AT507190B1 - METHOD FOR PRODUCING A STEEL BOTTLE AND STEEL BOTTLE - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to the production of steel bottles with identification and control, in which in a hot forming a bottle blank (1) with a bottle body (2) and a bottom (3) is produced, and in which further formed a shoulder (4) and on the Bottle blank (1) a two-dimensional mark in the form of a data matrix code (5) after the thermoforming treatment, but before the formation (106) of the shoulder (4), by embossing (102) attached and then read out, after which the Data Matrix code (5) is read out again in subsequent manufacturing steps of the bottle and product and process-specific data (13) are detected and assigned to the data matrix code (5).

Description

Austrian Patent Office AT507190B1 2010-03-15

Description: The invention relates to a method for producing a steel bottle, in particular a gas bottle, with marking and control, in which a bottle blank is produced with a bottle body and a bottom in a hot forming, and which further forms a shoulder and on the bottle blank a two-dimensional mark is attached.

The invention further relates to a steel bottle, in particular a gas cylinder, with a two-dimensional marking produced by such a method.

The production of steel bottles is very generally, for example, from DE 10 2006 039 656 A1, EP 0 389 078 A2 or e.g. from US 4 032 696 A known. Neither in the course of the production nor in retrospect markings or markings are provided here.

Steel bottles, however, often have a clear mark, can be accessed via the bottle-specific data. These data provide some useful information, such as manufacturer of the bottle, date of manufacture, volume of material from the production of the bottle, the size and weight of the bottle, information about the filler and the contents of the bottle. However, for manufacturers' interests in producing high-quality bottles, this limited amount of one-mark data is not enough to provide more details about the bottle, especially about its production. Tracing individual bottles to their manufacture is therefore often difficult to impossible.

Although such markings are in the form of unique relief-like, mostly embossed number and / or letter combinations attached to the bottle, but the bottles have only a single, prone to damage marking.

An additional way to mark steel bottles is to attach stickers with the desired information to the bottle body. However, this possibility is also not very satisfactory, since the stickers are easily polluted, easily damaged and can easily be detached from the bottle.

It is also known to use other marking systems as number and letter combinations consisting of a coding in the form of two-dimensional codes. These markings are known for plastic or glass bottles, cf. e.g. WO 98/55956 A1, DE 41 43 339 A1 and DE 41 28 733 A1, JP 2006 31 76 54 A or also WO 2004/000749 A1. Here, a scannable barcode, Aztec, Maxi code or even a data matrix code is applied during the blow molding of the plastic bottle or by laser on the bottle body. However, the application of the codes is technically relatively complex and expensive. In addition, these bottle systems due to their materials, size and applications of steel bottles, especially gas cylinders, fundamentally different, with the latter sometimes stringent requirements are met.

For the attachment of code markings on piece goods or workpieces marking systems are further known for example from DE 10 2006 022 166 A1, WO 2005/050534 A1 or WO 2004/052660 A1. A special fixture for workpieces, for machine-controlled application of a marking with data, e.g. concerning manufacturer, article name, article number and the like is disclosed in DE 10 2006 035 131 B3. Finally, a fully automatic marking method, in which a dot matrix code is applied to a piece goods and identified one or more times during the passage of the piece goods, is described in DE 200 02 398 U1.

However, all these proposals relate only quite generally, the labeling of piece goods or workpieces, without going into specific functions, as they are desirable especially in the production of steel bottles in view of the quality standards to be observed there. It is now an object of the invention to provide a method for producing a steel bottle as mentioned above, wherein clear marks easily during manufacture, quickly and without significant additional effort can be applied and checked in terms of work and costs, while also by the markers a variety of information about the steel bottle and its manufacture should be accessible.

Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to provide a steel bottle cost, which is provided with a unique mark that is easy to read and verifiable and durable, resistant and difficult to change or manipulated.

These objects are achieved by a method and a steel bottle as defined in claim 1 and claim 18, respectively. Advantageous embodiments and further developments are specified in the dependent claims.

With the method according to the invention a reliable steel bottle production with early identification and accompanying control is possible. The Data Matrix code provides a unique, comprehensive, durable and easy-to-read mark on steel cylinders, which has a high density of information, which can store a variety of data which can also be easily accessed. It is not easy to manipulate the mark by memorizing the data matrix code.

