Abstract

The present invention pertains to an apparatus for conveying and buffering containers (1). The apparatus comprises a feed-in section (2), a buffer section (3) with a longitudinal dimension (x) and a lateral dimension (y), and a feed-out section (4). The feed-in section (2) comprises one or more input channels (5, 5', 5'') adapted to deliver containers (1) into the buffer section (3). The buffer section (3) comprises a first conveying means (6) adapted to convey the containers (1) from the feed-in section (2) to the feed-out section (4) essentially along the longitudinal dimension (x). The feed-out section (4) comprises an output channel (9) essentially extending in the lateral dimension (y). The output channel (9) is bounded by an end wall (10) on a rear side and by a gating means (11) on a front side, bordering the buffer section (3). The gating means (11) is adapted to let containers(1) pass into the output channel (9) in a separated manner. The feed-out section (4) further comprises a second conveying means (12) adapted to convey one or more rows(13) of containers present in the output channel (9) out of the feed-out section (4) essentially along the lateral dimension (y).

IPC Classes  ?

• B65G 47/51 - Devices for discharging articles or materials from conveyors with distribution, e.g. automatically, to desired points according to unprogrammed signals, e.g. influenced by supply situation at destination
• B65G 47/68 - Devices for transferring articles or materials between conveyors, i.e. discharging or feeding devices adapted to receive articles arriving in one layer from one conveyor and to transfer them in individual layers to more than one conveyor, or vice versa, e.g. combining the flows of articles conveyed by more than one conveyor
• B65G 47/71 - Devices for transferring articles or materials between conveyors, i.e. discharging or feeding devices adapted to receive articles arriving in one layer from one conveyor and to transfer them in individual layers to more than one conveyor, or vice versa, e.g. combining the flows of articles conveyed by more than one conveyor the articles being discharged to several conveyors

Abstract

Method of determining a concentration of a first gas species in an interior space (3') of a container (3), wherein the method comprises the steps: - transmitting first electromagnetic radiation of a first wavelength along a first radiation path (1) across said container, wherein said first wavelength corresponds to the wavelength of an absorption line of said first gas species; - transmitting second electromagnetic radiation of a second wavelength along a second radiation path (2) across said container, wherein said second wavelength corresponds to the wavelength of an absorption line of a second gas species, wherein said second radiation path is collinear with said first radiation path in a section (4) of said first radiation path and wherein said section extends at least across said interior space of said container; - receiving transmitted first electromagnetic radiation and determining a first characteristics of the received first electromagnetic radiation; - receiving transmitted second electromagnetic radiation and determining a second characteristics of the received second electromagnetic radiation; - determining said concentration of said first gas species in function of said first characteristics and of said second characteristics. Furthermore, the invention refers to an apparatus for determining a concentration of a gas species and to a use of the method.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 21/27 - ColourSpectral properties, i.e. comparison of effect of material on the light at two or more different wavelengths or wavelength bands using photo-electric detection
• G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
• G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents
• G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
• G01N 21/31 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry
• G01N 21/39 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using tunable lasers

Abstract

A transmitter-receiver arrangement for measuring concentration of gas and/or for measuring pressure in a container headspace, wherein the transmitter-receiver arrangement defines a measuring zone accommodating the headspace, and the transmitter-receiver arrangement includes a transmitter to emit electromagnetic radiation covering a wavelength range including an absorption line of gas, a receiver of electromagnetic radiation in the wavelength range, the receiver and transmitter positioned respective to each other defining a path for the electromagnetic radiation from the transmitter to the receiver, a fixating element for fixating the transmitter-receiver arrangement to the apparatus or filling machine, an electrically controllable actuator arrangement causing at least one common shift of the transmitter and receiver, a shift of the transmitter relative to the receiver, a change in spatial orientation of the transmitter and receiver relative to the fixating element, and a change in spatial orientation of the transmitter relative to a spatial orientation of the receiver.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 3/32 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for containers, e.g. radiators
• G01M 3/38 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using light
• G01N 21/01 - Arrangements or apparatus for facilitating the optical investigation
• G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
• G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents

