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(11) | EP 3 081 887 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CLEANING CONTAINERS BY MEANS OF AIR KNIVES |
| (57) The present invention provides a drying arm comprising a plurality of air knives
for drying (insulated) containers. In addition, an (insulated) container dryer using
said drying arm is provided. Furthermore, devices for cleaning and drying (insulated)
containers are described; as well as methods for cleaning and/or drying (insulated)
containers. |
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention provides a drying arm comprising a plurality of air knives for drying (insulated) containers, mainly used for food, medical and pharmaceutical products. In addition, an (insulated) container dryer using said drying arm is provided. Furthermore, devices for washing and drying (insulated) containers are described; as well as methods for washing and/or drying (insulated) containers.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Containers which are often insulated and used for shipping are valuable and widely used tools for maintaining the cold chain during transport in many industries. A cold chain is a supply-chain in which the temperature of goods is continually controlled at a depressed temperature. More specifically, an unbroken cold chain is an uninterrupted sequence of storage and transport wherein the temperature of goods is maintained in a given temperature range.
[0003] In many industries, such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and fresh foods; unbroken cold chains are useful for ensuring and/or extending the shelf life of products.
[0004] Containers, often insulated containers, are cleaned on a regular basis. Ideally, the cleaning procedure typically involves a washing cycle and a drying cycle. The washing cycle serves to sanitize (insulated) containers, and the drying cycle ensures that cleaning agents and/or rinsing fluids are removed prior to reuse of the (insulated) containers. The drying procedure allows avoiding ice layer formation while cooling the (insulated) container to temperatures below water's freezing point, after the cleaning procedure. Both cleaning cycle and drying cycle are typically done while the temperature of the (insulated) container is maintained at a relatively low temperature, slightly above 0°C, for example 5°C. This avoids time loss while heating and cooling (insulated) containers. In addition, this increases the cleaning cycle's energy efficiency as no energy is needed for heating and cooling (insulated) containers.
[0005] However, especially the drying cycle may be challenging when performed at relatively low temperatures. This is related to water-based cleaning agents, which are commonly used during the cleaning cycle, not readily evaporating at these depressed temperatures. The challenge of drying (insulated) containers at depressed temperatures has been solved in the Art by providing centrifugal systems. However, these systems are relatively slow. Therefore, there is a need for cleaning and drying (insulated) containers speedily, and in an energy efficient way, at low temperatures, preferably slightly above 0°C.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention comprises a drying arm (200) for drying containers for food, medical or pharmaceutical products comprising a body (210) and a head (220), wherein
- the body (210) has a proximal end and a distal end;
- the body's (210) proximal end is configured for engaging with driving means (310);
- the body's (210) distal end is rotatably connected to the head (220);
- the head (220) comprises a first air knife (222) and a second air knife (224);
- the first air knife (222) comprises one or more indentations (2221,2222); and,
- the body (210) comprises a third air knife (226) and a fourth air knife (228).
[0008] In particular embodiments, the drying arm (200) further comprises an air switch for selectively sending compressed air to one or more air knives (222, 224, 226, 228) selected from the list consisting of: the first air knife (222), the second air knife (224), the third air knife (226) and the fourth air knife (228).
[0009] In particular embodiments, the drying arm (200) according further comprises container characterization means configured for determining the container type, wherein the drying arm (200) is configured for executing a specific container drying program based on the determined container type.
[0010] In a second aspect, the present invention comprises a device (100) for drying containers for food, medical or pharmaceutical products comprising:
- a drying arm (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3; and,
- optionally container door drying means (400) comprising a fifth air knife (410).
[0011] In particular embodiments:
- the door drying means (400) comprise a hollow shaft (420) having a proximal and a distal end;
- the hollow shaft's (420) proximal end comprises a rotary union (450);
- the fifth air knife (410) comprises a plurality of air knife segments (411,412,413); and
- two air knife segments (412,413) are attached, preferably under an oblique angle, to the hollow shaft's (420) distal end.
[0012] In a third aspect, the present invention comprises a line for cleaning containers (500) for food, medical or pharmaceutical products comprising:
- container transportation means (600);
- one or more devices for washing containers (700), preferably one or more sprinkler systems for sprinkling a mixture comprising water and one or more cleaning agents;
- optionally, a water filter, preferably a candle filter, for protecting the sprinkler system; and,
- a device for drying containers (100) according to the second aspect of the present invention.
[0013] In particular embodiments, the container transportation means (600) comprise a chain conveyor.
