JP6359130B2 - Electron beam sterilization equipment - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an electron beam sterilization facility for sterilizing containers and tools such as foods and chemicals by irradiating them with an electron beam.

  When an electron beam (cathode ray) irradiated to sterilize cellular microorganisms collides with a metal shield (such as lead) arranged as a shield, it is attenuated and reflected in a diffuse state as a wide range of X-rays. Diffracted. Although depending on the intensity of the electron beam, for example, when it collides with the shield about 3 to 4 times, the X-ray can be attenuated to an intensity that does not affect the human body.

  For example, when an electron beam irradiation nozzle is inserted into the mouth of the container to sterilize the inner surface of the container, the electron beam is irradiated from the electron beam irradiation nozzle over the entire circumference. In order to continuously sterilize the container at a high speed, when a rotary-type swivel conveying device accommodated in the shielding chamber is used, the electron beam irradiation nozzle swung together with the container is inserted into the mouth and sterilized. Here, since the supply voltage is a high voltage, the electron beam generator cannot turn on and off the irradiation of the electron beam, and continuously irradiates it. For this reason, the shielding and attenuation | damping of the electron beam (X-ray) which leaks from the inlet_port | entrance and exit of the container formed in a shielding chamber become a problem.

  As a technique for sterilizing the inner surface of the container by inserting an electron beam irradiation nozzle into the mouth of the container, for example, cited document 1 has been proposed. Moreover, the cited reference 2 is proposed as what has arrange | positioned the electron beam irradiation nozzle for inner surface sterilization, and the electron beam irradiation device for outer surface sterilization.

Special table 2009-526971 Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2009-35330 (FIGS. 9, 10, 13, 15, 16)

However, Patent Document 1 proposes a structure of an electron beam irradiation nozzle, and does not mention a shield.
In Patent Document 2, an electron beam irradiator is disposed together with an electron beam irradiation nozzle, but there is no detailed description of the shield.

  An object of the present invention is to solve the above problems and to provide an electron beam sterilization facility capable of effectively attenuating leakage of electron beams and X-rays.

An electron beam sterilization facility according to the present invention includes a transport device that transports a container along a plurality of swirling paths, an inner surface electron beam irradiation device that irradiates an inner surface of the container with an electron beam, and an electron on the outer surface of the container. An outer surface electron beam irradiation device for sterilizing by irradiating a line, and at least one of the plurality of swirl paths, and a sterilization zone for accommodating the inner surface electron beam irradiation device and the outer surface electron beam irradiation device, A trap zone for accommodating at least one swirl path connected from upstream or downstream to a swirl path accommodated in the sterilization zone and attenuating an electron beam leaked from the sterilization zone; And the trap zone are partitioned by a shielding wall except for connection openings for connecting the swirl paths accommodated in the trap zone, and the trap zone. One of the outer diameter of the pivot path, the much larger than the outside diameter of the connected pivot path from the sterile zone side, revolving channel contained in the trapping zone to the pivoting path of the stowed pivot path over emissions The outer diameter of the inner peripheral shield installed along the inner periphery of one of the turning paths is an inner diameter installed along the inner periphery of the turning path connected to the turning path from the sterilization zone side. and wherein the magnitude Ikoto than the outer diameter of the peripheral shield.

According to the present invention, one of the outer diameter of the pivot path of the trap zone, the inner circumferential side of the swivel path to much larger than the outside diameter of the connected pivot path from the sterile zone side, revolving channel an outer diameter greater , since placing the inner peripheral shield having a larger outer diameter, Ru can be shielded electron beam that leaks through the connecting opening from the sterilization zone (X-ray) effectively.

It is a schematic plan view which shows Example 1 of the electron beam sterilization equipment which concerns on this invention. It is sectional drawing of planar view which shows an inner surface, an outer surface sterilization zone, and an exit trap zone. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the electron beam sterilization equipment centering on an inner surface sterilization zone. (A), (b) shows a container raising / lowering holding | maintenance apparatus, (a) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view, (b) is an AA arrow line view shown to (a). It is a top view which shows the drive system of a 1st-6th turning conveyance apparatus and a rejection turning conveyance apparatus. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows a 1st, 2nd turning conveyance apparatus. It is BB sectional drawing shown in FIG. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows a 4th-6th turning conveyance apparatus. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows a 5th turning conveyance apparatus and a rejection turning conveyance apparatus. (A), (b) is explanatory drawing of a 4-5 connection opening part, (a) is sectional drawing of planar view, (b) is a front view. (A), (b) is a top view which shows the leakage state of an electron beam (X-ray), (a) shows an irradiation area and a leakage area, (b) shows the reflective leakage area of an electron beam (X-ray). Show. (A), (b) is sectional drawing of planar view of an inlet trap zone, (a) shows a 1st Example, (b) shows a 2nd Example. (A)-(c) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the Example of the container discharge chute of a rejection zone, (a) is 1st Example, (b) is 2nd Example, (c) is a comparison. An example is shown. It is a top view which shows the modification of the electron beam irradiation apparatus which provided the electron beam deflection apparatus in the 2nd shielding chamber. It is sectional drawing of the planar view which shows 2nd Example of the electron beam sterilizer which concerns on this invention. (A), (b) is a top view which shows the leakage state of the electron beam in an entrance trap zone, (a) shows an irradiation area | region and a leakage area, (b) shows the reflected X-ray leakage area. (A)-(c) is sectional drawing of planar view which shows the other Example of an inner periphery shielding body.

[First embodiment]
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a container sterilization facility having a shielding structure according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Outline of electron beam sterilization equipment]
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the electron beam sterilization facility includes an inlet trap zone Z1, an outer surface sterilization zone Z2, an inner surface sterilization zone Z3, and an outlet trap zone Z4, and the inlet trap zone Z1 passes through a U-shaped conveyance path. The outer surface sterilization zone Z2, the inner surface sterilization zone Z3, and the outlet trap zone Z4 are configured by LU, and the first to sixth swirl paths L1 to L6 through which the container B is transported by the first to sixth swirl transport devices M1 to M6. It is configured by connecting in series. Further, on the back side of the exit trap zone Z4, there is provided a reject zone ZR that transports the sterilized container B along the reject swirl path LR formed by the reject swirl transport device MR and discharges it from the reject discharge port PR. .

