DE102006025475A1 - Agitator for hermetic mixing of active agent with carrier- and auxiliary materials, comprises a hermetic, detachable anchoring mechanism, flexible bag, support element, clamping and actuating mechanism, and drive unit - Google Patents

Abstract

The agitator for hermetic mixing of active agent with carrier- and auxiliary materials, comprises a hermetic, detachable anchoring mechanism (15) for reversible opening and closing and for the hermetic transfer of a fluid particulate material containing a first and a second component of a mechanically-coupled, non-positive or forced closure (11, 13), a partially flexible first bag (3) and second bag (5), a support element for holding containers, a clamping and actuating mechanism (17), a clamping and actuating frame (21) to modify a relative position of the containers, and a drive unit. The agitator for hermetic mixing of active agent with carrier- and auxiliary materials, comprises a hermetic, detachable anchoring mechanism (15) for reversible opening and closing and for the hermetic transfer of a fluid particulate material containing a first and a second component of a mechanically-coupled, non-positive or forced closure (11, 13), a partially flexible first bag (3) and second bag (5), a first- and second support element for holding a first and second container, a first and/or second clamping and actuating mechanism (17) for the first and the optionally second component and vice versa, a clamping and actuating frame (21) to modify a relative position of the first and second containers, and a drive unit for the adjustment of the rotation of the clamping and actuating frame for the first and the second containers. The closure is secured to one another hermetically. Openings of the bags are hermetically connected to the first and second component. The first and the second components are reversibly opened and closed again in the secured state for forming a common passage between them under the application of an equidirectional force. The bags are flexible for reversibly opening and closing of the component. The support elements are directly or indirectly connected with the clamping and actuating frame at a distance to one another. The clamping and actuating mechanisms are built as a single component. A second opening of the first bag has a third component of the closure and/or a second opening of the second bag has a fourth component of the closure. Each of the components has a slot, which are hermetically sealed by means of a sealing element and opened for filling and/or emptying of the respective container by the application of pressure in a controlled or regulated manner. The components of the closure comprise a first and second closure block containing an elastic lateral body with an inner surface, an outer surface, an upper surface and/or edge, and/or bottom surface and/or edge, a first mounting element at the first end of the lateral body with a radial, peripheral edge or peripheral edge section and/or with a first inner space for mounting a hinged joint and/or in the form of a first hinge element, and a second mounting element at the second end of the lateral body, a first and second hinged bar arranged along with the formation of a rotary swivel adjacently-placed mounting elements, and a first and second hinged joint. Cylindrical sections of the inner surfaces of the lateral bodies are placed mutually sealing one another. The mounting elements are placed adjacent to one another. Each components of the closure comprises an elastic protruding bar and/or a recessing groove at the inner surface of the lateral body of the closure blocks, and a rigid supporting frames and hinged joints. The foldable frames comprises of x number of supporting frames and x number of hinged joints, where x = 2n and n is a natural number >= 2. Each of the components includes a flexible block, whose inner side is provided with a continuous closure spring, which facilitates a reversible and hermetic closure with a groove. The first and the second blocks and/or the first and second closure elements are more or less of the same length, are connected with the formation of a closed volume. The upper surface of the first block has a continuous, third closure element and the upper surface of the second block has a continuous, fourth closure element. The closure further comprises of a fifth and/or sixth closure element at an outer surface of the first and/or second block. The components of the closure comprise a first- and second flexion and/or stretchable elastic element, which is placed or lies at the outer side of the lateral body of the first block or is connected with the lateral body of the first closure block. The first flexion and/or stretchable elastic element have oppositely-lying first and second ends. The components of the elastic flexion element comprise of a strut, a bar and a block. The hinged bar is arranged along with the formation of a rotary swivel adjacently-placed mounting elements of the closure blocks. The clamping and actuating mechanism comprise of a first and second mounting and/or locking mechanism for a flush mounting and/or locking of the first and second hinged element and/or the hinged bar, and an adjustment mechanism, which moves the first mounting and/or locking mechanism and the second mounting and/or the locking mechanism. The clamping and actuating mechanisms are operated manually, pneumatically, hydraulically or in a motorized manner while opening or closing the detachable anchoring mechanism. The first and the second support elements are connected with a rotary holding mechanism for the first and second containers. The first bag and/or the second bag taper towards the components of the closure. The first support element is at a distance from the second component of the non-positive or forced closure that is longer than its distance from the first component of the non-positive or forced closure and vice versa. The inner surface of the lateral body of the first and the second closure blocks is placed partially sealing one another and is reversibly opened under the effect of force, while forming a passage between them. An independent claim is included for a procedure for hermetic mixing of active agent with carrier- and auxiliary materials in the agitator.

Description

The The present invention relates to a mixing device for in particular environmentally sealed mixing of fluid systems and a method of mixing of fluid systems.

The Problem of adequate and practical mixing of different Components arises, for example, in the formulation of Medicines where it comes, drugs in an appropriate manner with carrier and adjuvants. Also in chemical synthesis it is often Eduktkomponenten possible to pre-mix evenly before being subjected to the actual reaction step. Especially when it comes to formulate pharmaceutical preparations or are always highest To ensure safety standards. Neither may the environment through drug components or intermediates contaminated, nor the mixture to be prepared with ingredients from e.g. the ambient air are contaminated. Not rare the components used in chemical reactions or any Intermediates toxic, which is why to ensure the safety of employees the handling of such substances very high safety requirements must be complied with. Often are therefore already the vessels in which Reactants are mixed together, made of stainless steel or are with extremely unreactive Coatings such as Teflon and also have complex sealing systems. Such an approach is inevitably associated with high costs.