[0014] In a fourth aspect, the present invention comprises a method for drying containers for food, medical or pharmaceutical products comprising a top surface, a back surface, two side surfaces, and a bottom surface comprising the steps of:
- providing a drying arm (200) according to the first aspect of the present invention;
- scanning the top surface with the first air knife (222) comprising one or more indentations (2220,2221);
- rotating the head (220);
- simultaneously scanning the back surface with the second air knife (224) and the side surfaces with the third air knife (226) and the fourth air knife (228);
- rotating the head (220); and
- scanning the bottom surface with the second air knife (224).
[0015] In particular embodiments, the head (200) is rotated under an angle of at least 80° to at most 100°, preferably at least 85° to at most 95°, more preferably about 90° during each rotation.
[0016] In particular embodiments, the drying process is done at temperatures ranging from at least 1.0°C to at most 7.0°C, preferably at least 1.5°C to at most 6.0°C, more preferably at least 2.0°C to at most 4.0°C, and ideally about 3.0°C.
[0017] In particular embodiments, the method further comprising the steps of:
- collecting effluent;
- sanitizing the effluent; and
- recycling the effluent as a cleaning agent, or as a component in a cleaning agent mixture, for container cleaning.
[0018] In a fifth aspect, the present invention comprises a method for cleaning containers for food, medical or pharmaceutical products comprising the steps of:
- a. providing a line for cleaning containers (500) according to the second aspect of the present invention;
- b. transporting a container (900) using container transportation means (600);
- c. applying a cleaning agent on the container; and,
- d. drying the container (900) using a method according to the fourth aspect of the present invention.
[0019] In particular embodiments, step b is followed by the step:
ba. rinsing the container (900) using a rinsing agent.
[0020] In particular embodiments, step d is followed by the steps:
e. providing the container (900) with one or more ice packs; and,
f. optionally, cooling the container (900) to a temperature between -20 and -3°C.
[0021] In particular embodiments, the container is continually moved during the cleaning process using container transportation means.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The following description of the figures of specific embodiments of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present teachings, their application or uses. Throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.
Figure 1 shows a device for drying containers (100) comprising a drying arm (200) and a cart (300).
Figure 2 shows a device for drying containers (100) comprising a drying arm (200), a cart (300), and door drying means (400).
Figure 3 shows door drying means (400) comprising a fifth air knife (410), a hollow shaft (420), and a rotary union (450).
Figure 4 shows a line (500) for cleaning containers comprising a device for drying containers (100), a device for washing containers (700), container transportation means (600), and a pump (800).
Figure 5 shows a line (500) for cleaning containers comprising a device for drying containers (100), a device for washing containers (700), container transportation means (600), and a pump (800).
Figure 6 shows a head (220) comprising a first air knife (222) and a second air knife (224).
Figure 7 shows a container (900) comprising hooks for holding cooling elements (910) and a door (920).
Figure 8 shows a device for washing containers (700) comprising one or more door cleaning nozzles (720), at least one inner container cleaning nozzle (730), a rinsing utensil (740), and a rack (750).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] The present invention will be described with respect to particular embodiments but the invention is not limited thereto but only by the claims. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope thereof.
[0024] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0025] The terms "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised of" as used herein are synonymous with "including", "includes" or "containing", "contains", and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, non-recited members, elements or method steps. The terms "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised of" when referring to recited members, elements or method steps also include embodiments which "consist of" said recited members, elements or method steps.
[0026] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order, unless specified. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.
[0027] The term "about" as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of +/-10% or less, preferably +/-5% or less, more preferably +/-1% or less, and still more preferably +/-0.1% or less of and from the specified value, insofar such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed invention. It is to be understood that the value to which the modifier "about" refers is itself also specifically, and preferably, disclosed.
[0028] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within the respective ranges, as well as the recited endpoints.
[0029] All documents cited in the present specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, definitions for the terms used in the description are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention. The terms or definitions used herein are provided solely to aid in the understanding of the invention.
[0031] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.
[0032] In one or more aspects, the present invention relates to devices for washing and/or drying (insulated) containers (900).
[0033] The term "washing" as used herein when referring to (insulated) containers (900) refers to the application of one or more cleaning agents, preferably one or more cleaning agents in an aqueous solution, to an (insulated) container's (900) inner hull and/or to an (insulated) container's (900) outer hull with the express purpose of removing contaminants. The term "washing" may include the application of one or more rinsing agents, preferably one or more aqueous rinsing agents, after the application of one or more cleaning agents. Rinsing agents may aid the removal of washing agent residues.
[0034] The term "drying" as used herein refers to the removal of liquid from surfaces, for example the surface of (insulated) containers (900).
