EP1648780B1 - Multiple coupling closures and multiple docking devices containing said coupling closures - Google Patents

Abstract

A coupling closure is provided for substantially environmentally-sealed reversible closure of containers or hose elements. At least one first flexible band with at least one first closure element is provided. At least one second flexible band is provided with at least one second closure element that is complementary to the first closure element. A top side of the first band comprises at least one third closure element and a top side of the second band comprises at least one fourth closure element. Also a coupling closure is provided for substantially environmentally-sealed reversible closure of containers or hose elements comprising a plurality of frame bands and articulation devices. Immediately adjacent frame bands are connected with one another via at least one articulation device between the immediately adjacent frame bands to form a circumferential folding frame wherein inner sides of at least two adjacent or opposing frame bands are foldable one on top the other to form a closure.

Description

The present invention relates to a multi-coupling closure, a Mehrfachandockeinrichtung containing this multi-coupling closure, a container and a conveyor, each comprising a multi-coupling closure according to the invention, a method for particularly environmentally sealed filling, transfer and / or emptying of flexible or rigid containers using the multiple coupling closures according to the invention and the Use of these multiple coupling closures for the environmentally sealed filling, transfer or emptying of, in particular flexible, containers.

Bulk or solid bulk materials are produced as intermediate or end products in a variety of processes and, unless supplied via piping systems to their final destination or destination, are to be transported and marketed in the form of containers of a specific size. Since some products have a very toxic effect on the human organism even in small amounts or react very sensitively with air or moisture, very high demands are placed on the environmental tightness when transferring such products, for example for further processing into intermediate or end products. In addition to avoiding contamination of the environment high demands are placed on the purity of the starting or intermediate products used regularly, especially in the processing industry, which is why a contamination by impurities from the outside at each point of the process and not only in the production and isolation of the starting materials is to be avoided. The risk of contamination of the environment or of products is particularly high during refilling operations, which is why these operations are often performed, for example in the pharmaceutical industry, under clean room conditions. The necessity of contamination-free working leads, in particular in the food-processing, chemical or pharmaceutical industry, to a high level of equipment and safety expenditure, which inevitably is reflected in the production costs.

For the environmentally-friendly or at least dust-clean filling or emptying of a container and for Umfüllvorgänge is nowadays often resorting to the double flap technique as z. B. in the DE 695 04 581 T2 is described. Such docking devices according to the double flap technique are structurally very complex and thus regularly costly.

Docking facilities simpler design can according to the DE 196 24 189 A1 also from a first docking element, which is funnel-shaped, and a second docking element which is connected in a form-fitting manner to the funnel-shaped docking element, in particular to form a spherical contact surface. To ensure the gas tightness, the contact surface has to have a rubber-elastic surface. Although succeeds with the docking device according to the DE 196 24 189 A1 a transfer of flowable media, however, can not be guaranteed that when connecting or disconnecting the docking these flowable media does not enter the environment.

From the WO 03037717 is a sealed docking between two substantially environmentally insulated containers, which are connected via two elastically deformable coupling elements out. These coupling elements each have a slot which is closed in the ground state and can be opened by pressurization. The containers to be filled or emptied are to be fastened in the region of the slot or on the walls of the slot of the respective coupling element. In this embodiment of a docking special care must be taken to use that the slots of the adjacent coupling elements of the same length and come to lie exactly above each other.

In the German patent application DE 103 21 814 a coupling element for environmentally-insulated transfer, filling and / or emptying of containers is disclosed, which consists essentially of two flush-fitting closure strips, which have at their ends on interlocking joint body, which are rotatable about common Lagerachselemente. The Gelenkachselemente or joint caps have to be matched exactly to the shape and size of the bearing elements of the closure strips to permanently and reliably act as a pivot bearing can. With this construction, care must be taken, under certain transfer conditions, eg depending on the type of bulk material, that no bulk material remains between the terminal sections of the opposite closure strips. An open and Closing of this coupling element is accomplished by moving the opposing hinge bodies towards and away from each other. This is structurally only a limited opening angle achievable.

From the DE 19806932 is a device for discharging flowable materials from a reservoir into a transport container known in which the risk of contamination is limited.

It would therefore be desirable to be able to rely on coupling elements and docking devices, which ensure an environmentally sealed loading or decanting both small and large containers. Furthermore, it would be desirable to be able to further reduce the risk of contamination when filling or emptying or when coupling or uncoupling coupling elements, in particular also with structurally simple, low-cost solutions.

The object underlying the invention is achieved by a multiple-clutch closure for substantially environmentally sealed, reversible closing and / or substantially environmentally dense loading and / or decanting of bulk material from flexible and / or rigid containers or conveying means, in particular hose sections, comprising at least two , in each case via an at least partially flexible and / or rigid conveyor, in particular a hose, with each other, in particular environmentally sealed, connected or connectable coupling closures, wherein the opening area, in particular the inner diameter, an open first coupling closure, also called outer coupling closure, is greater than the outer circumference - And / or opening area, in particular the outer and / or inner diameter, a second coupling closure, also called inner coupling closure, wherein the second coupling closure with open first Kupplungsverschl uss to a corresponding coupling closure within the conveyor and / or under at least partially passing through the opening of the first coupling closure, in particular environmentally sealed, dockable to form a docking device.

