EP0755300B1 - Method and device for combining at least two flowable media - Google Patents

Abstract

PCT No. PCT/DE95/00462 Sec. 371 Date Dec. 5, 1996 Sec. 102(e) Date Dec. 5, 1996 PCT Filed Apr. 7, 1995 PCT Pub. No. WO95/27558 PCT Pub. Date Oct. 19, 1995The invention is a device and a method for combining at least two fluid media. The device comprises a flow region (1) which is attached to and/or formed with an opening of a first chamber (2) and which is designed to accommodate the fluid medium coming from the first chamber and to transport it to the outlet (3) of the flow region (1) which is preferably followed by a mixing zone. A second chamber (9) designed to be filled with a second fluid medium is connected to the flow region and/or to the first chamber through at least one first opening element (inlet opening) (11) for diverting part of the first fluid medium from the first into the second chamber. The second chamber is provided with at least one second opening element (second opening) (12) opening into or adjoining the flow region (1) for discharging the second fluid medium displaced into it by the first fluid medium. Several first chambers (2) or second chambers (9) may be provided.

Description

The present invention relates at least to a device for merging two flow media with at least one fillable with a first flow medium first chamber and at least one in the area of an opening of the first Chamber attachable and connected to this flow area, which holds the the first flow medium emerging from the first chamber and for its delivery up to to an outlet opening of the flow area and a method for Generation of a product strand by merging at least two Flow media that are kept separate before merging.

The problem arises in many areas, at least two flowable media, which are kept separately next to each other before use, to be merged in such a way that they only become one with each other immediately before use finished multi-component system can be mixed. Examples of this are the merge of the two components of so-called two-component adhesive or the mixing of sealing compounds with coloring substances. This problem can be summarized in general in that it applies to a first Flow medium to supply at least a second to the properties of the flow media to change, for example their viscosity, mechanical and / or chemical Properties, visual appearances or physical states. Here it can it is two- or multi-component systems, but according to the invention should be flowable, with their possibly different viscosity of subordinate Meaning is.

There are already numerous formulations for one- or multi-component sealing and / or Adhesives known in vehicle construction, aircraft construction or general Machine and device construction for gluing and / or sealing components Metal, wood, glass or plastics can be used. From users generally preferred one-component systems, since these with simple application devices can be used without mixing or Dosing errors can occur that affect the final properties of the bond or seal can negatively influence. In many cases, however, the reaction rate is sufficient from one-component systems to achieving ultimate strength or a minimum strength, so that in these cases conventional two-component systems are used. To the impact of any To reduce mixing errors, the two components have comparatively large Volumes and viscosities. However, this means that for such two-component systems special 2K application systems may be required. examples for Such 2K systems are coaxial cartridges with a static mixer, such as they are offered by Liquid Control under the name "Supermix". Of further are 2K systems with two parallel cartridges and a dynamic one Mixing head known, e.g. in EP-B-313519 or EP-B-351358 are. DE-A-4202591 describes a method for premixing at least two pasty masses when introduced into a mixer, in which the mixer supplied mass strands form thin, adjacent layers. Everyone These 2K systems have in common that special application devices for their application required are.

For merging two flow media / components, for example, are special designed device known, the two arranged side by side cylindrical Have cavities in which various flow media are filled. These cavities open into a common exit opening to which a suitable mixing device, for example a static mixer, can be added. To merge these two Media are extracted from the cylindrical by means of pistons under pressure Cavities of the device are pressed and then emerge as a common strand from the Exit opening from, which is partly formed by the merged media becomes. The strand then enters the downstream mixing device and becomes mixed there to a homogeneous final medium before it is used emerges from the discharge opening of the mixing device.

Furthermore, containers containing dental care products are known, into which at least two different, flowable and optically different dental care components are filled. The constructive design of the container leads in the container stacked dental care components in one strand from the discharge opening in which the mutually contacting dental care components are strip-like lie side by side.

These known devices have the disadvantage that they are specifically for the respective Applications designed or designed and only to be used for this are. Furthermore, the flow media are already in the storage rooms at the manufacturer filled, whereby by the composition of the media or their proportions and whose scope is specified. In this way, the user gets the Deprived of the opportunity to influence his working medium on site or at work, to determine or change. For example, the color of the material not be changed, which is particularly disadvantageous if the color Appearance of, for example, a two-component adhesive or a sealant on the color of the parts to be glued or mutually sealed to be aligned.

Other known devices provide chambers in which the to be mixed Media filled in and mechanically mixed there and then as a mixed strand be driven out. Such a device is described, for example, in DE 92 18 334 U1. However, such devices have the disadvantage that the entire Supply of a first flow medium with the second or further flow medium must be mixed before starting the application. With that everyone subsequently exerted influence, d. H. the mixture must be in the once selected composition can be applied. In addition, with the Mixing initiated the mutual influencing of the components, so that, for. B. in Cases where the physical properties of the components result from the merging be changed, the application within a correspondingly specified Time must be carried out, since it may no longer be possible afterwards. A Another disadvantage of such a device is that it is inevitably one behind the other Sequence of the individual process steps, which is time-consuming and inefficient and makes mixing fast-reacting components practically impossible.

The technical problem underlying the invention is a device or to propose a method for merging at least two flow media, so that it is possible to have at least two mutually influencing flowable Components or flow media separated until immediately before use from each other, to bring them together immediately before use and if necessary to mix, the proportions of the various components can be specified and influenced.

According to the invention this technical problem is solved in that with a generic Device at least a second, with a second fluid medium Fillable chamber is provided, which has at least a first opening element that it is connected to the flow area and / or to the first opening, and at least has a second opening element, via which it communicates with the flow area and / or is connected to the exit opening and by a generic Process in which the energy with which a fluid flows from its reserve volume is conveyed out, causes at least a second fluid medium from its Reserved volume conveyed out and merged with the first fluid becomes.

Device and method according to the invention have the advantage that the from Disadvantages known in the art can be avoided. They allow that at least one fluid medium for the respective application freely selected by the user can be, so that the product consisting of at least two flow media from Users at the place of work can be influenced in its composition. Therefor can at least partially auxiliary devices available on the market such as cartridges, Spray guns and static mixers are used. The device allows merging the media immediately before use, the media being continuous are promoted and only relatively small amounts of already merged or mixed media in the system.

In a device according to the invention, the first opening element is adjacent to the front part of the flow area in the flow direction and the second opening element arranged adjacent to the rear part of the flow area in the flow direction the delivery paths for the second fluid medium are advantageously short. Is in another embodiment, the second fluid medium via a channel from the second The opening element is already in the front area of the flow area Flow area is advantageously available for mixing the media.

