DE102010042740A1 - Discharge device for media - Google Patents

Abstract

Discharge. The invention relates to a discharge device (10) for a medium (62, 62 '), in particular for a liquid medium, with a medium store (60, 60') in which the medium (62, 62 ') is stored before discharge. with a discharge opening (26) through which the medium can be discharged to an environment, and with an outlet channel (75, 76, 76 ') for transporting the medium from the medium store (60, 60') to the discharge opening (26). The invention further relates to a method for producing this discharge device. According to the invention, - the discharge device (10) comprises a base (20), - the medium reservoir (60) is provided as a recess (70) open to an upper side (22) of the base (20), - the open side of the Recess (70) is closed by a deformable film (50), - has an actuating unit (40) which is movable relative to the base (20) and has a stamp section (44), and - the actuating unit (40) is guided in this way relative to the base (20 ) is movable, that by displacing the actuating unit (40) relative to the base (20), the stamp section (44) can move into the recess, thereby pressing the medium (62) in the medium reservoir (60) to the discharge opening (26).

Description

Field of application and state of the art

The invention relates to a discharge device for a medium, in particular for a liquid medium, with a medium storage in which the medium is stored before the discharge, with a discharge opening, through which the medium can be discharged to an environment, and with an outlet channel for Transport of the medium from the medium reservoir to the discharge opening. The invention further relates to a method for producing such a discharge device.

Generic discharge devices are well known in particular for the cosmetic and pharmaceutical sector. They allow users to selectively deliver medium, for example, by applying a skin cream on the skin or administering a drug nasally or otherwise.

A variety of known discharge devices is such that the pumping devices by a plurality of actuations multiple discharging operations can be effected. A particular type of discharge device is designed differently, as it is provided that the medium from the medium storage is discharged by a single or two actuation. Such discharge devices are particularly useful for samples, such as cosmetics samples. Also, in discharge devices for nasal vaccinations can be provided that the media storage can be emptied by a single operation of the discharge or possibly by two successive operations.

In the context of epidemically spreading diseases, it may be necessary to provide a variety of drug delivery devices at very short notice. For this purpose, discharge devices known from the prior art often have a rather unsuitable design, since they are too complex to be able to be produced and filled in large numbers in a short time. Furthermore, it is also necessary, particularly in the area of these mass vaccinations, to be able to provide particularly cost-effective discharge devices.

An essential aspect of the present invention therefore lies in a particularly simple construction of corresponding discharge devices, in which the main components are a substantially rigid base and a film which can be deformed in comparison, which jointly delimit the medium accumulator.

The prior art shows such or similar in some documents. So is out of the WO 2006/029600 A1 a multi-chamber packaging known in which a bottom part is closed with wells by a cover sheet. From the DE 29 22 754 a pack is known, which is designed for spraying liquid and is composed of films. From the DE 201 02 282 U1 An applicator is known which comprises a bottom foil and a cover foil, between which a liquid reservoir is provided. This applicator has a discharge opening defined by the bottom foil and the cover foil, which can be opened by breaking off a closure section. From the DE 69715476 a discharge device is known, which has a support and a barrier film applied thereto, between which a liquid storage is provided. In this case, it is further provided that a region of the carrier can be folded down in order to be able to exert pressure on the liquid container for the purpose of discharge. The DE 602 04 176 T2 , the DE 699 02 476 T2 , the DE 602 02 776 T2 and the DE 20 2005 000 931 U1 illustrate other prior art documents of interest in connection with the present invention.

Task and solution

The object of the invention is to provide a generic discharge device which combines a favorable production price with a well reproducible discharge behavior.

According to the invention this is achieved in that a generic discharge device additionally has the following features. The dispensing device has a base and a deformable foil, the medium reservoir being provided as a depression open to an upper side of the base in the base, and this open depression being closed by the deformable foil. Furthermore, a movable relative to the base operating unit is provided, which has a stamp portion. The actuation unit is movably guided relative to the base such that by displacing the actuation unit relative to the base, the stamp portion can engage in said recess and fill this medium reservoir substantially completely, thereby forcing the medium in the medium reservoir to the discharge opening.

A discharge device according to the invention thus has three main components: The base is a substantially rigid component, preferably made of plastic, in which a depression is provided. This base is at least partially covered on an upper side by the preferably plastically deformable film, which thereby at least in the finished state of the discharge device holds the provided in the recess of the base medium in the recess. Preferably, that part of the film which closes the open side of the depression is largely planar at least in one extension direction and thus directly connects the edges of the upper side of the base adjacent to the depression to one another. In an orthogonal extension direction, the film does not necessarily have to be flat. This will be explained below.

For discharging the medium, which is stored in the medium storage after completion of the discharge device, it is provided that said stamping section penetrates into the depression. As a result, the volume of the medium reservoir is reduced and the medium is forced into the outlet channel in the direction of the discharge opening. It is envisaged that the film is sufficiently stretchable to not tear when engaging the stamping section to its end position or otherwise liquid-leaking. The stamp portion is provided on an actuating unit, which is movable relative to the base and which is preferably provided for direct application of force by the user. It is thus not a user-free operating portion to be targeted for engaging the stamp portion, but a punch portion which is movable along with the actuating portion along a path of movement and are thus immersed without special skill in the depression can. The medium, which is pushed out of the medium reservoir, is pressed into the outlet channel, which leads to the discharge opening.