[0036] Devices for cleaning (insulated) containers (500) according to the present invention may provide highly effective, fast, and/or energy-efficient means for cleaning (insulated) containers (900). Such containers (900) may have, for example, a substantially rectangular base area with sides of about 1200 mm and 800 mm, i.e. roughly corresponding to the base euro pallets. The height of the (insulated) containers (900) may be between 1.75m and 2.15m, but may be higher or lower as well. The inner hull of (insulated) containers (900) commonly comprises one or more hooks (910) configured for holding one or more ice packs.
[0037] Devices for cleaning (insulated) containers (500) according to the present invention commonly comprise (insulated) container transportation means (600) comprising one or more chain conveyors. Preferably, the (insulated) containers (900) move continually along the (insulated) container transportation means (600). In particular embodiments, the (insulated) container transportation means (600) may comprise a chain line comprising a series of mechanical stoppers.
[0038] The term "mechanical stoppers" as used herein refers to devices for guiding and/or positioning (insultated) containers (900). In particular, mechanical stoppers may be clamping devices comprised in container transportation means (600), for example comprised in a chain line. The mechanical stoppers may comprise one or more devices for positioning (insulated) containers (900) in the direction of transport and/or one or more devices for positioning (insulated) containers (900) in the direction perpendicular to the direction of transport. Mechanical stoppers may allow for accurately positioning (insulated) containers (900) at washing stations and/or drying stations. Accurately positioning (insulated) containers (900) may be especially advantageous at drying station for accurately aligning air knives and (insulated) containers (900). This may allow for more efficient drying of (insulated) containers (900).
[0039] Also, the (insulated) containers' doors (920) are preferably opened during washing and drying such that their inner hull may be easily reached for cleaning.
[0040] An (insulated) container cleaning installation may comprise two lines for cleaning (insulated) containers (500). Each line (500) preferably comprises a device for washing (insulated) containers (700) comprising one or more sprinklers (720) configured for applying cleaning agents to the (insulated) containers' (900) inner and/or outer hull.
[0041] The device for washing (insulated) containers (700) may further comprise one or more sprinklers (720) configured for applying rinsing agent to the (insulated) containers' (900) inner and/or outer hull. Preferably, the one or more sprinklers are operationally connected to a fluidic system for providing rinsing and/or cleaning agents to the one or more sprinklers. The sprinklers may comprise one or more door cleaning nozzles (720), at least one inner container cleaning nozzle (730), and/or a rinsing utensil (740). The one or more door cleaning nozzles (720), at least one inner container cleaning nozzle (730), and/or a rinsing utensil (740) may be rotatably mounted on a rack (750).
[0042] A filter, preferably a candle filter, may be provided upstream of the sprinklers. This filter may serve to protect the sprinklers from particulate contaminants. The pressure in the filter may be measured using a manometer. Preferably, the pressure difference across the filter is measured as well, for example by means of two pressure sensors. The two pressure sensors may be comprised in the filter. The pressure difference may be used to determine the filter's soiling, with higher pressure differences over the filter corresponding to higher degrees of soiling, all other things equal. When the pressure difference is higher than a predetermined value, which may be set to indicate an excessive amount of filter soiling, the filter may be cleaned. Filter cleaning may be accomplished by temporarily reversing the direction the water flow direction through the filter.
[0043] The fluidic system may comprise one or more, preferably two, reservoirs for buffering cleaning agent supply, preferably aqueous cleaning agent supply. This can be useful for ensuring a continuous supply of cleaning agents, preferably aqueous solutions of cleaning agents.
[0044] Water may be provided to the fluidic system by means of a pump (800), whereby the pump (800) feeds pressurized water to the line for cleaning (insulated) containers (500). The pump (800) is preferably protected by means of two basket filters having different sizes, whereby the basket filters are positioned upstream from the pump (800).
[0045] Cleaning agents may be provided to water in the fluidic system by means of a metering pump. Preferably, a pressure reducing valve is positioned upstream of the metering pump. This may be advantageous for protecting the metering pump from excessive water pressure.
[0046] Devices for drying (insulated) containers (100) according to the present invention generally comprise a drying arm (200) having a body (210) and a head (220), and a plurality of air knives (222,224,226,228,410) for at least drying the inner hull and the door of (insulated) containers (920). The body (210) might be considered as having a distal end and a proximal end. Preferably, devices for drying containers (100) are configured for having an adjustable altitude and for being rotatable along two joints, one joint at the body's proximal end and one joint at the body's distal end. The joint at the body's (210) proximal end may be configured for rotatably engaging with a cart (300) which may be configured for liftably engaging with a lifting rack (350). The joint at the body's (210) distal end is preferably configured for rotatably engaging with the head (220). Preferably, the lifting rack comprises a plurality of sensors, for example three sensors, configured for determining, and optionally limiting, the amount the cart (300) is lifted by the lifting rack (350) during a lifting operation.