One Approach, no longer on metal containers for blending of being dependent on, for example, reaction components in the product X-mix of the company ATMI-Lifesciences, Hoegaarden, Belgium. This is essentially one to the middle rejuvenating, closed plastic tube that passes through in this mid-range one from the outside attachable clamping device to form two separate bag sections is reversibly separable. In the two separate bag sections There are two different fluid systems or two Fill different fluid systems that need mixing. This plastic hose is attached via the respective hose or bag ends, in a rotatable framework. After removing the Clamping device, the plastic tube is in rotation in the way put that fluid from a first tube section into the opposite second tube section emigrated. At the next Half turn wanders the contents of this second tube section in the opposite first hose section. In this way, a Durchmengung held by bulk material. After completion of the mixing process, the plastic tube is on separated in a suitable place and the mixture of a further or processing supplied. With the mixing device described above, neither in fill with the substances to be mixed while emptying the obtained Mixture absolute environmental tightness can be guaranteed, anyway not with simple means. In addition, the disposal designed the separated plastic tube sometimes problematic, in particular when toxic compounds are to be mixed. The X-Mix plastic tube comes therefore for certain mixing problems out of the question. In addition, for the expert From a purely practical point of view, far-reaching advantages over the Use of conventional standard laboratory techniques not immediately recognizable for mixing fluid systems.

It would be therefore desirable, for the Resort to blending fluid systems to be able to not with the described disadvantages of the prior art are affected.

Of the The present invention was therefore based on the object mixing devices to provide for mixing of fluid systems with which a contamination-free working, i. Filling, mixing and emptying, succeeds without impurities be registered in the fluids to be mixed and without at any stage the mixing process, the risk of contamination of the environment given is. At the same time a high level of environmental and occupational safety on low cost Be feasible way.

Accordingly, a mixing device has been found for the particularly environmentally-sealed mixing of, in particular two, fluid systems, comprising a substantially environmentally-sealed docking device for reversibly opening and closing and for the environmentally-sealed transfer of fluid bulk material containing
a first and a second coupling closure, which can be docked to each other in an essentially environmentally tight manner, wherein the first and the second coupling closure are reversibly openable and reclosable in the docked state, in particular under the action of force, in each case in substantially the same direction to form a common passage opening,
a first container, in particular an at least partially flexible first bag, having a first opening which is environmentally sealed to the first coupling closure, wherein the first container, in particular the bag, at least in the region of the first opening is so flexible that the first coupling closure reversible can be opened and closed,
a second container, in particular an at least partially flexible second bag, having at least one first opening which is environmentally sealed to the second coupling closure, wherein the second container, in particular the bag, at least in the region of the first opening is so flexible that the second coupling closure can be reversibly opened and closed,
at least one first holding element for the first container for holding the container, in particular in that region of the first container, which is opposite to the opening closable with the first coupling closure,
at least one second holding element for the second container for holding the container, in particular in the region of the second container opposite to the opening closable with the second coupling closure,
at least one first holding and actuating device for the first and optionally second coupling closure and / or at least one second holding and actuating device for the second and optionally first coupling closure, and
at least one holding device for the first and second container, suitable for changing the relative position of the first and second container in such a way that when the docking device fluid is at least once from the first container in the second container and / or from the second container in the first Container is transferable, wherein the first holding member and the second holding member are directly or indirectly, spaced from each other connected to this holder device or connectable.

there is preferably provided that the first and the second holding and actuating device one piece be formed or, if not integrally formed, in their relative position to each other in the docked state of the first and second coupling closure fixed in position or are fixable in position.

About each other corresponding first and second coupling closures formed a preferably environmentally sealed docking, so that if first and second coupling closure abut each other and together open be, the docking device is in the open state. in this connection is characterized by the peripheral edges of the coupling seals or the docking device spanned an opening area.

The first and second containers usually over a central or longitudinal axis, which passes through the coupling closure and usually perpendicular to the through the coupling closure in the open Condition spanned opening area oriented is. The middle or longitudinal axes of the first and second are preferred Container in the docked state of the first and second coupling closure substantially in the same direction, in particular parallel and particularly preferably collinear aligned.

The first and second containers are preferably made of a flexible, made of dense plastic material. These bag materials can be or be multilayer and for example by blow molding or Extrusion are made or constructed of woven plastic fibers be. Of course can be used containers made of materials other than plastic, such as. woven textile material.

According to one Another embodiment, the first and / or the second container not only provided with a single opening be, in which the first or second coupling closure are present. So can for example, these containers have a further, second opening, which preferably in turn with a third or fourth coupling closure in the opening area is provided sealingly. While For example, the first and second coupling closures used to be mingling under training a docking device the different ones present in the first and second containers Fluids can do the further, second openings the container, in particular if provided with a third or fourth coupling closure, be used to form these containers under training docking facilities Environmentally sealed with corresponding couplings of other containers or hoses to fill or to empty. Of particular advantage in this case is that by Use of additional, second openings in the first and / or second containers via third and / or fourth coupling seals Partially removed fluid mixture and / or further fluid material, for example, further first and / or second fluid or another Fluid, can be added to the mixing. Accordingly, in an alternative embodiment provided that the first container at least one second opening with a third coupling closure and / or the second container having at least a second opening with a fourth coupling closure.