  In the outer surface sterilization zone Z2, first and second swirl transfer devices M1 and M2 forming first and second swirl paths L1 and L2 are connected in series, and the first and second swirl transfer devices M1 and M2 are respectively connected. It is accommodated in the first and second shielding chambers R1 and R2 made of a metallic shield, respectively. The first shielding chamber R1 is irradiated with an electron beam on one outer surface of the container B while holding the container B through the neck portion n by the first swivel conveying device M1 and carrying the container along the first swirling path L1. A first electron beam irradiation device E1 for sterilization is installed. In addition, the second shielding chamber R2 is irradiated with an electron beam on the other outer surface of the container B while the container B is held by the second swivel transfer device M2 via the neck portion n and is transported along the second swirl path L2. And a second electron beam irradiation device E2 for sterilization.

  In the inner surface sterilization zone Z3, a third swirl transfer device M3 that forms a third swirl path L3 is installed in a third shielding chamber R3 made of a shield. The third swivel transfer device M3 holds the container B through the neck portion n, and sequentially raises the container B during the transfer along the third swirl path L3, so that the mouth portion becomes the electron beam irradiation nozzle En. A plurality of container raising / lowering holding devices 26 to be inserted are installed at a constant pitch. In addition, a third electron beam irradiation device E3 that irradiates an electron beam from an electron beam irradiation nozzle En suspended for each of the container lifting and lowering device 26 is disposed above the container lifting and lowering device 26.

  In the exit trap zone Z4, fourth to sixth swirl transfer devices M4 to M6 that respectively form fourth to sixth swirl paths L4 to L6 are connected in series, and these fourth to sixth swirl transfer devices are arranged. M4 to M6 are respectively accommodated in fourth to sixth shielding chambers R4 to R6 made of a shielding body. The fourth to sixth shielding chambers R4 to R6 reflect the electron beam leaked from the 3-4 connection opening (container outlet) P3-4 of the third shielding chamber R3 and the reflection of the electron beam to the metal shield. This is for attenuating X-rays generated by (diffraction, etc.) [hereinafter collectively referred to as electron beams (X-rays)]. In these fourth to sixth shielding chambers R4 to R6, the fourth to sixth swirl conveying devices M4 to M6 hold the container B via the neck portion n and convey it along the fourth to sixth swirl paths L4 to L6. To do.

  The sixth turning path L6 is connected to an intermediate turning path L8 formed by an intermediate turning conveyance device M8, and this intermediate turning path L8 is connected to a filling device (not shown) to disinfect the sterilized container B. It is configured to fill with liquid.

  In the reject zone ZR, a reject swirl transport device MR that forms a reject swirl route LR connected to the fifth swirl route L5 is arranged, and the reject swirl transport device MR is a reject shielding chamber surrounded by a shield. It is housed in RR.

[Details of container sterilization equipment]
This container sterilization facility is installed in a clean room 22 installed on a frame frame 21 via a frame, and is centered on the third swivel conveying device M3 in the inner surface sterilization zone Z3, and the first in the outer surface sterilization zone Z2. The second swivel transfer devices M1 and M2, the fourth to sixth swivel transfer devices M4 to M6 in the exit trap zone Z4, and the reject swivel transfer device MR in the reject zone ZR are interlocked.

(Inner surface sterilization zone)
In the third swivel transfer device M3, a main shaft 23b erected on the bottom frame 21D of the gantry frame 21 is erected through the gantry top plate 21U. A support table 24 is supported on an upper portion of an outer cylindrical shaft 23a that is rotatably supported by the main shaft 23b, and a turning table 25 is supported on a lower portion of the outer cylindrical shaft 23a. Then, it is rotationally driven at a predetermined speed along the conveyance direction by a turning conveyance driving device 49 shown in FIG. In the support table 24, a plurality of third electron beam generators E3 and a suspended electron beam irradiation nozzle En to which the third electron beam generators E3 are connected are arranged at a constant pitch in the circumferential direction. SM3 is a third outer shell shield that shields the plurality of third electron beam generators E3 at the outer periphery and the ceiling of the support table 24.

  On the outer periphery of the swivel table 25, the container lifting / lowering holding devices 26 facing the electron beam irradiation nozzles En are arranged at the same pitch in the circumferential direction. These container elevating and holding devices 26 elevate and lower the container B by grasping the neck portion n. As shown in FIG. 4A, an operating shaft 28 made of a double cylinder is provided through the turning table 25. Yes. The operating shaft 28 includes an outer shaft 28a for raising and lowering arranged on the turning table 25 via a thrust bearing 27, and an opening and closing shaft fitted in the outer shaft 28a so as to be rotatable around an axis. It comprises an inner shaft 28b.

  The outer shaft 28a is provided with a clamp tool 31 capable of holding the container B via the neck portion n at the upper end portion, and provided with a lift cam mechanism 37 for driving the clamp tool 31 up and down at the lower end portion. .

  As shown in FIG. 4 (b), the clamp tool 31 provided at the upper end of the outer shaft 28a has a pair of clamp arms on a base plate 32 fixed to the outer shaft 28a via a pair of support pins 33. The clamp arms 35a and 35b are supported so as to be openable and closable. The clamp arms 35a and 35b are connected to one clamp arm 35a via a plate member 34 and the other clamp arm 35b is interlocked and closed. It is biased in the gripping direction by the coil spring 30 for dynamic biasing. An opening / closing output cam 36 that is rotated by the inner shaft 28b to open and close one of the clamp arms 35a is provided between the base ends of the clamp arms 35a and 35b.

  The raising / lowering cam mechanism 37 provided at the lower end of the outer shaft 28a has a raising / lowering cam follower 38 that moves up and down the clamp 31 by rolling the cam surface of the raising / lowering cam 40 installed on the gantry frame 21. Is supported through. Reference numeral 41 denotes an elevating restraining spring that urges the elevating cam follower 38 against the cam surface of the elevating cam 40.