This outlet channel is preferably at least partially as well as the media storage together delimited by the base and the film circumferentially. This makes it possible to provide an interruption point in the outlet channel, at which the film is connected to the base in such a way that initially there is an interruption of the outlet channel, which separates the medium reservoir from the discharge opening. Only in the course of the operation, a pressure level is reached by the pressure increase in the media storage, which is sufficient to separate the film and the base in the region of this interruption point, so that the access for the medium is opened up to the discharge or to another point of interruption , For this purpose, it is furthermore advantageous if a function chamber in the form of a recess in the base part is provided immediately before the said interruption point. This functional chamber is also bounded by the base and the foil, the width of the functional chamber being substantially greater than its height, which is defined by the distance of the base from the foil. The width is preferably at least a factor of 2, in particular preferably at least a factor of 3, greater than the height of the functional chamber. In the area of the functional chamber, the film is not connected to the base, so that the media originating from the medium reservoir can easily flow in here and, due to the comparatively large area of the film in the area of the functional chamber due to the high width, is able to do so with a comparatively small amount great force sufficient to open the point of interruption.

On the one hand, the point of interruption ensures that impurities can not get into the medium during a storage period. It also ensures that the medium can not escape from it due to the orientation of the discharge device. In addition, the interruption point can take over a pressure point function, since it requires a largely defined pressure in the function chamber to open the point of interruption. Ensuring the force required to build up this pressure in the movement of the actuating portion with stamp section ensures that after opening the point of interruption a complete medium discharge is achieved. The base part is, as already mentioned above, preferably designed as a plastic part and largely rigid in itself. It can be designed in particular as a polyolefin component, in particular as a PP component or as a PE component, with an average wall thickness of at least 0.5 mm.

In contrast, the film is substantially thinner and has a thickness of not more than 200 μm, preferably not more than 100 μm. Depending on the structure of the film and a thickness of less than 30 microns is possible. The film may be formed as a plastic film or as a metal foil, in particular aluminum foil. It is preferred if the film is formed as a composite film and has at least one plastic film layer and at least one metal foil layer. In particular, the metal foil layer ensures that no medium can diffuse out of the medium reservoir. The plastic film layer ensures, in particular, that the required extensibility of the film, which is necessary in order to avoid leakage of the medium in the region of a film break, is ensured when the stamp section penetrates. Regardless of the materials, it is advantageous in the case of a film having a plurality of film layers if at least one film layer has an elongation at break which is sufficiently high so as not to allow this film layer to break when the stamp section completely penetrates the recess. Preferably, a second film layer is deliberately designed so that its elongation at break is sufficiently low that it is intended as the penetration of the stamp section into the recess tears. For this purpose, the more extensible film layer preferably has an elongation at break of at least 30%, while the less elastic film has an elongation at break of not more than 25%. In particular, the above-mentioned plastic layer can form the first of the two film layers and form the metal layer, in particular the aluminum layer, the second film layer. The design of these film layers such that one of the two films breaks when penetrating the stamp section into the recess also leads to a pressure point function, since the resistance of the film against the penetration of the stamp section to break the less stretchable film layer is substantially greater and with the tearing the film layer undergoes a sudden reduction.

Bonding technology can be used to bond the film to the base. However, it is preferred if a welded connection is created, for example by thermal sealing or by ultrasonic welding. To produce such a connection, it is advantageous if the film is formed as a plastic film or at least has a film layer of plastic, which points in the direction of the base, the connectivity is particularly good if the same type of plastic, such as PP, for this film layer and use for the base.

Due to the penetration of the stamping section into the depression, the medium previously contained in the medium reservoir, which is formed by the depression, can be discharged in a very reproducible manner. For this purpose, the shaping of the stamp section and the mobility of the actuating unit are preferably adapted to the shape of the depression in such a way that at least 90% of the contents of the medium store can be pushed out of the medium store by the engagement of the guided movable stamp section into the depression. For this purpose, the stamp portion and the recess have largely corresponding shapes. Furthermore, the recess is preferably formed as a substantially edge-free curvature, which is to be understood that on the inside of the recess, which serves as a medium storage, no wall surface is provided with radii of curvature less than 2 mm. As a result, dead spaces are avoided, which could result from the fact that the stamped portion is tilted or stuck during penetration.

The volume of the medium reservoir before the start of the discharge process can vary depending on the application. It is preferably in the range between two 2 .mu.l and 2 ml, in particular preferably in the range between 50 .mu.l and 250 .mu.l. A particularly good discharge characteristic can be achieved in that the smallest extent of the medium reservoir in the plane of the upper side to the maximum depth is in a ratio between 1: 1 and 3: 1. The larger this ratio is, the wider the depression in relation to its depth. If it is very wide, a uniform penetration of the stamp section and a reproducible medium discharge are no longer guaranteed. If the ratio is too small, the film is stretched even further up to the end position of the stamp section, which creates the risk of film failure.