All generally can with the mixing device according to the invention liquid and solid fluids are mixed together. For example, as first fluid is a liquid and a solid is used as the second fluid. Prefers become solid with the mixing device according to the invention fluid systems mixed together. Such fluid systems are generally in powder or particulate form and are often referred to as bulk designated.

Suitable holding elements can in vielfäl tigster form the first and second container. This may be, for example, reinforced and unreinforced eyelets, especially in the bottom area of the container. Furthermore, loops or similar connection variants can also be present as holding elements for use with the holding device on the containers, for example. As a holding element can also just a portion of the container, especially in the bottom area, come into consideration, for example, when the holding device is equipped with a clamping device into which a part of the bag can be clamped in the function of a holding element during the mixing process. In this latter embodiment, it has been recommended to reinforce those areas which are clamped in order to lock or connect the container accordingly.

Regarding the insertable first and second or third and fourth coupling closures can on diverse embodiments resorted become. In a preferred embodiment it is provided that the first and the second coupling closure against each other tightly brought into abutment or bringable and open each and closing are elastically deformable. It can be provided that the first and second coupling closure respectively have at least one slot, which in the ground state, in particular over at least a sealing element, are sealed and for filling and / or Emptying of the corresponding container by pressurization, preferably controlled and / or regulated, are openable. The third and fourth coupling closures can also be designed, as described above. Such coupling closures and docking devices formed from these coupling closures can be found e.g. in WO 2003/037717 A1, to which hereby with regard to this embodiment Reference is made.

According to one another, preferred embodiment can the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure respectively comprise: at least one first sealing strip, containing at least an at least partially elastic cheek body with an inside and an outside; at least one second sealing strip, containing at least one at least partially elastic flank pieces with an inside and an outside, with the insides the cheek body from first and second closure strip at least partially sealingly against each other as well as under Applying force can be opened reversibly to form a passage opening are.

According to a further preferred embodiment, recourse is had to first, second, third and / or fourth coupling closures, each comprising the following components: at least one first closure strip containing an at least sectionally elastic cheek body having an inner side, an outer side, an upper side and / or Edge and / or a bottom and / or edge, at least a first bearing element at the first end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least a first inner space for receiving a hinge axis, and at least a second Bearing element at the second, the first end opposite end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least a second inner space for receiving a hinge axis; at least one second closure strip containing an at least partially elastic cheek body having an inner side, an outer side, an upper side and / or edge and / or a lower side and / or edge, at least one first bearing element at the first end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded one , in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least one inner space for receiving a hinge axis, and at least one second bearing element at the second end of the car body opposite the first end, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least an interior for receiving a hinge axis; wherein the inner sides of the cheek body of the first and second closure strip at least partially sealingly against each other can be applied, wherein the first bearing element of the first closure strip with the second bearing element of the second closure strip and the second bearing element of the first closure strip and the first bearing element of the second closure strip under each other at least in sections Arrangement of the inner sides of the cheeks of the first and second closure strip adjacent can be arranged to form first and second joint body, in particular common outer surface areas, in particular cylinder surface areas; at least one first joint cap, which can be arranged to form a pivot bearing at least partially and / or about a first joint body, in particular adjacent first and second bearing elements of the first and second closure strip, and / or at least one second joint cap, forming a pivot bearing at least partially and / or about a second joint body, in particular adjacent to each other second and first bearing elements of the first and second closure strip can be arranged; and / or at least one first hinge axis for Receiving in the first interior for rotatably supporting the first joint body, in particular of the first and second bearing element of the first and second closure strip, and / or at least one second joint axis for receiving in the second interior for rotatably supporting the second joint body, in particular of the second and first Bearing element of the first and second closure strip.

in this connection can be provided that the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure further each comprise at least a, in particular elastic, Ausbuchtungssteg and / or at least a gutter on the inside of the cheek body of first and / or second closure strip, in particular from the first to the opposite second end of the cheek body, preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the Arm body, extend or extend.

The previously described preferred embodiment of first, second, third and fourth coupling closure and formed from it Docking devices are described in WO 2004/103816 A1, to which reference is hereby made with respect to this embodiment.

According to one another, preferred embodiment include first and second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure, in particular substantially rigid, frame rails and hinge devices, being immediate be neighboring frame borders over in each case at least one articulation device between these frame strips are connected together forming a circumferential snap frame, so that the insides of at least two adjacent and / or opposed Frame strips to form a, in particular environmentally sealed, Closure are hinged on each other.

there is preferred that the Folding frame includes x frame rails and x joint devices, wherein in particular x = 2 · n and n is a natural number bigger or is equal to 2.

The previously described preferred first, second, third and fourth coupling closures and the docking devices that can be formed from these coupling closures are described for example in WO 2005/012089 A2, to which reference is hereby made with respect to this embodiment.

According to one another, preferred embodiment include the first and second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure in each case at least one first flexible strip with at least one first, in particular continuous, Closure element, in particular a spring, on the inside and at least one second flexible bar with at least one second, in particular continuous, closure element on the Inside, which is complementary to the first closure element and allows a reversible, tight sealing with this in particular a groove, wherein the first and second strip and / or the first and second closure element in particular substantially the same are long, with the first and second bar, in particular on their respective end portions are interconnected, in particular forming a closed perimeter, and wherein the top the first bar at least a third, in particular continuous, Closure element and the top of the second bar at least a fourth, in particular continuous, closure element has or have.

there may be provided in particular that the first and the second Coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure further in each case at least a fifth and / or sixth closure element on at least one outer side from the first and / or second bar.