A data matrix code is a two-dimensional code in which the information is encoded compactly in a square or rectangular area as a pattern of dots. When reading a data matrix code, the arrangement of substantially equal points within the border of the rectangle (finder pattem) as well as in the grid of the matrix is detected and uniquely determined. Due to the uniform symbol size and the fixed symbol spacing, reading the image and decoding the information is more reliable and secure, and the code is considerably more compact in size than, for example, a bar code. The size of the rectangular or square code image depends on the number of information to be encoded. For the purposes of the invention, various coding variants may be chosen, wherein a data matrix code is coded with e.g. 8x8 points or 10x10 points may be sufficient for the identification and control of steel cylinders. With regard to the amount of data and the embossing, a coding with 12 x 12 points is preferred. Of course, two-dimensional coding with more, e.g. 15x15, dots or another coding option conceivable.

Embossing the data matrix code just after hot working, forging, and before shoulder forming the steel bottle, i. at a very early stage of the production of the steel bottle, the allocation of pre-defined product and process-specific data of the steel bottle to this embossed code, i.e. the product and process-specific data acquired in subsequent stages of production, allows to be assigned. a continuous acquisition of data e.g. concerning operating conditions in the production of the respective steel bottle, test results and bottle information, such as material, wall thickness, etc. If desired, the data can be "recorded" at each individual manufacturing step from near production to completion of the steel bottle. and easily verified using the Data Matrix code. With only one marking, the data of each individual steel bottle as well as its individual, production-specific parameters can be used even after completion and delivery of the steel bottles and the production process can be reconstructed. This ensures traceability for every bottle (so-called traceability). This is advantageous, for example, if the quality of a steel bottle is complained of, and if there are warranty and liability issues (product liability), as any defect and defect detection of the steel bottle is quickly possible. In addition, by evaluating the data, a representation of the production conditions for each individual steel bottle and thus an improvement of the process sections and the entire production of steel bottles can be achieved. Errors in production can be easily detected. The Data-Matrix-Code is coined in the earliest possible stage of the production of the steel bottle; in the case of preferred attachment to the ground, preferably immediately after soil formation.

The embossing of the data matrix code can be done in any way. For a technically simple design, a pneumatically driven embossing device can be used with an embossing needle. It is in view of the durability of the data matrix code and a perfect readability advantage if the code is embossed with an embossing depth of 0.2 to 0.6 mm, preferably 0.3 to 0.4 mm ,

Advantageously, the data matrix code is checked for correctness immediately after its embossing. As a result, any errors occurring in the code itself, but also on the embossing device, e.g. Abrasion of the embossing needle or other influences on the embossed image, immediately recognized and corrected. If the embossing image is unsatisfactory, the data matrix code can be rewritten so as to obtain a reliable unique mark.

The product and process-specific data can be stored together with the data matrix code as a record in a central database. Advantageously, the data during, the production of the steel bottle temporarily in at least one local database, ie decentralized, secured and transferred after completion of the bottle to a central database. This has the advantage that the sensitive data in case of interruptions or malfunctions of the operation, in particular of the network, safely maintained and can be easily retrieved.

As desired, a readout of the data matrix code can be made at or after each individual process step for the production of the steel bottle and so the control of the code can be secured continuously. In this case, various reading means can be used, such as simple sensors, laser detection or other code scanning devices. It can also be used a camera system. When using camera systems, the lighting should be adapted to the corresponding processing station during each read-out when recording the data matrix code, since different lighting conditions may exist and the steel bottle may have different surfaces depending on the method step.

The entire production process can be controlled and / or regulated centrally electronically, in particular with the aid of a computer unit, generally a controller, in order to simultaneously control the production with the assignment, reading and checking of the data matrix code and the recording of the product data. and process-specific data easily and efficiently. Preference is given here to the application of a PLC control, even if this is not mandatory.

The respective detection means for detecting the information about the steel bottle during its production as well as the readout device for reading the data matrix code are advantageously connected to the controller, so that an assignment to the product and process-specific data of the steel bottle and a central administration or further processing of the data can be made directly.