  The inner shaft 28b is provided with an opening / closing output cam 36 at the upper end, and an opening / closing input cam mechanism 42 for opening / closing the clamp tool 31 at the lower end. The open / close input cam mechanism 42 is provided with an open / close input cam follower 44 that rolls on the cam surface of the open / close input cam 43 via an open / close input arm 45 on the inner shaft 28b. An open / close input restraint spring 46 biases the open / close input cam follower 44 against the cam surface of the open / close input cam 43.

  The raising / lowering cam 40 is disposed between the second-third connecting portion J2-3 and the third-fourth connecting portion J3-4 of the third turning path L3. The open / close input cam 43 is disposed from the upstream side of the 3-4 connecting portion J3-4 to the downstream side of the 2-3 connecting portion J2-3.

  In the above configuration, while the turning table 25 is turning, the container B is delivered to the clamp arms 35a and 35b opened by the action of the opening / closing input cam 43 at the second and third connecting portions J2-3 via the neck portion n. Then, the neck portion n is gripped by the closed clamp arms 35a and 35b, and the container B is conveyed. Then, the container B is raised through the clamp tool 31 by the action of the lifting cam 40, and the mouth of the container B is inserted into the electron beam irradiation nozzle En. And the inner surface of the container B is sterilized by the electron beam irradiated from the electron beam irradiation nozzle En. Next, the container B is lowered by the action of the lifting cam 40 via the clamp arms 35a and 35b, and the electron beam irradiation nozzle En is detached from the mouth. When the container B further approaches the third 3-4 connecting portion J3-4, the clamp arms 35a, 35b are opened by the action of the opening / closing input cam 43, and the neck portion n is delivered to the fourth swivel conveying device M4. To the fourth turning path L4.

A third inner peripheral shield S3 is disposed between the turning table 25 and the support table 24 on the inner peripheral portion of the third turning path L3.
Further, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the swivel table 25 is interlocked with an outer peripheral wall 47 that is suspended downward from the outer peripheral portion and is supported by the gantry top plate 21 </ b> U via a ring-shaped bearing so as to be swingable. A third ring gear 48 is attached. As shown in FIG. 5, a conveyance driving gear 50 that is rotationally driven by the turning conveyance driving device 49 via a reduction gear is engaged with the interlocking third ring gear 48.

(External surface sterilization zone)
As shown in FIG. 3, first and second revolving transport devices M1 and M2 are respectively installed in the first and second shielding chambers R1 and R2 on the gantry top plate 21U. The first swivel transfer device M1 and the second swivel transfer device M2 are provided at the upper ends of the first rotation shaft 51 and the second rotation shaft 71, which are rotatably provided on the gantry top plate 21U via bearings. The turning table 52 and the second turning table 72 are fixed. A second interlocking gear 73 that meshes with the interlocking third ring gear 48 of the third revolving transport device M3 is attached to the lower end of the second rotating shaft 71, and the second interlocking gear is attached to the lower end of the first rotating shaft 51. A first interlocking gear 53 that meshes with 73 is attached, and is interlocked and connected to the outer cylinder shaft 23a of the third revolving transport device M3 to be driven to rotate.

  On the outer periphery of the first turning table 52 and the second turning table 72, first and second container holding devices 54 and 74 are arranged at a constant pitch. Here, since the first and second container holding devices 54 and 74 have substantially the same structure except for the grip position of the neck portion n, only the first container holding device 54 will be described. Are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. Further, as will be described later, the fourth to sixth container holding devices 84 and 94 in the exit trap zone Z4 and the reject container holding device 114 in the reject zone ZR have substantially the same structure except for the grip position of the neck portion n. Detailed description is omitted.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in the first container holding device 54, a vertical support cylinder 55 is provided through the outer periphery of the first turning table 52, and a support plate 56 is provided at the upper end of the support cylinder 55. It is attached. A pair of left and right clamp arms 57a and 57b are supported on the support plate 56 via a pair of support pins 58 so as to be freely opened and closed. The clamp arms 57a and 57b are configured such that an interlocking pin 60 attached to one clamp arm 57a via a plate member is fitted in a passive groove of the other clamp arm 57b, and the interlocking pin 60 opens and closes the one clamp arm 57a. The other clamp arm 57 b can be opened / closed around the support pin 58 in conjunction with each other via 60. Further, it is biased in the closing direction by a closing biasing spring 59 connected between the distal ends of the clamp arms 57a and 57b.

  An opening / closing shaft 61 is rotatably supported in the support cylinder 55, and an opening / closing input cam follower 62 is attached to the lower end portion of the opening / closing shaft 61 via a cam lever, and an opening / closing input is performed by an opening / closing restraining spring 63 connected to the cam lever. The cam follower 62 is connected to the open / close input cam 65 attached to the outer cylinder portion of the first rotating shaft 51 corresponding to the 0-1 connection portion J0-1 and the 1-2 connection portion J1-2 that deliver the container B. It is comprised so that it may contact | abut.

  An opening / closing output cam 64 disposed between the base ends of the clamp arms 57a, 57b is attached to the upper end of the opening / closing shaft 61, and one clamp is provided via the opening / closing output cam 64 by the rotation of the opening / closing shaft 61. The arm 57a can be driven to open and close.

  First and second inner peripheral shields on the inner peripheral portions of the first and second turning paths L1 and L2 on the first and second turning tables 52 and 72 of the first container holding device 54 and the second container holding device 74. S1 and S2 are installed.

Here, the 1st electron beam irradiation apparatus E1 arrange | positioned in 1st shielding room R1 and the 2nd electron beam irradiation apparatus E2 arrange | positioned in 2nd shielding room R2 are demonstrated.
When the outer surface of the container B is sterilized by irradiating an electron beam, the first and second swirl transfer devices M1 and M2 are provided on the inner peripheral side of the first and second swirl routes L1 and L2, respectively. Can not be installed. For this reason, an electron beam irradiation apparatus is arrange | positioned to the outer peripheral part of two adjacent turning paths, respectively, and an electron beam is irradiated to an outer half surface, respectively.