Preferably, the base on the upper side has a substantially flat upper end surface which at least partially surrounds the recess, wherein the film is fastened to the end surface at least predominantly prior to engagement of the stamp portion in the recess parallel to this end surface. Thus, the film or at least a majority of it can be used as a largely flat film without having to replicate a complex shape of the top. As a result, the assembly is kept simple. A largely flat upper end surface is understood to mean a flatness of a maximum of 1 mm. The end surface is thus arranged between two spaced from each other by a maximum of 1 mm levels. Slight deviations from the flatness may occur, on the one hand, in the area of the upper end surface, preferably by providing a sealing bead on the upper end surface of the base, which surrounds all the channels and chambers open to the upper side and ensures, when applying the film, that one firm connection between the film and the base is achieved at least in the region of this sealing bead. On the other hand, an intended deviation from the flatness of the upper end surface can be given if the end surface has a slight curvature, so that after attaching the film on the end surface and this is slightly curved in the manner of a surface portion of a cylinder. This curvature leads before the final and complete attachment of the film to the base to a stability of the film against deformation, the advantage will be explained below.

The transition edge separating the recess from the portions of the top of the base surrounding the recess is also completely disposed in the plane of this end face in a discharge device in which the top end surface completely surrounds the recess. However, it may be advantageous if the transition edge only partially, in particular for the most part, extends parallel to the largely flat end surface, but part of the transition edge is provided on an opposite the end surface angled additional surface of the top. This additional area, on average over the End surface is slightly angled, preferably at an average angle of less than 30 °, may be completely flat or slightly curved. In such a design with angled additional surface, the recess extends into the region of this additional surface, so that a part of the transition edge of the recess is arranged on this additional surface. In such a design, the film which closes the upper side formed by the medium reservoir, not completely flat, but at least in the transition region between the upper end surface and the additional surface curved or kinked, preferably with a radius of less than 3 mm. Such a configuration represents a particular advantage in the filling of a discharge device according to the invention, since the film can initially be fastened to the base exclusively in the region of the end surface, so that it initially remains at a distance from the latter in the region of the additional surface. Thus, the recess is initially still partially open, so that despite the already partial or even extensive attachment of the film to the base, a filling of the recess with the medium remains possible. Only when this is done, the remaining remaining free part of the film is then connected to the additional surface in order to isolate the medium storage against an environment. Furthermore, in the application of this bend in the film in the region of the open side of the recess may be advantageous because it may be provided with a corresponding mobility of the actuator unit and thus the punch portion that the stamp portion during an operation initially in the transition region between the end face and the Additional surface comes into contact with the recess closing the film. In this case, due to the convex shape of the film existing there, the beginning of the deformation of the film in the course of the discharge process easier, since initially only sets a uniaxial and no biaxial state of stress in the film.

However, in addition to the method described above, in which the film is partially already attached to the base, when the medium reservoir is filled with medium, alternative methods can also be used. For example, the film can only be applied if the depression is already filled with medium. Also, a separate filling opening and possibly an additional vent opening may be provided in the base, which is closed after completion of filling, for example welded shut, is.

The guided mobility of the actuating unit relative to the base can be designed such that the actuating unit is linearly linearly movable relative to the base. However, an advantage is a design in which the actuating unit is pivotally hinged to the base. This is particularly inexpensive and easy to produce. A corresponding hinge, which provides this pivotable linkage, may preferably be provided as a bistable hinge with two spaced apart pivot axes, as is known for example from shower gel bottles. In a bistable hinge, two opposite end positions are stable, that is, without maintaining an external force remaining, while intermediate positions are unstable and causes a displacement of the actuating unit relative to the base in the direction of one of the two end positions. The bistability counteracts an accidental actuation of the discharge device, in particular when filling the depression with medium. On the other hand, it leads to the fact that the actuator unit must not be pressed against the counter-force of a hinge in the depression at a desired operation. It is particularly advantageous if the actuating unit is formed integrally with the base. This allows a particularly favorable production can be achieved. It is particularly advantageous if the connection between the actuating unit and the base is realized by means of a film hinge. Such a film hinge provides a very favorable possibility for realizing the guided mobility of the actuating unit relative to the base. In such a design with a pivotable articulation of the actuating unit, it is considered advantageous if the pivot axis of the actuating unit is parallel to that transition region or that transition line which adjusts in the recess closing foil between the upper end surface and the additional surface.

If the discharge of the medium is desired as a spray, it requires a turbulence of the emerging medium. This can be achieved in several ways. Thus, in particular, a Verwirbelungsgeometrie be provided at the base or on a separate nozzle component used in the base. Furthermore, it is also possible to arrange the point of interruption, which is provided in the region of the outlet channel and which is opened in the course of the discharge by pressurizing the medium, only immediately before the discharge opening, so that after opening this point of interruption, one more suitable for generating a turbulence Passageway forms.

While in the design of the discharge with only one medium storage this is preferably filled with a liquid or pasty medium, there are further design options, especially with regard to the generation of a spray when at least two wells are provided in the base, the first and form a second medium storage, preferably on Actuating portion are provided at least two punch portions which engage in a movement of the actuating portion in the at least two recesses. The design with two medium stores allows, for example, that a first of these media storage with a gas, preferably with air, is filled, which flows in the course of application, in particular after opening a point of interruption, in the second medium reservoir to provided there powdery medium with Discharge opening to tear. In such a design, it is not necessary that a stamp section is also provided for the second medium reservoir. A structurally similar design with two punch sections on a common or two different operating sections may be such that by means of the first punch portion liquid is transported from a first medium storage in the second medium storage, which then by engaging the second punch portion in the second medium storage together with in the second medium storage initially provided powder is discharged in dissolved form. The arrangement of the recesses can also be influenced by the use of multiple stamp sections in which order or with which time offset the volumes of the medium storage are reduced, for example, if a mixing of a medium from the first medium storage with the medium from the second medium storage is desired, before the mixture is forced out of the second medium reservoir.