An advantage of the data matrix code and its connection with the individual product and process-specific data in connection with the controller is further that the relevant devices and devices can be integrated into existing steel cylinder production plants without much effort ,

As mentioned, an identification of the steel bottle in a simple manner and always guaranteed by the data matrix code. However, it is also possible to provide an additional marking with a unique producer number, in particular by embossing, e.g. at the bottle shoulder, to attach. This further marking is advantageously also linked to the data matrix code. In case of impairment of the readability of one of the two markers, e.g. Due to damage to the bottle in the area of one of the markings, the other mark will still be used to draw conclusions about the one marking as well as the product and process-specific data ,

Simple attachment and also easy, trouble-free reading of the data matrix code is ensured if the code in the lower portion of the steel bottle body, e.g. in the transition region of the bottle body to the bottom of the steel bottle or preferably in the bottom itself, is embossed, wherein the steel bottle can be shaped according to requirements with a convex, concave or even flat bottom.

For safety reasons, the steel bottle in the region of their soil or in the area of the data matrix code can be made amplified.

The preparation of the steel bottle can be performed by the way per conventional methods, a blank for the bottle, for example, from a block blank by hot forming and cutting to length, can be formed from a pipe blank under retraction of the soil or from a circuit board. The bottle shoulder is generated - for example, by local hot deformation after the application of the data matrix code. Furthermore, descaling, etc. may be provided, and various test steps may be performed.

In a later section, the steel bottle can be coated by various methods.

The method for producing the steel bottle can be integrated in a production system with appropriate control in conjunction with the embossing and readout device for the data matrix code, at least one local and central database and the corresponding process devices for the actual production of the bottle be.

The invention will be explained below with reference to preferred embodiments shown in the drawings, to which, however, it should not be limited.

1 and 2 show individual phases A, B, C in the production of a - lying - Stahlfla cal with a data matrix code regarding their identification and control in schematic representations in plan view (Fig 1) or bottom-side view (Figure 2); Figure 3 shows a detail of a steel bottle bottom with data matrix code in schemati shear view. FIG. 4 is a flow chart for an example of manufacturing, marking and controlling a steel bottle with a data matrix code; FIG. and Fig. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the process and flow of data in manufacturing the steel bottles with data matrix code.

In Fig. 1 and 2, in phases A, B and C sequential process sections in the identification and control of a steel bottle are shown schematically, which consists of a bottle blank 1 with a bottle body 2, a bottom 3 and a molded at a later date, therefore only shoulder 4 is shown in dashed lines. In detail, in Fig. 1 is a plan view of a lying bottle blank 1 is shown in an initial stage of the process, in whose bottom 3 a data matrix code 5 impressed and subsequently read out for the purpose of its control (see arrow R in Fig. 2 for the direction of process flow). Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of the bottom 3 of the bottle blank 1 of Fig. 1. The bottle blank 1 is formed with a convex bottom 3.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the bottle blank 1 is clamped and centered in jaws 6 shown only schematically (see arrows S at phase B in Fig. 2), so that the data matrix code 5 exactly at the desired position on the bottom 3 of the bottle blank 1 can be attached. In this case, the bottle blank 1 is positioned with respect to its x- and y-axis such that the bottom 3 of the bottle blank 1 is precisely set up for embossing and an embossing needle of the embossing device 7 can be activated. The embossing 4/15 Austrian Patent Office AT507190B1 2010-03-15 is used in this embodiment by means of a stamping device 7 with controllable embossing needle (arrow Z, phase B, Fig. 1).

The data matrix code 5 is assigned by a in Fig. 1 and 5 indicated, the entire Fierstellungsprozess the bottle controlling controller 8 and assigned to a bottle blank 1. In this case, the controller 8 sends the assigned data matrix code 5 for the bottle blank 1 currently being processed to the embossing device 7, which attaches it to the bottom 3 of the blank 1.

After the embossing of the data matrix code 5, the data matrix code 5 is read out and checked for correctness (phase B of FIGS. 1 and 2). For this purpose, a read-out device 9 in the form of a camera 9 'directed at the code 5 is provided, which receives the data matrix code 5 and forwards it to the controller 8 for the purpose of checking. In this case, the camera 9 'is arranged at a distance of about 20 to 30 cm and at a reading angle to the data matrix code 5 of substantially 30 °. The data matrix code 5 is illuminated for proper reading; see. the schematically illustrated bulbs 9 " in Fig. 1, phase B. The control of the data matrix code 5 consists essentially in the check whether on the one hand the "correct". Code for the positioned bottle blank 1 is present and on the other hand, whether the stamping image is correct and immaculate.