  Here, the important problems are: A) Contaminant adhering to the container B carried into the first shielding chamber R1 is prevented from being brought into the outer surface sterilization zone Z2 as much as possible. B) One outside of the container B Minimize the contamination of one outer half after sterilization after the sterilization of the other side and before the other outer half is sterilized. Point C) It is a point that the recontamination of the container B is kept to a minimum during the period from the sterilization of the other outer half surface to the inner surface sterilization zone Z3.

  Therefore, in this first embodiment, in order to solve A), the first electron beam irradiation device E1 that irradiates the container B with an electron beam is disposed near the entrance of the first turning path L1, and the shortest transport distance The outer surface sterilization of the container B is started in a short time, and intrusion of contaminants attached to the container B is prevented.

  In order to solve B), the first electron beam irradiation device E1 is installed on the first turning path L1 in the vicinity of the upstream side of the first-second connecting portion J1-2 of the first turning path L1 and the second turning path L2. In addition, by disposing the second electron beam irradiation device E2 in the vicinity of the downstream side of the first-second connecting portion J1-2 of the second turning path L2, sterilization of the other outer half surface from the sterilization of one outer half surface is performed. The conveyance distance and time until completion are minimized.

  In order to solve C), in the second turning path L2, the second electron beam irradiation device E2 irradiates the carry-in path portion L2c from the position where the other outer half surface is sterilized to the 2-3 connecting portion J2-3. And the electron beam (X-ray) from which the electron beam irradiated from the electron beam irradiation nozzle En in the outer surface sterilization zone Z2 is leaked through the 2-3 connection opening (container inlet) P2-3. The container B is configured to be irradiated as much as possible. This is installed so that the electron beam irradiation direction of the second electron beam irradiation device E2 faces the container B in the carry-in path portion L2c.

  That is, the first electron beam irradiation device E1 is located in the first shielding chamber R1 in the vicinity of the U-shaped transport path LU of the entrance trap zone Z1 and the 0-1 connection portion J0-1 of the first turning path L1. It is installed on the outer peripheral side of the first turning path L1 in the vicinity of the upstream side of the 1-2 connection portion J1-2 so as to irradiate the electron beam toward the container B. The second electron beam irradiation device E2 is installed on the outer peripheral side of the second turning path L2 in the second shielding chamber R2 and in the vicinity of the downstream side of the first-second connecting portion J1-2. The electron beam from E2 is irradiated so as to irradiate the container B on the second turning path L2 facing the second electron beam irradiation apparatus E2 and the container B of the carry-in path portion L2c on the downstream side. The irradiation direction is set. Further, since the carry-in path portion L2c is arranged facing the second-third connection opening P2-3 of the third shielding chamber R3, the electron beam (X-ray) leaked from the third shielding chamber R3 is also the container B. Is irradiated.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 14, a part of the electron beam irradiated from the second electron beam irradiation device E2 is transferred to the sterilized carry-in path portion L2b via one or a plurality of electron beam deflection devices EA. You may comprise so that the container B of this may be irradiated.

  Further, in the second shielding chamber R2, the second electron beam irradiation device E2 has a shielding wall R2a facing the second and third connection openings P2-3 of the third shielding chamber R3 toward the second revolving transport device M2. A second chamber trap wall T2 made of a metal shield projecting toward the downstream side is projected, and a second chamber attenuation chamber R2b is formed by the second chamber trap wall T2. As a result, the electron beam (X-ray) emitted from the second and third connection openings P2-3 and the second electron beam irradiation device E2 is shielded by the second chamber trap wall T2 and enters the second chamber attenuation chamber R2b. Can be guided, reflected and attenuated.

(Entrance trap zone)
As shown in FIG. 12 (a), the inlet trap zone Z1 includes a plurality of conveyor-type transfer devices 11 that form a U-shaped transfer path LU that connects two quarter arc portions LUi and LUo in plan view, A U-shaped entrance trap shielding chamber 12 surrounding the character-shaped transfer path LU is provided. The entrance trap shielding chamber 12 includes a plurality of first and second entrance traps made of a metal shield that shields electron beams (X-rays) leaked from the outer surface and inner surface sterilization zones Z2 and Z3 by the entrance trap shielding chamber 12. Walls T0a and T0b and a first inlet attenuation chamber R0a are provided.

  The first inlet trap wall T0a is a connecting portion between the inlet trap shielding chamber 12 and the first shielding chamber R1, and is on the side opposite to the first turning path L1 with the U-shaped transfer path LU as the center, and the shielding side wall of the inlet trap shielding chamber 12 Projecting perpendicularly (transversely). Due to the first entrance trap wall T0a, the first electron beam irradiation device E1, the second electron beam irradiation device E2, and the electron beam (X-ray) irradiated from the electron beam irradiation nozzle En in the third shielding chamber R3 are changed to the zeroth. Intrusion into the entrance trap shielding chamber 12 from the -1 connection opening (container inlet) P0-1 can be reduced.

  The downstream first inlet attenuation chamber R0a is disposed on the outer peripheral side of the downstream ¼ arc portion LUo so as to face the first shielding chamber R1, and protrudes from the inlet trap shielding chamber 12 in a rectangular shape in plan view. It is formed by the surrounding shielding wall 12a. Reference numeral 11a denotes an unshielded conveyor shield wall that is provided at the opening of the first inlet attenuation chamber R0a and surrounds the conveyor-type transport device 11. By this first entrance attenuation chamber R0a, the electron beam (X-ray) that has entered from the first shielding chamber R1 through the 0-1 connection opening P0-1 is reflected and emitted to the entrance side of the entrance trap shielding chamber 12. The dose that is being reduced.

