EP3532389B1 - Methods and devices for filling pots, pot-packing lines - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to the filling of containers or jars, for example to the filling of containers with food liquids.

The invention relates in particular to the filling of jars with homogeneous contents, containing liquid or pasty products or heterogeneous contents containing a mixture of at least two among liquid, pasty or solid products. Examples of such contents are in particular liquid products or preparations (fruits, vegetables, etc.) with a liquid binder, in particular milk products or desserts of the steamed, stirred, liquid or whipped cream type, mousse with pieces of fruit , syrups, honey, caramel or even dry or granular products, this list not being exhaustive.

The term "pot" should be understood in the broad sense as including the actual pots, but also the trays, cups, or any other form of similar primary packaging. The pots can be single pots or plates comprising several pots side by side and attached to each other by being arranged in columns and / or rows with between them rows or frangible zones of lower resistance. For example, a plate may comprise two pots or four pots arranged in two rows each comprising two pots or else six pots in two rows each comprising three pots.

• au moins une buse de distribution s'étendant selon une direction verticale et terminée par une extrémité inférieure, la buse de distribution comportant un canal central s'étendant selon la direction verticale et terminé par une ouverture de distribution à l'extrémité inférieure de la buse de distribution,
• un canal d'admission de produit en communication avec le canal central de la buse de distribution par une ouverture d'admission du canal central, de sorte à définir une portion de distribution du canal central entre l'ouverture d'admission et l'ouverture de distribution du canal central,
• une tige d'obturation au moins partiellement accueillie dans le canal central et apte à se déplacer selon la direction verticale dans le canal central entre au moins
  • ∘ une position ouverte dans laquelle ladite tige d'obturation laisse libre la portion de distribution du canal central de sorte à autoriser un écoulement de produit du canal d'admission à l'ouverture de distribution, et
  • ∘ une position fermée dans laquelle ladite tige d'obturation obture la portion de distribution du canal central de sorte à empêcher un écoulement de produit du canal d'admission à l'ouverture de distribution,
• des moyens de déplacement de la tige d'obturation apte à déplacer la tige d'obturation entre au moins la position ouverte et la position fermée.

To fill a food jar with this type of food product, the known jar filling devices include, for example

• at least one distribution nozzle extending in a vertical direction and terminated by a lower end, the distribution nozzle comprising a central channel extending in the vertical direction and terminated by a distribution opening at the lower end of the nozzle of distribution,
• a product inlet channel in communication with the central channel of the dispensing nozzle via an inlet opening of the central channel, so as to define a dispensing portion of the central channel between the inlet opening and the opening central channel distribution,
• a shutter rod at least partially accommodated in the central channel and able to move in the vertical direction in the central channel between at least
  • ∘ an open position in which said closure rod leaves the distribution portion of the central channel free so as to allow product flow from the intake channel to the distribution opening, and
  • ∘ a closed position in which said shutter rod closes the distribution portion of the central channel so as to prevent a flow of product from the inlet channel to the distribution opening,
• means for moving the shutter rod capable of moving the shutter rod between at least the open position and the closed position.

Such a filling device makes it possible to fill a pot and to dose a desired quantity of product in the pot. Such a device is for example illustrated in the document FR3021715 .

A method for filling pots using such a device for filling pots is for example implemented as follows.

A pot is brought and maintained vertically and facing the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle.

Then, the closure rod is brought into an open position in which said closure rod leaves the distribution portion of the central channel free so as to allow a flow of product from the inlet channel to the distribution opening, and the pot is filled with a product flowing through the dispensing opening of the nozzle.

When a desired quantity of product is present in the pot, the shutter rod is brought into a closed position in which said shutter rod closes the distribution portion of the central channel so as to stop a flow of product from the channel. 'admission at the opening of distribution.

Finally, the pot is moved away from the vertical of the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle and the pot is evacuated.

In practice, a device for filling pots may include several dispensing nozzles so as to fill several pots at the same time, said dispensing nozzles being for example mounted on a frame. The pots can be separated from each other or form a plate of pots secured to each other.

Once the process is complete, one can bring in another set of pots or single pot and repeat the process.

However, such a method and such a filling device have drawbacks.

In fact, when the closure rod is brought into the closed position, residual product may remain present in the central channel of the dispensing nozzle, in particular at the level of the dispensing opening, or on the lower end of the dispenser. shutter rod if it protrudes from the dispensing opening. This may result from the more or less viscous and sticky nature of the dosed product or simply from the effect of the surface tension of the product.

This residual product may fall onto the collar of the filled pot when the latter is discharged or onto, or into, the following pot when the latter is brought vertically to the dispensing opening.

Such an uncontrolled fall of residual product can cause both technical problems, for example poor sealing of the lid of the pot, and qualitative problems, for example the presence of a product X in a pot supposed to contain a product Y and / or a presence of drop on the rim of pot Y.

The problem underlying the invention is therefore to provide a method and a device for filling jars which reduces or avoids the presence of residual product after filling the jar, in particular at the level of the dispensing opening or on the lower end of the shutter rod. The invention also aims to make it possible to fill pots of all sizes and in particular of small dimensions. The invention also aims to provide such a method and such a conveying device which are inexpensive and easily adaptable.

• au moins une buse de distribution s'étendant selon une direction verticale et terminée par une extrémité inférieure, la buse de distribution comportant un canal central s'étendant selon la direction verticale et terminé par une ouverture de distribution à l'extrémité inférieure de la buse de distribution,
• un canal d'admission de produit en communication avec le canal central de la buse de distribution par une ouverture d'admission du canal central, de sorte à définir une portion de distribution du canal central entre l'ouverture d'admission et l'ouverture de distribution du canal central,
• une tige d'obturation au moins partiellement accueillie dans le canal central et apte à se déplacer selon la direction verticale dans le canal central,
• des moyens de déplacement de la tige d'obturation apte à déplacer la tige d'obturation,
  on amène et on maintient un pot à la verticale et en regard de l'ouverture de distribution de la buse de distribution,
  on amène la tige d'obturation dans une position ouverte dans laquelle ladite tige d'obturation laisse libre la portion de distribution du canal central de sorte à autoriser un écoulement de produit du canal d'admission à l'ouverture de distribution, et on remplit le pot avec un produit s'écoulant par l'ouverture de distribution de la buse de distribution,
  lorsqu'une quantité souhaitée de produit est présente dans le pot, on amène la tige d'obturation dans une position fermée dans laquelle ladite tige d'obturation obture la portion de distribution du canal central de sorte à arrêter un écoulement de produit du canal d'admission à l'ouverture de distribution.