When, through the " check " of the data matrix code 5 yields that e.g. a change in the embossing image is required, the embossing needle of the embossing device 7 is driven accordingly by the controller 8 and the data matrix code 5 post-processed (phase B in Fig. 1 and 2), after which a read again (phase B) for the purpose of testing Data matrix codes 5 is performed. After the positive verification of the data matrix code 5 has been completed, the clamping jaws 6 are released and the bottle blank 1 is fed to the following process stations (phase C, in which only one station is shown by way of example in FIGS.

In Fig. 1, a further mark in the form of a generator number 10 is further indicated at the dashed line indicated bottle shoulder 11. The producer number 10 is also an unambiguous identification of the steel bottle which is also stamped by means of an embossing means, not shown, e.g. by means of a type wheel, after forming the shoulder of the steel bottle, or preferably in a later method step is attached (see step 117, Fig. 5).

In Fig. 3 a section of a bottom 3 of a bottle blank 1 is illustrated, which has the embossed data matrix code 5.

Fig. 4 shows a flowchart in which, by way of example, the sequence of significant steps in the production of a gas cylinder is sketched with their identification and control.

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram associated with the flow of FIG. 4, which illustrates the data flow with respect to the product and process-specific data in the production of a gas cylinder with data matrix code. The block diagram shows - in columns, seen from left to right - (a) the process steps or devices in which product and process-specific information is recorded; (b) the values detected (e.g., length, weight, wall thickness, etc.); (c) the actions, in particular the controller 8, in relation to these values; (d) the results of these actions; and (e) the respective follow-up facilities for further processing.

For the production of steel bottles and for the detection of product and process-specific data can be used in per se known facilities and facilities and coupled to the controller 8, which u.a. The control for embossing, reading out, checking the data matrix code 5 and recording the product and process-specific data essentially takes over. Accordingly, the controller 8 is provided with the embossing device 7 for attaching the data matrix code 5, with the read-out device 9 (cameras 9 ') for reading the data matrix code 5 in different process sections and with an AT507190B1 2010-03-15 individual detection devices for the acquisition or measurement of product and process-specific data as well as further connected with local databases and a central database (see explanations to FIG. 5).

In the production of a steel bottle with a predefined volume, according to FIG. 4, a material blank (block or tube) is produced according to step 100 and optionally weighed. The optionally detected value 100 'of the weight (see Fig. 5) of the blank for the bottle is temporarily stored in the controller 8. Subsequently, the blank is hot-formed into a bottle blank 1 with the bottom 3 (step 101 in FIG. 4). Optionally, the bottle blank 1 can also be cut to length, wherein the length of the bottle blank 1 is measured (length value 101 'in Fig. 5). The bottle-specific length value 101 'of the bottle blank 1 is likewise temporarily stored in the controller 8 (see Fig. 5).

It should be noted that the product and process-specific, detected values are marked with and explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 5; However, they are already given now, in the explanation of Fig. 4. The reference numbers of the values or data are selected according to the reference number used for the respective method step, e.g. in the process step "cutting 100 " is e.g. the weight value 100 'of the (block) blank is recorded.

After the hot forming 101, the bottle blank 1 for the attachment of the data matrix code 5 is brought into position at its bottom 3 by means of the clamping jaws 6 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The assigned by the controller 8 unique data matrix code 5 is assigned to the clamped bottle blank 1 or forwarded to the embossing device 7, the data matrix code 5 by embossing, step 102 in Fig. 4, using the embossing needle on the ground the bottle blank 1 attaches (see Fig. 1 and 2). The result is a coded bottle blank 102 'as shown in FIG.

After its embossing, step 102, the data matrix code 5 is read out (step 103). For this purpose, the readout device 9, which is provided in the embossing station and the camera 9 ', e.g. with integrated logic. The camera 9 'is placed in the region of the embossing device 7 and directed to the straight embossed data matrix code 5. The code 5 is read out and verified by means of the controller 8, checked for its correctness and optionally reworked (see above for FIGS. 1 and 2).