In a special embodiment, the boundary between the upper part and lower part of the housing provided such that exclusive parts of the upper part with mixed mixed media in contact. This ensures that at least a fluid medium that has not been used up completely or if it is interrupted the upper part of the housing can be removed from the lower part of the application and the media remaining in the lower part are unmixed. Subsequently, after short interruptions put the top back on or a new one at all Top part can be put on the application using the still existing Continuous flow media. Separating elements can expediently be provided on the upper part that protrude into the lower part and mixed media when loosening take away with.

The flow cross sections are expedient taking into account the flow properties of the media dimensioned so that the fluid media in the desired Mix out the appropriate quantities.

An advantageous development provides that the flow cross sections for at least one of the unmixed flow media can be set. This is it possible with the same device either the mixing ratio of To change flow media or if the temperature-dependent change of the Flow properties to set the desired mixing ratio.

Examples of elements with which the flow cross sections can be set are interchangeable inserts with different cross sections, preferably from externally operable rotary screens or telescoping channels that either through conical design or slots different cross sections form.

Be the outlet of the unmixed flow media with a shut-off device provided, which automatically closes the outlet when the upper part is removed advantageously avoid dripping of the flow media. One at the exit of the second Chamber arranged spring element, which by the flow pressure of the second Flow medium is bendable opening, advantageously prevents dripping Application interruptions as soon as the effect of the first fluid medium pressure built up in the second fluid medium is reduced so far that it is less than the restoring force of the spring element. This spring element can alternatively or in addition to the aforementioned shut-off device for the outlet.

The double-walled design of the housing provides an effective thermal Isolation represents an isolating effect, also against other influences like diffusing gases or radiation, but can also by other means, can be achieved for example by coating. The placement of desiccants in the housing such that they are in contact with at least one fluid medium effective protection against moisture-related influences on the flow media The at least partially transparent formation of the outer wall in the area of Chamber advantageously enables the fill level of the second fluid medium to be optically closed check.

The closability of the outlets of unmixed flow media, for example through Plug, adhesive film or lid, allows the filled in the device Fluid before application or when application is interrupted and Separate lower and upper part to protect against environmental influences. The arrangement of a spiral static mixer in the mixing area of the upper part of the Housing advantageously creates the conditions for effective mixing of the merged flow media. If the available area in the mixing area channel is used to the greatest possible extent, this results in a Mixing section possible for a long time.

To solve the technical problem on which the invention is based, a Method for merging at least two flow media, which before the Merging separately, is proposed, in which the energy, is conveyed out of its reserve volume with a flow medium, causes conveyed at least a second fluid medium out of its reserve volume and is merged with the first fluid. With such a procedure it is advantageously possible to press out the first flow medium its reserve volume, for example from a cartridge, energy expended to use at least a second fluid from its reserve volume convey out. The energy present in the delivery line of the first fluid can do this either by draining part of the strand so that he exerts pressure on the second fluid medium and this from his Reserve volume displaced. However, the energy can also be used to promote of the at least second fluid medium that the strand of the first Flow medium through a nozzle-like device part, for example a venturi-like formation of the flow area is directed, in the area of the nozzle a suction is formed by the negative pressure on the second fluid medium acts that this is promoted out of its reserve volume. Pressure or Negative pressure can be controlled so that the second fluid in one with respect to the volume of the first fluid medium predetermined ratio supplied becomes.

Examples of first flow media are adhesives and / or sealants as the base component. Examples of second or more than second flow media are catalysts, Color components and crosslinkers, with more than one of these substances being used for this Application can come.

The device according to the invention of an adapter which is adapted to a commercial cartridge is preferably placed. This adapter can be used with a minor amount of a catalyst and / or crosslinker and / or Color components are filled and is shaped so that the volume flow of the the base component of the adhesive / sealant pushed out continuously with the catalyst and / or crosslinker and / or color component mixed, and this mixture evenly through a possibly in front of the adapter pre-screwed nozzle is discharged. If necessary, the mixing of the both components through a static mixer placed on the adapter to be completed. Although basically for the method according to the invention any form of two-component adhesives / sealants is suitable, in which the second component can be used in a minor amount, is in the particularly preferred embodiments as a one-component base component moisture-curing system used. This basic system can e.g. on the base built up of reactive isocyanate group-containing polyurethane adhesives / sealants the base adhesive / sealant can also be based on Polydimethylsiloxanes, alkoxysilane-terminated polyethers or based on Polymers with reactive epoxy groups. An example of special Suitable polyurethane adhesives / sealants are e.g. in Example 3 of WO 95/00572 described. Suitable adhesives / sealants based on alkoxysilane-terminated Polyethers are described in detail in DE-C-4119484, the ones there Fluorosurfactants described are not necessarily part of the invention Adhesives / sealants to be used.

The catalyst component depends on the basic adhesive used - / Sealant, for polyurethanes can be those known in polyurethane chemistry organometallic compounds such as Iron or tin compounds used will. 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds of iron or of the tetravalent or tetravalent tin, but in particular the Sn (II) carboxylates or the Dialkyl-Sn- (IV) dicarboxylates or the corresponding dialkoxylates, e.g. Dibutyltin dilaurate, dibutyltin diacetate, dibutyltin dibutylate, dioctyltin diacetate, Dibutyltin maleate, stannous octoate. Furthermore, the highly effective tertiary Amines or amidines can be used as catalysts, possibly in combination with the tin compounds mentioned above. The amines are both acyclic as in particular cyclic compounds in question. May be mentioned as an example Tetramethylbutane diamine, bis (dimethylaminoethyl) ether, 1,4-diaza-dicyclooctane (DABCO), 1,8-diaza-bicyclo- (5.4.0) -undecene, 2,2'-dimorpholinodiethyl ether or Dimethylpiperazine or mixtures of the aforementioned amines.

When terminating the base adhesive / sealant formulation based on alkoxylsilane Polyether is built, the tin compounds mentioned above are used, but long-chain aliphatic are used as the amine catalyst Amines preferred.

Organic di- or triamines such as e.g. Ethylene diamine, propylene diamine, 1,4-diarainobutane, diethylene triamine or piperazine and optionally also low molecular weight amino-terminated polyethers of the "Jeffamins". In principle, all of the are suitable as polyol crosslinkers Polyols known in polyurethane chemistry, in particular low molecular weight polyether diols or -triols, polyester-polyols, polyols based on -caprolactone, too Called "polycaprolactones". However, polyester polyols are also particularly preferred oleochemical origin. Such polyester polyols can, for example, by complete ring opening of epoxidized triglycerides at least partially Fat mixture containing olefinically unsaturated fatty acid with one or more Alcohols with 1 to 12 carbon atoms and subsequent partial transesterification of the Triglyceride derivatives to alkyl ester polyols with 1 to 12 carbon atoms in the alkyl radical can be produced (see e.g. DE-A-3626223). Other suitable polyols are Polycarbonate polyols and dimer diols (from Henkel) and in particular castor oil and its derivatives.