To this end, the first subject of the invention is a method for filling pots in which,
there is a device for filling pots, for example yoghurt pots, comprising

• at least one distribution nozzle extending in a vertical direction and terminated by a lower end, the distribution nozzle comprising a central channel extending in the vertical direction and terminated by a distribution opening at the lower end of the nozzle of distribution,
• a product inlet channel in communication with the central channel of the dispensing nozzle via an inlet opening of the central channel, so as to define a dispensing portion of the central channel between the inlet opening and the opening central channel distribution,
• a shutter rod at least partially accommodated in the central channel and able to move in the vertical direction in the central channel,
• means for moving the shutter rod capable of moving the shutter rod,
  a pot is brought and maintained vertically and facing the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle,
  the closure rod is brought into an open position in which said closure rod leaves the distribution portion of the central channel free so as to allow a flow of product from the intake channel to the distribution opening, and the pot with a product flowing through the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle,
  when a desired amount of product is present in the pot, the closure rod is brought into a closed position in which said closure rod closes the distribution portion of the central channel so as to stop a flow of product from the channel d 'admission at the opening of distribution.

The method is such that when the desired quantity of product is present in the pot, said quantity of product forming a layer of product in the pot, said layer of product having an upper surface of product facing and vertically above the opening. distribution of the distribution nozzle,
the shutter rod is brought into a contact position in which the shutter rod extends out of the dispensing nozzle through the dispensing opening such that a lower end of the shutter rod comes in contact with the upper surface of the product.

• le pot est du type ayant une paroi de fond, une paroi latérale fermée sur elle-même, et une ouverture de dessus, et, dans la position de contact, la tige d'obturation pénètre à l'intérieur du pot par l'ouverture de dessus, l'extrémité inférieure de la tige d'obturation étant entourée par la paroi latérale du pot;
• lorsque la tige d'obturation est dans la position de contact, la tige d'obturation obture par ailleurs la portion de distribution du canal central de la buse de distribution;
• on amène la tige d'obturation de la position ouverte à la position fermée puis on amène la tige d'obturation de la position fermée à la position de contact au moyen d'un unique mouvement de translation verticale ininterrompu de la tige d'obturation de la position ouverte à la position de contact;
• la buse de distribution ne pénètre pas à l'intérieur du pot au cours de la mise en oeuvre du procédé, en particulier la buse de distribution est immobile par rapport au pot selon la direction verticale pendant qu'on amène la tige d'obturation dans la position ouverte et pendant qu'on remplit le pot avec un produit s'écoulant par l'ouverture de distribution de la buse de distribution;
• la buse de distribution est disposée hors du pot pendant qu'on amène la tige d'obturation dans la position ouverte et pendant qu'on remplit le pot avec un produit s'écoulant par l'ouverture de distribution de la buse de distribution;
• dans la position ouverte de la tige d'obturation, l'extrémité inférieure de la tige d'obturation est accueillie dans le canal central, en particulier accueillie dans une portion de guidage du canal central située en amont de la portion de distribution du canal central;
• dans la position fermée de la tige d'obturation, l'extrémité inférieure de la tige d'obturation est accueillie dans la portion de distribution du canal central ou est disposée hors de la buse de distribution, en particulier disposée hors de la buse de distribution et en proximité de l'extrémité inférieure de la buse de distribution, par exemple disposée hors de la buse de distribution et à une distance de l'extrémité inférieure de la buse de distribution, mesurée selon la direction verticale, inférieure à 2 centimètres;
• après avoir amené la tige d'obturation dans la position de contact,
  on amène la tige d'obturation dans une position de libération dans laquelle la tige d'obturation laisse le pot libre d'être déplacé, en particulier libre d'être déplacé dans un plan horizontal perpendiculaire à la direction verticale et obture la portion de distribution du canal central de sorte à empêcher un écoulement de produit du canal d'admission à l'ouverture de distribution,
  puis, on écarte le pot de la verticale de l'ouverture de distribution de la buse de distribution et on évacue le pot;
• dans la position de libération de la tige d'obturation, l'extrémité inférieure de la tige d'obturation est accueillie dans le canal central de la buse de distribution ou est disposée hors de la buse de distribution, en particulier disposée hors de la buse de distribution et en proximité de l'extrémité inférieure de la buse de distribution, par exemple disposée hors de la buse de distribution et à une distance de libération de l'extrémité inférieure de la buse de distribution, mesurée selon la direction verticale, inférieure à 2 centimètres,
  en particulier, dans la position de libération, la tige d'obturation s'étend hors de la buse de distribution sur une distance de libération inférieure à la distance de contact sur laquelle la tige d'obturation s'étend dans la position de contact;
• la position fermée et la position de libération de la tige d'obturation sont identiques;
• après avoir écarté le pot de la verticale de l'ouverture de distribution de la buse de distribution, on amène un autre pot à la verticale et en regard de l'ouverture de distribution de la buse de distribution et on réitère les étapes du procédé.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, one can optionally also have recourse to one and / or other of the following arrangements:

• the pot is of the type having a bottom wall, a side wall closed on itself, and an opening from above, and, in the contact position, the sealing rod penetrates inside the pot through the opening from above, the lower end of the closure rod being surrounded by the side wall of the pot;
• when the shutter rod is in the contact position, the shutter rod also closes the distribution portion of the central channel of the distribution nozzle;
• the shutter rod is brought from the open position to the closed position then the shutter rod is brought from the closed position to the contact position by means of a single uninterrupted vertical translation movement of the shutter rod of the open position to the contact position;
• the dispensing nozzle does not penetrate inside the pot during the implementation of the method, in particular the dispensing nozzle is stationary relative to the pot in the vertical direction while the closure rod is brought into the open position and while filling the pot with a product flowing through the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle;
• the dispensing nozzle is disposed outside the pot while the closure rod is brought into the open position and while the pot is being filled with a product flowing through the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle;
• in the open position of the shutter rod, the lower end of the shutter rod is received in the central channel, in particular received in a guide portion of the central channel located upstream of the distribution portion of the central channel ;
• in the closed position of the shutter rod, the lower end of the shutter rod is received in the distribution portion of the central channel or is arranged outside the distribution nozzle, in particular arranged outside the dispensing nozzle and in proximity to the lower end of the dispensing nozzle, for example arranged outside the dispensing nozzle and at a distance from the lower end of the dispensing nozzle, measured in the vertical direction, less than 2 centimeters;
• after bringing the shutter rod into the contact position,
  the closure rod is brought into a release position in which the closure rod leaves the pot free to be moved, in particular free to be moved in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction, and the dispensing portion is closed of the central channel so as to prevent a flow of product from the inlet channel to the dispensing opening,
  then, the pot is moved away from the vertical of the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle and the pot is evacuated;
• in the release position of the shutter rod, the lower end of the shutter rod is accommodated in the central channel of the dispensing nozzle or is disposed outside the dispensing nozzle, in particular disposed outside the nozzle distribution and in proximity to the lower end of the distribution nozzle, for example disposed outside the distribution nozzle and at a release distance from the lower end of the distribution nozzle, measured in the vertical direction, less than 2 centimeters,
  in particular, in the release position, the shutter rod extends out of the dispensing nozzle over a release distance less than the contact distance over which the shutter rod extends in the contact position;
• the closed position and the release position of the shutter rod are identical;
• after removing the pot from the vertical of the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle, another pot is brought vertically and facing the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle and the process steps are repeated.