  Further, the upstream second inlet trap wall T0b protrudes from the upstream end of the first inlet attenuation chamber R0a in a direction crossing the U-shaped transfer path LU, and the electron beam that has entered the first inlet attenuation chamber R0a ( X-rays) are shielded by the second inlet trap wall T0b to reduce the dose emitted from the inlet trap shielding chamber 12 to the inlet side.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 12B, a second inlet attenuation chamber R0b and a third inlet trap wall T0c corresponding to the ¼ arc portion LUi on the inlet side may be provided. Here, the second inlet attenuation chamber R0b and the third inlet trap wall T0c are formed in a rectangular shape in plan view, with the first inlet attenuation chamber R0a and the second inlet trap wall T0b rotated 90 ° clockwise in plan view. It is formed by the surrounding shielding wall 12b and is arranged on the outer peripheral side of the ¼ arc portion LUi. Thereby, the dose emitted to the entrance side of the entrance trap shielding chamber 12 can be further greatly reduced.

(Exit trap zone)
The exit trap zone Z4 includes three fourth to sixth turns formed by the fourth to sixth turning conveyance devices M4 to M6 from the third to fourth connecting portions J3-4 on the outlet side of the third turning path L3. The paths L4 to L6 are connected in series and connected to a sixth to eighth connecting portion J6-8 that is a container discharge portion, and each of the fourth to sixth revolving transport devices M4 to M6 is made of a metal shield. It is accommodated in each of the fourth to sixth shielding chambers R4 to R6.

  In the fourth to sixth shielding chambers R4 to R6 on the gantry top plate 21U, fourth to sixth swirl transfer devices M4 to M6 are respectively installed, and these fourth to sixth swirl transfer devices M4 to M6 are The fourth to sixth rotating shafts 81, 91, 101 are rotatably inserted into the gantry top plate 21 </ b> U via bearings, and the fourth to sixth rotating shafts 81, 91, 101 have a fourth end at the upper ends thereof. The sixth turning tables 82, 92, and 102 are fixed, respectively. As shown in FIG. 5, a fourth interlocking gear 83 that engages with the interlocking third ring gear 48 of the third revolving transport device M3 is attached to the lower end of the fourth rotating shaft 81, and the fifth rotating shaft 91 A fifth interlocking gear 93 that meshes with the fourth interlocking gear 83 is attached to the lower end portion. Further, a sixth interlocking gear 103 that meshes with the fifth interlocking gear 93 is attached to the lower end portion of the sixth rotating shaft 101, and these fourth to sixth turning tables 82, 92, 102 are the outer cylinders of the third turning conveying device M3. The shaft 23a is linked to and driven to rotate.

  On the outer periphery of the fourth to sixth turning tables 82, 92, 102, fourth to sixth container holding devices 84, 94, 104 are arranged at a constant pitch. And on the 4th-6th turning tables 82, 92, 102, the 4th-6th inner circumference shields S4-S6 with which the upper surface was obstruct | occluded in the inner peripheral part of the 4th-6th turning paths L4-L6. Each is provided.

  Here, the fourth to sixth container holding devices 84, 94, 104 have substantially the same structure as the first container holding device 54 except for the grip position of the neck portion n, and therefore the same reference numerals as the first container holding device 54. The description is omitted.

Next, the shielding structure of the exit trap zone Z4 will be described.
First, 1-2 of the 1st-2nd-5-6 connection part J1-2-J6-8 in the 1st-6th turning path | routes L1-L6 shown in FIG.2, FIG.3, FIG.6, FIG. The 6-8 connection openings P1-2 to P6-8 and the reject connection opening P5-R of the reject connection part J5-R in the reject turning path LR shown in FIGS. 2 and 9 have substantially the same structure. Therefore, here, only the 4-5th connection opening P4-5 formed in the 4-5th connection J4-5 will be described with reference to FIG. 10, and the description of the other connection openings will be omitted.

  The 4-5 connection opening P4-5 is arranged such that the shielding side wall R4W of the fourth shielding room R4 and the shielding side wall R5W of the fifth shielding room R5 overlap each other at a predetermined interval. The first and second openings 13 and 14 have irregular shapes formed in R4W and R5W, respectively. That is, the first opening 13 has a wide vertical transfer portion 13a that can pass through the container B conveyed on the fifth turning path L5 from the fourth turning path L4 via the 4-5 connecting portion J4-5. The clamp arms 57a and 57b (35a and 35b) moved along the fifth turning path L5 are configured with holder insertion portions 13b and 14b having narrow vertical widths through which the tip portions can pass. In addition, the second opening 14 is also provided with a delivery section 14a through which the container B transported on the fifth turning path L5 from the fourth turning path L4 through the 4-5 connecting portion J4-5 can pass, and the fourth turning path. The clamp arms 57a and 57b (35a and 35b) moved along L4 are configured with a holder insertion portion 14b through which the tip portions can pass. In this way, by forming the first and second openings 13 and 14 having irregular shapes corresponding to the shielding side walls R4W and R5W, the dose of the electron beam (X-ray) leaking from the fourth to fifth connection openings P4-5. Can be reduced.

  Further, regarding the arrangement of the fourth to fifth to sixth to eighth connecting portions J4 to J6-8 of the fourth to sixth turning paths L4 to L6, the fourth to the third to fourth connecting openings P3-4. The −5 connection opening P4-5 is arranged with an angle α, but the 4-5th connection opening P4-5, the 5-6th connection opening P5-6, and the 6th-8th connection The opening P6-8 is arranged in a substantially linear shape, and the fourth to sixth turning conveyance devices M4 to M6 are arranged in a substantially linear shape. Here, as shown to Fig.11 (a), the electron beam leaked directly from the 3-4 connection opening part P3-4 of 3rd shielding chamber R3 is detected in the substantially whole area of 4th shielding chamber R4. However, the electron beam does not reach the back portion blocked by the fourth inner shield S4 of the fourth revolving transport device M4. Furthermore, the electron beam reaching the fifth shielding chamber R5 via the 4-5th connection opening P4-5 is blocked by the fifth inner peripheral shield S5 of the fifth swivel transfer device M5, and the 5-6th connection opening. P5-6 is never reached. Thus, it can be seen that the fifth inner peripheral shield S5 works extremely effectively against the electron beam reaching the fifth shielding chamber R5.