As a crosslinking component for alkoxysilane-terminated polyether systems and for Adhesives / sealants based on polydimethylsiloxanes can be used in the Known low molecular weight silane crosslinking agents are used.

For adhesive / sealant systems based on polymers with reactive The above-mentioned di- or polyamines can be used for epoxy groups.

Although liquid crosslinkers or catalysts can be used directly, it may be appropriate to use inert solvents and / or plasticizers relocate and, if necessary, the viscosity of these solutions to the Adjust the viscosity of the basic adhesive / sealant.

In a further embodiment of the invention, a color component can be applied via the Adapters are added. This simplifies the process for the user Warehousing, as it only uses a single adhesive / sealant in one basic color (e.g. colorless or white pigmented) and must be the color component Can adapt to needs, e.g. in vehicle construction the one for the vehicle used paint.

If appropriate, catalyst and / or crosslinking agents and color components can also be used combine in a single paste.

As already mentioned above, the catalyst, crosslinker and / or color component be used in a minor amount with respect to the base component, so that there is a small-volume adapter. This component is preferably in a Amount of 0.5 to 8 wt.%, Based on the base component.

The adapter according to the invention was screwed onto the cartridge of a commercially available, one-component, moisture-curing 1-component polyurethane adhesive / sealant (Terostat 8597, Teroson) and two percent by weight of castor oil were added to this adapter. The adhesive / sealant / crosslinker mixture was discharged with a commercially available cartridge gun and applied to aluminum angles. These aluminum angles were previously coated with a polyurethane primer (Terostat 8510 from Teroson) and 15 min. vented. The aluminum brackets were put together so that an adhesive joint 5 mm thick was formed. A tensile strength test of the bond was carried out 45 minutes after the assembly. The tensile strength was 0.6 N / mm ² . Detachment of the primer from the substrate was observed since the primer had not yet fully achieved its strength. It can be assumed that a higher tensile strength would otherwise have been found.

In a comparative experiment, the adhesive / sealant was applied in the same way to the aluminum angles without the use of crosslinking agent and adapter, and its tensile strength was checked. After 45 minutes, the tensile strength was 0.15 N / mm ² .

Fig. 1

schematisch ein Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung mit einseitig angeordneter zweiter Kammer;

Fig. 2

ein Ausführungsbeispiel ähnlich dem in Fig. 1, jedoch mit Trennelement und verschließbarem Einfüllbereich in der zweiten Kammer;

Fig. 3

ein anderes Ausführungsbeispiel mit einem flexibel dehnfähigen Trennelement in der zweiten Kammer und einem aufgesetzten Mischbereich und Statikmischer;

Fig. 4

ein anders Ausfühungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung mit ringförmig um einen zentralen Fließbereich angeordneter zweiter Kammer;

Fig. 5

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel, bei dem das Gehäuse in Ober- und Unterteil getrennt ist;

Fig. 6a

eine Draufsicht entsprechend den Linien VIa-VI-a;

Fig. 6b

eine Seitenansicht eines Wandelements mit der Zweiöffnung 12;

Fig. 7

ein anderes Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung mit perforiertem Verteilelement in der zweiten Kammer;

Fig. 8

ein weiteres Ausführungsbeispiel, bei dem das Unterteil des Gehäuses mit der ersten Kammer integriert ausgeführt ist;

Fig. 9

ein weites Ausführungsbeispiel, bei dem das Unterteil des Gehäuses mit der ersten Kammer integriert ausgeführt ist;

Fig. 10

ein Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung mit Unter- und Oberteil, die auf eine Kartusche aufgesetzt ist;

Fig. 11

die Darstellung des Oberteils gemäß Fig. 10;

Fig. 12

die Darstellung des Unterteils gemäß Fig. 10;

Fig. 13

die geschnittene Draufsicht gemäß der Linien VIII-XIII in Fig. 12;

Fig. 14

die geschnitte Draufsicht gemäß der Linie XIV-XIV in Fig. 10;

Fig. 15

die geschnittene Seiteansicht gemäß der Linien XV-XV in Fig. 14;

Fig. 16

die schematische Darstellung einer geschnittenen Seitenansicht einer anderen Ausführungsform des Unterteils und

Fig. 17

die geschnittene Draufsicht der Fig. 16.

In the accompanying drawing, some embodiments of the device according to the invention are shown. In the following description of these exemplary embodiments, the advantages of the present invention which have already been mentioned, but also further advantages, become clear. In the drawing, in which, with the exception of FIGS. 6a, 13, 14 and 17, all representations are sectional side views, show

Fig. 1

schematically an embodiment of the device according to the invention with a second chamber arranged on one side;

Fig. 2

an embodiment similar to that in Figure 1, but with a separating element and closable fill area in the second chamber.

Fig. 3

another embodiment with a flexible stretchable separating element in the second chamber and an attached mixing area and static mixer;

Fig. 4

another embodiment of the device according to the invention with a second chamber arranged in a ring around a central flow region;

Fig. 5

a further embodiment in which the housing is separated into the upper and lower part;

Fig. 6a

a plan view according to lines VIa-VI-a;

Fig. 6b

a side view of a wall element with the two opening 12;

Fig. 7

another embodiment of the device according to the invention with perforated distribution element in the second chamber;

Fig. 8

a further embodiment in which the lower part of the housing is made integrated with the first chamber;

Fig. 9

a further embodiment in which the lower part of the housing is made integrated with the first chamber;

Fig. 10

an embodiment of the device according to the invention with lower and upper part, which is placed on a cartridge;

Fig. 11

the representation of the upper part of FIG. 10;

Fig. 12

the representation of the lower part of FIG. 10;

Fig. 13

the sectional plan view according to lines VIII-XIII in Fig. 12;

Fig. 14

the sectional plan view along the line XIV-XIV in Fig. 10;

Fig. 15

the sectioned side view along the lines XV-XV in Fig. 14;

Fig. 16

the schematic representation of a sectional side view of another embodiment of the lower part and

Fig. 17

the sectional plan view of Fig. 16th

1 shows an embodiment of a device according to the invention for merging at least two flow media. The flow region 1 for the first medium emerging from the first chamber 2, which is formed in particular by a cartridge-like or tube-like container, begins with the first chamber opening 4 and extends over a flow region 1 formed in the form of a channel element 6 in the form of a channel element 6 in the entrance chamber opening 7 thereof Exit opening 3 and is predetermined by the channel-like walls such as the first chamber opening wall 4 and the channel element wall 8.
The first medium is thus received from the first chamber 2 in the flow area 1 designed for this purpose and passed on through this to the outlet opening 3.
In addition to the flow area 1 or channel element 6, there is a second chamber 9 with the second chamber wall 10. Second chamber 9 and flow area 1 of the channel element 6 are connected via at least one discharge opening 11, preferably arranged on the first chamber side, for branching off part of the first medium into the second chamber 9, which at least one second opening 12 is provided for the outlet of the second medium.
The second opening 12 is located here in the area next to the outlet opening 3 of the channel element 6 or the flow area 1. It can either extend around the entire circumference of the channel element wall 8 or can be arranged only in a partial area next to the same.