[0047] The devices for drying (insulated) containers (100) are preferably configured for drying (insulated) containers (900) by means of compressed air. The compressed air might be compressed by one or more high pressure ventilators and might be directed towards the device for drying (insulated) containers (100) by means of a fluidic system comprising a plurality of compressed air ducts. Preferably, the fluidic system comprises at least one valve, for example a diverter valve, configured for directing air towards one or more air knives (222,224,226,228,410) chosen from the plurality of air knives (222,224,226,228,410).
[0048] Preferably, the devices for drying (insulated) containers (100) comprise safety mechanisms configured for detecting obstacles in the path of movement of the drying arm (200) and/or of other moving parts of devices for drying (insulated) containers (100). The safety mechanisms may comprise one or more sensors, for example one or more force sensors for detecting the force needed to move the drying arm.
[0049] The drying arm (200) may be rotated by means of an actuator, preferably an electric motor. In particular embodiments, the actuator may drive an axle having a distal end and a proximal end, whereby the proximal end is driven by the motor, and whereby the distal end comprises an encoder which is configured for registering the axle's rotational movement. In some embodiments, the axle may run through a hollow shaft which is connected to the cart (300) by means of one or more hinges.
[0050] Preferably, the cart (300) comprises one or more sensors, for example 3 sensors configured for detecting the drying arm's position and/or for limiting the drying arm's (200) movement to the confines determined by one or more extreme positions.
[0051] In some embodiments, the drying arm's (200) body (210), having a proximal end and a distal end, comprises a central shaft for guiding compressed air to the drying arm's (200) air knives (222,224,226,228). At the body's proximal end, the central shaft may be rotatably connected, for example by means of a rotary union, to a fluidic system comprising an air pump. At the body's distal end, the central shaft may be rotatably connected to the drying arm's (200) head (220), for example by means of a rotary union. The rotary union may comprise one or more ball bearings and/or one or more rubber o-rings for providing a rotational degree of freedom while providing air tightness as well. Preferably the had (220) is rotatably coupled to the body (210), for example by means of one or more hinges, ball bearings, and sealing members. The sealing members may be, for example, chosen from the list comprising rubber sealing members, silicone sealing members, or other sealing members. The sealing members may comprise o-rings.
[0052] The head (220) may be rotated by means of a chain. Preferably, the head (220) is configured for allowing for 90° rotations with respect to the body (210). The chain may run over a sprocket wheel in the cart (300) for driving the head's (200) rotational movement. The sprocket wheel in the cart (300) may be operationally coupled to a pneumatic cylinder comprising one or more sensors, for example inductive sensors, configured for detecting the angle over which the head (220) has rotated. Also, the pneumatic cylinder may comprise one or more flow control valves for determining the speed by which the head (220) is rotated.
[0053] The head preferably comprises one or more air knives; for example two air knives, a first air knife (222) and a second air knife (224). The first air knife (222) may comprise a plurality of indentations (2220,2221 which may aid the drying process by allowing the shape of the first air knife to closely match the shape of an (insulated) container's (900) surface. The head may comprise a selection mechanism, for example a slide able selection mechanism, for directing compressed air flow to one or more of the air knives (222,224).
[0054] In a first aspect, the present invention comprises a drying arm (200) for drying (insulated) containers (900) comprising a body (210) and a head (220), wherein
- the body (210) has a proximal end and a distal end;
- the body's (210) proximal end is configured for engaging with driving means (310);
- the body's (210) distal end is rotatably connected to the head (220);
- the head (220) comprises a first air knife (222) and a second air knife (224);
- the first air knife (222) comprises one or more indentations (2221,2222); and,
- the body (210) comprises a third air knife (226) and a fourth air knife (228).
[0055] Such drying arms may be highly efficiently means for drying (insulated) containers (900). In particular, the use of air knives for drying (insulated) containers (900) may allow for efficiently blowing off aqueous cleaning agents and/or rinsing water after (insulated) container (900) washing, even at temperatures where water does not readily evaporate. Such temperatures may be, for example, 1 °C, 2°C, 3°C, 4°C, 5°C, 6°C.
[0056] In some embodiments, the body comprises a central shaft which is configured for leading compressed air to the head, wherein the central shaft is operationally coupled to pressure generating means.