• au moins une buse de distribution s'étendant selon une direction verticale et terminée par une extrémité inférieure, la buse de distribution comportant un canal central s'étendant selon la direction verticale et terminé par une ouverture de distribution à l'extrémité inférieure de la buse de distribution,
• un canal d'admission de produit en communication avec le canal central de la buse de distribution par une ouverture d'admission du canal central, de sorte à définir une portion de distribution du canal central entre l'ouverture d'admission et l'ouverture de distribution du canal central,
• une tige d'obturation au moins partiellement accueillie dans le canal central et apte à se déplacer selon la direction verticale dans le canal central entre au moins
  • ∘ une position ouverte dans laquelle ladite tige d'obturation laisse libre la portion de distribution du canal central de sorte à autoriser un écoulement de produit du canal d'admission à l'ouverture de distribution, et
  • ∘ une position fermée dans laquelle ladite tige d'obturation obture la portion de distribution du canal central de sorte à empêcher un écoulement de produit du canal d'admission à l'ouverture de distribution,
• des moyens de déplacement de la tige d'obturation apte à déplacer la tige d'obturation entre au moins la position ouverte et la position fermée.
  Le dispositif est par ailleurs tel que
• la tige d'obturation est en outre apte à être placée dans une position de contact dans laquelle la tige d'obturation s'étend à travers l'ouverture de distribution hors de la buse de distribution sur une distance de contact-mesurée selon la direction verticale entre l'ouverture de distribution et une extrémité inférieure de la tige d'obturation- supérieure ou égale à un encombrement transversal maximal de la tige d'obturation mesuré dans un plan perpendiculaire à la direction verticale -z),
• les moyens de déplacement de la tige d'obturation sont en outre aptes à amener la tige d'obturation dans la position de contact.

The subject of the invention is also a device for filling pots, for example yoghurt pots, for the implementation of a method as detailed above, the device comprising

• at least one distribution nozzle extending in a vertical direction and terminated by a lower end, the distribution nozzle comprising a central channel extending in the vertical direction and terminated by a distribution opening at the lower end of the nozzle of distribution,
• a product inlet channel in communication with the central channel of the dispensing nozzle via an inlet opening of the central channel, so as to define a dispensing portion of the central channel between the inlet opening and the opening central channel distribution,
• a shutter rod at least partially accommodated in the central channel and able to move in the vertical direction in the central channel between at least
  • ∘ an open position in which said closure rod leaves the distribution portion of the central channel free so as to allow product flow from the intake channel to the distribution opening, and
  • ∘ a closed position in which said shutter rod closes the distribution portion of the central channel so as to prevent a flow of product from the inlet channel to the distribution opening,
• means for moving the shutter rod capable of moving the shutter rod between at least the open position and the closed position.
  The device is also such that
• the shutter rod is further adapted to be placed in a contact position in which the shutter rod extends through the dispensing opening out of the dispensing nozzle over a contact distance-measured along the direction vertical between the distribution opening and a lower end of the shutter rod - greater than or equal to a maximum transverse space requirement of the shutter rod measured in a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction -z),
• the means for moving the shutter rod are also able to bring the shutter rod into the contact position.

• dans la position de contact, la tige d'obturation s'étend hors de la buse de distribution sur une distance de contact supérieure ou égale à deux fois l'encombrement transversal maximal de la tige d'obturation;
• la tige d'obturation comporte, en amont de l'extrémité inférieure une portion d'obturation cylindrique adaptée pour obturer la portion de distribution du canal central de la buse de distribution lorsque la tige d'obturation est dans la position de contact et dans la position fermée, en particulier la portion d'obturation cylindrique est adaptée pour obturer l'ouverture d'admission du canal central lorsque la tige d'obturation est dans la position de contact et dans la position fermée;
• entre la position fermée et la position de contact la tige d'obturation se déplace sur une distance d'extension selon la direction verticale, et la portion d'obturation cylindrique de la tige d'obturation s'étend selon la direction verticale sur une longueur d'extension supérieure ou égale à ladite distance d'extension:
  • une section de la portion d'obturation cylindrique de la tige d'obturation, considérée perpendiculairement à la direction verticale, est sensiblement identique à une section de la portion de distribution du canal central de la buse de distribution;
  • la buse de distribution s'étend selon la direction verticale sur une longueur d'extension de buse, la tige d'obturation s'étend selon la direction verticale sur une longueur d'extension de tige, et la longueur d'extension de tige est supérieure à la longueur d'extension de buse, de préférence la longueur d'extension de tige est supérieure à la longueur d'extension de buse d'au moins une fois l'encombrement transversal maximal de la tige d'obturation, encore plus préférentiellement la longueur d'extension de tige est supérieure à la longueur d'extension de buse d'au moins deux fois l'encombrement transversal maximal de la tige d'obturation;
  • dans la position de contact, la tige d'obturation s'étend hors de la buse de distribution sur une distance de contact supérieure ou égale à 5 centimètres, de préférence supérieure ou égale à 7 centimètres;
  • l'extrémité inférieure de la tige d'obturation présente une forme conique, de préférence terminée par une pointe arrondie;
  • la tige d'obturation ne comporte pas d'ouvertures de distribution, en particulier la tige d'obturation est pleine.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, one can optionally also have recourse to one and / or other of the following arrangements:

• in the contact position, the shutter rod extends outside the dispensing nozzle over a contact distance greater than or equal to twice the maximum transverse size of the shutter rod;
• the shutter rod comprises, upstream of the lower end, a cylindrical shutter portion adapted to shut off the distribution portion of the central channel of the distribution nozzle when the shutter rod is in the contact position and in the closed position, in particular the cylindrical closure portion is adapted to close the inlet opening of the central channel when the closure rod is in the contact position and in the closed position;
• between the closed position and the contact position the shutter rod moves over an extension distance in the vertical direction, and the cylindrical shutter portion of the shutter rod extends in the vertical direction over a length extension greater than or equal to said extension distance:
  • a section of the cylindrical closure portion of the closure rod, considered perpendicular to the vertical direction, is substantially identical to a section of the distribution portion of the central channel of the distribution nozzle;
  • the dispensing nozzle extends in the vertical direction over a nozzle extension length, the shutter rod extends in the vertical direction over a rod extension length, and the rod extension length is greater than the nozzle extension length, preferably the rod extension length is greater than the nozzle extension length by at least once the maximum transverse bulk of the shutter rod, even more preferably the rod extension length is greater than the nozzle extension length by at least twice the maximum transverse bulk of the shutter rod;
  • in the contact position, the shutter rod extends outside the dispensing nozzle over a contact distance greater than or equal to 5 centimeters, preferably greater than or equal to 7 centimeters;
  • the lower end of the closure rod has a conical shape, preferably terminated by a rounded tip;
  • the shutter rod does not have distribution openings, in particular the shutter rod is solid.