The mutual attachment of first chamber 2 and channel element 6 takes place here, for example in the area of the channel element entrance 7 and the first chamber opening 4 by means of suitable fastening areas 13 (not shown) such as e.g. a screw connection. However, the attachment is not limited to this type of attachment. Rather, other suitable fastening elements, in particular clamping, Snap-in, plug-in connections or in the manner of a bayonet lock or one Combination of at least two of these elements / connections or parts thereof selected will. The connections can be designed to be detachable or non-detachable from one another be.

The user presses the first medium located in the first chamber 2, for example by means of a displaceable piston or by compressing the first chamber 2, into the flow area 1 beginning with the first chamber opening 4 into the channel element 6, which passes through it and leaves it again at the outlet opening 3 of the flow area. Through the discharge opening 11, part of the first medium is branched off into the second chamber 9 and displaces the second medium located therein, which leaves the second chamber 9 through the second opening 12 located next to the outlet opening 3, so that the first and second medium are brought together at this point.
The second chamber 9 is filled with a second medium here through the second opening 12. The channel element 6 and the second chamber 9 can be composed of several molded parts. For example, the channel element 6 can consist of a possibly flexible tubular or hose-like part and the second chamber 9 can consist of a plastic or metal part, for example. The first chamber 2 and the channel element 6 are preferably connected to one another by means of suitable fastening measures 13.
The discharge opening or the first opening element 11 can be designed in the form of a tube or another type of permeable shaped piece. The first chamber, first chamber opening, flow area or channel element, second chamber, discharge opening (s) and second opening (s) accordingly form a functional unit. To press / push the first medium out of stable first chambers, for example made of metal cartridges, the user can use existing auxiliary devices available on the market, such as piston-functional pressure and pressing devices etc. The first medium can be manually pressed out or pressed out of plastic tube-like first chambers.

According to a further development of the device, it can have a plurality of second chambers be provided, each with at least one branch element / discharge opening the flow area or the channel element are connected. According to the invention by the above and to the embodiments of the device described further mentioned measures achieved that through the promotion of the first medium by the Flow area automatically a second medium is fed to the first medium, the appropriate drive energy for the second medium from a derived or branched Part of the first medium is delivered itself.

Fig. 2 shows a simplified embodiment of the device for merging at least two fluid media with a housing in which the channel element 6 as Flow area 1 in the housing and the second chamber 9 are integrated. The case points a housing inlet opening 15 for the first medium, which is also the inlet opening 7 of the flow area 1 on the housing side or of the channel element 6. The exit opening 16 of the housing 14 here is analogous to FIG. 1, the outlet opening 3 of the Flow area or the channel element 6.

In the housing there is a partition 17, which is in the for the second medium provided second chamber 9 and the flow area 1 provided for the first medium divides and in one function channel element wall 8 and second chamber wall 10 takes over. It extends in a protruding manner into the flow area on the housing entrance 1 of the first medium and branches part of the first medium when the device is actuated through the discharge opening 11 into the second chamber 9. The second opening 12 opens here in front of the opening 3 in the flow area 1, so that at this point First medium and second medium are merged.

Device from part of the first medium through the discharge opening 11 into the second chamber 9. The second opening 12 opens here in front of the outlet opening 3 into the flow area 1, so that the first medium and the second medium are brought together at this point.
The housing 14 is provided with a separate filling area 18 for the second medium, which is sealed as tightly as possible after filling the second medium into the second chamber 9 by means of a closure part 19, so that no second medium is actuated from the second chamber 9 through the filling area 18 of the housing when the device is actuated 14 can emerge.

The second chamber 9 contains a movable separating element 20 separating the first medium from the second medium, which is driven in the direction of the second opening 12 by the first medium entering the second chamber 9 and presses the second medium out of the second chamber 9 again through the second opening 12. The separating element 20 is designed here as a rigid part and is guided by the second chamber wall 10 and the dividing wall 17 during propulsion. However, it is preferably provided with guide section (s) 21 in the region of the chamber wall 10 and / or partition 17. It also preferably has, on its side facing the first medium, pressure distribution segment (s) 22 which distributes the pressure exerted by the first medium on the separating element 20 in order to build up a driving force which is as uniform as possible. This additional measure is intended to prevent the separating element 20 from tilting on the separating wall 17 and / or the second chamber wall 10.
The flow media brought together in the area of the housing outlet 16 or the channel element outlet 3 emerge, for example in the case of two highly viscous flow media or at least one highly viscous flow medium, side by side in the form of a strand from the exit opening. Such an embodiment of the device, which is equipped with a separating element, is therefore particularly suitable for those cases in which direct contact between the first and time medium is avoided prior to the intended combination and, for example, premature mixing and / or undesired chemical reaction is to be excluded

Fig. 3 also shows in section a further embodiment of the invention Contraption. First chamber 2 and second chamber 9 are attached to one another here in one piece, so that first chamber opening 4 and channel element input 7 and input of Flow area 1 on the housing side merge into one another. Analogous to FIG. 2 Partition 17, which is also part of the channel element 8 and second chamber wall 10 is directed in the direction of the flow area 1 provided for the first medium and narrowed it. The second opening 12 is located next to the housing outlet opening 16, so that until then the first medium does not coincide with the second medium Touch comes.

The separating element 20 located in the second chamber 9 is folded here like a film and is formed by the discharge opening 11 into the second chamber 9 penetrating first medium unfolded or expanded and displaced in this way the second medium, which then from the second opening 12 again from the second chamber 9 comes out. Instead of a film-like material Separating element can also rubber, latex-like or other stretchable Parts / materials for the separating element or parts thereof are used. Also are tubular or film-like packaging filled with the second medium conceivable, which are given in the second chamber. This type of packaging forms then the foldable or stretchable separating element.