  Here, by setting the outer diameter of the fifth turning path L5 larger than the outer diameter of the fourth turning path L4, the outer diameter D5 of the fifth inner peripheral shield S5 of the fifth turning conveyance device M5 is It can be made larger than the outer diameter D4 of the fourth inner peripheral shield S4. Thereby, the electron beam (X-ray) leaking from the 3-4 connection opening P3-4 and the 4-5 connection opening P4-5 can be effectively shielded. Further, the outer diameter D5 of the fifth inner peripheral shield S5 is preferably 1.3 times or more, and 2.5 times or less the outer diameter D4 of the fourth inner peripheral shield S4. This is because if the ratio is less than 1.3 times, the shielding ability is lowered, and if it exceeds 2.5 times, the equipment is enlarged. Considering an electron beam (X-ray) that has leaked from the 3-4 connection opening P3-4 and collided with the shield made of metal, as shown in FIG. 11B, the 3-4 connection opening P3. -4, the X-ray generated by colliding with the fourth inner shield S4 leaks into the fifth shielding chamber R5 through the 4-5 connection opening P4-5, and the fifth inner shield S5. If the outer diameter D5 is small, there is a risk of leakage into the sixth shielding chamber R6 via the fifth-6th connection opening P5-6. For this reason, since the outer diameter D5 of the inner peripheral shield S5 is formed larger, the X-ray dose leaking from the 5-6 connection opening P5-6 to the sixth shielding chamber R6 can be almost eliminated.

  Next, in the fourth shielding chamber R4, the metal protruded from the shielding wall R4a facing the 3-4 connection opening P3-4 of the third shielding chamber R3 toward the 3-4 connection opening P3-4. A fourth chamber trap wall T4 made of a shield is protruded, and a fourth chamber attenuation chamber R4b is formed by the fourth chamber trap wall T4. Therefore, the electron beam (X-ray) leaked from the electron beam irradiation nozzle En of the third shielding chamber R3 to the fourth shielding chamber R4 through the third-4 connection opening P3-4 is transferred to the fourth chamber trap wall T4. Can be shielded and guided to the fourth chamber attenuation chamber R4b and reflected to be attenuated.

  The fifth shielding chamber R5 is provided with a fifth chamber trapping wall T5 that protrudes substantially perpendicularly from the shielding sidewall in the vicinity of the 5-6th connection opening P5-6. The fifth chamber trap wall T5 is arranged on the opposite side of the reject chamber RR at the fifth to sixth connection openings P5-6, and the fifth to fifth connection openings P4 to P4 are arranged by the fifth chamber trap wall T5. The electron beam (X-ray) that has entered from 5 is reflected by the shielding wall, and the dose that enters the sixth shielding room R6 from the 5-6 connection opening P5-6 can be reduced.

[Reject Zone]
For example, in the reject zone ZR that discharges the sterilization defect container B whose supply voltage is low and a predetermined electron dose could not be irradiated, the reject swirl transfer device MR is installed in the clean room 22 and the reject swirl route LR is formed. . In this reject swivel conveying device MR, a reject rotation shaft 111 is provided through a gantry top plate 21U via a bearing, and a reject swivel table 112 is attached to an upper end portion of the reject rotation shaft 111. A reject container holding device 114 having the same structure as that of the first container holding device 54 is attached to the outer periphery of the reject turning table 112 at a constant pitch. The reject turning table 112 is rotationally driven by a reject interlocking gear 113 attached to the lower end portion of the reject rotating shaft 111 being meshed with the fifth interlocking gear 93 and interlockingly connected to the outer cylinder shaft 23a of the third swing conveying device M3. Is done.

The discharge chutes 121 and 131 installed on the reject turning path LR in the reject zone ZR will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 13C is a discharge chute 141 showing a comparative example. A container B is sent from a container inlet 142 formed corresponding to the reject discharge port PR to a chute main body 144 inclined through a ceiling taper portion 143, and the container outlet is discharged. It is a structure that drops from 145 to the tray. In the case of this discharge chute 141, the X-rays that have reached the reject discharge port PR are likely to leak from the smaller number of reflections or directly from the container outlet 145.

  FIG. 13A shows a first embodiment of the discharge chute 121 formed by a metal shielding wall. In the rejection shielding chamber RR on the downstream side of the rejection discharge port PR, an attenuation chamber 122 having a high ceiling through a stepped portion. The entrance ceiling 123a of the chute body 123 is projected into the attenuation chamber 122. Further, a bent portion 123b is formed in the middle portion of the chute body 123, and the container outlet 123c is bent downward. In the discharge chute 121, X-rays are reflected by the shielding wall of the attenuation chamber 122 and reflected by the bent wall 123b and the shielding wall of the container outlet 123c, so that the X-ray dose leaked from the container outlet 123c is greatly reduced. Is done.

  FIG. 13B is a second embodiment of the discharge chute 131 formed by a metal shielding wall. The attenuation chamber 132, the inlet portion 133a, the bent portion 133b, and the container outlet 133c are formed in the same manner as in the first embodiment. However, it is different in that the stepped portion is eliminated from the ceiling portion of the attenuation chamber 132 and is formed in a high flat shape. The discharge chute 131 of the second embodiment can achieve the same effects as the first embodiment.

(Effects of the first embodiment)
According to the first embodiment, the container B is disposed in the vicinity of the upstream side and the downstream side of the first-second connecting portion J1-2 of the first and second turning paths L1 and L2 disposed in the outer surface sterilization zone Z2. Since the first and second electron beam irradiators E1 and E2 for sterilizing each outer half surface by irradiating with an electron beam are arranged close to each other, after sterilizing one outer half surface, the other outer half surface is removed in a short time. It can be sterilized, and after sterilizing one outer half, it is very unlikely that the contaminants attached to the other outer half will adhere to one outer half and be recontaminated. Can be done.

  Further, a part of the electron beam irradiated from the second electron beam irradiation device E2 is irradiated onto the container B on the second swirling path L2 after sterilization, so that the outer surface of the container B whose entire surface is sterilized is re-applied. Contamination can be effectively prevented.