The previously described preferred embodiments of first, second, third and fourth coupling closure and the resulting from it Docking devices can be found e.g. in WO 2005/012089 A2, to which reference is hereby made with respect to this embodiment.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure may each comprise: at least one first closure strip, comprising at least one at least partially elastic cheek body having an inner side and an outer side; at least one second closure strip, comprising at least one at least partially elastic cheek body with an inner side and an outer side, wherein the inner sides of the cheek body of first and second closure strip at least partially sealingly against each other can be applied and reversible under force to form a through hole can be opened; and at least one first bending and / or stretch-elastic element, which can be applied to the outside of the cheek body of the first closure strip or rests or connectable or connected to the cheek body of the first closure strip, and / or at least one second bending and / or stretch-elastic element at the Outside of the cheek body of the second closure strip is applied or applied or which is connectable or connected to the cheek body of the second closure strip.

in this connection Such first, second, third and fourth coupling closures are particularly preferably, each comprising: at least one first sealing strip, containing at least one at least partially elastic flank pieces with an inside, an outside, a top and / or edge and / or a bottom and / or edge, at least one first bearing element at the first end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least a first interior for receiving a hinge axis and / or in the form of a first hinge element, and at least a second bearing element at the second, the first end opposite End of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least a second interior for receiving a hinge axis and / or in the form of a second hinge element; at least one second sealing strip, containing at least one at least partially elastic flank pieces with an inside, an outside, a top and / or edge and / or a bottom and / or edge, at least one first bearing element at the first end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least one interior for receiving a hinge axis and / or in the form of a first hinge element, and at least a second bearing element at the second, the first end opposite End of the car body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least one interior for receiving a hinge axis and / or in the form of a first hinge element; the insides the cheek body of first and second sealing strip at least partially sealingly against each other can be applied, wherein the first bearing element of the first closure strip with the second bearing element the second closure strip and the second bearing element of the first closure strip with the first bearing element the second closure strip in each case at least in sections, mutual attachment of Insides of the cheeks body from first and second closure strip can be arranged adjacent to training first and second Joint body, in particular comprising common outer surface areas, in particular Cylinder surface areas; and at least one first bending and / or stretch-elastic element with opposite first and second ends extending within these first and second ends at least between a first holder, in particular on or adjacent the first end, the cheek body of the first closure strip and egg ner second holder, in particular on or adjacent to second end, the cheek body the first closure strip extends, and / or at least a second bending and / or stretch-elastic element with opposite first and second ends extending within these first and second ends at least between a first holder, in particular on or adjacent to the first end, the cheek body of the second closure strip and a second holder, in particular on or adjacent to second end, the cheek body the second closure strip extends.

at this embodiment can also be provided that at the first and second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure the Biegeelastische element a component, in particular a strut, a Rod, a strip, made of metal and / or a composite material, in particular a carbon aramid and / or glass fiber composite material.

Further can the coupling closures of previous embodiment be equipped with at least a first joint cap under the Forming a pivot bearing at least partially over and / or around a first Joint body, in particular, adjacent to each other first and second bearing elements from first and second sealing strip, can be arranged, and / or at least a second joint cap, the under formation of a pivot bearing at least partially over and / or around a second joint body, in particular, adjacent to each other second and first bearing elements can be arranged from the first and second closure strip; and or at least a first hinge axis for receiving in the first interior for the rotatable mounting of the first joint body, in particular of the first and second bearing element of the first and second closure strip, respectively, and / or at least one second hinge axis for receiving in the second interior for rotatably supporting the second joint body, in particular of the second and first bearing element of the first and second closure strip.

The previously described preferred embodiments of first, second, third and fourth coupling closure and formed from it Docking devices can be found in the international patent application PCT / DE2005 / 002065 described with respect to this embodiment Reference is made.

A further development of the mixing device according to the invention further provides that the first and / or second holding and actuating device a first receiving and / or locking unit for, in particular flush, receiving and / or locking the first joint body and / or the first joint cap of a coupling closure or a docking device; a second receiving and / or locking unit for, in particular flush, receiving and / or locking of the second joint body opposite the first joint body and / or the second joint cap of the coupling closure or the docking device; and an adjusting mechanism configured to move the first receiving and / or locking unit and the second receiving and / or locking unit toward and away from each other by opening and closing.

there can be provided that the first and / or second holding and actuating device manually, pneumatically, hydraulically or electromotively under opening or close the docking device operable is.

According to the invention is further suggested that the first and the second holding element with the, in particular rotatable, Holding device for the first and second containers are connected or connectable.

preferred Mixing devices according to the invention are also characterized by the fact that the first container, in particular the first bag, and / or the second container, in particular the second Bag to the first and second coupling closure and / or taper towards the opposite end of the first and second coupling closure. Therefore these first and second containers narrow towards the docking device, whereby for example by the coupled first and second Container similar to the shape which can be made of an hourglass.

Appropriately, will be at the size of the first and second containers, as well as when installing them, that this first holding element further spaced from the second coupling closure is as from the first coupling closure and wherein the second retaining element further apart from the first coupling closure is as from the second coupling closure.

