US Patent 7748254 Method and device for controlling closed packages

To test the integrity of packages—cups (11)—a package conveyor (14) is provided, on whose conveying run (17) the cups (11) are positioned at a distance from one another, specifically in a correct formation forming transverse rows (23). In order to form a sealed testing chamber (13) for a group of cups (11) to be tested, a covering hood (19) can be lowered from above onto the package conveyor (14). Together with the covering hood (19), the latter forms a sealed testing chamber (13). A vacuum is produced in the latter, with the consequence that the packages experience deformation, specifically the cups (11) experience deformation of a closure film. Non-sealed cups (11) are identified and separated out.