With regard to the generation of the above-mentioned spray jet, it can be particularly advantageous if the first medium reservoir is connected to the outlet opening by means of the outlet channel and the second medium reservoir is connected to the outlet channel by means of a feed channel. With such a design, the medium of the second medium reservoir, preferably a liquid, is thus pressed into the outlet channel during the actuation of the discharge device and mixed there with the medium, preferably air, which has escaped from the first medium reservoir. As a result, the reliable generation of a spray is possible.

With regard to the generation of a pressure point, the corresponding design of the film as a multilayer film and the pressure point effect of the point of interruption are already mentioned above. A particularly reproducible pressure point effect can be achieved if contact surfaces are provided on the base and on the actuating unit, which come into contact with each other during actuation of the discharge device before the medium is discharged through the outlet opening. In this case, the contact surfaces are arranged and formed such that they require an increased actuation force for the continued actuation movement of the actuation unit. As a result, the pressure point effect is achieved. In this design, it is therefore provided that in the course of the operation initially takes place a collision between the contact surfaces, which must be overcome by the operator that the contact surfaces are deflected either by an increased operating force sufficient to allow continued operation, or but fail in the area of a predetermined breaking point provided to allow the continued operation. A pressure point effect achievable as a result differs from the pressure point effects described above in particular in that it does not require that, at the time of the pressure point effect, during the actuation, a pressurization of the medium in the medium reservoir already take place.

The invention further relates to a set of a plurality of discharge devices of the type described above, wherein the individual discharge devices of this set are formed as a single strand of discharge devices connected to each other. This strand is created by integrally connecting the base of each discharge device of this strand with its immediate neighbors or their immediate neighbors. As a result, a simple manufacturability and in particular easy handling are achieved. The discharge devices, which are preferably already present with applied film, can be handled by the connection to each other in a defined manner, which is particularly advantageous in terms of a subsequent filling process against handling as bulk material. In particular, it is advantageous if the respective foil of the strand forming discharge devices is attached to the respective base such that a filling area between the base and the film is still open. Thus, the discharge devices are in a preassembled state in which they already have all the components except for the medium still to be filled. However, at this time, the film is not yet in its final and fully top-mounted position so that it still allows the medium to be loaded through the open area where the film is spaced from the base. Only then is the complete closing of the medium reservoir provided, in particular by sealing the film to the base. In the not yet fully closed state, it is particularly advantageous if the discharge devices form a spiral-wound strand, since such a strand causes the still free projecting film sections are protected and do not deform, which could prevent a later filling process.

The invention further relates to a method for producing a discharge device of the type described, in which, starting from a separate presence of the base and the film in the case of unfilled medium storage, the film is attached to the recess surrounding portions at the top of the base, wherein over a portion of the edge the recess initially no attachment of the film takes place at the base and wherein then the media storage is filled by a gap between the film and the portion of the edge to which the film is not yet attached, with liquid, pasty, or powdery medium. Finally, the film is attached to this part of the edge.

This method makes it possible to approximately complete the discharge device with all its components, in order to spend it in this almost finished state from the manufacturer of the discharge device to the usually located elsewhere filler. This fills the medium reservoir through the open area between the film and the base and subsequently completes the fastening process, in particular the sealing process.

It is particularly advantageous if the attachment of the film takes place before filling at the end face of the top and takes place after filling at the additional surface of the top. This allows the film to remain in a largely flat state until it is filled.

Brief description of the drawings

Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the claims and from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, which are explained below with reference to the figures. Showing:

1a and 1b A first embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention,

1c a film of the discharge of the 1a and 1b .

1d to 1g the operation of the embodiment of the 1a to 1b .

1h to 1k the manufacturing process and handling process to a discharge device according to the 1a to 1g .

2a and 2 B A second embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention,

3a to 3c A third embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention,

4a and 4b A fourth embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention,

5a to 5c A fifth embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention,

6 A sixth embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention,

7 a seventh embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention and

8th an eighth embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention.

Detailed description of the embodiments

The discharge devices according to the invention have a number of matching features. Referring to the 1a These matching or largely matching features of all embodiments are first explained.

A discharge device according to the invention 10 has a base unit made of plastic 20 , an actuating unit movable relative to the base unit 40 as well as one on top 22 the base unit 20 attached foil 50 ,

The base unit 20 has a discharge opening 26 which directly in the one-piece component of the base unit 20 may be provided or, as in the first embodiment of the 1a and 1b , through a separate nozzle component 27 may be formed, which of the base unit 20 is assigned and attached to this immovable. In the already mentioned top 22 the base unit is a recess 70 is provided, which is the major part of the outer wall of a media store 60 forms. This depression 70 is via a connection channel 76 partially as a groove at the top 22 the base unit 20 is provided with the outlet opening 26 connected. On the open side of the depression 70 is the medium storage 60 in the in 1b recognizable way through the film 50 completed that in 1a for a better understanding of the base unit 20 is shown spaced. This slide 50 locks all to the top 22 the base unit 20 pointing fluid-carrying channels and chambers, so that here no medium can escape before and during operation.