Prefers comprises the mixing device according to the invention furthermore at least one drive unit for positional change, in particular rotation, the holding device for the first and second container.

The object underlying the invention is further achieved by a method for mixing two fluid systems with a mixing device according to the invention, comprising the steps:
Providing a first container, in particular a bag, containing a first fluid system having at least one closable opening which is provided with a first coupling closure, in particular environmentally sealed, providing a second container, in particular bag, containing a second fluid system containing at least one closable opening, which is closed with a second coupling closure, in particular environmentally sealed, wherein the first and the second coupling closure are present in the closed state before the beginning of the mixing process, fixing the first container, in particular that component of the first container, which is opposite to the first coupling closure , via the first holding element with the holding device for the first and second container, fastening of the second container, in particular of that component of the second container, which is opposite to the second coupling closure, via d the second holding element with the holding device for the first and second container, wherein the first container filled with the first fluid is present in vertical alignment above the second container filled with the second fluid in such a way that the first and second coupling closures are environmentally sealed, coupling the first and second coupling closures to form a, in particular environmentally sealed, docking device, wherein the first and / or the second coupling closure in the docked state in a first and / or a second holding and actuating device, opening the docking device for the purpose of gravity-driven transfer of the first fluid in the second container or the second fluid in the first container and position change, in particular turning, the system of holding device, first holding element, first container, opened docking device from first coupling closure and second coupling closure, second container, two tem holding element and first and / or second holding and actuating device in such a way that the fluids from the second container in the first container and then from the first container back into the second container with open docking device.

At least a container is preferably in the inventive method not completely filled before, so that the transfer process relatively fast carry out leaves.

The present invention was based on the surprising finding that, despite the use of simple means, ie in the present case of, for example, flexible plastic bags, even toxic components can be mixed together with absolutely no contamination. Here, both the filling of the containers with the fluid Syste designed men, which is to be mixed, as well as the emptying or transfer of the resulting mixture in, for example, a reaction container unproblematic. In addition, the containers to be used with the mixing device according to the invention are readily disposed of in compliance with the regulations.

Further Advantages, features and applications of the present Invention will be apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment in conjunction with the attached drawings. In these show:

1 a schematic representation of a mixing device according to the invention, and

2 the mixing device according to the invention according to 1 rotated by 180 °.

1 shows a mixing device according to the invention 1 in a schematic plan view. In a rotatable holding frame 21 are two coupled flexible bags 3 and 5 before, both of which contain different bulk materials, which must be mixed. Pragmatically, the bags are 3 and 5 essentially identically dimensioned and designed. The bags 3 and 5 each have openings 7 and 9 Tapered bag sections 8th and 10 , These opening sections 7 and 9 are each environmentally sealed with the coupling closures 11 respectively. 13 connected. These coupling closures are in turn, as in 1 shown, forming a docking device 15 environmentally sealed together. The coupled coupling closures 11 and 13 or the docking device 15 lie in the illustrated embodiment in a one-piece holding and actuating device 17 with which, inter alia, it can be ensured that the docked coupling closures 11 and 13 not uncontrollably separate from each other again. In addition to the function, the docking device 15 to lock or hold, is about the holding and actuating device 17 the opening and closing of the coupling closures 11 and 13 or the docking device 15 accomplished. Lying, for example, coupling closures 11 and 13 before, as described in international patent applications WO 2005/012089, WO 2004/103816 A1 and PCT / DE2005 / 002065, with the actuator 17 the docking device 15 as indicated by the arrow symbols in 1 indicated, compressed to open. The holding and actuating device 17 can in a preferred embodiment with the framework or the holding device 21 be connected to obtain a particularly user-safe device. Alternatively, the holding and actuating device 17 also be formed from a first (for the first coupling closure) and a second holding and actuating device (for the second coupling closure). On the holding device 21 in the illustrated embodiment in the form of a scaffolding frame, are on opposite sides thereof respectively first and second holding elements of the bag 3 respectively. 5 in the form of eyelets 19 and 23 attached. This holding device 21 is dimensioned in the illustrated embodiment such that the two bags 3 and 5 over the coupling closures 11 and 13 can be coupled without the bags overlap significantly in the connected state. The holding device 21 is connected to a rotary drive (not shown), which allows the interconnected bags in the in 1 to turn shown manner. The axis of rotation in this case preferably passes through the opening through the docking device 15 spanned plane (rotation axis X). Of course, the coupled system of bags 3 and 5 also be rotated by a 90 °, for example, still rotating in this plane axis of rotation (axis of rotation Y). A mixing device rotated by 180 ° 1 is in 2 shown. By repeatedly turning the holding device 21 a repeated transfer of the mixed bag contents is effected, whereby one obtains a sufficiently homogeneous mixture.