Abstract

A method and a corresponding apparatus for monitoring a drive mechanism of an automated inspection system for inducing motion to a container partially filled with a liquid. The method includes capturing measurement data of a surface of the liquid in the container, extracting form data regarding a form of the surface of the liquid from the measurement data and detecting whether the container is in motion based on the form data. The apparatus includes a measuring device and a processor operationally connected to the measuring device, wherein the measuring device is adapted to capture measurement data of a surface of the liquid in the container, and the processor is adapted to extract form data regarding a form of the surface from the measurement data, to detect whether the container is in motion based on the form data.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01F 15/00 - Accessories for mixers
• G01F 23/292 - Light
• G01F 23/296 - Acoustic waves
• G01F 23/288 - X-raysGamma rays
• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents
• B01F 9/00 - Mixers with rotating receptacles
• B01F 11/00 - Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms
• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis

Abstract

An inspection process including the steps of: providing at least one specimen to an inspection apparatus; identifying the at least one specimen; inspecting the at least one specimen; assigning a first assessment to the at least one specimen based on the result of the inspection; saving the identification feature together with the inspection data and a first assessment to a raw data storage as a data package; providing the processed data storage to an inspector; assigning the second assessment to the data space of the processed data package; sorting the at least one specimen based on the first or second assessment.

IPC Classes  ?

• B07C 5/34 - Sorting according to other particular properties
• B07C 5/00 - Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or featureSorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches
• B07C 5/342 - Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour
• B07C 5/344 - Sorting according to other particular properties according to electric or electromagnetic properties
• B07C 5/36 - Sorting apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution
• G06V 10/20 - Image preprocessing

Abstract

A method for the inspection of a condition, in particular for the detection of defects, of a cannula (or injection needle) mounted on a syringe, which is located under a protective cap, and devices for carrying out such methods. A method includes measuring a magnetic field, in particular a magnetic field distribution, in the vicinity of the cannula. The presence of a ferromagnetic cannula causes a local change in the course of the magnetic field lines. This can be measured and used to determine whether the cannula, as desired, is arranged straight and coaxially to the syringe longitudinal axis, or whether it has a defect, such as being bent, kinked, compressed, broken/severed, oblique to the longitudinal axis of the syringe or eccentric to the longitudinal axis of the syringe.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61M 5/50 - Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular wayAccessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm rests having means for preventing re-use, or for indicating if defective, used, tampered with or unsterile
• A61M 5/32 - NeedlesDetails of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hubAccessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the bodyDevices for protection of needles

Goods & Services

Machines, apparatus and their components, included in this class, for checking empty and/or filled containers as well as bottles and packaging; machines for working plastic materials, as well as their parts and accessories. Scientific apparatus; apparatus and instruments for measuring and checking; measuring devices for use in leak-test technology. Technical measuring and testing; pressure-variation measurement and analysis services; computer-aided industrial testing and analysis services.

Goods & Services

Machines, apparatus, and their component parts, namely, machines and apparatus for checking empty and filled containers as well as bottles and packaging; machines for working plastic materials, as well as their component parts Scientific apparatus, namely, scientific apparatus for testing container closure integrity; apparatus and instruments for measuring and checking the temperature, pressure, quantity, and concentration of gas and liquids; measuring devices, namely, pressure indicators, pressure measuring apparatus not for medical purposes, high pressure manometers and automatic pressure control machines and instruments for use in leak-test technology, in particular for measuring pressure variation Pressure-variation measurement and analysis services in the field of seal test technology

Abstract

The invention relates to methods for the inspection of a condition, in particular for the detection of defects, of a cannula (2) (or injection needle) which is placed on a syringe (1) and is located under a protective cap (3), and to devices for carrying out such methods. A method according to the invention comprises the measuring of a magnetic field, in particular a magnetic field distribution, in the surroundings of the cannula (2). The presence of a ferromagnetic cannula (2) causes a local change in the course of the magnetic field lines. This can be measured and used to establish whether the cannula (2), as desired, is straight and arranged coaxially with respect to the syringe longitudinal axis a, or whether the cannula has a defect, such as, for example whether the cannula is bent, kinked, compressed, broken off/broken, at an angle to the syringe longitudinal axis a or is off-centre relative to the syringe longitudinal axis a.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 27/87 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws by investigating stray magnetic fields using probes
• G01N 27/85 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws by investigating stray magnetic fields using magnetographic methods
• A61M 5/32 - NeedlesDetails of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hubAccessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the bodyDevices for protection of needles
• G01B 7/312 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for measuring angles or tapersMeasuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for testing the alignment of axes for testing the alignment of axes for measuring eccentricity, i.e. lateral shift between two parallel axes