For discharging the medium from the medium storage 60 is the operating unit 40 intended. This is by means of a hinge 42 around the pivot axis 4 in the direction of the arrow 2 opposite the base unit 20 pivotable. At the operating unit 40 is related to the perspective of 1a and 1b an increase provided a stamp section 44 forms. This stamp section 44 has an outer shape that is at least substantially the shape of the recess 70 equivalent. The stamp section 44 is on the operating unit 40 arranged such that it by pivoting the actuator unit 40 opposite the base unit 20 in the direction of the arrow 2 inevitably into the depression 70 engages.

The features mentioned up to here agree with all embodiments shown here. However, some additional features are not identical in all embodiments, or partially realized only in individual embodiments.

With regard to the embodiment of the 1a and 1b whose functioning in the 1d to 1f is explained, the following additional features should be mentioned. The top 22 the base unit 20 has a largely flat upper end surface 23a on, which in the direction of the operating unit 40 pointing at a crease 24 in one opposite the end surface 23a angled additional surface 23b passes. The depression 70 extends over this edge 24 away, leaving a transitional edge 25 between the closing surface 23a or the additional area 23b on the one hand and the depression on the other 70 on the other hand, only part of it to the level of the final area 23a runs parallel. As the 1b clarifies, is also the slide 50 by this angling of the surfaces 23a . 23b against each other in a main section 52a and an additional section 52b divided, which are each plane and by a bending edge 54 are separated from each other. Another special feature of the embodiments of 1a and 1b lies in the fact that between the medium storage 70 and the connection channel 76 a functional chamber 72 is arranged. This functional chamber 72 has a reason slightly deeper than the area 23a lies, so when sealing the film 50 on the top 22 no connection to the film here 50 is created. To the flat and wide functional chamber 72 closes a breakbridge 74 at. This narrow bridge 74 forms a point of interruption and extends between the upstream functional chamber 72 and the adjoining connection channel 76 and is before the beginning of a discharge process with the overlying film 50 sealed. All at the top 22 the base unit located liquid-carrying sections, so the recess 70 , the functional chamber 72 as well as the outlet channel 76 are through a sealing bead 78 opposite the surrounding surface of the upper end surface 23a and the additional area 23b isolated. After application of the film 50 , ie the transfer from the state of 1a in the state of 1b , And a thermal sealing process is ensured that at least in the region of this sealing bead 78 a reliable connection between the top 22 the base unit 20 and a bottom of the film 50 is achieved.

Another special feature of the embodiment of the 1a and 1b turns out 1c making a cut through the slide 50 shows. From this figure it follows that the film 50 is formed as a composite foil and an upper foil layer 50a and a lower foil layer 50b which are both made of plastic, in this case made of polyethylene. Between this upper foil layer 50a and the lower film layer 50b is a liner 50c provided, which is designed as an aluminum foil layer.

The 1d to 1f illustrate the operation of the discharge 10 , 1d shows in a sectional side view an initial state. In this initial state, the representation of the 1b corresponds, is the medium storage 60 passing through the wall of the depression 70 on the one hand and the underside of the film 50 on the other hand limited to the environment, with a liquid medium 62 , present with a nasal-administered vaccine 62 , filled. To discharge this medium is the discharge 10 held so that the outlet opening 26 is inside a nostril of the user. Then in the in 1e illustrated manner, the actuator unit 40 about the movie hinge 42 defined pivot axis 4 in the direction of the arrow 2 pivoted. During this process, shortly after the state is exceeded 1e a contact contact between the stamp portion 44 and the foil 50 manufactured, with this first Berührkontakt in the region of the bending edge 54 the foil 50 takes place. With a continued pivotal movement of the actuator unit 40 expresses the stamp section 44 in the area of the edge 54 with simultaneous deformation of the film 50 into the depression 70 into it. It comes to a state of tension in the film 50 , with reference to the 1b a tension only in the transverse direction 6 is generated because the film is stretched in this direction. An elongation in the orthogonal direction 8th does not initially take place, so that it comes only to a uniaxial state of tension which initially does not increase the force required for the operation to a disturbing extent. With increasing pivoting of the actuator unit 40 however, the pressure in the medium reservoir increases 60 and the adjoining functional chamber 72 , Because the functional chamber 72 is very flat, but has a relatively large area, the film is 50 in the area of the functional chamber 72 already by a small one Quantity of medium pushed up, causing a peel force on the film 50 with regard to the interruption bridge 74 comes about. The pressure in the medium reservoir 60 leads to increasing resistance to continued movement of the actuator unit 40 , This increased resistance is further supported by the fact that the film layer 50c made of aluminum in the direction 6 increasingly stretched to the limit of its elongation at break. At about the same time there is a rupture of the film layer 50c through which the other film layers 50a . 50b are not affected, and to a detachment of the film 50 from the breaker 74 , Now is the way for the medium 62 to the outlet opening 26 free. Under the high fluid pressure in the medium reservoir 60 and the comparatively high force at that moment on the operating unit 40 is applied, the medium from the medium reservoir 60 out through the connection channel 76 to the outlet opening 26 pressed and there in the form of a spray 64 applied. There, as in particular in 1f it can be seen, the shape of the stamp section 44 complementary to the shaping of the depression 70 is formed, almost the complete medium from the medium storage 60 discharged. This is also favored by the fact that the outlet from the medium storage 60 on the pivot axis 4 the operating unit 40 is arranged away from the side, so that the movement path of the stamp portion 44 when penetrating into the depression 70 a deflection of the medium in the direction of the connecting channel 76 favored. 1g again shows the discharge 10 after completion of the discharge process.