  Further, in the outer surface and inner surface sterilization zones Z2 and Z3, the first to third inner peripheral shields along the inner peripheral portion of the first to third turning paths L1 to L3 are arranged along the first to third turning driving devices M1 to M3. By installing S1 to S3, the number of reflections of electron beams between the first to third shielding chambers R1 to R3 and the first to third inner shielding bodies S1 to S3 in the outer surface and inner surface sterilization zones Z2 and Z3 can be reduced. It can be increased and effectively attenuated.

  In the exit trap zone Z4, the fourth to sixth inner peripheral shields S4 to S6 are installed along the inner periphery of the fourth to sixth turning paths L4 to L6 in the fourth to sixth turning driving devices M4 to M6. By doing so, it is possible to effectively shield the electron beam (X-ray) leaked from the third shielding chamber R3 of the inner surface sterilization zone Z3 through the third to fourth connection openings P3-4, and to the downstream side. The leaked electron beam (X-ray) can be effectively attenuated.

  Furthermore, in the inner surface sterilization zone Z3, in order to insert the electron beam irradiation nozzle En into the mouth portion of the container B and irradiate the electron beam, a sufficient transport distance and time for the container B are necessary. In order to lengthen the turning path L3, it is necessary to increase the diameter. However, if the diameter of the fourth turning path L4 of the exit trap zone Z4 disposed in the 3-4 connection opening P3-4 is large, the third turning is performed. The transport distance of the path L3 is limited, and the diameter of the fourth turning path L4 cannot be increased in the exit trap zone Z4. For this reason, the dose of the electron beam (X-ray) leaking from the 3-4 connection opening P3-4 to the fourth shielding chamber R4 upstream of the exit trap zone Z4 inevitably increases.

  As a countermeasure, the outer diameter of the fifth turning path L5 is increased, and the outer diameter D5 of the fifth inner peripheral shield S5 is 1.3 to 2.5 times the outer diameter D4 of the fourth inner peripheral shield S4. By forming it large in the range, the dose of electron beams (X-rays) leaking downstream from the fourth shielding chamber R4 via the fifth shielding chamber R5 can be effectively reduced.

  Further, since the fourth chamber trap wall T4 is provided in the fourth shielding chamber R4 in the exit trap zone Z4 to form the fourth chamber attenuation chamber R4b, the third -4 connection discharge port P3-4 in the inner surface sterilization zone Z3 is used. The leaking electron beam (X-ray) can be introduced into the fourth chamber attenuation chamber R4b, and the electron beam (X-ray) can be effectively reflected and attenuated by the attenuation chamber R4b.

  In the fifth shielding room R5, since the fifth chamber trapping wall T5 is provided on the shielding side wall in the vicinity of the 5-6 connection opening P5-6, an electron beam entering from the 4-5 connection opening P4-5 is provided. It is possible to reduce the dose that shields (X-rays) and enters the sixth shielding room R6.

  Furthermore, in the second shielding chamber R2 of the outer surface sterilization zone Z2, the second chamber damping wall R2b is formed by projecting the second chamber trapping wall T2 from the shielding wall facing the second and third connection openings P2-3. Therefore, the electron beam (X-ray) leaking from the second-third connection opening P2-3 can be introduced into the second chamber attenuation chamber R2b by the second chamber trap wall T2 and effectively reflected and attenuated. it can.

[Second Embodiment]
A second embodiment of the electron beam sterilization facility according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. In the second embodiment, the inlet trap zone Z1 is configured by a plurality of turning paths LT1 and LT2.

  In this entrance trap zone Z1, a first trap swirl path LT1 and a second trap swirl path LT2 are connected in series between a carry swirl path LS formed by the carry swirl transfer device M0 and the first swirl path L1. Connected and arranged. The first trap swirl transport device MT1 that forms the first trap swirl path LT1 and the second trap swirl transport device MT2 that forms the second trap swirl path LT2 are each formed by a metal shielding wall. It is accommodated in the room RT1 and the second trap shielding room RT2. The carry-in swivel transfer device M0 and the first and second trap swivel transfer devices MT1 and MT2 include the carry-in swivel route LS and the first and second trap swirl routes LT1 and LT2, respectively. A carry-in portion inner peripheral shielding wall S0 and first and second trap inner peripheral shielding walls ST1 and ST2 each including a metal shielding wall are provided along the inner peripheral portion. Further, the trap inlet connection portion JT0-1 of the carry-in turning route LS and the first trap turning route LT1, the trap intermediate connection portion JT1-2 of the first trap turning route LT1 and the second trap turning route LT2, and the second trap turning route. In the trap outlet connection portion JT2-1 of LT2 and the first turning path L1, trap inlets, intermediate and outlets having substantially the same structure as that of the first embodiment are provided in the first trap shielding chamber RT1 and the shielding walls of the second trap shielding chamber RT2. Connection openings PT0-1, PT1-2, PT2-1 are respectively formed.

In addition, since these carrying-in turning drive apparatus M0 and 1st, 2nd trap turning conveyance apparatus MT1, MT2 are comprised the same as 1st Example, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.
Here, as shown in FIG. 16A, the electron beam irradiated from the electron beam irradiation nozzle En and the second electron beam irradiation apparatus E2 in the third shielding chamber R3 is shielded from the second trap as a direct or reflected X-ray. There is very little intrusion into the room RT2. However, the electron beam irradiated from the first electron beam irradiation device E1 and leaked from the trap outlet connection opening PT2-1 may enter. As a countermeasure, the outer diameter of the second trap turning path LT2 is formed to be larger than the outer diameter of the first turning path L1, and the outer diameter DT2 of the second trap inner shield ST2 is set to the outside of the first inner shield S1. It is formed sufficiently larger than the diameter D1. Thus, by forming the second trap inner peripheral shield ST2 facing the trap outlet connection opening PT2-1 sufficiently large, an electron beam (X-ray) leaking from the trap outlet connection opening PT2-1 is effective. Can be shielded. That is, the outer diameter DT2 of the second trap inner peripheral shield ST2 is preferably 1.3 times or more, and 2.5 times or less of the outer diameter D1 of the first inner peripheral shield S1. This is because if the ratio is less than 1.3 times, the shielding ability is lowered, and if it exceeds 2.5 times, the equipment is enlarged.