[0057] The term "air knife" as used herein refers to a device for creating a sheet of air flow by forcing air through a slit. The air flow emerging from an air flow may be adequately described by the terms "streamline flow" or "laminar flow". Preferably, the slit has a width of at least 0.10 mm to at most 10 mm, more preferably a width of at least 0.50 to at most 2.0 mm, and most preferably a width of at least about 1.0 mm to at most about 1.2 mm. This may provide optimum drying efficiency by tuning air flow velocity, air flow rate, and air stream thickness; without the need for resorting to heated air streams.
[0058] The term "slit" as used herein refers to an elongated orifice. The size of a slit may be characterized by two characteristic dimensions: its length, and its width; with the width being many times smaller than the length. The length of a slit may be interpreted as the extent of its longest characteristic dimension, as measured along the longitudinal extent of the slit. The term "width" as used herein, when referring to a slit, may be interpreted as the characteristic length of the slit in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the length of the slit is measured. In the case of curved slits, the direction in which the length and the direction in which the width of the slit is measured may vary along the longitudinal extent of the slit.
[0059] In some embodiments, the drying arm (200) comprises an air switch for selectively sending compressed air to one or more air knives (222, 224, 226, 228) selected from the list consisting of: the first air knife (222), the second air knife (224), the third air knife (226) and the fourth air knife (228).
[0060] Air flow emerging from air knives may be used for blowing off liquid droplets off a surface in a particular direction. By directing air flow to a particular selection of air knives, the direction in which liquid is blown of the surface of (insulated) containers (900) might be selected highly efficiently.
[0061] In some embodiments, the drying arm (200) further comprises (insulated) container characterization means configured for determining the (insulated) container type, wherein the drying arm (200) is configured for executing a specific (insulated) container drying program based on the determined (insulated) container type.
[0062] As such, the drying program may be efficiently adapted to various (insulated) container types.
[0063] The (insulated) container characterization means may comprise one or more laser sensors configured for determining the height of an (insulated) container (900). The movement of a drying arm (200) and/ or containers door drying means (400) is preferably adapted according to the determined height of the (insulated) containers (900) such that optimum drying sequences might be performed.
[0064] In a second aspect, the present invention comprises a device (100) for drying (insulated) containers comprising:
- a drying arm (200) according to the present invention;
- optionally, a container door drying means (400) comprising a fifth air knife (410).
[0065] Container door drying means (400) may be provided for drying doors (920) of (insulated) containers (900) while, for example, their inner hull is dried by means of a drying arm (200). This may speed up the drying process. The (insulated) container door drying means (400) are preferably rotatably connected, for example by means of a rotating union, to a fluidic system for transporting compressed air.
[0066] By simultaneously providing door drying means (400) and a drying arm (200), devices for drying (insulated) containers (100) may be configured for simultaneously drying the door and the inner hull of (insulated) containers (900). This may allow for speeding up the drying process.
[0067] Preferably, the device for drying (insulated) containers (900) comprises one or more sensors for limiting the drying arm's movement. Movement of the (insulated) container (900) door drying means (400) may be limited in a similar fashion.
[0068] The (insulated) door drying means (400) preferably comprise a hollow shaft (420) having a proximal end and a distal end. The hollow shaft's (420) proximal end is preferably rotatably coupled to a fluid system configured for transporting compressed air. The hollow shaft's (420) distal end preferably comprises two air knife segments (412,413), which might be relatively oriented under an oblique angle, for example an angle of approximately 70°. Preferably, the hollow shaft (420) comprises another air knife segment (411).
[0069] In some embodiments, the door drying means (400) comprise a hollow shaft (420) having a proximal and a distal end; wherein
- the hollow shaft's (420) proximal end comprises a rotary union (450);
- the fifth air knife (410) comprises a plurality of air knife segments (411,412,413); and
- two air knife segments (412,413) are attached, preferably under an oblique angle, to the hollow shaft's (420) distal end.
[0070] The rotary union (450) may be a particularly efficient way of providing a rotational degree of freedom to the door drying means (400) while simultaneously providing operational coupling of the door drying means' (400) hollow shaft (420) to a fluidic system for delivering compressed air to the door drying means (400).
[0071] The two air knife segments (412,413) which are attached, preferably under an oblique angle, to the hollow shaft's (420) distal end may allow for more efficient liquid residue removal from the surface of (insulated) containers (900).
[0072] In a third aspect, the present invention comprises a line for cleaning (insulated) containers (500) comprising:
- (insulated) container transportation means (600):
- one or more devices for washing (insulated) containers (700), preferably one or more sprinkler systems for sprinkling a mixture comprising water and one or more cleaning agents;
- optionally, a water filter, preferably a candle filter, for protecting the sprinkler system; and,
- a device for drying (insulated) containers (100) according to the present invention.