A retrofit by means of suitable fastening areas 13 (not shown) such as e.g. a screw, clamp, snap-in, plug-in connection or in the manner of a Bayonet catch or a combination of at least two of these Elements / connections or parts thereof is an additional one on the housing 14 Mixing area 23 attached, in which first and second medium by means of one in it stored intermingling element 24 further merges such that this are mixed together as completely as possible.

The mixing region 23 connected in this way extends the flow region 1, the outlet opening 3 of which is also the discharge opening of the mixing region 23. Attachable mixing areas are known as additional mixing elements in the form of so-called static mixers and as such do not form part of the invention. They are designed, for example, in the form of a tube in which a swirling element is arranged. However, if known mixing areas / elements are connected to the device according to the innovation, they are part of the device according to the invention.
Such a housing design is particularly indicated in such cases when, for example, a chemical reaction of the two flow media is to be avoided when the mixing area is not connected downstream. The device or its housing 14 can thus advantageously be separated from the mixing area after partial use by means of releasable fastening elements 13, then set aside and, if necessary, further used with a new mixing area.

4 shows in section a further embodiment of the device with a preferably round housing 14 and the preferably also round first chamber 2 attached to it. The housing-side flow area 1 is here in the form of a channel element 6 which is centrally aligned with the first chamber opening 4 and preferably also has a round channel element wall 8 designed, which extends in the area to the housing entrance preferably only in partial section (s) in the flow area 1 of the first medium and thus narrows it.
In the intermediate area created between the channel element wall 8 and the first chamber opening wall 5 or the housing inlet wall 29, for example, two discharge openings 11 are arranged here, through which 11 a part of the first medium reaches the separating element 20, which is ring-shaped around the channel element wall 8 or partition wall 17, and drives this and so on Second medium displaced out of the second chamber 9 through the second opening 12.

However, designs of the device are also conceivable in which the channel element or its wall (s) extends into the first chamber opening.
The discharge opening (s) can also be arranged in or on the first chamber opening itself.

The first medium passes through the channel element 6 to the outlet opening 3, the Second opening (s) 12 open into the flow area in front of the outlet opening 3, so that the two flow media are previously brought together 3 and at least one highly viscous flow medium as a common strand then the housing 14 through the Exit exit 3.16 again. Depending on the size and number of Second openings in the channel element wall 8 or chamber wall 10 arise when merging the flow media with, for example, at least one highly viscous or viscous first medium one or more areas that from Second medium to be filled out. Are, for example, two diametrically arranged Provided second openings for the second medium, so the strand of First medium with at least in the area of the confluence of the two flow media provide two diametrically opposite segments of the second medium, the size of which depends on the size of the secondary openings.

Instead of a round housing shape, this can alternatively also be formed with walls that are at an angle to one another. Here, the separating element can be arranged in a ring around an angled or round-shaped channel element or dividing wall. The regions of a rigid separating element facing the second chamber wall are accordingly also designed to be angular. If several second media are fed to the first medium, the housing can have several second chambers, each containing the different second media or being filled with them.
In the case of a round design of the housing, the second chamber can be divided into a plurality of sector-shaped subchambers by corresponding radially arranged partition walls, in which, for example, one separating element each with corresponding sector-like sections is arranged.
It goes without saying that a filling area for the second medium and at least one discharge opening for the entering first medium and at least one second opening for the outlet of the second medium are assigned to each second chamber.

5 shows in section a particularly preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention with a separating element 20 also arranged in a ring around the channel element 6. The housing 14 here consists of an upper part 25 and a lower part 26, which are (not) by means of suitable fastening element (s) 13 shown) can be attached to one another, for example by means of a screw, clamp, snap-in, plug-in connection or in the manner of a bayonet catch or a combination of at least two of these elements / connections or parts thereof.
The flow region extends from the first chamber 2 to the outlet opening 16 located on the upper housing part 25, which is preceded by a mixing region 23, which here is provided with a swirling element 24 located in the flow region and is designed as a fixed component of the upper housing part 26. The flow area 1 on the housing side with the channel element wall 8 has one or more wall projections 27 directed into the flow area 1 of the first medium in the area in front of the second opening 12.
When the upper housing part 25 is removed from the lower housing part 26 in the housing 14 opened in this way, the user places the second medium in the open annular second chamber 9, the filling area 18 of which lies between the channel element wall 8 or the partition wall 17 and the outer housing wall 28, and then closes it with the upper housing part 25, which is at the same time sealing closure part 19 for the second chamber 9. The housing outer wall 28 thus also fulfills the function of part of the second chamber wall 8.
If the housing is to have a plurality of second chambers, these and their filling regions are formed by the outer wall 28 of the housing, by intermediate walls directed radially to the channel element wall 8 or to the partition 17 and by the channel element wall 8. Each individual second chamber is preferably also sealed with the upper housing part.
However, the second chambers can also be closed with a separate or for all second chambers with an integrally formed additional closure part, the upper housing part is then attached with its outlet opening to the lower housing part.

The strand of a preferably viscous or pasty first medium conveyed through the flow area reaches the projections 27 of the channel element wall 8 directed into the flow area 1 of the first medium before the second opening and is provided there with corresponding recesses which are aligned centrally in the flow area 1. These recesses provide space for the supply of the second medium, which does not have to displace part of it when it reaches the first medium through the second opening 12. The second opening (s) 12 are formed here by corresponding structural measures between the upper housing part 25 and the lower housing part 26. However, they can also be arranged in parts of the upper housing part 25. The second medium propelled in the second chamber 9 by means of separating element 20 is fed through the second opening (s) 12 to the first medium provided with the recesses and is brought together with it in the downstream mixing area 23 in a more closely and networked manner. It can then be fed to the application from the outlet opening 3, 16 on the upper housing part 25.
The housing of the device is preferably designed here in such a way that its width or its outer diameter is equal to or smaller than the outer cross-section or outer diameter of the first chamber or its outer wall, so that the housing does not obstruct the view when the fluid media are placed cleanly.

Fig. 6a illustrates in the sectional view of the channel element 7 in the area in front of the Second opening 12, the projections 27, which are aligned centrally in the flow region 1 Channel element wall 8.

Fig. 6b illustrates the part of the flow area 1, which the projections 27 of the Channel element wall 8 connected downstream and configured with the second opening (s) 12 is.