  15 and 16, the one shielding wall of the trap inlet connection opening PT0-1 of the first trap shielding chamber RT1 is extended because an opening through which only the container holder passes is formed. It is.

(Another embodiment of inner shield)
In the first and second embodiments, the first to sixth swivel transfer devices M1 to M6, the intermediate swivel drive device M8, the reject swivel drive device MR, the carry-in swivel drive device M0, and the first and second trap swivel transfer devices MT1 and MT2. The first to sixth inner peripheral shields S1 to S6, the intermediate inner peripheral shield S8, the reject inner peripheral shield SR, the carry-in portion inner peripheral shield S0, and the first and second trap inner peripheral shields ST1, respectively. ST2 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the top surface closed, but like the inner peripheral shield S11 shown in FIG. 17 (a), an axially concave groove a is provided in the circumferential direction on the cylindrical outer peripheral surface. May be formed at a constant pitch. Further, like an inner peripheral shield S12 shown in FIG. 17B, reflectors b along the axial direction may be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder at a constant pitch in the circumferential direction. Further, as in the inner peripheral shield S13 shown in FIG. 17C, a radial shield plate c that intersects at the axial center may be assembled in a radial direction for each predetermined angle.

  According to the inner peripheral shields S11 to S13, attenuation can be promoted by more effectively diffusing the incident electron beam.

B container n neck part Z1 inlet trap zone Z2 outer surface sterilization zone Z3 inner surface sterilization zone Z4 outlet trap zones L1 to L6 first to sixth turning paths LU U-shaped transport path J1-2 first to second connection part J2-3 second -3 connecting portion J3-4 3-4 connecting portion J4-5 4-5 connecting portion J5-6 5-6 connecting portion J6-8 6-8 connecting portion J5-R reject connecting portions M1-M6 1st to 6th swivel transfer device E1 to E3 1st to 3rd electron beam irradiation device En Electron beam irradiation nozzles S1 to S6 1st to 6th inner periphery shield SR reject inner periphery shields S11 to S13 Inner periphery shield R1 -R6 1st-6th shielding room RR Reject shielding room P1-2 1-2 connection opening P2-3 2-3 connection opening P3-4 3-4 connection opening P4-5 4-5 Connection opening P5-6 5-6 Connection opening T2 2nd Trap wall T4 Fourth chamber trap wall T5 Fifth chamber trap wall R2b Second chamber attenuation chamber R4b Fourth chamber attenuation chamber LT1 First trap swirl path LT2 Second trap swirl path MT1 First trap swirl transport device MT2 Second trap swirl Transport device RT1 First trap shielding chamber RT2 Second trap shielding chamber ST1 First trap inner shielding member ST2 Second trap inner shielding member 11 Conveyor transport device 12 Entrance trap shielding chamber 21 Mounting frame 21U Mounting plate 22 Clean room 23a Outer cylinder shaft 24 Support table 25 Turning table 26 Container lifting / lowering holding device 31 Clamping tools 35a, 35b Clamp arm 51 First rotating shaft 52 First rotating table 54 First container holding device 71 Second rotating shaft 72 Second rotating table 74 First 2 container holding device 81 4th rotating shaft 82 4th turning table 8 Fourth container holding device 91 Fifth rotating shaft 92 Fifth turning table 94 Fifth container holding device 101 Sixth rotating shaft 102 Sixth turning table 104 Sixth container holding device 111 Reject rotating shaft 112 Reject turning table 114 Reject container holding device 121 discharge chute

Claims (3)

A transport device for transporting the container along a plurality of swivel paths;
An inner surface electron beam irradiation device for sterilizing the inner surface of the container by irradiating an electron beam;
An outer surface electron beam irradiation device for sterilizing the outer surface of the container by irradiating an electron beam;
A sterilization zone that houses at least one of the plurality of turning paths, and houses the inner surface electron beam irradiation device and the outer surface electron beam irradiation device;
A trap zone for accommodating at least one swirl path connected from the upstream side or the downstream side to the swirl path accommodated in the sterilization zone, and for attenuating an electron beam leaked from the sterilization zone,
The sterilization zone and the trap zone are partitioned by a shielding wall except for a connection opening for connecting the swirl paths accommodated therein,
The outer diameter of one of the pivoting path of the stowed revolving channel to trap zone is much larger than the outer diameter of the connected pivot path from the sterile zone side to the swiveling path,
The outer diameter of the inner peripheral shield installed along the inner periphery of one of the turning paths accommodated in the trap zone is the inner diameter of the turning path connected to the turning path from the sterilization zone side. electron beam sterilization equipment, characterized in that not larger than the outer diameter of the inner peripheral shield disposed along the peripheral portion. The trap zone is an exit trap zone that houses at least one swirl path connected from a downstream side to a swirl path accommodated in the sterilization zone,
The outer diameter of one of the pivoting path of the stowed revolving channel the exit trap zone is much larger than the outer diameter of the connected pivot path from the upstream side to the swiveling path,
The outer diameter of the inner peripheral shield installed along the inner periphery of one of the turning paths accommodated in the exit trap zone is the inner circumference of the turning path connected to the turning path from the upstream side. electron beam sterilization facility according to claim 1, characterized in that not larger than the outer diameter of the inner peripheral shield disposed along the part. The trap zone is an entrance trap zone that houses at least one swirl path connected from the upstream side to a swirl path accommodated in the sterilization zone,
The outer diameter of one of the pivoting path of the inlet trap zone stowed revolving channel is much larger than the outer diameter of the connected pivot path from the downstream side to the swiveling path,
The outer diameter of the inner peripheral shield installed along the inner periphery of one of the turning paths accommodated in the entrance trap zone is the inner circumference of the turning path connected to the turning path from the downstream side. electron beam sterilization facility according to claim 1, characterized in that not larger than the outer diameter of the inner peripheral shield disposed along the part.

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