The data matrix code 5 is read several times as a result of the manufacturing process, for which in each case at least one camera 9 'a read-out device 9 is positioned in the stations of production.

In step 104, the wall and / or bottom thickness of the bottle blank 1, e.g. by means of non-contact measuring sensor or laser detection, measured (value 104 'in FIG. 5). The data of the wall and / or ground strength 104 'are forwarded to the controller 8 and the data matrix code 5 at the bottom of the bottle blank 1 is read out again for linking by means of a camera 9' arranged at this station (step 105).

Thereafter, the shoulder 4 of the bottle blank 1 is shaped - step 106 in Fig. 4 - by heating the bottom 12 opposite end 12 (Fig. 1) of the bottle blank 1 and pulling it into the desired shoulder or neck shape, respectively , The forming temperature, e.g. by means of temperature sensor, measured, and the forming temperature value 106 'of the controller 8 are passed. Subsequently, the data matrix code 5 (for the purpose of associating the value 106 'with the bottle) is read out by means of a camera 9' positioned there (step 107).

Following this, the gas bottle is subjected, for example, to a heat treatment 108 in order to give the steel of the gas cylinder the corresponding material properties. In each case several, e.g. four to six, adjacent gas cylinders on a conveyor belt through a e.g. equipped with a gas oven equipped heat treatment device in which the gas cylinders are heated, after which they are cooled. At the end of the heat treatment device are provided in a number corresponding to the number 6/15 Austrian Patent Office AT507 190 B1 2010-03-15 provided here processed gas cylinders cameras 9 ', the concrete lying position 108' of the individual gas cylinders on the conveyor belt (not shown) , eg left outside, middle, center right lying, etc., as well as their impressed on the bottom 3 data matrix code 5 record (step 109 "read out"). The data 108 'relating to the reclining position of the gas cylinder are then passed on to the controller 8.

Subsequently, the bottle may be subjected to other quality controls, also controlled by the controller 8, e.g. a hardness test, step 110 in Fig. 4, wherein the hardness of the bottle material is e.g. measured according to Brinell and thus a second value for the strength of the bottle material is obtained. This hardness value 110 'is again transferred to the controller 8, wherein for the purpose of assignment a renewed readout 111 of the data matrix code 5 is effected by a camera 9' set up there.

After the hardness test 110, according to step 112, the neck 4 of the bottle can be processed. Here, the neck 4 of the bottle is e.g. provided with a neck ring, which may have a thread depending on requirements.

Subsequently, for example, a further quality inspection is performed, in which the material of the bottle is checked for cracks or other material defects. This is done e.g. by means of an ultrasonic test 113, the results of which 113 'are in turn passed to the controller 8. With a correspondingly positioned camera 9 ', according to step 114, the data matrix code 5 is again read out at the bottom 3 of the bottle in order to unambiguously associate the result of the ultrasound test with the respective bottle.

Subsequently, in the example shown, the bottle is subjected to a water pressure test, step 115, where the bottle is filled with water and tested for pressure under pressure application. The water pressure test value 115 'is forwarded to the controller 8 and the data matrix code 5 is read out at 116. In the course of the water pressure test, further parameters of the bottle can be recorded. For example, the weight, the volume or other values of the gas cylinder can be determined, which can then be forwarded to the controller 8. Furthermore, a producer number is assigned by the controller 8 and assigned to the bottle.

In the subsequent method step 117, the further marking 10, containing e.g. the producer number and any other data attached.

Subsequently, the gas bottle is finished according to 118, i. E. finished. The bottle may be subjected to a surface treatment, e.g. Grinding, sandblasting, coating and the like, to be provided with a valve, tc. In the course of these processing steps, product or process-specific values 118 'can again be obtained, which can then be forwarded to the controller 8. In the case of valve installation, for example, a quality check may also be carried out, e.g. the torque and / or the angle of rotation are received and forwarded to the controller 8. If desired, the data matrix code 5 can be read out again after finishing 118 (step 119 shown in FIG. 4).

The production of the gas cylinder may comprise further steps other than those mentioned with reference to FIG. 4. For example, the bottle blank or gas cylinder may be sandblasted, ground and quality tested in the course of manufacture, e.g. by means of compressed air. The relevant product and / or process-specific data 13 can be correspondingly detected and forwarded to the controller 8 and read out for the assignment of the data matrix code 5.