Abstract

The invention relates to methods for the inspection of a condition, in particular for the detection of defects, of a cannula (2) (or injection needle) which is placed on a syringe (1) and is located under a protective cap (3), and to devices for carrying out such methods. A method according to the invention comprises the measuring of a magnetic field, in particular a magnetic field distribution, in the surroundings of the cannula (2). The presence of a ferromagnetic cannula (2) causes a local change in the course of the magnetic field lines. This can be measured and used to establish whether the cannula (2), as desired, is straight and arranged coaxially with respect to the syringe longitudinal axis a, or whether the cannula has a defect, such as, for example whether the cannula is bent, kinked, compressed, broken off/broken, at an angle to the syringe longitudinal axis a or is off-centre relative to the syringe longitudinal axis a.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 27/87 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws by investigating stray magnetic fields using probes
• G01N 27/85 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws by investigating stray magnetic fields using magnetographic methods
• A61M 5/32 - NeedlesDetails of needles pertaining to their connection with syringe or hubAccessories for bringing the needle into, or holding the needle on, the bodyDevices for protection of needles
• G01B 7/312 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for measuring angles or tapersMeasuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for testing the alignment of axes for testing the alignment of axes for measuring eccentricity, i.e. lateral shift between two parallel axes

Abstract

An inspection process comprising the steps of: - providing at least one specimen (1) to an inspection apparatus (3); - identifying the at least one specimen (1); - inspecting the at least one specimen (1); - assigning a first assessment to the at least one specimen (1) based on the result of the inspection; - saving the identification feature together with the inspection data and a first assessment to a raw data storage (15) as a data package; - providing the processed data storage to an inspector; - assigning the second assessment to the data space of the processed data package; - sorting the at least one specimen (1) based on the first or second assessment.

IPC Classes  ?

• B07C 5/00 - Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or featureSorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches

Abstract

Transmitter-receiver arrangement (1) for an apparatus for measuring a concentration of a first gas and/or for measuring a pressure in a headspace of a container, wherein the transmitter-receiver arrangement defines a measuring zone (11) for accommodating said headspace, and wherein the transmitter-receiver arrangement comprises - a transmitter (2) configured to emit electromagnetic radiation (5) covering a wavelength range including an absorption line of said first gas, - a receiver (3) configured to receive electromagnetic radiation (5') in said wavelength range, said receiver and said transmitter being oriented with respect to each other such as to define a radiation path for said electromagnetic radiation from said transmitter across said measuring zone to said receiver, - a fixating element (7) for fixating the transmitter- receiver arrangement to said apparatus or to a filling machine, - an electrically controllable actuator arrangement (8) configured to cause at least one of a common shift of said transmitter and of said receiver relative to said fixating element, a shift of said transmitter relative to said receiver, a change in spatial orientation of said transmitter and said receiver relative to said fixating element, and of a change in spatial orientation of said transmitter relative to a spatial orientation of said receiver.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents
• G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
• G01M 3/32 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for containers, e.g. radiators
• G01M 3/38 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using light
• G01N 21/39 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using tunable lasers

Abstract

A method for monitoring a drive mechanism (1) of an automated inspection system for inducing motion to a container (2) partially filled with a liquid (3), comprising the steps: capturing measurement data of a surface (4) of the liquid (3) in the container (2), extracting form data regarding a form of the surface (4) of the liquid (3) from the measurement data and detecting whether the container (2) is in motion based on the form data. The corresponding apparatus comprises a measuring device (10) and a processor (11) operationally connected to the measuring device (10), wherein the measuring device (10) configured to perform the method steps.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01F 35/21 - Measuring
• G01F 23/292 - Light
• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents

Abstract

Transmitter-receiver arrangement (1) for an apparatus for measuring a concentration of a first gas and/or for measuring a pressure in a headspace of a container, wherein the transmitter-receiver arrangement defines a measuring zone (11) for accommodating said headspace, and wherein the transmitter-receiver arrangement comprises - a transmitter (2) configured to emit electromagnetic radiation (5) covering a wavelength range including an absorption line of said first gas, - a receiver (3) configured to receive electromagnetic radiation (5') in said wavelength range, said receiver and said transmitter being oriented with respect to each other such as to define a radiation path for said electromagnetic radiation from said transmitter across said measuring zone to said receiver, - a fixating element (7) for fixating the transmitter- receiver arrangement to said apparatus or to a filling machine, - an electrically controllable actuator arrangement (8) configured to cause at least one of a common shift of said transmitter and of said receiver relative to said fixating element, a shift of said transmitter relative to said receiver, a change in spatial orientation of said transmitter and said receiver relative to said fixating element, and of a change in spatial orientation of said transmitter relative to a spatial orientation of said receiver.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents
• G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
• G01M 3/32 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for containers, e.g. radiators
• G01M 3/38 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using light
• G01N 21/39 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using tunable lasers