The 1h and 1i illustrate the preparation of a discharge 10 , As shown in these figures, the film becomes 50 on the top 22 the base unit 20 initially only in the area of the upper end surface 23a , but not yet in the area of the angled additional surface 23b sealed. This results in the state shown in the above figures, in which the film 50 is still largely formed. In the area of the additional area 23b this implies that an access 66 to the media storage 60 initially remains open. The discharge device 10 can therefore be in the state of 1h and 1i supplied by the manufacturer of the discharge to the filler. This can be through the mentioned opening 66 through the media storage 60 fill and then the free end 52b the foil 50 at the additional area 23b to seal, thereby completing the discharge device.

The 1j and 1k illustrate a particularly advantageous approach. In this, the discharge devices 10 as a continuous strand 100 with a plurality of discharge devices 10 manufactured, in which case the base units 22 along side edges 28 connected to each other. The discharge devices 10 can in the still unfilled state according to the 1h and 1i be rolled up into a spiral, like it 1j clarified. As a result, the still free ends 52b the slides 50 protected from mechanical impact, so it's not inadvertent to closing the opening 66 comes, which subsequently for filling the discharge 10 is still needed. After the discharge devices 10 through these openings 66 Once again, they can return to the state of a spiral-rolled strand 100 be brought as it is 1k clarified. So they can be stored and transported to save space.

The discharge device according to the invention thus allows the achievement of a very low production price with a simple handling and a highly reproducible amount discharged medium.

The embodiment of the 2a and 2 B differs only in one essential aspect of the discharge of the previous representations. So is the upper end surface 23a at the top 22 the base unit 20 formed slightly curved in this second embodiment, in particular the 2 B can be seen. This slight curvature causes the film too 50 in a slightly arched shape, as it were in the form of a surface section of a cylinder surface, on the end surface 23a is appropriate. Due to this slight curvature, which in 2a can hardly be seen, a significant increase in stability in terms of the free end 52b the foil 50 achieved. Thus, in the transfer of the partially finished discharge 10 for filling even better than the previous embodiment ensures that the film 50 not unintentionally, even before filling the access opening 66 closes.

In the embodiment of the 3a to 3c In particular, there are two special features. For one, the top is 22 the base unit 20 formed largely flat in this embodiment. One opposite the end surface 23 Angled additional surface, which extends into the area of which the depression 70 extends, is not provided here. Thus, in this embodiment, to which in the 3a and 3b the corresponding foil 50 is hidden, provided that first by the recess 70 and the foil 50 formed media storage 60 completely filled before the slide 50 , in the 3c is shown applied. Another special feature of this embodiment of the 3a to 3c is that the hinge 42 as a bistable hinge with several of each other spaced by pivot hinges formed by hinges 4a to 4c is trained. This ensures that the actuating portion 40 always either in the one end position, shown in the 3a to 3c , or in the opposite end position in which the stamp section 44 into the depression 70 immersed, moments is charged. Thus, during handling and filling of the medium reservoir 60 ensures that the actuator unit 40 not unintentionally disturbs the filling process. Furthermore, it is ensured that the application of force to the actuating portion 40 to achieve a discharge operation not against one by the hinge 42 generated restoring force takes place.

In the embodiment of the 4a and 4b Two media storage are provided. In addition to the media storage 60 in the same way as in the embodiment of 1a to 1c is formed, there is a second medium storage 60 ' who also went through a recess 70 ' in the base unit 20 is formed. The two media storage 60 . 60 ' are through a connection channel 76 connected with each other. The outlet channel 76 ' as a continuation of the connection channel 76 goes from the second medium storage 60 ' out. Both the connection channel 76 as well as the outlet channel 76 ' have a break bridge 74 . 74 ' on, in the same way as the interruption bridge 74 according to the embodiment of the 1a to 1c works and only at a predetermined minimum pressure in the upstream media storage 60 . 60 ' and the upstream functional chamber 72 . 72 ' opens. The corresponding film is as in the embodiment of 1a and 1b designed, but hidden in this example.

The illustrated discharge of the 4a and 4b is intended for mixing two media in advance of the discharge process. So can in particular in the medium storage 60 a liquid may be provided while in the medium reservoir 60 ' a powdered medium is present. When the discharge device 10 of the 4a and 4b is operated in the same way as it is to the 1d to 1f has been described, first, a pressure in the medium storage 60 through which the liquid contained therein after overcoming the interruption bar 74 in the second medium storage 60 ' is encouraged. There is formed in response to this also an overpressure, which in the course of penetration of the second stamp section 44 ' in the second recess 70 ' becomes sufficiently high to also a separation of the film and the base part in the region of the interruption ridge 74 ' to effect. Thus, then the mixed medium through the outlet opening 26 discharged through.