• des moyens de réalisation de pots, apte à mettre en forme une feuille plastique pour obtenir au moins un pot du type ayant une paroi de fond, une paroi latérale fermée sur elle-même et une ouverture de dessus,
• un dispositif de remplissage de pots tel que détaillé ci-avant,
• des moyens de convoyage et de maintien aptes à amener et à maintenir au moins un pot à la verticale et en regard de l'ouverture de distribution d'au moins une buse de distribution du dispositif de remplissage de pots, à écarter ledit pot de la verticale de ladite ouverture de distribution de la buse de distribution et à évacuer ledit pot.

The subject of the invention is also a line for packaging jars which comprises:

• means for producing pots, capable of shaping a plastic sheet to obtain at least one pot of the type having a bottom wall, a side wall closed on itself and an opening from above,
• a jar filling device as detailed above,
• conveying and holding means suitable for bringing and maintaining at least one pot vertically and facing the dispensing opening of at least one dispensing nozzle of the device for filling pots, to move said pot away from the vertical of said dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle and discharging said pot.

According to one embodiment, the means for producing jars, the jar filling device and the conveying and holding means are arranged so that a spacing, measured in the vertical direction, between, on the one hand, the opening from above a pot brought and maintained vertically and facing the dispensing opening of at least one dispensing nozzle of the device, and on the other hand, the lower end of said dispensing nozzle is lower at the contact distance over which the shutter rod extends in the contact position, so that the shutter rod in the contact position enters the interior of the pot through the opening from above, the lower end of the closure rod being surrounded by the side wall of the pot.

• la figure 1 représente en vue de côté en coupe, une buse de distribution et une tige d'obturation d'un dispositif de remplissage de pots conforme à l'invention, avec la tige d'obturation dans une position ouverte ;
• la figure 2 est une vue de détail du dispositif de remplissage de pot de la figure 1 ;
• la figure 3 représente en vue de côté en coupe, une buse de distribution et une tige d'obturation d'un dispositif de remplissage de pots conforme à l'invention avec la tige d'obturation dans une position fermée ;
• la figure 4 est une vue de détail du dispositif de remplissage de pot de la figure 3 ;
• la figure 5 représente en vue de côté en coupe, une buse de distribution et une tige d'obturation d'un dispositif de remplissage de pots conforme à l'invention avec la tige d'obturation dans une position de contact ;
• la figure 6 est une vue de détail du dispositif de remplissage de pot de la figure 5 dans laquelle la tige d'obturation est illustrée dans la position de contact par des traits pleins et dans la position fermée par des traits pointillés ;
• la figure 7 représente en vue de côté en coupe, une ligne de conditionnement de pot comprenant des moyens de réalisation de pots, des moyens de convoyage et de maintien et un dispositif de remplissage de pots conforme à l'invention avec la tige d'obturation dans une position de libération.
• Les figures 8A et 8B représentent une vue de perspective et de face d'un dispositif de remplissage de pots conforme à l'invention.
• La figure 9 est une vue en coupe du dispositif de remplissage de pots des figures 8A et 8B.

The invention will be better understood and other objects, advantages and characteristics thereof will emerge more clearly on reading the description which follows and which is given with regard to the appended drawings, in which:

• the figure 1 shows a side view in section, a dispensing nozzle and a closure rod of a device for filling pots according to the invention, with the closure rod in an open position;
• the figure 2 is a detail view of the jar filling device of the figure 1 ;
• the figure 3 shows in side sectional view a dispensing nozzle and a closing rod of a device for filling pots according to the invention with the closing rod in a closed position;
• the figure 4 is a detail view of the jar filling device of the figure 3 ;
• the figure 5 shows a side view in section, a dispensing nozzle and a closure rod of a device for filling pots according to the invention with the closure rod in a contact position;
• the figure 6 is a detail view of the jar filling device of the figure 5 wherein the shutter rod is illustrated in the contact position by solid lines and in the closed position by dotted lines;
• the figure 7 shows a side sectional view of a pot packaging line comprising means for producing pots, conveying and holding means and a device for filling pots according to the invention with the closure rod in a position release.
• The figures 8A and 8B show a perspective and front view of a device for filling pots according to the invention.
• The figure 9 is a sectional view of the device for filling pots of figures 8A and 8B .

The figure 1 illustrates a dispensing nozzle 2 and a closing rod 3 of a device 1 for filling pots according to the invention, for example as shown in the figures 8A and 8B .

The dispensing nozzle 2 extending in a vertical direction Z and is terminated by a lower end 2a.

In the following description, when reference is made to position qualifiers such as the terms “high”, “high”, “low”, “upstream”, “downstream”, “above”, “below”, “ upper ”,“ lower ”,“ radial ”or,“ axial ”, these terms are defined with respect to the vertical direction Z unless otherwise indicated.

Unless otherwise specified, the expressions "approximately", "substantially", "approximately", "of the order of", etc. mean that a slight variation compared to the nominal value considered is possible, in particular by a small percentage, in particular to within 10%.

The distribution nozzle 2 comprises a central channel 4. The central channel 4 extends in the vertical direction Z and is terminated by a distribution opening 4a at the lower end 2a of the distribution nozzle 2.

The distribution nozzle 2 can have a shape of revolution, for example cylindrical and can be mounted on a frame by shrinking or screwing, for example a frame accommodating several distribution nozzles 2.

The device 1 comprises a product inlet channel 5. The product inlet channel 5 may be an integral part of the dispensing nozzle 2 or be formed by an additional part fixed to the dispensing nozzle 2.

The product intake channel 5 is in communication with the central channel 4 of the dispensing nozzle through an intake opening 4b of the central channel 4.

A distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4 is thus defined between the intake opening 4b and the distribution opening 4a.

The closure rod 3 extends substantially in the vertical direction Z and is terminated by a lower end 3a.

The closure rod 3 is at least partially received in the central channel 4 of the dispensing nozzle 2. The closure rod 3 is able to move in the vertical direction Z in the central channel 4, for example by sliding. The closure rod 3 can for example be centered and held in the dispensing nozzle by guide orifices arranged in the central channel 4.

The shutter rod 3 is able to move in the vertical direction Z between an open position, a closed position and a contact position. The shutter rod 3 can also be adapted to move into a release position, said release position being able to be identical to the closed position, as described below.

The open, closed, contact and release positions of the shutter rod 3 are successively illustrated for example on the figures 1 , 3 , 5 and 7 .