With reference to the data flow in the production of a gas cylinder with data matrix code 5, which is shown in block diagram in FIG. 5, the controller 8, as mentioned, not only controls the general production process of the gas cylinder, but also essentially takes care of the process measured and recorded product and process-specific data 13 of the bottle blank 1 or the gas bottle, which are forwarded by the corresponding detection means to the controller 8, and "manages". even those already imprinted by the 7/15 Austrian Patent Office AT507190B1 2010-03-15

Data Matrix Codes 5 detected values that have been temporarily stored in the controller 8, e.g. Weight of the blank.

The rows of the columns (a) to (e) of the block diagram correspond to the time sequence of the actions with respect to the product and process-specific data 13 and the manufacturing process of the gas cylinder. The illustrated data flow begins in column (a), first line, with the thermoforming 101 of the blank, whereby a bottle blank 1 is obtained. The bottle blank 1 is clamped for embossing the data matrix code 5 at its bottom 3 in the clamping jaws 6 and centered (6a, column (c)). The bottle blank 1 is brought into the correct position for embossing (FIG. 6b, column (d)) and it is now possible to activate the embossing device 7 (FIG. 7, column (e)).

The controller 8 (column (a), second row) assigns the data matrix code 5, which corresponds to a unique identification number 5 '(column (b), second row), and passes it to the embossing device. 7 continues. The embossing device 7 is activated and the data matrix code 5 is stamped on the bottom of the bottle blank 1 (102, column (c), second line). This results in a coded bottle blank 102 ', whose "customer " the camera 9 'of the read-out device 9 set up in the region of the embossing device 7 is (column (d) and (e), second line). The image of the data matrix code 5 taken by the camera 9 'of the read-out device 9 corresponds to the identification number 5' uniquely assigned by the controller 8 of each bottle. Each bottle or bottle blank 1 is therefore present with a unique number 5 'in the controller. The identification number 5 'is an 8-digit number in this embodiment, but may of course also have a different number of digits (also alphanumeric).

The actual data flow of the product and process-specific data 13 is shown starting from the third line, starting with hot working 101 (column (a)). Before and after hot working 101 of the bottle blank 1, as explained with reference to FIG. 4, the weight value 100 and the length value 101 'are detected by the corresponding detection devices (column (b)), forwarded to the controller 8 and there cached (column (c)). (The weight value 100 'of the steel blank previously recorded after cutting is already present as information in the controller 8 (columns (b) and (c)).) The further items detected during the production process Product and process specific data 13 are forwarded from the respective detection devices to the controller 8, as previously mentioned with reference to FIG. 4. For this reason, and for the purpose of better illustration, a unitary block is shown in the column (c) of Fig. 5 as the controller 8.

The readout 103 carried out after the hot forming 101 and the embossing 102 of the data matrix code 5 as well as the readings 105, 107, 109, 111, 114 and 116 (and possibly 119) taken during the manufacturing process during subsequent process steps. of the data matrix code 5 by means of the respective read-out means 9 are shown within a dashed sub-block of column (c).

After the hot forming 101, the embossing 102 of the data matrix code 5 and its readout 103, the weight and length values 100 ', 101' present in the controller 8 with the identification number 5 'of the data matrix Codes 5 of the currently processed bottle linked to assign the data 13 of the bottle to their data matrix code 5. The assignment is made by the controller 8 and is represented by the block 200 in the column (d).

The weight and length values 100 ', 101' of the gas cylinder associated with the identification number 5 'are then read from the controller 8 and stored in the example shown in a local database 14 (column (e)). The local database 14 is, as mentioned, a simple computer, e.g. a PC, which is adapted to the respective processing station, on which data 13 are detected with respect to the bottle blank 1 or steel bottle, respectively.

The next value recorded is the wall thickness and / or floor thickness taken up in the course of detecting the wall and / or the floor thickness 104 (column (a)) Value 104 '(column (b)). These bottle-specific data 13 are forwarded to the controller 8, and there is a readout 105 of the data matrix code 5 by means of the correspondingly positioned camera 9 '(column (c)). The identification number 5 'of the data matrix code 5 of the gas cylinder can then - at 200, column (d) - be linked to the data 104'. Also in this process section, a local database 14 or a computer is provided which takes over the linked data 104 'from the controller and stores it under the data matrix code 5 corresponding to the read-out identification number 5' (column (e)).