In the discharge of the 5a to 5c the special feature is that a particularly precise pressure point effect is achieved by the fact that on the operating section 40 pen-like extensions 48 are provided, which in the course of the pivoting movement of the actuating portion 40 opposite the base 20 in recesses 30 the base 20 engage, in which transversely extended securing webs 32 are provided. Thus, the actuating operation in the in the 5a and 5b illustrated position interrupted until one on the actuator unit 40 acting force is sufficiently large, to a fractured failure of the safety bars 32 to effect. Only when these are broken can the movement of the actuator unit 40 opposite the base 20 be continued, making it in the for 1d to 1f already described way comes to the discharge.

The discharge device 10 of the 6 As the embodiment of the 4a and 4b , over two media storage 60 . 60 ' , each through depressions in a base unit 20 are formed. Of these depressions is in the representations of the 6 only the depression 70 of the media storage 60 to recognize immediately. The depression 70 ' is indicated by dashed lines. Deviating from the embodiment of 4a and 4b are the media stores 60 . 60 ' not directly connected by means of a connection channel. Instead, the media store 60 via an outlet channel 76 with an outlet opening 26 connected while the smaller media storage 60 ' in a feed channel 75 which ends shortly before the outlet 26 in the outlet channel 75 empties. The discharge of the 7 is intended to produce a nebulization. This is in the medium storage 60 only contain air while in the media store 60 ' a drug is in liquid form. When the operation section 40 with his to the wells 70 . 70 ' adapted stamp sections 44 . 44 ' around the pivot axis 4 in the direction of the arrow 2 is pivoted, it comes in both media stores 60 . 60 ' simultaneously to an overpressure, through the interruption webs 74 . 74 ' in the exhaust duct 76 and the feed channel 75 be opened, so that at about the same time the air from the medium storage 60 and the fluid from the media reservoir 60 ' in the direction of the outlet opening 26 stream. Just before the outlet 26 mix the liquid and the air, so that the discharge takes place in the form of a spray.

In the embodiment of the 7 are again two media storage 60 . 60 ' - each provided by wells 70 . 70 ' in the base 20 are formed. The peculiarity here is that the operating section 40 only a stamp section 44 which is arranged so that it during pivoting of actuating section 40 around the pivot axis 4 in the larger media storage 60 the two media storage penetrates. As a result, an overpressure in the media storage 60 generated, the first to peel off the film 50 from the breaker 74 leads. As soon as this is done, the air flows out of the medium reservoir 60 in the media store 60 ' and then causes under the action of pressure and a detachment of the film 50 from the second breaker 74 ' , Once this is done, the air can move towards the outlet 26 pour, taking a powdered drug 62 ' , which in the second medium storage 60 ' was stored, to the discharge 26 entraining.

In the embodiment of 9 are again two media storage 60 . 60 ' in the base 20 provided, which communicate with each other through a connecting channel 76 are connected. In front of and behind the media storage 60 are in turn interruption bridges 74 . 74 ' provided in an initial state with the film 50 are sealed. In this embodiment, a first operating section exists 40 and a second opposite to the first operating portion 40 about a second pivot axis 4 ' pivotable operating section 40 ' , In the media store 60 is a liquid medium 62 included while in the media store 60 ' a powdered medium 62 ' is held up. For actuating the discharge device 10 of the 8th First, the two operating sections 40 . 40 ' together around the pivot axis 4 pivots until the through the stamp section 44 on the slide 50 in the area of the first medium store 60 generated pressure sufficient to be in the area of the interruption bar 74 the foil 50 from the base 20 to separate. This leads to a discharge of the liquid 60 in the second medium storage 60 ' , Since the application of force to the operating sections 40 . 40 ' initially takes place only on the actuating portion is during its penetration into the recess 70 of the first media store 60 still no penetration of the second stamp section 44 ' in the second recess 70 ' causes, since the operating sections 40 . 40 ' due to the joint 42 ' are mutually pivotable. Also enough in the media storage 60 generated pressure after opening the interruption bar 74 not yet in order to also in the area of the second breakbridge 74 ' the foil 50 from the base 20 to solve, so first the two media 62 . 62 ' together in the media store 60 ' remain. Only if then also the second stamp section 40 ' into the depression 60 ' is engaged, the film dissolves 50 from the breaker 74 , so the way to the discharge opening 26 is released. As soon as this happens, the mixture of the two media flows out.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• WO 2006/029600 A1 [0006]
• DE 2922754 [0006]
• DE 20102282 U1 [0006]
• DE 69715476 [0006]
• DE 60204176 T2 [0006]
• DE 69902476 T2 [0006]
• DE 60202776 T2 [0006]
• DE 202005000931 U1 [0006]

Claims (15)