These positions of the closing rod 3 can in particular be ordered from top to bottom as follows: open position then closed position and release position, then contact position. In this way, in the open position the shutter rod is in its highest position, and in the contact position, the shutter rod is in its lowest position. The closed and release positions are therefore intermediate positions between the open position and the contact position, where appropriate identical intermediate positions as indicated below.

For this, the device 1 further comprises a frame 63 on which are mounted one or more dispensing nozzle (s) 2 as well as one or more associated shutter rod (s) 3 as well as displacement means 6 of the shutter rod 3 which are illustrated in more detail on the figures 8A , 8B and 9 .

The displacement means 6 are able to move the shutter rod 2 between the open, closed, contact and, where appropriate, release positions. The means 6 for moving the shutter rod comprise, for example, robots controlled by a control unit or between a belt powered by an electric motor (not shown) and connecting rods making it possible, for example, to convert a circular movement into a movement of translation. The displacement means 6 generate, for example, a vertical translational movement of the shutter rod 3.

An exemplary embodiment of the means of movement is shown in the figures 8A , 8B and 9 . In this embodiment, the displacement means 6 comprise a motor 60 controlling at least one shaft 65. Toothed wheels 65a placed on the shaft cooperate with racks 61a formed in the lower part of the control cams 61 of the rods. shutter 3 as shown on figure 9 .

The control cams 61 extend vertically and are guided by the frame 63 of the jar filling device 1 so as to be able to move in vertical translation along the Z axis. The rods shutters 3 are fixed to the control cams by an upper retaining plate 62 visible on the figure 8B . The distribution nozzles 2 are also fixed to the frame 63, for example by means of pylons 64 of the frame 63 illustrated in the figure. figure 8B especially.

Rotation of the shaft 65 thus makes it possible to move the closure rods 3 relative to the distribution nozzles 2 in the vertical direction between the open, closed, contact and, where appropriate, release positions. In this way, advantageously, the motor 60 and the shaft 65 of the displacement means 6 can be placed below the device while controlling the movement of the shutter rods 3 by their upper part, by means of the control cams. 61 and the upper retaining plate 62. In this way also, it is possible to obtain a large amplitude of vertical movement of the shutter rods 3 while limiting the size of the device 1.

To be fixed to the displacement means 6, the shutter rod 3 may comprise an upper end 3c accommodated in a gripping element of the displacement means 6, for example by means of a groove.

The closure rod 3 can in particular be cylindrical except at its lower end 3a and its upper end 3c, in particular cylindrical of revolution.

The shutter rod 3 is shown on the figures 1 and 2 in the open position. In the open position, the closure rod 3 leaves the dispensing portion 4c of the central channel 4 free. In this way, a flow of product is permitted from the inlet channel 5 to the dispensing opening 4a, via the opening. inlet 4b of the central channel 4.

In the open position, the shutter rod 3 is for example received in the central channel 4. More precisely, as illustrated in FIG. figure 1 , the central channel 4 has for example a guide portion 4d located upstream of the distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4, visible in particular on the figure 2 .

By "a guide portion located upstream of the distribution portion" is meant in particular that the guide portion is located above the distribution portion, or is further from the distribution opening of the central channel than the distribution portion. The guide portion may in particular be a portion of the central channel that is not intended to receive product, even if its lower end may sometimes be in contact with product rising from the dispensing portion, in particular when the sealing rod rises in the nozzle above the intake opening.

In the open position of the shutter rod 3, the lower end 3a of the shutter rod 3 is thus for example received in the guide portion 4d of the central channel 4 and leaves the distribution portion 4c free of obstacle. central channel 4.

The figures 3 and 4 illustrate the shutter rod 3 in the closed position. In the closed position, the shutter rod 3 closes off the distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4 so as to prevent a flow of product from the intake channel 5 to the distribution opening 4a, via the intake opening. 4b of the central channel 4.

In the closed position of the shutter rod 3, the lower end 3a of the shutter rod 3 can for example be accommodated in the distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4.

As a variant, the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 can be arranged outside the dispensing nozzle 2, in particular arranged outside the dispensing nozzle 2 and in proximity to the lower end 2a of the dispensing nozzle. 2.

Thus, the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 can for example be placed outside the dispensing nozzle 2 and at a distance from the lower end 2a of the dispensing nozzle 2, measured in the vertical direction Z, less than 2 centimeters, preferably less than 15 millimeters.

More precisely, the closure rod 3 may comprise, upstream of the lower end 3a, a cylindrical closure portion 3b adapted to close the distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4 of the distribution nozzle 2 when the rod d The shutter is in the contact position and in the closed position.

In one embodiment, the closure portion 3b may have a shape suitable for closing the intake opening 4b of the central channel 4 when the closure rod is in the contact position and in the closed position. The closure portion 3b may for example have the shape of a cylinder of revolution. The intake opening 4b can then have the shape of a disc.

In a variant, possibly combinable with the embodiment described above, a section of the closure portion 3b, considered perpendicular to the vertical direction Z, can be substantially identical to a section of the distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4, in particular substantially identical with a sufficiently reduced radial clearance to guarantee correct sealing between the dispensing nozzle 2 and the shutter rod 3.

By "a section of the closure portion may be substantially identical to a section of the distribution portion" is meant in particular that the section of the closure portion may have dimensions sufficiently close to the dimensions of a section of the distribution portion to prevent the passage of the product when said sections are coaxial and brought into correspondence in the vertical direction Z.

The figures 5 and 6 illustrate the shutter rod 3 in the contact position.

In the contact position, the closing rod 3 extends out of the dispensing nozzle 2 through the dispensing opening 4a of the central channel 4.

More precisely, in the contact position, the shutter rod 3 extends through the dispensing opening 4a outside the dispensing nozzle 2 over a contact distance C greater than or equal to a maximum transverse bulk D of the shutter rod 3.

The contact distance C is for example measured in the vertical direction Z between the dispensing opening 4a and a lower end 3a of the shutter rod 3.

The maximum transverse size D of the shutter rod 3 is measured in a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction Z. The maximum transverse space D of the shutter rod 3 can thus for example correspond to a larger diameter of the shutter rod 3. In one embodiment, the maximum transverse size of the shutter rod 3 can in particular be achieved at the location of the shutter portion 3b. In this way, it is understood in particular that the closure rod 3 extends through the dispensing opening 4a outside the dispensing nozzle 2 so as to no longer be in close proximity to the dispensing opening 4a.

Thus in particular, in one embodiment, the shutter rod, in the contact position, can extend outside the dispensing nozzle 2 over a contact distance C greater than or equal to twice the maximum transverse size D of the shutter rod 2, preferably at least four times greater than the maximum bulk.

These arrangements make it possible in particular to bring the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 into contact with the upper surface of the product after filling the pot 2, without moving the dispensing nozzle 2, during a pot filling process. according to the invention.