The following is based on the 1 and 2 a mixing process according to the invention is described with the aid of the device according to the invention. This mixing method can be as follows. First, you fill two with couplings 11 respectively. 13 , as disclosed for example in WO 2005/012089, WO 2004/103816 A1 and PCT / DE2005 / 002065, provided bags 3 and 5 with different bulk material, which is to be mixed subsequently. The filling process of the individual bags 3 and 5 can with the help of the coupling closures 11 respectively. 13 be made environmentally sealed. For this purpose, the filling hose or the filling container also has to have a corresponding coupling closure which forms an environmentally-sealed docking device with the coupling closure of the respective bag, as described, for example, in WO 2005/012089, WO 2004/103816 A1 and PCT / DE2005 / 002065. This way can filled bags 3 and 5 to be obtained, their openings 7 and 9 over the coupling closures 11 respectively. 13 are sealed environmentally sealed. Such a filled bag 3 is then on the holding elements 19 in the holding device 21 hooked in the way that the opening 9 pointing down. Consequently, the bottom portion of the bag forms 3 at this attachment the highest point of this bag. For example, as in 1 to see in the bottom area of the bag 3 eyelets 19 present, by the appropriate holder 25 are feasible to secure attachment to the fixture 21 sure. Of course, the retaining elements or eyelets can also be connected directly to the holding device. Subsequently, the bag 5 on corresponding manner with the holding device 21 over the holding elements, eg in the form of eyelets 23 and holder 27 connected. The bag 5 gets upright in the fixture 21 introduced so that the opening 7 or the coupling closure 11 forms the highest point of the bag in the illustrated arrangement. The still closed coupling closures 11 and 13 be under training a docking device 15 Unweltdicht coupled with each other and in a holding and actuating device 17 introduced. This holding and actuating device 17 Ensures that the coupling closures are not decoupled uncontrollably during the turning process. Also the holding and actuating device 17 may for the purpose of forming a particularly user-safe embodiment with the holding frame 21 be connected (not shown). By pressing the holding and actuating device 17 become the coupling closures 11 and 13 open in the same direction and can be kept in this open state as long as necessary. By opening the docking device 15 forming coupling closures 11 and 13 first reaches the bulk of the container 3 Gravity driven partially or completely into the container 5 , After partial or complete transfer of the bulk material of the container 3 in the container 5 you can use the holding device 21 rotate with the help of a suitable rotating device so as to be in the container 5 present combined bulk material in the container 3 to transfer. Repeated, for example, three, five, or seven times transferring the bulk material to be mixed from one to the other bag by simply rotating the holding device 21 finally leads to a sufficient mixing. The bags are in this case preferably rotated in such a way that the axis of rotation extends through the area spanned by the opening of the docking device. After completion of the mixing process, the mixture is preferably present in the lower bag. By pressing the holding and actuating device 17 becomes the docking device 15 closed again. The holding and actuating device 17 Can then be removed and the coupling closures 11 and 13 , which are both in the closed state, can be separated from each other. While the upper, empty bag can be supplied directly to disposal, the mixture present in the lower bag is sent for further processing, for example transferred to a reaction vessel or transferred to a formulation tool. Also for the transfer of the mixture obtained, in turn, using a corresponding coupling closure, as described above, a docking device can be formed in order to completely or partially transfer the mixture in an environmentally tight manner. After emptying and the second bag of this is sealed environmentally sealed by its coupling closure and can also be supplied for disposal. Of course, the first and second bags can also be reused, if, for example, harmless substances are to be mixed for humans and the environment.

The in the above description, in the claims and in the drawings disclosed features of the invention can both individually and also in any combination for the realization of the invention in their various embodiments be essential.

1

mixing device

3

first bag

5

second bag

7

Opening of the first bag

8th

yourself to the opening tapered bag portion

9

Opening of the second bag

10

yourself to the opening tapered bag portion

11

first coupling seal

13

second coupling seal

15

docking

17

holding and actuator

19

first retaining element

21

rotatable Holding device for the first and second container

23

second retaining element

25

holder

27

holder

Claims (24)