Abstract

An inspection process comprising the steps of: - providing at least one specimen (1) to an inspection apparatus (3); - identifying the at least one specimen (1); - inspecting the at least one specimen (1); - assigning a first assessment to the at least one specimen (1) based on the result of the inspection; - saving the identification feature together with the inspection data and a first assessment to a raw data storage (15) as a data package; - providing the processed data storage to an inspector; - assigning the second assessment to the data space of the processed data package; - sorting the at least one specimen (1) based on the first or second assessment.

IPC Classes  ?

• B07C 5/00 - Sorting according to a characteristic or feature of the articles or material being sorted, e.g. by control effected by devices which detect or measure such characteristic or featureSorting by manually actuated devices, e.g. switches

Abstract

A method for monitoring a drive mechanism (1) of an automated inspection system for inducing motion to a container (2) partially filled with a liquid (3), comprising the steps: capturing measurement data of a surface (4) of the liquid (3) in the container (2), extracting form data regarding a form of the surface (4) of the liquid (3) from the measurement data and detecting whether the container (2) is in motion based on the form data. The corresponding apparatus comprises a measuring device (10) and a processor (11) operationally connected to the measuring device (10), wherein the measuring device (10) configured to perform the method steps.

IPC Classes  ?

• B01F 15/00 - Accessories for mixers
• G01F 23/292 - Light
• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents

Abstract

A method for measuring a concentration of a gas in a container having a wall with at least one deformable portion, the gas absorbing electromagnetic radiation at least in a specific spectral range, wherein the method includes the steps of biasing deformable portion and a further portion of wall opposite deformable portion between opposite positioning surfaces, thereby forming a biased volume of the container between the opposite positioning surfaces, during a measuring time, transmitting electromagnetic radiation into biased volume and receiving transmitted or reflected radiation of transmitted radiation from biased volume along respective radiation paths, relatively moving, during measuring time, at least one of deformable portion and of further portion and at least one of radiation paths, and determining concentration of said gas from the radiation received.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 21/35 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light
• G01N 21/03 - Cuvette constructions
• G01N 21/39 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using tunable lasers
• G01N 21/17 - Systems in which incident light is modified in accordance with the properties of the material investigated
• B65B 31/00 - Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditionsAdding propellants to aerosol containers
• G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents

Abstract

A method of measuring a concentration of a gas in the headspace of a container is provided. The headspace contains particles and/or droplets and/or the container carries on an exterior section surrounding the headspace particles and/or droplets. The container is at least in parts transparent to electromagnetic radiation. The method comprises the steps: - subjecting said headspace to input electromagnetic radiation; - receiving from said headspace output electromagnetic radiation in form of transmitted and/or reflected and/or diffused input electromagnetic radiation; and - generating from said received electromagnetic radiation a concentration indicative result; - thereby a) diffusing outside the container and distant from the container said input electromagnetic radiation and/or b) diffusing outside the container and distant from the container said output electromagnetic radiation and/or c) moving said headspace with respect to said input electromagnetic radiation. Furthermore, a method of producing a gas concentration tested container, an apparatus for performing the methods and an automatic headspace gas analyzer are provided.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 9/19 - Particulate form, e.g. powders lyophilised
• G01J 3/02 - SpectrometrySpectrophotometryMonochromatorsMeasuring colours Details
• G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
• G01N 15/00 - Investigating characteristics of particlesInvestigating permeability, pore-volume or surface-area of porous materials
• G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
• G01N 21/51 - Scattering, i.e. diffuse reflection within a body or fluid inside a container, e.g. in an ampoule
• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents

Goods & Services

Measuring devices for use in seal test technology, in particular for measuring pressure variation. Pressure variation measurement and analysis services.