Discharge device ( 10 ) for a medium ( 62 . 62 ' ), in particular for a liquid medium, having - a medium storage ( 60 . 60 ' ), in which the medium ( 62 . 62 ' ) is stored before the discharge, - a discharge opening ( 26 ), through which the medium can be discharged to an environment, and - an outlet channel ( 75 . 76 . 76 ' ) for transporting the medium from the medium reservoir ( 60 . 60 ' ) to the discharge opening ( 26 ), characterized in that - the discharge device ( 10 ) One Base ( 20 ), - the medium reservoir ( 60 ) as one to a top ( 22 ) the base ( 20 ) open depression ( 70 . 70 ' ) in the base ( 20 ), - the open side of the recess ( 70 . 70 ' ) by a deformable film ( 50 ), - one opposite the base ( 20 ) movable operating unit ( 40 ), - the operating unit ( 40 ) a stamp section ( 44 . 44 ' ), and - the actuating unit ( 40 ) so led to the base ( 20 ) is movable, that by a displacement of the actuating unit ( 40 ) compared to the base ( 20 ) the stamp section ( 44 . 44 ' ) can engage in the recess to thereby the medium ( 62 . 62 ' ) in the medium store ( 60 . 60 ' ) to the discharge opening ( 26 ). Discharge device according to claim 1, characterized in that the shape of the stamp portion ( 44 . 44 ' ) and the mobility of the operating unit ( 40 ) to the shape of the depression ( 70 ) are adjusted by the engagement of the guided movable punch section ( 44 . 44 ' ) into the depression ( 70 . 70 ' ) at least 90% of the contents of the medium store ( 60 . 60 ' ) can be pushed out of the media storage. Discharge device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the base ( 20 ) at the top ( 22 ) has a substantially flat upper end surface ( 23 . 23a ) having the recess ( 70 ) at least partially surrounds the film ( 50 ) at least for the most part ( 56a ) before the stamp section ( 44 . 44 ' ) into the depression ( 70 . 70 ' ) parallel to this end face ( 23 . 23a ) at the end surface ( 23 . 23a ) is attached. Discharge device according to claim 3, characterized in that a transition edge ( 25 ) between the depression ( 70 . 70 ' ) on the one hand and the portions of the upper side surrounding the recess ( 22 ) of the base, on the other hand, only partially parallel to the largely flat end surface ( 23a ) and a part of the transition edge ( 25 ) at one opposite the end surface ( 23a ) angled additional surface ( 23b ) of the top side ( 22 ). Discharge device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the film ( 50 ) at least one first foil layer ( 50a . 50b ) with an elongation at break of at least 30% and at least one second film layer ( 50c ) with a maximum elongation at break of 25%. Discharge device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating unit ( 40 ) pivotable at the base ( 20 ), wherein the operating unit ( 40 ) preferably in one piece with the base ( 20 ) and in particular preferably the actuating unit ( 40 ) by means of a film hinge ( 42 ) with the base ( 20 ) connected is. Discharge device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outlet channel ( 75 . 76 . 76 ' ) at least in one subsection with respect to its cross section from the base ( 20 ) and of the film ( 50 ) is limited, whereby in this subsection at an interruption point ( 74 . 74 ' ) the foil ( 50 ) before actuation of the discharge device with the base ( 20 ) is connected such that the medium storage ( 60 . 60 ' ) liquid-tight with respect to the discharge opening ( 26 ) is isolated. Discharge device according to claim 7, characterized in that between the point of interruption ( 74 . 74 ' ) and the well forming the medium reservoir ( 70 . 70 ' ) a functional chamber ( 72 . 72 ' ) is provided, in the one opposite to the width of the connecting channel ( 75 . 76 . 76 ' ) has enlarged width and in which the stamp section ( 44 . 44 ' ) preferably can not engage and. Discharge device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the base ( 20 ) at least two depressions ( 70 . 70 ' ), a first and a second medium memory ( 60 . 60 ' ) for each medium ( 62 . 62 ' ) are provided, preferably at the operating portion ( 40 . 40 ' ) at least two stamp sections ( 44 . 44 ' ) are provided, which upon movement of the actuating portion ( 40 . 40 ' ) into the at least two recesses ( 70 . 70 ' ). Discharge device according to claim 9, characterized in that the first medium reservoir ( 60 ) by means of the outlet channel ( 76 ) with the outlet opening ( 26 ) and the second medium storage ( 60 ' ) by means of a feed channel ( 75 ) with the outlet channel ( 76 ) connected is. Discharge device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base ( 20 ) and at the operating section ( 40 ) Contact surfaces ( 48 . 32 ) are provided, which come into contact with the actuation of the discharge device before the medium through the outlet opening ( 26 ), whereby these contact surfaces ( 48 . 32 ) are arranged and configured such that they are used for the continued actuation movement of the actuation unit ( 40 ) require an increased operating force and thereby achieve a pressure point effect. Set of a plurality of discharge devices ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the discharge devices ( 10 ) as an integrally connected strand ( 100 ) of discharge devices ( 10 ) are formed. Set according to claim 12, characterized in that - the respective foil ( 50 ) the strand ( 100 ) forming discharge devices ( 10 ) at the respective base ( 20 ) is fastened such that a filling area ( 66 ) between the base ( 20 ) and the film ( 50 ) is still open, and - the strand ( 100 ) is rolled up like a spiral. Method for producing a discharge device according to one of Claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, starting from a separate presence of the base ( 20 ) and the film ( 50 ) with unfilled medium storage ( 60 ) a. the foil ( 50 ) to the depression ( 70 ) surrounding sections ( 23a ) the base ( 20 ), wherein over a portion of the edge of the recess initially no attachment of the film takes place at the base, b. the media storage ( 60 ) through a gap ( 66 ) between the film ( 50 ) and the portion of the edge where the film ( 50 ) is not yet attached, with liquid, pasty or powdered medium ( 62 . 62 ' ) and c. then the foil ( 50 ) also in this part of the edge at the base ( 20 ) is attached. A method according to claim 14, characterized in that the attachment of the film ( 50 ) in step a at the end surface ( 23a ) of the top side ( 22 ) and in step c on the additional surface ( 23b ) of the top side ( 22 ) he follows.

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