Fig. 7 further shows in section a device for merging at least two fluids. The lower housing part 26 is here by means of its outer wall 28 located, extending over the outer wall 30 of the first chamber 2 Attachment sections 31 thereon via corresponding fastening elements 13 (Not shown) attached, the housing input, which is also input 7 of the Channel element 6 or the housing-side flow area 1 is to the First chamber opening 4 is attached. Instead of one movable in the second chamber 9 arranged separating element is a fixed above the discharge opening (s) 11 attached distribution element 32, which is preferably designed like a plate and is provided with openings / perforation (s) 33 through which one possible even application of the first medium to the second medium facing side of the distribution element 32 is to be effected. Number and Design of the perforation (s) 33 and the shape of, for example, concave or convex distribution element 32 can thus be different. The Distribution element 32 can additionally on its side facing the second medium a separator if there is premature contact between the two Flow media avoided and / or the even displacement of the second medium from the second chamber should be improved.

The discharge openings 11 are arranged here in a flow region 1 which runs parallel to the first chamber opening wall 5 and the channel element wall 8, the housing inlet wall 29 being attached via the first chamber opening wall 5. When the device is actuated, a counterpressure in the flow area 1 of the first medium is created in the channel element 6 due to the mixing area 23 arranged on the housing outlet side, which causes part of the first medium to escape through the discharge opening (s) 11 into the second chamber 9.
The build-up of back pressure does not depend on a mixing area downstream of the discharge opening (s). In addition or alternatively, it can also be caused by narrowing the flow area between the discharge opening and outlet opening of any kind, for example by reducing the diameter / cross section of the channel area or by other constructive measures such as the projections 27 on the channel element wall 8 mentioned for FIGS. 5 and 6a .
The upper housing part 25 is provided with a connecting piece 34, which comprises the channel element wall 8 located in the lower housing part 26 and in partial areas has one or more recesses 35 which form the second opening (s) 12. However, the second openings 12 can also or additionally be caused by recesses in the channel element wall 8.

According to the above-mentioned versatile designs of the device for merging at least two flow media, discharge and / or secondary opening (s) can be designed in a variety of ways.
For example, depending on the size and design of the discharge and / or second opening (s) in relation to the cross-section of the channel, the proportions of the first and second medium are defined. At least partially radially designed opening (s) are preferably provided in order to bring about a uniform flow behavior of the respective flow medium. Furthermore, the opening (s), for example in the wall of the channel element or the flow area, can be accompanied by narrowing (s) and / or widening (s) of the cross section. For example, they can be designed in a step-like and / or protruding manner as a diversion or discharge area (s) and / or as inclined bushings for the respective flow medium in order to effect or facilitate the entry of the media into the areas intended for them.
A constructive configuration can also bring about the second opening (s) by taking appropriate measures between components of the upper housing part and the channel element located in the lower housing part or the walls thereof.
The flow area with the channel element walls can be formed as part of the upper housing part and / or the lower housing part or as a separate molded part inserted into the housing. The opening area of the first chamber - as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 - can also form at least part of the flow area or the channel element on the housing side. In any case, the invention encompasses all possible configurations of the flow area, the discharge and second opening (s) if the desired discharge of the first medium into the at least one second chamber and the exit of the at least one second medium from the at least one second chamber is given.

8, the lower housing part 26 and the first chamber 2 are integrally formed with one another, the outer wall 30 of the first chamber 2 extending beyond the first chamber 2 and forming the outer wall 28 of the lower housing part 26 or part of the second chamber wall 8 there.
The discharge opening (s) 11 are arranged here in the intermediate wall 36 connecting the first chamber opening wall 5 with the first chamber outer wall 30, so that the first medium passes directly from the first chamber 2 into the second chamber 9 and the second medium there directly or indirectly via a separating element (s). 20 advances. The first chamber opening 4 extends here with its wall 5 into the housing 14 and there at least partially forms the flow area 1. The second opening (s) 12 for the exit of the second medium from the second chamber 9 are here made by structural measures between components of the upper housing part 26 and the first chamber opening wall 5 , which is at the same time channel element wall 8, part of the second chamber wall 10 and partition 17. However, they can also be arranged in the first chamber opening wall 5 or exclusively in parts of the upper housing part. The outlet opening 3 of the flow area 1 is located at the housing outlet or, in the case of a downstream mixing area 23, at its discharge opening.

9 shows a further alternative embodiment of the device for Merging at least two flow media. Also with this version are the lower housing part 26 and the first chamber 2 are integrally formed with one another. Here is that between the first chamber opening wall 5 and the outer wall 30 located rigid partition wall dropped, so that the partition member 20 the Function of a movable partition 36 takes over. The position of the Discharge opening 11 for the first medium is thus variable and is the respective position of the movable partition 36 or the movable Partition formed partition 20 corresponding to the Side facing the first medium between the first chamber opening wall 5 and the outer wall 30 of the first chamber.

A further development of the embodiment mentioned in FIG. 9 looks at the boundary between First chamber and second chamber support sections, by means of which the movable Partition wall or the separating element before filling the first and / or two chamber is defined defined so that the volume of the first chamber and the second chamber is precisely specified. Designs of the device can also be used arrive at the discharge openings both in the intended for the first medium Flow area as well as in the area between the first chamber opening and the outer wall the first chamber are arranged.

A further possible embodiment of the device provides a cascade-like advancement of a plurality of housings, the flow medium consisting of at least two flow media emerging from the first flow area forming the first medium for the downstream flow area. The outlet opening of the first flow area thus opens into the downstream flow area, to which the second medium emerging from a correspondingly downstream at least one second chamber is then fed. This type of device for merging at least two flow media is indicated for the cases in which a connection / reaction of the at least first two merged flow media is to take place before the supply of a further flow medium. The device designed according to the invention can be operated until the second chamber receiving the second medium is filled with the first medium, the second medium having been displaced in whole or in part from the second chamber, or that which has been conveyed from the first chamber through the flow area and partly into the at least one a second chamber derived first medium was pressed or pressed out of the first chamber.
The housing can then be cleaned of the first medium and any remaining stocks of the second medium and refilled with the second medium and reused. However, an embodiment is particularly preferred in which the device according to the innovation is designed as a disposable article, preferably made of plastic materials, and is disposed of after use. In the technical area, this avoids expensive, possibly environmentally harmful chemicals / solvents etc. cleaning. According to the possible uses mentioned below, a plastic housing can be used as often as required after cleaning. For this and as a single-use item, the designs of the device with housing for FIGS. 2 to 7 are particularly suitable.

The areas of application of the device are varied. In the household sector, for example, paste-like flow media can optionally be combined in a strip-like manner with second flow media, such as cream with flowable chocolate. In the technical field, for example, the two components of a two-component adhesive can optionally also be combined with a third coloring component. Sealants or adhesives can also be provided with color so that the seal or adhesive connection of two objects can be matched to the color of the objects.
Another advantage of the device is that complex, for example laminate-like packaging for flow media would react with the packaging with itself and / or the natural environment, and its structure or composition can be reduced. This may result in a cost saving in the packaging area and / or a conservation of the natural raw material resources, since the at least one second component of the first component is only supplied before the application and thus does not result in the application medium until this point in time.