Abstract

A method for measuring a concentration of a gas in a container having a wall with at least one deformable portion, the gas absorbing electromagnetic radiation at least in a specific spectral range. Further in the scope of this invention are a method of producing a sealed container containing a filling gas volume having a concentration of a monitored gas, an apparatus for performing the methods and a filling facility for filling containers.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 21/03 - Cuvette constructions
• B65B 31/00 - Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditionsAdding propellants to aerosol containers
• B65B 57/00 - Automatic control, checking, warning or safety devices
• G01N 21/17 - Systems in which incident light is modified in accordance with the properties of the material investigated
• G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
• G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
• G01N 21/39 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using tunable lasers
• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents

Abstract

Method 100 for measuring a concentration of a gas in a container 20 having a wall with at least one deformable portion, the gas absorbing electromagnetic radiation at least in a specific spectral range, wherein the method comprises the steps of: - biasing 101 said deformable portion and a further portion of said wall opposite said deformable portion between opposite positioning surfaces, thereby forming a biased volume of the container between the opposite positioning surfaces, - during a measuring time 110, transmitting 102 electromagnetic radiation into said biased volume and receiving 103 transmitted or reflected radiation of said transmitted radiation from said biased volume along respective radiation paths, - relatively moving 104, during said measuring time, at least one of said deformable portion and of said further portion and at least one of said radiation paths, and - determining 105 said concentration of said gas from the radiation received. Further in the scope of this invention are a method of producing a sealed container containing a filling gas volume having a concentration of a monitored gas, an apparatus 10 for performing the methods and a filling facility for filling containers.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 21/03 - Cuvette constructions
• G01N 21/17 - Systems in which incident light is modified in accordance with the properties of the material investigated
• B65B 31/00 - Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditionsAdding propellants to aerosol containers
• B65B 57/00 - Automatic control, checking, warning or safety devices
• G01N 21/90 - Investigating the presence of flaws, defects or contamination in a container or its contents
• G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
• G01N 21/359 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
• G01N 21/39 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using tunable lasers

Goods & Services

Machines for testing empty and/or filled containers as well as bottles and packaging; machines for working plastic materials, parts and accessories for the aforesaid machines

Goods & Services

Measuring devices, namely pressure indicators, pressure measuring apparatus not for medical purposes, high pressure manometers and automatic pressure control machines and instruments for use in seal test technology, in particular for measuring pressure variation Pressure variation measurement and analysis services in the field of seal test technology

Abstract

Devices to be tested are conveyed towards, into and from a testing station and are tested there being kept stationary. Conveying into and from the testing station is performed by a mover of a linear motor, which is controllably operated in a stepped manner.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65G 54/02 - Non-mechanical conveyors not otherwise provided for electrostatic, electric, or magnetic
• G01N 35/04 - Details of the conveyor system
• G01N 35/02 - Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups Handling materials therefor using a plurality of sample containers moved by a conveyor system past one or more treatment or analysis stations
• G01N 21/84 - Systems specially adapted for particular applications
• B07C 5/36 - Sorting apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution

Abstract

Inspecting and/or testing of inline conveyed devices is performed in that a monitoring unit is applied to a device. The monitoring unit is removed in a removing area. Within the timespan the monitoring unit is applied to the device, the monitoring unit is operated in a standalone operating mode. During a timespan information about the device to which the monitoring unit is applied is collected in the monitoring unit. This timespan of collecting includes at least a part of the timespan during which the monitoring unit is operated in standalone mode.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 3/32 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for containers, e.g. radiators
• G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
• G01M 3/22 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for valves

Abstract

A coarse-fine two-stage leak detection is carried out on sealed, filled containers loaded into container holders or “pucks”. Failure of the first, coarse leak detection stage, e.g. a pressure-course or impedance or laser-absorption based leak detection stage, causes containers to be rejected together with their corresponding container holders. These are then separated, and the container holder is cleaned and dried before being returned to the system. Any leaking product from inside a grossly leaking container is thus retained within the container holder, thus reducing contamination of subsequent containers and their container holders, preventing such contamination from reaching the fine leak detection stage, e.g. a mass-spectrometer-based leak detection stage.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 3/04 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point
• G01M 3/20 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material
• G01M 3/22 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for valves
• G01M 3/32 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for containers, e.g. radiators
• G01M 3/00 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures

Abstract

Method and system for x-ray detection of flaws in containers or their contents wherein containers are conveyed on a circular path around a central axis upon which an x-ray source is situated below the plane of the base of the containers. The x-ray source emits x-ray radiation obliquely upwards through the containers to a plurality of imaging x-ray detectors. Analysis of the images provided by these x-ray detectors determines the presence of a flaw in a container or its contents and is used to command a rejection mechanism to reject the container in question.