The transverse size D of the closure rod 2 is for example 15 or 18 mm, the contact distance C can for example be of the order of 100 mm, in particular in the case of a pot containing a bed of heterogeneous product like jam, and of the order of 37 millimeters in the case of a complete filling of the jar.

In one embodiment of the invention, in the contact position, the shutter rod 3 thus extends outside the dispensing nozzle 2 over a contact distance C greater than or equal to 5 centimeters, preferably greater than or equal to equal to 7 centimeters.

Furthermore, between the closed position and the contact position, the shutter rod 3 can in particular move over an extension distance E in the vertical direction Z. The cylindrical shutter portion 3b of the shutter rod 3 can then extend in the vertical direction Z over an extension length L greater than or equal to said extension distance E.

In this way in particular, when the shutter rod 3 is in the contact position, the shutter rod 3 furthermore closes the distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4 of the distribution nozzle 2, that is to say. say that the cylindrical closure portion 3b is thus adapted to close the distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4 of the distribution nozzle 2 when the closure rod is in the contact position and in the closed position.

Thus in particular, the dispensing nozzle 2 can for example extend in the vertical direction Z over a length of nozzle extension B and the shutter rod 3 can for example extend in the vertical direction Z over a length d 'T.

The rod extension length T can then be greater than the nozzle extension length B, and preferably greater than the nozzle extension length B by at least once a maximum transverse bulk D of the rod d. 'shutter 3. Even more preferably, the rod extension length T can be greater than the nozzle extension length B by at least twice the maximum transverse bulk D of the shutter rod 3.

Finally, the closing rod 3 can also be brought into a release position illustrated on the figure. figure 7 .

In one embodiment of the release position of the shutter rod 3, the lower end 3a of the shutter rod 3 is received in the central channel 4 of the dispensing nozzle 2. In this way, the end lower 3a of the closure rod 3 does not protrude from the dispensing nozzle 2, which makes it possible in particular to move a pot present vertically above the dispensing nozzle 2 without the risk of striking the shutter rod 3.

In a variant of the release position of the shutter rod 3, the lower end 3a of the shutter rod 3 is disposed outside the dispensing nozzle 2, in particular disposed outside the dispensing nozzle 2 and in near the lower end 2a of the dispensing nozzle 2.

Thus, for example, the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 can be placed outside the dispensing nozzle 2 and at a distance of release from the lower end 2a of the dispensing nozzle 2, measured in the vertical direction Z , less than 2 centimeters, preferably less than 15 millimeters.

In general, in the release position, the shutter rod 3 extends out of the dispensing nozzle 2 over a release distance less than the contact distance C over which the shutter rod 3 extends in. the contact position.

In one embodiment of the invention, the closed position and the release position of the closure rod 3 may in particular be identical.

Such a filling device 1 can in particular be integrated into a packaging line for pots 10 which further comprises means for producing pots 7 and means for conveying and holding 8.

The means for producing pots 7 are suitable for shaping a plastic sheet to obtain at least one pot 9, for example of the type having a bottom wall 9a, a side wall 9b closed on itself and a top opening 9c .

Such means for producing pots 7 are known elsewhere and comprise, for example, a machine for shaping a plastic sheet and a cutting machine. The machine for shaping a plastic sheet comprises, for example, suitable molds, sheet guide rollers and any device for making a pot known from elsewhere.

The conveying and holding means 8 are suitable, firstly, to bring and maintain at least one pot 9 vertically and facing the dispensing opening 4a of at least one dispensing nozzle 2 of the device 1. The conveying and holding means 8 are able, secondly, to move said pot 9 away from the vertical of said distribution opening 4a of the distribution nozzle 2 and to evacuate said pot 9.

Such conveying and holding means 8 are known elsewhere and include, for example, jacks, movable plates, cams, suction cups, guides, robots.

Such a filling device 1 and such a line for packaging jars 10 may in particular be intended to implement a method for filling jars according to the invention which will now be described in more detail.

In such a method, there is first of all a device 1 for filling jars as described above, optionally integrated into a packaging line for jars 10 as described above.

A pot 9 is then brought and maintained vertically and facing the dispensing opening 4a of the dispensing nozzle 2. For this, for example, the conveying and holding means 8 of a line of packaging of pots 10 as described above.

Then, the shutter rod 3 is brought into the open position, and the pot 9 is filled with a product flowing through the dispensing opening 4a of the dispensing nozzle 2.

Advantageously, the dispensing nozzle 2 is placed outside the pot 9 while the closure rod 3 is brought into the open position and while the pot 9 is filled with a product flowing through the dispensing opening 4a. of the nozzle 2. In this way, it is possible to fill pots of any size, without constraints on the diameter of the dispensing opening of the dispensing nozzle and therefore without constraints on the contents of the pot, in particular solid products. like fruits, dried products, etc ...

More generally, the dispensing nozzle 2 can advantageously not penetrate inside the pot 9 during the whole of the implementation of the method.

Thus, for example, the dispensing nozzle 2 can remain stationary relative to the pot 9 in the vertical direction Z while the closure rod 3 is brought into the open position and while the pot 9 is filled with a product s 'flowing through the dispensing opening 4a.

When a desired quantity of product is present in the pot 9, the sealing rod 3 is brought into the closed position so as to stop filling the pot 9.

We then obtain the situation illustrated on the figures 5 and 6 in which the desired amount of product is present in the pot 9.

By "desired quantity of product" is meant a quantity of product previously chosen by an operator, for example a quantity of product completely filling the pot, leaving a margin allowing movement of the open pot without burrs and / or transport of the jar without burrs. of the product on a lid of the jar. One can also hear a quantity of product less than a quantity of product completely filling the pot, for example if the pot is intended to contain a multilayer content, in particular a heterogeneous content.

When the desired quantity of product is present in the pot, said quantity of product then forms a layer of product 11 in the pot 9 as illustrated in figure 4 . Said layer of product 11 has an upper surface of product 11a facing and vertically from the dispensing opening 4a of the dispensing nozzle 2.

As shown on figures 5 and 6 , the shutter rod 3 is then brought into the contact position in which the shutter rod 3 extends out of the dispensing nozzle 2 through the dispensing opening 4a so that the lower end 3a of the shutter rod 3 comes into contact with the upper product surface 11a.

In the example of figure 5 , the pot 9 is of the type having a bottom wall 9a, a side wall 9b closed on itself, and a top opening 9c. In the contact position, the shutter rod 3 thus penetrates the interior of the pot 9 by the top opening 9c, the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 being surrounded by the side wall 9b of the pot 9.

In this particular case, the packaging line for pots 10 may be such that a distance A, measured in the vertical direction Z, between, on the one hand, the top opening 9c of a pot 9 brought in and maintained. vertically and facing the distribution opening 4a of the distribution nozzle 2 of the device 1, and on the other hand, the lower end 2a of said distribution nozzle 2, is less than the contact distance C on which extends the shutter rod 3 in the contact position.

