KHS presents the future of filling: at BrauBeviale the machine and systems manufacturer is to introduce a new, self-learning filling valve. The system optimizes the production process with the help of artificial intelligence and at the same time considerably reduces the time and effort required for operation and maintenance. The feasibility of this flexible valve has been verified by KHS in the DnSPro research project (1).
“To date, depending on the beverage and container around 20 different types of filling valve are used,” says Jochen Ohrem, expert of R&D Management at KHS in Bad Kreuznach, Germany. “The beverage industry is increasingly calling for versatile filling systems. Digitally networked line and machine systems are also in high demand.” KHS would like to significantly push these changes which is why the Dortmund systems provider has taken part in the DnSPro research project alongside six other partners (2). Their common goal is to develop a self-learning filling valve with which beverage producers can fill all liquids into all existing types of container. This would do away with the need for manual conversions and the effort required for operation and maintenance would be greatly reduced, says Ohrem.