[0073] The line for cleaning (insulated) containers (500) may provide highly effective, fast, and/or energy-efficient means for cleaning (insulated) containers.
[0074] Preferably, the (insulated) container transportation means (600) comprise one or more stoppers, for example two stoppers. Some stoppers may be configured for aligning (insulated) containers along the direction of (insulated) container transport, or perpendicular to the direction of (insulated) container transport. The stoppers may be retractably driven by one or more pneumatic cylinders. Preferably, the stoppers comprise one or more sensors, for example one or more inductive sensors, for detecting the stopper's position.
[0075] In some embodiments, the (insulated) container transportation means (600) comprise a chain conveyor.
[0076] This may be highly efficient means for transporting (insulated) containers along an (insulated) container cleaning line (500).
[0077] In a fourth aspect, the present invention comprises a method for drying (insulated) containers (900) comprising a top surface, a back surface, two side surfaces, and a bottom surface comprising the steps of:
- providing a drying arm (200) according to the present invention;
- scanning the top surface with the first air knife (222) comprising one or more indentations (2220,2221);
- rotating the head (220);
- simultaneously scanning the back surface with the second air knife (224) and the side surfaces with the third air knife (226) and the fourth air knife (228);
- rotating the head (220); and
- scanning the bottom surface with the second air knife (224).
[0079] Preferably, the drying arm is placed in a cart comprising a roller guide. The cart is preferably suspended in a closed system of chains. In some embodiments, the cart comprises an axis comprising chain wheels operationally coupled to a lifting engine and to an encoder.
[0080] In some embodiments, the cart is comprised in a device for drying (insulated) containers (100) as described in example 1.
[0081] In some embodiments, the cart (300) comprises wheels (320) configured for being guidable in guiding means, for example guiding means heaving a U-shaped cross section.
[0082] In some embodiments, the cart (300) may be configured to be vertically moveably by means of a linear actuator, for example a linear actuator comprising one or more chains. The one or more chains may be configured for engaging with one or more sprockets.
[0083] In some embodiments, the head (200) is rotated under an angle of at least 80° to at most 100°, preferably at least 85° to at most 95°, more preferably about 90° during each rotation.
[0084] In this fashion, the air knives may closely follow the contours of the inner hull of (insulated) containers (900). This may enhance the effectiveness of (insulated) container drying processes.
[0085] In some embodiments, the head (200) is rotated under an angle of less than 80° during one or more rotations. In some embodiments, the head (200) is rotated under an angle of more than 80° during one or more rotations.
[0086] In some embodiments, the drying process is done at temperatures ranging from at least 1.0°C to at most 7.0°C, preferably at least 1.5°C to at most 6.0°C, more preferably at least 2.0°C to at most 4.0°C, and ideally at about 3.0°C.
[0087] Drying at low temperatures may have the advantage that (insulated) containers do not have to be excessively heated prior to the cleaning/drying process. This may increase the throughput and/or energy efficiency of (insulated) container cleaning lines (500).
[0088] In addition, the washing and drying process is preferably done at temperatures higher than the melting point of the cleaning agents and rinsing agents which are used, which is commonly around 0°C for aqueous cleaning agents and aqueous rinsing agents.
[0089] In some embodiments, the method for drying (insulated) containers (900) further comprising the steps of:
- collecting effluent;
- sanitizing the effluent; and
- recycling the effluent as a cleaning agent, or as a component in a cleaning agent mixture, for (insulated) container (900) cleaning.
[0090] This may enhance the environmental friendliness of cleaning procedures for (insulated) containers (900). In addition, such procedures may result in less need of cleaning agent mixtures, which may result in overall process cost reductions.
[0091] In a fifth aspect, the present invention comprises a method for cleaning (insulated) containers (900) comprising the steps of:
- a. providing a line for cleaning (insulated) containers (500) according to the present invention;
- b. transporting an (insulated) container using (insulated) container transportation means (600);
- c. applying a cleaning agent on the (insulated) container; and,
- d. drying the (insulated) container using a method for drying (insulated) containers according to the present invention.
[0093] In some embodiments, step b is followed by the step:
ba. rinsing the (insulated) container (900) using a rinsing agent.
[0094] This may be an effective way of minimizing the presence of cleaning agent residues after the (insulated) container cleaning and drying sequence.
[0095] In some embodiments, step d is followed by the steps:
e. providing the (insulated) container (900) with one or more ice packs; and,
f. optionally, cooling the (insulated) container (900) to a temperature between -20 and -3°C.