IPC Classes  ?

• B07C 5/346 - Sorting according to other particular properties according to radioactive properties
• B07C 5/34 - Sorting according to other particular properties
• B07C 5/342 - Sorting according to other particular properties according to optical properties, e.g. colour
• G01N 23/083 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by transmitting the radiation through the material and measuring the absorption the radiation being X-rays
• G01N 23/18 - Investigating the presence of defects or foreign matter
• G01N 23/04 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by transmitting the radiation through the material and forming images of the material
• B07C 5/36 - Sorting apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution

Abstract

A method and a system for detecting the presence of propellant gas in a gaseous sample exploit laser light especially in the 3.30-3.5 μm range. The propellant can be propane, n-butane, i-butane, dimethyl ether, methyl ethyl ether, HFA 134a, HFA 227, or any other propellant exhibiting absorption in the requisite wavelength range. The presence of the application of this method in leak testing of propellant-containing containers such as aerosols or fuel canisters, permits high-speed, high accuracy leak detection capable of replacing existing testing methods.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01J 5/02 - Constructional details
• G01N 21/3504 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light for analysing gases, e.g. multi-gas analysis
• G01M 3/22 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for valves
• G01M 3/38 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using light
• G01N 33/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups
• G01N 21/03 - Cuvette constructions

Abstract

Devices (1) to be tested are conveyed towards, into and from a testing station (13) and are tested there being kept stationer. Conveying into and from the testing station (13) is performed by means of a mover (7) of a linear motor, which is controllably operated in a stepped manner.

IPC Classes  ?

• B07C 5/36 - Sorting apparatus characterised by the means used for distribution

Abstract

Close containers which are filled with a consumer product are tested on leakiness by means of mass spectrometry (10) in that an impact (AN(P)) by the consumer product (P) upon the surrounding atmosphere (A(P)) of the container to be leak tested is monitored by the mass spectrometry (10).

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 3/02 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum
• H01J 47/00 - Tubes for determining the presence, intensity, density or energy of radiation or particles
• G01M 3/20 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material
• G01M 3/22 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for valves
• G01M 3/32 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for containers, e.g. radiators
• B65B 3/04 - Methods of, or means for, filling the material into the containers or receptacles
• H01J 49/04 - Arrangements for introducing or extracting samples to be analysed, e.g. vacuum locksArrangements for external adjustment of electron- or ion-optical components
• H01J 49/00 - Particle spectrometers or separator tubes
• B65B 57/00 - Automatic control, checking, warning or safety devices

Abstract

Inspecting and/or testing of inline conveyed devices (1) is performed in that a monitoring unit (7) is applied to a device (1a). The monitoring unit (7) is removed in a removing area (11a) · Within the timespan (TAppl.) the monitoring unit (7) is applied to the device (1), the monitoring unit (7) is operated in a standalone operating mode (TSA). During a timespan (TCOL) information about the device (1a) to which the monitoring unit (7) is applied is collected in the monitoring unit (7). This timespan of collecting (TCOL) includes at least a part of the timespan (TSA) during which the monitoring unit is operated in standalone mode.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05B 19/418 - Total factory control, i.e. centrally controlling a plurality of machines, e.g. direct or distributed numerical control [DNC], flexible manufacturing systems [FMS], integrated manufacturing systems [IMS] or computer integrated manufacturing [CIM]
• G01M 3/20 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material

Abstract

The present invention relates to methods and an apparatuses for loading and unloading objects into/from corresponding cavities in holders at a high count rate. For loading, a plurality of objects are present on an object path which mutually converges with a holder path. For unloading, the object path mutually diverges from the holder path. Integration of this method and apparatus respectively into a method of manufacturing unleaky containers and a corresponding apparatus for leak testing containers is also proposed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B65G 17/30 - Conveyors having an endless traction element, e.g. a chain, transmitting movement to a continuous or substantially-continuous load-carrying surface or to a series of individual load-carriersEndless-chain conveyors in which the chains form the load-carrying surface DetailsAuxiliary devices
• G01M 3/32 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for containers, e.g. radiators