Mixing device ( 1 ) for, in particular, environmentally sound mixing of, in particular two, fluid systems, comprising a substantially environmental-tight docking device ( 15 ) for the reversible opening and closing and for the environmentally sealed transfer of a fluid, in particular fluid bulk material, comprising a first and a second coupling closure (US Pat. 11 . 13 ) which can be docked to one another in an essentially environmentally tight manner, the first and second coupling closures ( 11 . 13 ) in the docked state, in particular under the action of force, in each case in the same direction in the same direction to form a common passage opening reversibly openable and resealable, a first container ( 3 ), in particular an at least partially flexible first bag, with a first opening ( 7 ), the environmentally sealed with the first coupling closure ( 11 ), the first container ( 3 ), in particular the bag, at least in the region of the first opening ( 7 ) is so flexible that the first coupling closure ( 11 ) is reversibly openable and closable, a second container ( 5 ), in particular an at least partially flexible second bag, with at least one first opening ( 9 ) that are environmentally sealed with the second coupling closure ( 13 ), the second container ( 5 ), in particular the bag, at least in the region of the first opening ( 9 ) is so flexible that the second coupling closure ( 13 ) is reversibly openable and closable, at least one first holding element ( 19 ) for the first container ( 3 ) for holding the container, in particular in that region of the first container, which with the first coupling closure ( 11 ) closable opening ( 7 ) is opposite, at least one second retaining element ( 23 ) for the second container ( 5 ) for holding the container, in particular in that region of the second container, which with the second coupling closure ( 13 ) closable opening ( 9 ), at least one first holding and actuating device ( 17 ) for the first and optionally second coupling closure ( 11 . 13 ) and / or at least one second holding and actuating device ( 17 ) for the second and optionally first coupling closure ( 11 . 13 ), and at least one holding device ( 21 ) for the first and second container ( 3 . 5 ), suitable for changing the relative position of the first and second container in such a way that when the docking device is open ( 15 ) Fluid at least once from the first container ( 3 ) in the second container ( 5 ) and / or from the second container ( 5 ) in the first container ( 3 ) is transferable, wherein the first holding element ( 19 ) and the second holding element ( 23 ) directly or indirectly, spaced from each other with this holding device ( 21 ) are connected or connectable. Mixing device ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and the second holding and actuating device ( 17 ) are integrally formed or formed or, if not integrally formed, in their relative position to each other in the docked state of the first and second coupling closure ( 11 . 13 ) are fixed in position or can be fixed in position. Mixing device ( 1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first container ( 3 ) at least one second opening provided with a third coupling closure and / or the second container ( 5 ) have at least one second opening provided with a fourth coupling closure. Mixing device ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and the second coupling closure ( 11 . 13 ) are brought into close contact with each other present or can be brought and are each elastically deformable for opening and closing. Mixing device ( 1 ) according to claim 3, characterized in that the third and / or the fourth coupling closure are each elastically deformable for opening and closing. Mixing device according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the first and second coupling closure ( 11 . 13 ) and / or the third and / or fourth coupling closure each have at least one slot which was in Grundzu, in particular at least one sealing element, sealed and for filling and / or emptying of the corresponding container by pressurization, preferably controlled and / or regulated , are openable. Mixing device ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first, second, third and / or fourth coupling closure each comprise the following components: at least one first closure strip containing an at least partially elastic cheek body with an inner side, an outer side, an upper side and / or edge and / or a bottom and / or edge, at least one first bearing element at the first end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least a first inner space for receiving a hinge axis, and at least a second bearing element at the second, the first end opposite end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least a second inner space for receiving a hinge axis; at least one second closure strip containing an at least partially elastic cheek body having an inner side, an outer side, an upper side and / or edge and / or a lower side and / or edge, at least one first bearing element at the first end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded one , in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least one inner space for receiving a hinge axis, and at least one second bearing element at the second end of the car body opposite the first end, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least an interior for receiving a hinge axis; wherein the inner sides of the cheek body of the first and second closure strip to at least partially sealingly against each other can be applied, wherein the first bearing element of the first closure strip with the second bearing element of the second closure strip and the second bearing element of the first closure strip and the first bearing element of the second closure strip in each case under at least sections mutual contact of the inner sides of the cheeks of the first and second closure strip adjacent can be arranged to form first and second joint body, in particular common outer surface areas, in particular Cylinder surface areas; at least one first joint cap, which can be arranged to form a pivot bearing at least partially and / or about a first joint body, in particular adjacent first and second bearing elements of the first and second closure strip, and / or at least one second joint cap, forming a pivot bearing at least partially and / or about a second joint body, in particular adjacent to each other second and first bearing elements of the first and second closure strip can be arranged; and / or at least one first hinge axis for receiving in the first inner space for rotatably supporting the first joint body, in particular the first and second bearing element of the first and second closure strip, and / or at least one second hinge axis for receiving in the second interior for rotatably supporting the second joint body, in particular of the second and first bearing element of the first and second closure strip. Mixing device according to claim 7, characterized in that that the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure further each comprise at least one, in particular elastic, Ausbuchtungssteg and / or at least one indentation channel on the inside of the flank piece first and / or second closure strip, in particular from the first to the opposite second end of the cheeks body, preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis the cheek body, extend or extend. Mixing device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure respectively include: in particular essentially rigid, frame rails and hinge devices, wherein immediately adjacent frame strips over at least one Joint device between these frame strips under training a circumferential folding frame are connected together, so that the Inner sides of at least two adjacent and / or opposite Frame strips to form a, in particular environmentally sealed, Closure are hinged on each other. Mixing device according to claim 9, characterized in that that the Folding frame includes x frame rails and x joint devices, wherein in particular x = 2 · n and n a natural one Number greater or is equal to 2. Mixing device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure each comprise: at least a first flexible strip with at least one first, in particular continuous, closure element, in particular a spring, on the Inside and at least a second flexible bar with at least a second, in particular continuous closure element the inside of which is complementary to the first closure element and allows a reversible, tight sealing with this in particular a groove, wherein the first and second strip and / or the first and second closure element in particular substantially are the same length, the first and second bar, in particular on their respective end portions are interconnected, in particular forming a closed perimeter, and wherein the top the first bar minde least a third, in particular continuous, closure element and the top of the second strip at least a fourth, in particular having continuous closure element or have. Mixing device according to claim 11, characterized in that that the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure further at least a fifth each and / or sixth closure element on at least one outer side from the first and / or second bar. Mixing device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure each comprise: at least a first closure strip containing at least one at least partially elastic cheek body with an inside and an outside; at least one second sealing strip, containing at least one at least partially elastic flank pieces with an inside and an outside, with the insides the cheek body from first and