For this, the pot making means 7 can be arranged to make empty pots 9 of height P while the pot filling device 1 and the conveying and holding means 8 can be arranged to be respectively spaced apart. on the other by a minimum distance M, in the vertical direction. The height P and the distance M can be such that M - P> C.

In this way, the closure rod 3, in the contact position, enters the interior of the pot 9 through the top opening 9c, the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 being surrounded by the wall. side 9b of the pot 9.

As indicated above and illustrated on the figures 3 and 4 , when the shutter rod 3 is brought from the open position to the closed position, residual product 12 may remain present in the central channel 4 of the dispensing nozzle 2, in particular at the level of the dispensing opening 4a, or on the lower end 3a of the shutter rod 3.

When the shutter rod 3 is then brought from the closed position to the contact position shown in the figure figure 5 , the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 runs through the entire distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4. The closure rod 3 then removes any residual product that may be present in the central channel 4 of the nozzle. distribution 2, said residual product 12 being found where appropriate at the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3.

Then, when the lower end 3a of the sealing rod 3 comes into contact with the upper surface of product 11a, the residual product 12 possibly present at the lower end 3a of the sealing rod 3 coalesces or merges with the product layer 11 in the pot 9, under the effect of the surface tension and leaves the lower end 3a of the sealing rod 3.

In this way, the presence of residual product in the central channel 4 or on the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 is avoided and the phenomenon of parasitic dripping is thus reduced.

To this end, the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 has, according to the invention, a shape suitable for reducing the presence of residual product on the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 and, in particular to reduce the contact surface of the residual product. Thus, for example, the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 may have a conical shape. Said conical shape is for example terminated by a rounded point as illustrated on figure 1 .

Likewise, in an advantageous embodiment, the closure rod 3 can be solid. Thus, for example, the closure rod 3 may not include distribution openings. In this way too, the presence of residual product on the closure rod 3 can be reduced.

Furthermore, it is advantageously possible to bring the shutter rod from the open position to the closed position and then from the closed position to the contact position by means of a single uninterrupted vertical translational movement of the shutter rod of the position. open to the contact position. In this way, the presence of residual product in the central channel 4 or on the lower end 3a of the closure rod 3 is even further avoided. In this way also, the rate of operation of the device and of the setting up is also accelerated. implementation of the process.

During a subsequent step, the shutter rod 3 can then be brought into a release position illustrated on the figure. figure 7 .

In the release position, the shutter rod 3 leaves the pot 9 free to be moved, in particular free to be moved in a horizontal plane H perpendicular to the vertical direction Z. In the release position, the rod d 'closure 3 thus does not penetrate inside the pot 9 and is in particular above the top opening 9c of the pot 9.

Furthermore, in the release position, the closure rod 3 also closes the distribution portion 4c of the central channel 4 so as to prevent a flow of product from the intake channel 5 to the distribution opening 4a.

We can then move the pot 9 from the vertical of the dispensing opening 4a of the dispensing nozzle 2 and remove the pot 9.

Finally, after having moved the pot 9 from the vertical of the dispensing opening 4a, it is possible to bring another pot 9, for example an empty pot or one not containing the product dispensed by the dispensing nozzle, vertically and in sight of the dispensing opening 4a of the dispensing nozzle 2.

For this, for example, the conveying and holding means 8 of a container packaging line 10 as described above are used.

The steps of the process can then be repeated to obtain a flow of outgoing jars each containing the desired quantity of product.

Claims (23)

1. A method for filling cups wherein
   There is a device for filling cups, for example cups of yogurt, comprising:

   • At least one distribution nozzle (2) extending along a vertical direction (Z) and ending in a lower end (2a), where the distribution nozzle (2) comprises a central channel (4) extending along the vertical direction and ending in a distribution opening (4a) at the lower end (2a) of the distribution nozzle (2);

   • A product intake channel (5) connecting with the central channel (4) of the distribution nozzle (2) through an intake opening (4b) of the central channel, so as to define a distribution portion (4c) of the central channel between the intake opening (4b) and the distribution opening (4a) of the central channel;

   • A blocking rod (3) at least partially received in the central channel (4) and movable along the vertical direction (Z) in the central channel:

   • Means for movement (6) of the blocking rod able to move the blocking rod (3);

   - A cup (9) is brought and held vertically with and opposite the distribution opening (4a) of the distribution nozzle;

   - The blocking rod (3) is brought down into an open position in which said blocking rod leaves the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel free so as to allow a flow of product from the intake channel (5) to the distribution opening (4a); and the cup is filled with the product flowing through the distribution opening (4a) of the distribution nozzle:

   - When a preferred quantity of product is present in the cup (9), the blocking rod (3) is brought into a closed position in which said blocking rod (3) blocks the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel so as to stop flow of product from the intake channel (5) to the distribution opening (4a),
   the method being characterized in that when the preferred quantity of product is present in the cup, said quantity of product forming a layer of product (11) in the cup, said layer of product has a product upper-surface (11a) opposite from and vertically with the distribution opening (4a) of the distribution nozzle;

   - The blocking rod (3) is brought into a contact position in which the blocking rod extends out of the distribution nozzle (2) through the distribution opening (4a) such that a lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3) comes in the contact with the product upper-surface (11a), the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3) having a shape suited for reducing the presence of residual product on the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3), the method allowing to reduce or avoid the presence of residual product after filling a cup (9), in particular near the distribution opening (4a) or on the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3).
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the cup (9) is of the type having a bottom wall (9a), a lateral wall (9b) closed on itself, and a top opening (9c), and, in the contact position, the blocking rod (3) enters inside the cup by the top opening (9c) and the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3) is surrounded by the lateral wall (9b) of the cup.
3. The method according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein when the blocking rod (3) is in the contact position, the blocking rod further blocks the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel (4) of the distribution nozzle (2).
4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein, the blocking rod (3) is brought from the open position to the closed position and then the blocking rod is brought from the closed position to the contact position by means of a single, uninterrupted movement of vertical translation of the blocking rod from the open position to the contact position.
5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein, the distribution nozzle (2) does not go inside the cup (9) during implementation of the method, in particular wherein the distribution nozzle (2) is immobile relative to the cup along the vertical direction (Z) while the blocking rod is brought into the open position and while the cup (9) is filled with a product flowing through the distribution opening (4a) of the distribution nozzle.
6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein, the nozzle (2) is arranged outside the cup (9) while the blocking rod (3) is brought into the open position and while the cup (9) is filled with a product flowing through the distribution opening (4a) of the distribution nozzle.
7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein, in the open position of the blocking rod (3), the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3) is received in the central channel (4), in particular received in a guiding portion (4d) of the central channel located upstream from the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel.
8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein, in the closed position of the blocking rod (3), the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod is received in the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel or is arranged outside of the distribution nozzle (2), in particular arranged outside of the distribution nozzle and near the lower end (2a) of the distribution nozzle, for example arranged outside the distribution nozzle and at a distance of less than 2 cm from the lower end (2a) of the distribution nozzle, measured along the vertical direction.
9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein, after having brought the blocking rod (3) into the contact position:

