Methods and devices for filling cups, packaging lines for cups

A method for filling cups, the method comprising:

• providing a device comprising
• at least one distribution nozzle extending along a vertical direction and ending in a lower end, the at least one distribution nozzle comprising a central channel extending along the vertical direction and ending in a distribution opening at the lower end of the distribution nozzle,
• a product intake channel connecting with the central channel of the at least one distribution nozzle through an intake opening of the central channel, to define a distribution portion of the central channel between the intake opening and the distribution opening of the central channel,
• a blocking rod at least partially received in the central channel and movable along the vertical direction in the central channel, and
• a mover configured to move the blocking rod;
• moving and holding a cup in vertical relation with and opposite the distribution opening of the distribution nozzle;
• bringing the blocking rod into an open position in which said blocking rod leaves the distribution portion of the central channel free to allow a flow of product from the product intake channel to the distribution opening, the cup being filled with the product flowing through the distribution opening of the distribution nozzle until a specific quantity of product is present in the cup;
• when the specific quantity of product is present in the cup, bringing the blocking rod into a closed position in which said blocking rod blocks the distribution portion of the central channel to stop the flow of product from the product intake channel to the distribution opening, when the specific quantity of product is present in the cup, said quantity of product forming a layer of product in the cup, said layer of product having a product upper-surface opposite from and in vertical relation with the distribution opening of the distribution nozzle;
• and
• bringing the blocking rod into a contact position in which the blocking rod extends out of the distribution nozzle through the distribution opening such that a lower end of the blocking rod comes in contact with the product upper-surface, the lower end of the blocking rod having a conical shape configured to one or more of (i) reduce a presence of residual product on the lower end of the blocking rod, and (ii) reduce a contact surface with the residual product,
• wherein the presence of the residual product is reduced or avoided after filling the cup, near the distribution opening or on the lower end of the blocking rod.