second closure strip at least partially sealingly against each other as well as under Applying force can be opened reversibly to form a passage opening are; and at least one first bending and / or stretch-elastic Element that is on the outside of the cheek body the first closure strip can be applied or rests or with the cheek body of the first closure strip connectable or connected, and / or at least one second bending and / or stretch-elastic element, on the outside of the cheek body the second closure strip can be applied or rests or that with the cheeks of the body second closure strip connectable or connected. Mixing device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure respectively comprise: at least one first closure strip, comprising at least one at least partially elastic cheek body with an inner side, an outer side, an upper side and / or edge and / or a lower side and / or edge, at least one first Bearing element at the first end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least a first inner space for receiving a hinge axis and / or in the form of a first hinge element, and at least one second bearing element on the second, the first End opposite end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least a second inner space for receiving a hinge axis and / or in the form of a second hinge element; at least one second closure strip, comprising at least one at least partially elastic cheek body having an inner side, an outer side, an upper side and / or edge and / or a lower side and / or edge, at least one first bearing element at the first end of the cheek body, in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer circumferential portion and / or at least one inner space for receiving a hinge axis and / or in the form of a first hinge element, and at least one second bearing element at the second, the first end opposite end of the car body ( 8th ), in particular with a rounded, in particular radial, outer circumference or outer peripheral portion and / or at least one inner space for receiving a joint axis and / or in the form of a first hinge element; wherein the inner sides of the cheek body of the first and second closure strip at least partially sealingly against each other can be applied, wherein the first bearing element of the first closure strip with the second bearing element of the second Ver closing strip and the second bearing element of the first closure strip with the first bearing element of the second closure strip in each case under at least sections mutual conditioning of the inner sides of the cheeks of the first and second closure strip adjacent can be arranged to form first and second joint body, in particular comprising common outer surface areas, in particular cylinder surface areas; and at least one first bending and / or stretch-elastic element having opposed first and second ends extending within said first and second ends at least between a first holder, in particular at or adjacent to the first end, the cheek body of the first closure strip and a second holder, in particular at or adjacent to the second end of the cheek body of the first closure strip, and / or at least one second bending and / or stretch-elastic element with opposite first and second ends extending within these first and second ends at least between a first holder, in particular at or adjacent to the first end, the cheek body of the second closure strip and a second holder, in particular on or adjacent to the second end, the cheek body of the second closure strip extends. Mixing device according to claim 13 or 14, characterized characterized in that the first and second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure the flexurally elastic element a component, in particular a strut, a rod, a strip, of metal and / or a composite material, in particular a carbon aramid and / or glass fiber composite material. Mixing device according to one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure further each include: at least one first joint cap, the formation of a pivot bearing at least partly over and / or a first joint body, in particular, adjacent to each other first and second bearing elements from first and second sealing strip, is arrangeable, and / or at least a second joint cap, the under Forming a pivot bearing at least partially over and / or a second Joint body, in particular adjacent to each other second and first bearing elements of first or second closure strip can be arranged; and / or at least a first hinge axis for receiving in the first interior for rotatably supporting the first joint body, in particular of first and second bearing element of the first and second closure strip, respectively, and / or at least one second hinge axis for receiving in the second interior for rotatably supporting the second joint body, in particular of the second and first bearing element of the first and second closure strip. Mixing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and / or second holding and actuating device, a first receiving and / or locking unit for, in particular flush, receiving and / or locking of the first joint body and / or the first joint cap of a coupling closure or a docking device; a second receiving and / or locking unit for, in particular flush, receiving and / or locking of the first joint body opposite second hinge body and / or the second joint cap of the Coupling closure or the docking device; and an adjusting mechanism configured to move the first receiving and / or locking unit and the second receiving and / or locking unit toward and away from each other by opening and closing. Mixing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that first and / or second holding and actuating device manually, pneumatically, hydraulically or electromotively under opening or close the docking device operable is. Mixing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that first and the second holding element with the, in particular rotatable, Holding device for the first and second containers are connected or connectable. Mixing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that first container, in particular the first bag, and / or the second Container, in particular the second bag, to the first or second Coupling closure and / or to the first and second coupling closure opposite end and / or taper towards the third or fourth coupling closure. Mixing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that first holding element further spaced from the second coupling closure is as from the first coupling closure and wherein the second retaining element further apart from the first coupling closure is as from the second coupling closure. Mixing device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one drive unit for positional change, in particular rotation, the holding device for the first and second container. Mixing device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first and the second coupling closure and optionally the third and / or fourth coupling closure each comprise: at least a first closure strip containing at least one at least partially elastic cheek body with an inside and an outside; at least one second sealing strip, containing at least one at least partially elastic flank pieces with an inside and an outside, with the insides the cheek body from first and second closure strip at least partially sealingly against each other as well as under Applying force can be opened reversibly to form a passage opening are. Method for mixing two fluid systems with a mixing device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the steps: provision a first container, in particular bag, containing a first fluid system having at least one closable opening with a first coupling closure, in particular is environmentally sealed, Provision of a second Container, in particular bag, containing a second fluid system, having at least one closable opening, with a second coupling closure, in particular environmentally sealed, lockable is, wherein the first and the second coupling closure before beginning of the mixing process are both in the closed state, attachment of the first container, in particular that component of the first Bundle, which is opposite to the first coupling closure, over the first holding element with the holding device for the first and second container, Attachment of the second container, in particular that component of the second container, the second coupling closure opposite, over the second holding element with the holding device for the first and second containers, in which that filled with the first fluid first container in vertical alignment above half of the second Fluid filled second container is present in such a way that the first and second coupling closures environmentally sealed can be coupled, coupling the first and second coupling closures below Formation of a, in particular environmentally sealed, docking device, wherein the first and / or the second coupling closure in the docked Condition in a first and / or a second holding and actuating device present to open the docking device for the purpose of gravity-driven transfers of first fluid in the second container or the second fluid in the first container and change of position, in particular turning, the system of holding device, first holding element, the first Container, opened Docking device from first coupling closure and second coupling closure, second Container, second holding element and first and / or second holding element and actuator in such a way that the Add fluids from the second container to the first container and then out the first container again in the second container with open Get docking device.