[0096] This is an efficient way of preparing the (insulated) containers (900) for use after the washing and drying sequence. Preferably, insulated containers are used when this method step is carried out. This might improve energy efficiency.
[0097] In some embodiments, the (insulated) container (900) is continually moved during the cleaning process using (insulated) container transportation means.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
[0099] The present example provides a particular embodiment of a device for drying (insulated) containers (100) according to the present invention. This particular embodiment is hereby described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. The device for drying (insulated) containers (100) comprises a drying arm (200) having a body (210) and a head (220). The proximal end of the drying arm (200) is operationally and rotatably connected with driving means (310) to a cart (300). The cart (300) further comprises wheels (320) configured for being guidable in guiding means, for example guiding means heaving a U-shaped cross section. The cart (300), the drying arm (200), and a door drying arm (400) may be lifted by means of an arm lifting rack (350). The distal end of the body (210) of the drying arm (200) is operationally connected with the head (220). The head (220) comprises two air knives (222,224): a first air knife (222) and a second air knife (224). The first air knife (222) comprises two indentations (2220,2221) which are shaped along the contours of an (insulated) container's upper inner hull; thereby allowing for optimal drying of the (insulated) container's upper inner hull.
[0100] The cart (300) is furthermore operationally and rotatably connected to a door drying arm (400) by means of a rotary union (450). The door drying arm comprises a hollow shaft (420) and a fifth air knife (410).
Example 2
[0101] The present example provides a particular embodiment of a door drying arm (400) having a proximal end and a distal end, as shown in Figure 3. The door drying arm (400) is configured for being operationally and rotatably connectable to a cart (300) by means of a rotary union (450) at the door drying arm's proximal end. The door drying arm (420) comprises a hollow shaft (420) and a fifth air knife (410). The fifth air knife (410) comprises three air knife segments (411,412,413). A first air knife segment (411) is connected to the hollow shaft (420). The second air knife segment (412) and the third air knife segment (413) are connected to the door drying arm's (400) distal end. The second air knife segment (412) and the third air knife segment (413) are arranged at an angle of about 90°.
Example 3
[0102] The present example provides a particular embodiment of a line for cleaning (insulated) containers (500), as shown in figures 4 and 5. The line for cleaning (insulated) containers (500) comprises a device for washing (insulated) containers (700), (insulated) container transportation means (600), and a device for drying (insulated) containers (100). The line for cleaning (insulated) containers (500) further comprises a draining system (510) for collecting excess cleaning fluids.
[0103] A pump (800) is provided as well. The pump (800) serves for feeding pressurized water to the line for cleaning (insulated) containers (500). The pump (800) is protected by means of two basket filters having different sizes, whereby the basket filters are positioned upstream from the pump (800).
[0104] The device for drying (insulated) containers (100) comprises a cart (300) and a drying arm (200) having a body (210) and a head (220). The cart's (300) vertical position may be changed by means of a lifting chain (610).
[0105] The device for washing (insulated) containers (700) comprises a filter, for example a candle filter having a stainless steel filter element. The filter is configured for protecting one or more sprinklers comprised in the device for washing (insulated) containers (700). The device for washing (insulated) containers (700) further comprises a valve rack (710) comprising one or more valves.
Example 4
[0106] The present example provides, referring to Figure 6 (A,B), a particular embodiment of a head (220) of a drying arm (200). The head (220) comprises a first air knife (222) and a second air knife (224). The head (220) also comprises a valve, preferably an air switch, for directing compressed air selectively to the first air knife (222) or selectively to the second air knife (224). Both the first air knife (222) and the second air knife (224) comprise an air knife slit (2223). The air knife slit has a width of 1.1 mm. The first air knife (222) comprises two indentations (2220,2221) adapted to the shape of the top of the inner hull of an (insulated) container, which commonly comprises two cold packs. In particular, the indentations (2220,2221) are shaped such that the distance between the air knife slit (2223) of the first air knife (222) and the surface to be dried can be kept smaller than 1.0 cm to 2.0 cm during operation. Also, the particular shape of the first air knife allows for aiming an air stream at the (insulated) container's surface at roughly right angles; i.e. at angles between at least 80° and at most 100°, preferably angles of about 90°.
Example 5
[0107] The present example provides, referring to figure 7, a specific embodiment of an (insulated) container (900). The (insulated) container (900) comprises two hooks for holding cooling elements (910) and a door (920). Furthermore, the (insulated) container (900) is configured for being positionable on a pallet (930), for example a Euro-pallet.