Fig. 10 shows schematically the side view of an embodiment of the device according to the invention, which acts on a first chamber 2, here as the head of a commercial cartridge shown, is attached. The device consists of Lower part 26 and upper part 25. The stream of the first emerging from the cartridge 2 Flow medium is divided into two sub-streams, one of which is shown to the left in the direction of flow area 1 and the second to the right in the first Opening 11 of the second chambers 9 is directed. That in the second chamber 9 flowing medium flows against the separating element 20 and moves it further flowing up first medium. It expresses another flexible separating element 20 together, in which the second fluid medium is stored. An opening of the flexible partition member 20 is with the second opening 12 second chamber 9 tightly connected, so that when compressing the flexible Separating element 20, the second fluid medium emerges from the second opening 12.

The other partial flow of the first flow medium flows into flow area 1, into one tubular extension 47 of the upper part 25 protrudes. In the upper part of the Flow area 1, this tube 47 has a side opening that is channel-like Continuation of the exit 12 is aligned. At this point 3 meet the first and that second fluid together. Immediately thereafter, the outlet 46 is the merged flow media arranged. The flow from here media brought together by the mixing area 40, in which a static mixer 24 is arranged, and then further to the outlet opening 16 of the device. The Housing wall is made transparent in the area of the second chamber, so that a viewing window 45 results.

11 and 12 are lower part 26 and upper part 25 of the housing 14, respectively shown separately. In FIG. 12 there is also a closure element, here a stopper 42 shown with which the lower part 26 is such when the upper part 25 is separated closes that the unmixed media before use or at Application interruptions are kept separate and against Leakage or unwanted contact with the environment can be protected.

13 shows a top view of the cut lower part 26 of the arrangement of the different components to each other. It can be clearly seen that the second chamber 9, the in this case has a round cross section, is arranged next to the flow area 1, which in this case has the cross section of a radially delimited ring segment. in the A space 41 can be seen in the upper part of the figure, in which, for example, siccatives can be provided; a connection must be made to be effective be provided between this space 41 and the flow media. Clear The viewing window 45 can also be seen.

14 shows the top view of the upper part 25 cut along the line V-V. In 14 and 15 can be clearly seen that the merged media from the Exit opening 46 are guided into a channel-like mixing section 43, which through a Partially circular wall is formed, which is immediately adjacent to the outlet 46 Has connection with the outer wall. There are deflection / swirling elements within the mixing section 46 44 indicated. If the merged media this Have passed through channel 43, they mix well mixed in the central area of the Mixing area above which the outlet openings 16 of the device 14 located.

If a very long mixing section is required, the channel 43 can also helically over more than one level before entering the outlet 16 flows.

16 shows the lower part 26 of another embodiment of the invention Device 14. The essential difference to the embodiment according to FIGS. 10 and 12 is that the second opening 12 of the second chamber 9 with a channel 50th is connected, which is the second fluid medium again contrary to the general Flow direction leads back down. This channel 50 shows one in the lower area Exit opening 51, which has a corresponding opening in the wall of the Flow area 1 is aligned. The second fluid medium enters through the outlet opening 51 the flow area 1, it becomes in the front part of the flow area 1 in the flow direction merged with the first flow medium and through the flow area 1 after headed above. Inside the flow area 1 can already Deflection / swirling elements 52 are provided, which lead to premixing lead before the merged media in the area of the exit 46 in the Enter the mixing area 40 of the upper part 25.

It is indicated that by a correspondingly shaped channel extension 53, the The second can also advantageously be arranged on the pipe or separating element 47 Flow medium can also be led into the middle of the flow of the first flow medium can, which can be advantageous with certain consistencies of the two flow media. In the top view of FIG. 17 it is indicated that the channel 50 is on the one hand directly radial can be led to the flow area 1 or the other 50 'radially into a room 41 ', from which a connection through the side partitions to the flow area 1 is provided.

In the tubular extension 47 of the upper part 25 shown in FIGS. 10, 11 and 15 that protrudes into the flow area 1 is a possible formation of a Separating element through which the parts of the lower part 26 are in direct contact with the merged flow media are protected. 15 is also good recognizable that the upper part 25 can advantageously consist of two parts which are rotatable are inserted into each other and thereby allow that the inner part on the Lower part 26 is fixed in place, while the outer part of the upper part 25 is rotated is and either via a thread or a bayonet-type closure on Lower part 26 is set.

16 and 17, a deflection element 53 is shown, which consists of hollow webs 54 is formed and the inner channels of which are connected to the elements 12 and 50, 51 in which the second fluid medium is guided. Deflection element (53) advantageous effect that the webs share the flow of the first fluid and the Partial streams are squeezed through the window-like segments to flow in the direction to converge again into a strand behind the deflecting element. At least at a point in the spaces between the partial strands running second fluid spreads evenly over a previous parting surface.

Claims (36)