   - The blocking rod (3) is brought into a released position in which the blocking rod leaves the cup (9) free to be moved, in particular free to be moved in a horizontal plane (H) perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z) and blocks the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel so as to prevent a flow of product from the intake channel (5) to the distribution opening (4a);

   - then, the cup (9) is moved aside from the vertical of the distribution opening (4a) of the distribution nozzle and the cup is cleared.
10. The method according to claim 9, wherein in the released position of the blocking rod (3), the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod is received in the central channel (4) of the distribution nozzle or is arranged outside of the distribution nozzle (2), in particular arranged outside of the distribution nozzle and near the lower end (2a) of the distribution nozzle, for example arranged outside the distribution nozzle and at a distance of less than 2 cm from the lower end (2a) of the distribution nozzle, measured along the vertical direction,
    in particular wherein, in the released position, the blocking rod extends outside the distribution nozzle over a release distance less than the contact distance (C) over which the blocking rod extends in the contact position.
11. The method according to any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein the closed position and the released position of the blocking rod (3) are identical.
12. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein after moving aside the cup (9) from the vertical of the distribution opening (4a) of the distribution nozzle, another cup (9) is brought vertically with and opposite the distribution opening (4a) of the distribution nozzle and the steps of the method are repeated.
13. The device (1) for filling cups (9), for example yogurt cups, for implementing a method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the device allowing to reduce or avoid the presence of residual product after filling a cup (9), in particular near the distribution opening (4a) or on the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3), the device comprising

    • At least one distribution nozzle (2) extending along a vertical direction (Z) and ending in a lower end (2a), where the distribution nozzle comprises a central channel (4) extending along the vertical direction and ending in a distribution opening (4a) at the lower end (2a) of the distribution nozzle;

    • A product intake channel (5) connecting with the central channel (4) of the distribution nozzle through an intake opening (4b) of the central channel, so as to define a distribution portion (4c) of the central channel between the intake opening (4b) and the distribution opening (4a) of the central channel;

    • A blocking rod (3) at least partially received in the central channel (4) and movable along the vertical direction (Z) in the central channel between at least:

    ∘ An open position in which said blocking rod (3) leaves the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel free so as to allow a flow of product from the intake channel (5) to the distribution opening (4a); and

    ∘ A closed position in which said blocking rod (3) blocks the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel (4) so as to prevent a flow of product from the intake channel (5) to the distribution opening (4a);

    • Means for movement (6) of the blocking rod (3) movable between at least the open position and the closed position;
    where the device is characterized in that

    • The blocking rod (3) is further placeable in a contact position in which the blocking rod extends through the distribution opening (4a) outside of the distribution nozzle (2) over a contact distance (C), measured along the vertical direction (Z) between the distribution opening (4a) and the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3), greater than or equal to a maximum transverse dimension (D) of the blocking rod (3) measured in a plane (H) perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z) such that the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3) comes into contact with the product upper-surface (11a), the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3) having a shape suited for reducing the presence of residual product on the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3);

    • The means for moving (6) the blocking rod (3) are further able to bring the blocking rod (3) into the contact position.
14. The device according to claim 13, wherein, in the contact position, the blocking rod (3) extends outside the distribution nozzle (2) over a contact distance (C) greater than or equal to twice the maximum transverse dimension (D) of the blocking rod (3).
15. The device according to any one of claims 13 and 14, wherein the blocking rod (3) comprises, upstream from the lower end (3a), a cylindrical blocking portion (3b) suited for blocking the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel (4) of the distribution nozzle when the blocking rod (3) is in the contact position and in the closed position, in particular wherein the cylindrical blocking portion (3b) is suited for blocking the intake opening (4a) of the central channel when the blocking rod (3) is in the contact position and in the closed position.
16. The device according to claim 15, wherein the blocking rod (3) moves between the open position and the contact position through an extension distance (E) along the vertical direction (Z), and wherein the cylindrical blocking portion (3b) of the blocking rod extends along the vertical direction (Z) over an extension length (L) greater than or equal to said extension distance (E).
17. The device according to any one of claims 15 and 16, wherein a section of the cylindrical blocking portion (3b) of the blocking rod (3), taken perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z), is substantially identical to a section of the distribution portion (4c) of the central channel (4) of the distribution nozzle.
18. The device according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein
    the distribution nozzle (2) extends along a vertical direction over a nozzle extension length (B);
    the blocking rod (3) extends along the vertical direction over a rod extension length (T); and
    the rod extension length (T) is greater than the nozzle extension length (B);
    preferably wherein the rod extension length (T) is greater than the nozzle extension length (B) by at least one times the maximum transverse dimension (D) of the blocking rod;
    even more preferably wherein the rod extension length (T) is greater than the nozzle extension length (B) by at least two times the maximum transverse dimension (D) of the blocking rod (3).
19. The device according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein, in the contact position, the blocking rod (3) thus extends outside the distribution nozzle (2) over a contact distance (C) greater than or equal to 5 cm, preferably greater than or equal to 7 cm.
20. The device according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein, the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3) has a conical shape, preferably ending in a rounded point.
21. The device according to any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein the blocking rod (3) does not have distribution openings, in particular the blocking rod is solid.
22. A cup packaging line (10) comprising:

    ▪ Means for producing cups (7), able to shape a plastic sheet to get at least one cup (9) of the type having a bottom wall (9a), a lateral wall (9b) closed on itself, and a top opening (9c);

    ▪ The device (1) for filling cups (9) according to any one of claims 13 to 21;

    ▪ Means for conveying and holding (8) able to bring and hold at least one cup (9) vertically with and opposite the distribution opening (4a) of at least one distribution nozzle (2) of the cup filling device (1), and to move said cup aside from the vertical of said distribution opening of the distribution nozzle and to clear said cup.
23. The cup packaging line according to claim 22, wherein, the means for producing cups (7), the cup filling device (1), and the means for conveying and holding (8) are arranged such that a separation (A), measured along the vertical direction between, first, the top opening (9c) of a cup (9) brought and held vertically with and opposite the distribution opening (4a) of at least one distribution nozzle (2) of the device (1) and second the lower end (2a) of said distribution nozzle (2) is less than the contact distance (C) over which the blocking rod (3) extends in the contact position, such that the blocking rod (3) in the contact position enters inside the cup (9) by the top opening (9c), where the lower end (3a) of the blocking rod (3) is surrounded by the lateral walls (9b) of the cup.

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