Example 6
[0108] The present example provides, referring to figure 8, a specific embodiment of a device for washing containers (700). The device for washing containers (700) comprises two or more nozzles (720, 730). In particular, the two or more nozzles (720,730) comprise one or more door cleaning nozzles (720), preferably cone nozzles such as hollow cone nozzles or solid cone nozzles. Furthermore, the two or more nozzles (720,730) comprise at least one inner container cleaning nozzle (730) such as a round headed nozzle. The device for washing containers (700) further comprises a rinsing utensil (740) which is configured for rinsing (insulated) containers after they have been washed. Finally, the device for washing (insulated) containers comprises a rack (750). The two or more nozzles (720,730) and the rinsing utensil (740) are rotatably connected to the rack (750).
1. A drying arm (200) for drying containers for food, medical or pharmaceutical products
comprising a body (210) and a head (220), wherein
- the body (210) has a proximal end and a distal end;
- the body's (210) proximal end is configured for engaging with driving means (310);
- the body's (210) distal end is rotatably connected to the head (220);
- the head (220) comprises a first air knife (222) and a second air knife (224);
- the first air knife (222) comprises one or more indentations (2221,2222); and,
- the body (210) comprises a third air knife (226) and a fourth air knife (228).
2. The drying arm (200) according to claim 1 further comprising an air switch for selectively
sending compressed air to one or more air knives (222, 224, 226, 228) selected from
the list consisting of: the first air knife (222), the second air knife (224), the
third air knife (226) and the fourth air knife (228).
3. The drying arm (200) according to any one of claims 1 or 2 further comprising container
characterization means configured for determining the container type, wherein the
drying arm (200) is configured for executing a specific container drying program based
on the determined container type.
4. A device (100) for drying containers for food, medical or pharmaceutical products
comprising:
- a drying arm (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3; and,
- optionally container door drying means (400) comprising a fifth air knife (410).
5. The device according to claim 4 wherein
- the door drying means (400) comprise a hollow shaft (420) having a proximal and a distal end;
- the hollow shaft's (420) proximal end comprises a rotary union (450);
- the fifth air knife (410) comprises a plurality of air knife segments (411,412,413); and
- two air knife segments (412,413) are attached, preferably under an oblique angle, to the hollow shaft's (420) distal end.
6. A line for cleaning containers (500) for food, medical or pharmaceutical products
comprising:
- container transportation means (600):
- one or more devices for washing containers (700), preferably one or more sprinkler systems for sprinkling a mixture comprising water and one or more cleaning agents;
- optionally, a water filter, preferably a candle filter, for protecting the sprinkler system; and,
- a device for drying containers (100) according to any one of claims 4 or 5.
7. The device according to claim 6 wherein the container transportation means (600) comprise
a chain conveyor.
8. A method for drying containers for food, medical or pharmaceutical products comprising
a top surface, a back surface, two side surfaces, and a bottom surface comprising
the steps of:
- providing a drying arm (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3;
- scanning the top surface with the first air knife (222) comprising one or more indentations (2220,2221);
- rotating the head (220);
- simultaneously scanning the back surface with the second air knife (224) and the side surfaces with the third air knife (226) and the fourth air knife (228);
- rotating the head (220); and
- scanning the bottom surface with the second air knife (224).
9. The method according to claim 8 wherein the head (200) is rotated under an angle of
at least 80° to at most 100°, preferably at least 85° to at most 95°, more preferably
about 90° during each rotation.
10. The method according to claim 9 wherein the drying process is done at temperatures
ranging from at least 1.0°C to at most 7.0°C, preferably at least 1.5°C to at most
6.0°C, more preferably at least 2.0°C to at most 4.0°C, and ideally about 3.0°C.
11. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 10 further comprising the steps of:
- collecting effluent;
- sanitizing the effluent; and
- recycling the effluent as a cleaning agent, or as a component in a cleaning agent mixture, for container cleaning.
12. A method for cleaning containers for food, medical or pharmaceutical products comprising
the steps of:
a. providing a line for cleaning containers (500) according to any one of claims 4 to 7;
b. transporting a container using container transportation means (600);
c. applying a cleaning agent on the container; and,
d. drying the container using a method according to any one of claims 8 to 11.
13. The method according to claim 12 wherein step b is followed by the step:
ba. rinsing the container using a rinsing agent.
14. The method according to any one of claims 12 or 13 wherein step d is followed by the
steps:
e. providing the container with one or more ice packs; and,
f. optionally, cooling the container to a temperature between -20 and -3°C.
15. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 14 wherein the container is continually
moved during the cleaning process using container transportation means.