1. Apparatus for bringing together at least two fluid media pre-stored in separate chambers (2, 9), having at least one first chamber (2) fillable with a first fluid medium and at least one flow region (1) which is attachable in the region of an opening (4) of the first chamber (2), is connected to the latter, is for receiving the first fluid medium issuing from the first chamber (2) due to actuation of conveying-out means and is for conveying this first fluid medium to an exit opening (3) of the flow region (1), characterised in that at least one second chamber (9) fillable with a second fluid medium is provided and has at least one first opening element (11) - arranged adjacent to the front part of the flow region (1) viewed in the direction of flow and via which this chamber (9) is connected to the flow region (1) and/or to the first opening (4) - and at least one second opening element (12) which is arranged adjacent to the rear part of the flow region viewed in the direction of flow and via which this chamber (9) is connected to the flow region (1) and/or to the exit opening (3).
2. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 1, characterised in that a channel (50) passes from the second opening element (12) into the front region of the flow region (1) and is connected thereto via an outlet (51).
3. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 2, characterised in that deflection and turbulence elements (52) for the fluid media which have been brought together are arranged in the flow region (1).
4. Apparatus in accordance with any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterised in that a distributing element (32) is arranged in the second chamber (9).
5. Apparatus in accordance with any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that a separating element (20) between the first and the second fluid medium is arranged in the second chamber (9).
6. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 5, characterised in that the separating element (20) is relatively rigid, is movably arranged within the chamber (9) and is sealed with respect to the inside wall thereof, and the separating element (20) has guide elements (21) contacting the inside wall of the second chamber (9) and/or preferably has pressure distributing segments (22) located at its side facing the first fluid medium.
7. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 5, characterised in that the separating element (20) is a flexible, extensible separating element.
8. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 7, characterised in that the flexible, extensible separating element (20) is imperviously secured to the inside wall.
9. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 5 or 7, characterised in that the separating element is such that the second fluid medium can be received therein.
10. Apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that a deflection element (53) composed of bars (54) at least some of which are provided with inner channels is arranged in the flow region (1), which bars (54) extend perpendicularly to the direction of flow of the first fluid medium and have at least one, preferably central, opening at the turbulent-region side, the bars (54) intersecting one another in such a manner that they divide the cross-section of the flow region (1) into a plurality of window-like through-flow openings for the first fluid medium and the inner channels being connected to channels (12; 50, 51) conveying the second fluid medium.
11. Apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that the second chamber (9) has a filling opening (18) for the second fluid medium and a closure (19) for the filling opening (18).
12. Apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that the second chamber (9) and the flow region (1) are arranged in a common, preferably cylindrical, housing (14).
13. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 12, characterised in that the housing (14) is composed of a lower part (26) and an upper part (25), the upper part (25) being securable to the lower part (26) and being able to render the closure (19) superfluous.
14. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 12 or 14, characterised in that the second chamber (9) is arranged annularly around the flow region (1), in particularly concentrically, and is composed of one chamber or a plurality of sector-like partial chambers.
15. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 12 or 13, characterised in that in the housing (14), the second chamber (9) is arranged beside the flow region (1).
16. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 15, characterised in that in the housing (14), at least part of the second chamber (9) is annularly surrounded by the flow region (1).
17. Apparatus in accordance with one or a plurality of the preceding Claims, characterised in that downstream of bringing together of the first and second fluid media, an integrated or securely mountable mixing region is arranged in the region of the exit opening (3), and in that a mixing device (24) is arranged in the mixing region.
18. Apparatus in accordance with at least one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that the boundary between the upper part (25) and the lower part (26) of the housing (14) is provided such that solely parts of the upper part (25) contact mixed fluid media.
19. Apparatus in accordance with at least one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that the cross-sections of flow are adjustable in the case of at least one of the unmixed fluid media.
20. Apparatus in accordance with at least one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that a shut-off device is provided at at least one of the outflows (6, 12) of the unmixed fluid media and closes, preferably automatically, the outflow (6, 12) upon removal of the upper part (25).
21. Apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that a spring element bendable under pressure in the flow direction of the second fluid medium is provided at the outflow (12) and closes the outflow (12) when not bent.
22. Apparatus in accordance with at least one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that at least one wall projection (27) is arranged in the flow region (1), upstream of the second opening (12) in the direction of flow, and displaces part of the first fluid medium.
23. Apparatus in accordance with at least one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that the outer walls of the housing (14) are insulating, in particular double-walled, and at least part of the outer wall is transparent (45) in the region of the chamber (9) and at least one space (41) for effectively accommodating drying agents is provided in the housing (14).
24. Apparatus in accordance with any one of Claims 13 to 23, characterised in that at least one of the outflows (6, 12) of the unmixed fluid media is closable, in particular by a stopper (42), when the upper part (25) is removed.
25. Apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding Claims, characterised in that the mixing device (24) is such that the brought-together fluid media are conveyed through a channel (43) - which is arranged at an angle, preferably transversely to the flow direction, and in whose cross-section deflection elements (44) project - to the exit opening (3) and the channel (43) extends spirally from a peripherally-located outflow (46) of the brought-together fluid media to the central exit opening (3) while covering to a large extent at least the surface of one plane of the mixing region (40).
26. Apparatus in accordance with one or a plurality of the preceding Claims, characterised in that another housing with a flow region and a chamber for another fluid medium is attached cascade-like to the exit opening of the housing (14) such that the mixture of first and second fluid media can be conveyed into the flow region of the attached housing and also conveyed into the chamber for the additional fluid medium via a connecting opening.
27. A method of bringing together at least two fluid media which are pre-stored separately next to one another upstream of bringing together, in which the energy by which a fluid medium is conveyed from its pre-storage volume causes at least one second fluid medium to be conveyed from its pre-storage volume and to be brought together with the first fluid medium.
28. A method in accordance with Claim 28[sic], characterised in that the energy by which a fluid medium is conveyed from its pre-storage volume causes excess pressure to be exerted on the at least second fluid medium, the second fluid medium being conveyed from its pre-storage volume by this excess pressure.
29. A method in accordance with Claim 28[sic], characterised in that the energy by which a fluid medium is conveyed from its pre-storage volume causes reduced pressure or suction to be exerted on the at least second fluid medium, this conveying the second fluid medium from its pre-storage volume.
30. A method in accordance with any one of Claims 27, 28 or 29, characterised in that the pressure which is brought about by the energy conveying out the first fluid medium and which is to be exerted on the at least second fluid medium is controlled such that the at least second fluid medium is brought together with the first fluid medium in a pre-determined ratio.
31. A method in accordance with any one of Claims 27 to 30, characterised in that the at least two fluid media are mixed after they have been brought together and before they are conveyed from an apparatus for bringing together.
32. A method in accordance with one or a plurality of Claims 27 to 31 for producing a sealant and/or adhesive strand, characterised in that the first fluid medium is an adhesive/sealant as a base constituent and the second fluid medium as well as the further fluid media is in each case a substance from the group of catalysts, cross-linking agents and colourants, and at least one second fluid medium is continuously supplied to the base constituent in a quantity smaller than the quantity of base constituent and is mixed therewith.
33. A method in accordance with Claim 32, characterised in that the base constituent is a single-constituent moisture-hardening adhesive/sealant and the catalyst and/or cross-linking agent and/or colourant is supplied in a quantity of 0.5 to 8 weight per cent in relation to the base constituent.
34. A method in accordance with Claim 32 or 33, characterised in that the base constituent is selected from the group of reactive-isocyanate-group-containing polyurethane adhesives/sealants, adhesives/sealants based on polydimethylsiloxanes, adhesives/sealants based on alkoxysilane-terminated polyethers, adhesives/sealants containing reactive epoxide groups.
35. A method in accordance with at least one of Claims 32 to 34, characterised in that the catalyst and/or cross-linking agent is a paste which contains organo-tin compounds, tertiary amines, water, organic di- or triamines, alkonolamines and/or polyhydric alcohols and in that thorough mixing of the constituents is completed by a static mixer.
36. A method in accordance with at least one of Claims 32 to 35, characterised in that the base constituent is applied from a commercially available cartridge for adhesives/sealants using commercially available handling equipment, and in that the catalyst and/or cross-linking agent and/or colourant is admixed from an adapter attached to the cartridge.

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