The detection of further product and process-specific values 13 takes place, as explained with reference to FIG. 4, in the course of or after the shoulder molds 106, in the heat treatment 108 and during the execution of the hardness and ultrasound test 110, 113 and water pressure sample 115 (column (a)). This results in the forming temperature value 106 ', the reclining position 108' of the bottle, the hardness value 110 ', the value 113' of the result of the ultrasonic testing and the water pressure value 115 '(column (b)).

The values 113 'of the results of the ultrasonic testing 113 can also be displayed in an "OK" according to a simple variant. for a positive result of the ultrasound examination or for no deficiency symptoms and in a "NOK" insist on a negative result.

After the water pressure test 115, as explained with reference to FIG. 4, in step 117 the gas cylinder, e.g. by means of script curling, the generator number 10 assigned by the controller 8. This bottle-specific information is also adopted and assigned to the bottle or the data matrix code.

In general, therefore, the data matrix code 5 of the respective bottle blank 1 or the respective bottle is read out (103, 105, 109, 111, 114, 116 and possibly 119, column (c) in each detection or test device )), after which the product and process-specific value 13 are respectively linked to the identification number 5 'of the data matrix code 5 of the bottle blank 1 being processed - at 200, column (d) - and in the respective local database 14 is stored.

The individual detected and associated with the identification number 5 'product and process-specific values or data 13 are now included in the respective local databases 14 and computers (column (a), last line). In this case, the data 13 are stored in such a way that they are present as the respective data record 15 under the identification number 5 'of the bottle (column (b)). As soon as the bottle has been completed and no further data 13 are detected and assigned to the data matrix code 5, the data records 15 are merged to form a common data record under the identification number 5 '. In this case, the data record 15 stored in each case in the local databases 14 is transferred to a central database 17 (201, column (c)) and combined in a data table 16 (column (d)).

The transfer 201 of the records 15 for their linking and centralized management in the central database 17 is carried out using a networked with the local databases 14 and the computers computer system.

The data table 16 can be linked to a general data table 18 (columns (a) and (b), last line). In a linked data table 18, a plurality of gas cylinders with their product and process-specific data 13 and their identification number 5 'can be listed. Such is shown by way of example and in part in Table 1 below. 9/15 Austrian Patent Office AT507 190 B1 2010-03-15 TABLE 1

Timestamp Cycle time Weight Raw part Weight finished part Tap length DM CODE 29.08.2008 08:19 52 55 50 1490 10023657 29.08.2008 08:18 52 55 50 1490 10023656 29.08.2008 08:17 52 55 50 1490 10023655 29.08.2008 08:17 52 55 50 1490 10023654 29.08.2008 08:16 52 55 50 1490 10023653 29.08.2008 08:15 52 55 50 1490 10023652 29.08.2008 08:13 52 55 50 1490 10023651 29.08.2008 08:12 52 55 50 1490 10023650 29.08.2008 08: 11 52 55 50 1490 10023649 29.08.2008 08:11 52 55 50 1490 10023648 29.08.2008 08:10 52 55 50 1490 10023647 29.08.2008 08:09 52 55 50 1490 10023646 Table 1 is an excerpt from a in the central database 17 linked data table 18 with product and process-specific data 13 to twelve gas cylinders. Five data 13 of twelve gas bottles linked to the respective identification number 5 'of the data matrix code 5 are shown by way of example. The respective identification numbers 5 'to each gas cylinder are listed in the far right column. The other five columns (viewed from the left) contain the date and time of manufacture of the gas cylinder ("timestamp"), the duration of its manufacture in seconds ("cycle time"), the value 100 'of the weight of the blank of the bottle before its hot working 101 (see FIG. 4) for forming a bottle shape, the value of the weight, and the value of the length 101 'of the bottle blank 1 after hot working 101.

Of course, it is possible not to wait for the completion of the bottle to transfer its record 15 from the local databases 14 to the central database 17. Rather, the linked product and process-specific data 13 can be transferred into the central database 17 immediately after the bottle blank 1 or the gas cylinder has been transferred to the next method section (step 201). In order to avoid a loss of the data 13, a backup copy can remain in the local database 14.

