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zumindest jeder dritte Triggersignalgeber (13) in einer Drehlage (ϕ), in der er einen minimalen Abstand (14) zur Empfängereinheit (15) hat, gegenüber dem Triggersignalempfänger (19) positioniert ist.Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that at least every third trigger signal generator (13) in a rotational position (φ) in which it has a minimum distance (14) to the receiver unit (15) is positioned opposite to the trigger signal receiver (19). Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 2 oder 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Vorrichtung (1) ferner ein Transportmittel (7) umfasst, das die Halterung (3) an einem Empfangsbereich (20) des Triggersignalempfängers (19) entlang führt.Apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the device (1) further comprises a transport means (7) which guides the holder (3) along a receiving region (20) of the trigger signal receiver (19). Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass in der Empfängereinheit (15) mehrere Triggersignalempfänger (19) so angeordnet sind, dass das Transportmittel (7) die Halterung (3) an den Empfangsbereichen (19) der Triggersignalempfänger nacheinander entlang führt.Apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that in the receiver unit (15) a plurality of trigger signal receiver (19) are arranged so that the transport means (7) leads the holder (3) at the receiving areas (19) of the trigger signal receiver in succession. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Triggersignalempfänger (19) auf mindestens zwei, im Wesentlichen parallel zur Transportrichtung des Transportmittels (7) verlaufenden Ebenen (Y1, Y2) verteilt sind.Apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the trigger signal receiver (19) on at least two, substantially parallel to the transport direction of the transport means (7) extending planes (Y 1 , Y 2 ) are distributed. Vorrichtung nach einem der Ansprüche 2 bis 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Empfängereinheit (15) mehrere Triggersignalempfänger (19) umfasst und die Abstände (Δϕ2) zwischen benachbarten Triggersignalempfängern (19) an den Verlauf einer Beschleunigungs- und/oder Abbremsrampe der Drehbewegung der Halterung (3) angepasst sind.Device according to one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the receiver unit (15) comprises a plurality of trigger signal receiver (19) and the distances (Δφ 2 ) between adjacent trigger signal receivers (19) to the course of a Acceleration and / or deceleration ramp of the rotational movement of the holder (3) are adjusted. Vorrichtung nach mindestens einem der vorigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Näherungsschalter (11) magnetfeldsensitiv ist.Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the proximity switch (11) is magnetic field-sensitive. Vorrichtung nach mindestens einem der vorigen Ansprüche, ferner mit: - einer Berechnungseinheit (17) zum Lokalisieren eines Merkmals (5a) auf dem abgebildeten Behälter (5) und zum Berechnen einer Ist-Drehlage des Behälters (5); und - einer Steuereinheit (21) zum Anfahren einer Soll-Drehlage des Behälters (3). Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - a calculation unit (17) for locating a feature (5a) on the pictured container (5) and calculating an actual rotational position of the container (5); and - A control unit (21) for starting a target rotational position of the container (3). Verfahren zum Ausrichten der Drehlage (ϕ) von Behältern (5), insbesondere von Flaschen, in einer Etikettiermaschine, mit den Schritten: a) Drehen eines auszurichtenden Behälters (5) und Abwickeln seiner Mantelfläche (5b) im Bildbereich (9a) einer Kameraeinheit (9); und b) Abbilden des Behälters (5) mit der Kameraeinheit (9), um ein Merkmal (5a)
des Behälters (5) zu erfassen,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass c) ein Näherungsschalter (11) das Abbilden des Behälters triggert. Method for aligning the rotational position (φ) of containers (5), in particular bottles, in a labeling machine, comprising the steps of: a) rotating a container to be aligned (5) and unwinding of its lateral surface (5b) in the image area (9a) of a camera unit (9); and b) imaging the container (5) with the camera unit (9) to form a feature (5a)
to capture the container (5),
characterized in that c) a proximity switch (11) triggers the imaging of the container. Verfahren nach Anspruch 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sich mehrere Triggersignalgeber (13) mit dem Behälter (5) mitdrehen und dass zumindest jeder dritte Triggersignalgeber (13) bei Annäherung an eine ortsfeste Empfängereinheit (15) ein Triggersignal (S) erzeugt.A method according to claim 10, characterized in that a plurality of trigger signal generator (13) rotate with the container (5) and that at least every third trigger signal generator (13) when approaching a stationary receiver unit (15) generates a trigger signal (S). Verfahren nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Triggersignal (S) in einer Drehlage (ϕ) der Triggersignalgeber (13), in der diese jeweils einen minimalen Abstand (14) zur Empfängereinheit (15) haben, einen vorgegebenen Triggerpegel (P) erreicht, so dass ein Trigger-Steuersignal (S) ausgegeben wird, das das Abbilden des Behälters (10) triggert.A method according to claim 11, characterized in that the trigger signal (S) in a rotational position (φ) of the trigger signal generator (13) in which they each have a minimum distance (14) to the receiver unit (15) reaches a predetermined trigger level (P) such that a trigger control signal (S) is triggered which triggers the imaging of the container (10). Verfahren nach Anspruch 11 oder 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Behälter (5) während des Abwickelns an mindestens einem Empfangsbereich (20) der Empfängereinheit (15) entlang geführt wird.A method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the container (5) during unwinding at at least one receiving region (20) of the receiver unit (15) is guided along. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 11 bis 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Triggersignal (S) in unterschiedlichen Triggersignalempfängern (19) der Empfängereinheit (15) erzeugt wird.Method according to one of Claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the trigger signal (S) is generated in different trigger signal receivers (19) of the receiver unit (15). Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 10 bis 14, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass es ferner folgende Schritte umfasst: d) Lokalisieren eines Merkmals (5a) auf dem abgebildeten Behälter (5) und Berechnen einer Ist-Drehlage des Behälters (5); und e) Anfahren einer Soll-Drehlage des Behälters (5). Method according to one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that it further comprises the following steps: d) locating a feature (5a) on the pictured container (5) and calculating an actual rotational position of the container (5); and e) starting a target rotational position of the container (5).
EP10162287A 2009-05-12 2010-05-07 Device and method for aligning containers in a labelling machine Not-in-force EP2251270B1 (en)

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DE102009020921A DE102009020921A1 (en) 2009-05-12 2009-05-12 Device and method for aligning containers, in particular bottles, in a labeling machine

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ES2387475T3 (en) 2012-09-24
US20100289890A1 (en) 2010-11-18
JP5145610B2 (en) 2013-02-20
EP2251270A3 (en) 2011-01-12
CN101885393B (en) 2012-10-24
US8723947B2 (en) 2014-05-13
EP2251270B1 (en) 2012-05-30
JP2010265033A (en) 2010-11-25
CN101885393A (en) 2010-11-17
DE102009020921A1 (en) 2010-11-18

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