Abstract

Method and system for x-ray detection of flaws in containers (1) or their contents wherein containers are conveyed on a circular path (2b) around a central axis (3) upon which an x-ray source (7) is situated below the plane (11) of the base of the containers. The x-ray source (7) emits x-ray radiation obliquely upwards through the containers (1) to a plurality of imaging x-ray detectors (4a-f). Analysis of the images provided by these x-ray detectors (4a-f)determines the presence of a flaw in a container or its contents and is used to command a rejection mechanism (R) to reject the container in question.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 23/04 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by transmitting the radiation through the material and forming images of the material
• G01N 23/18 - Investigating the presence of defects or foreign matter

Abstract

A coarse-fine two-stage leak detection is carried out on sealed, filled containers loaded into container holders or "pucks". Failure of the first, coarse leak detection stage, e.g. a pressure-course or impedance or laser-absorption based leak detection stage, causes containers to be rejected together with their corresponding container holders. These are then separated, and the container holder is cleaned and dried before being returned to the system. Any leaking product from inside a grossly leaking container is thus retained within the container holder, thus reducing contamination of subsequent containers and their container holders, preventing such contamination from reaching the fine leak detection stage, e.g. a mass-spectrometer-based leak detection stage.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 3/20 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material
• G01M 3/22 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for valves
• G01M 3/32 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for containers, e.g. radiators

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a system for detecting the presence of propellant gas in a gaseous sample exploiting laser light especially in the 3.30-3.5 µm range. The propellant can be propane, n-butane, i- butane, dimethyl ether, methyl ethyl ether, HFA 134a, HFA 227, or any other propellant exhibiting absorption in the requisite wavelength range. The presence of said propellant is detected by comparing the amplitude of test light pulses with the amplitude of reference light pulses. The invention further relates to an application of this method in leak testing of propellant-containing containers such as aerosols or fuel canisters, permitting high-speed, high accuracy leak detection capable of replacing existing testing methods.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 21/35 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light
• G01M 3/38 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using light

Abstract

For detected smallest leak in closed containers, which are at least to a part filled with a gas, the container (1) is pressurized by a test gas (g(s)) for an amount of time. The test gas (g(s)) comprises a gas species (s). The amount of the addressed gas species (s) which has penetrated in the container 1 it is sensed (7) as a leak indication.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 3/38 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using light
• G01M 3/22 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for valves

Abstract

Closed containers which are filled with a consumer product are tested on leakiness by means of mass spectrometry (10) in that an impact (AN(P)) by the consumer product (P) upon the surrounding atmosphere (A(P)) of the container to be leak tested is monitored by the mass spectrometry (10).

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 3/04 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point
• H01J 47/00 - Tubes for determining the presence, intensity, density or energy of radiation or particles

Abstract

For testing metered-dose-ejection devices, whether the ejected dose accords with a rated dose, the device (1) is sealingly applied (26) to a test compartment (24) and upon machine manipulation on the device (M, 5) a dose is ejected into the test compartment (24). Pressure difference established by such injection and with respect to a pre-established reference pressure (30) in the test compartment (24) is monitored by a pressure sensor (32). The output signal (o) of this sensor (32) is indicative of the extent of the addressed dose.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01F 1/34 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by using mechanical effects by measuring pressure or differential pressure

Abstract

Close containers which are filled with a consumer product are tested on leakiness by means of mass spectrometry (10) in that an impact (AN(P)) by the consumer product (P) upon the surrounding atmosphere (A(P)) of the container to be leak tested is monitored by the mass spectrometry (10).

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 3/20 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material
• G01M 3/22 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material for valves

Abstract

Close containers which are filled with a consumer product are tested on leakiness by means of mass spectrometry (10) in that an impact (AN(P)) by the consumer product (P) upon the surrounding atmosphere (A(P)) of the container to be leak tested is monitored by the mass spectrometry (10).

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 3/20 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using special tracer materials, e.g. dye, fluorescent material, radioactive material

Goods & Services

Industrial machines for inspection and testing of empty, filled and closed containers for leaks

Goods & Services

Machines and instruments for testing empty and/or filled containers as well as bottles and packaging; machines for working plastic materials, parts and accessories for the aforesaid machines.

Goods & Services

industrial machines for inspection and testing of containers for integrity, strength and conformity to size specifications

Goods & Services

Machines électropneumatiques de contrôle de l'étanchéité à la pression.