With the aid of the centrally managed product and process-specific information in the central database 17, a test report 19 can be created for a plurality of bottles from the linked data table 18 and called up at any time (process 202 in FIG. 5) Quality assurance, process optimization, etc. used (see box 20) and can be further processed (Fig. 5). In addition, the product and process specific data 13 may be used for e.g. Individual reports of a single gas cylinder are retrieved. Furthermore, it goes without saying that customers also associate interesting information with them for the data matrix code, i. supplement the corresponding data record with your own data.

The operations illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 for acquiring values, for reading out the data matrix code 5, for linking 200 of the identification number 5 'with the acquired data 13 and for storing, for transferring 201 the data records 15 into the central database 17 and to create linked data tables 18 are suitable for the production of steel bottles of any size, capacity, etc. From which primary material (such as block or tube) or which type of steel bottle is produced, respectively, the embossing and checking of the data matrix code 5, the subsequent multiple readout, the detection of the product and process-specific data 13th whose assignment 200 to the identification number 5 'of the code 5, the storage in a local database 14 and the transfer 201 to a central database 17 for further processing of the data 13 given.

Depending on the requirements, the data matrix code 5 can be embossed according to various code systems, with the code scheme ECC 200 known per se being preferred. 10/15

Claims (18)

Austrian Patent Office AT507190B1 2010-03-15 [0082] The present steel bottle can be manufactured and constructed for many purposes. For example, the steel bottle is suitable for use as a dipping bottle, as an industrial gas bottle, e.g. in natural gas-powered vehicles or in the catering trade. 1. A method for producing a steel bottle, in particular a gas cylinder, with identification and control, in which in a hot forming a bottle blank (1) with a bottle body (2) and a bottom (3) is produced, and in which further a shoulder ( 4) and to the bottle blank (1) a two-dimensional mark is attached, characterized in that after the thermoforming treatment, but even before the forming (106) of the shoulder (4), a data matrix code (5) as a mark Embossing (102) is attached and then read out, after which the data matrix code (5) is read out again in subsequent manufacturing steps of the bottle and product and process-specific data (13) is detected and the data matrix code (5) be assigned. 2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the data matrix code (5) after the embossing (102) is checked for correctness. 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the data matrix code (5) is attached to the bottom (3) of the bottle. 4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the data matrix code (5) and the data matrix code (5) associated product and process-specific data (13) during manufacture temporarily in at least one local database (14) are stored. 5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that the product and process specific data (13) together with the data matrix code after completion of the bottle as a record (15) from the at least one local database (14) to a central database (17) are transferred. 6. The method of claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the assigning (200), reading, detecting and checking the data matrix code (5) and the product and process-specific data (13) by a controller (8) decentralized is made. 7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that the data matrix code (5) of the respective steel bottle is assigned independently by the controller (8). 8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that as product and process-specific data (13) at least data relating to material, length (102 '), weight (100', 102 ") and wall thickness of the bottle ( 104 '), forming temperature (106') and results of quality checks (110 ', 113', 115 ') are detected and assigned to the data matrix code (5). 9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that after performing at least one quality inspection (110, 113, 115) a further mark with a unique producer number (10) attached to the bottle by embossing and the data matrix code (5) is assigned. 10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that the bottle is subjected to a hardness test (110), an ultrasonic test (113) and a water pressure test (115) to check its quality, wherein the generator number (10) after carrying out the water pressure test (115). is shaped. 11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the producer number (10) in the shoulder (4) of the bottle is impressed. 12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the data matrix code 5) is embossed with 12 x 12 points. 11/15 Austrian Patent Office AT507 190 B1 2010-03-15 13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the bottle is formed from a block blank by hot working. 14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the bottle is formed from a tube blank under retraction of the bottom (3). 15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the bottom (3) of the bottle is convex. 16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the bottom (3) of the bottle is concave shaped. 17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the bottom (3) of the bottle is formed flat. 18 steel bottle, in particular gas cylinder, with a two-dimensional marking, prepared according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the mark is formed by a bottom of the bottle (3) embossed data matrix code (5). 3 sheets of drawings 12/15