Coupling closures in the sense of the present invention are designed to perform at least a dual function. On the one hand, they constitute a closure means which can be brought from an open position to a closed position, and vice versa. On the other hand, these coupling closures are designed and suitable to be coupled with corresponding coupling closures to form a, in particular environmentally sealed, docking device. In this case, for example, the corresponding coupling closure can have an identical or mirror-image design to the coupling closure to be coupled. Alternatively, the coupling closures to be coupled may have their design and / or their design technical conditions, but not to such an extent that coupling and uncoupling would In general, these coupling closures can both in the open and in the closed state verkuppeln each other to form a docking device and decouple again. Furthermore, these coupling closures can be designed such that, if they have been respectively coupled in the closed state, can be opened sequentially or preferably simultaneously. Suitably, coupling closures in the sense of the present invention are provided on openings of containers, containers or conveying means, such as hoses, and are connected to them, in particular tightly. Thus, by operating the coupling closure of the container, the container or the conveyor can be opened or closed and coupled with a container, container or conveyor, which is equipped with a corresponding coupling closure, to form a docking device.

The adjacent first or outer and second or inner coupling closures of a multiple coupling closure according to the invention, which are connected by a conveyor, are intended to be coupled, in particular with a corresponding multiple coupling closure to form a Mehrfachandockeinrichtung. Here, coupled first or outer coupling closures of two corresponding inventive multi-coupling closures form a first or outer docking device and the respective second or inner coupling closures form a second or inner docking device in the coupled state. To accomplish this, the conveyor is attached to the first coupling closure and to the second coupling closure of a multiple coupling closure according to the invention in such a way that the coupling of first and second coupling closures of a corresponding multiple coupling closure is readily possible.

For example, the conveying means may be connected in an area with the first or outer coupling closure, in particular environmentally sealed, which is at a distance from the components of this coupling closure required for, in particular, environmentally sound, coupling or docking. The same applies to the connection of the conveyor to the second or inner coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure according to the invention. The second coupling closures of the multiple coupling closures according to the invention are generally either connected to a container or another conveying means, in each case in particular environmentally sealed, can be transferred into or out of or through the bulk material.

The multiple coupling closures according to the invention have a first or outer coupling closure which forms the inlet opening and a second or inner or further coupling closure to which a container or conveying means, e.g. a hose connects. In the multiple coupling closures according to the invention, adjacent coupling closures are designated such that the one with the larger inner diameter or the larger opening area represents the first or outer coupling closure and the one with the smaller inner surface or opening area represents the second or inner coupling closure. Of course, within a multiple-clutch closure, the adjacent first and second coupling closures may be of identical construction as well as of different types. It is also possible that when more than two coupling closures form a multiple-coupling closure according to the invention, e.g. according to claim 2, the conveying means or hoses connecting the adjacent coupling closures e.g. in style, size or length may be identical as well as different.

For the purposes of the present invention, adjacent first and / or outer and second or inner coupling closures are connected to one another in a multiple-coupling closure via a flexible or rigid conveying means. Of course, hereby also such funding includes, which have partially flexible and partially rigid areas. This conveyor, usually designed as a tube or tube, preferably comprises a bulk material, such as powder, powder or granules, impermeable material. If necessary, this conveyor may also in a preferred embodiment, liquid and / or gas-tight, for example, oxygen impermeable, be configured. Flexible, adjacent coupling closures of a multi-coupling closure connecting conveyor have the advantage that the adjacent coupling closures can be moved relative to each other, preferably to the extent that the second or inner coupling closure can at least partially pass through the open adjacent first or outer coupling closure. In order to produce a suitable degree of environmental tightness, these conveying means, preferably at their respective openings or opening edges, are tightly connected to the first and second coupling closure. The tight connection between the conveyor and the first and second coupling closure can be brought about, for example, by suitable adhesive and / or welding techniques.

Suitable conveying means are preferably designed to be transparent, at least in parts, in order to be able to recognize bulk material residues not transferred from the outside, if necessary, during a bulk material transfer.

Suitable flexible or rigid and transparent or non-transparent conveying means are preferably made of a plastic material. By way of example, polyolefins such as polypropylene and in particular polyethylene, polystyrene, styrene copolymers such as SAN, ABS and ASA, polyphenylene ethers, PVC, polymethyl methacrylate and polycarbonates, including impact-modified variants, and any desired mixtures thereof are mentioned as suitable conveying materials. Of course, it is also possible to use multilayer film systems, e.g. two-, three- or five-layer film systems are used. For this purpose, inter alia, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, in particular polyethylene terephthalate, and polyamides as suitable sheet materials into consideration. In particular, for achieving gas tightness, e.g. a tightness to oxygen, may be incorporated into the multilayer film systems at least one metal foil, in particular an aluminum foil.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one, in particular first or outer, coupling closure is used for the substantially environmentally sealed, reversible closure of and for the substantially environmentally sealed loading and / or decanting of bulk material, in particular flexible, containers or hose elements for the inventive multi-coupling closure comprising at least one first flexible strip with at least one first, in particular continuous, closure element, in particular a spring, on the inside and at least one second flexible strip with at least one second, in particular continuous, closure element on its inner side, which is complementary to the first closure element and a reversible, close sealing with this allows, in particular a groove, wherein the first and second strip and / or the first and second closure element are in particular substantially the same length, wherein d The first and second strip, in particular via their respective end sections, are connected to each other, in particular forming a closed circumference, and wherein the top of the first strip at least a third, in particular continuous, closure element and / or the top of the second strip at least a fourth, in particular continuous through, closure element or have (also called first embodiment of the coupling closure) or at least one, in particular first or outer, coupling closure for substantially environmentally sealed, reversible sealing of and / or substantially environmentally sealed Loading and / or decanting of bulk material, in particular flexible, containers, hoses or hose elements used, comprising, in particular substantially rigid, frame strips and hinge devices, wherein immediately adjacent frame strips each have at least one hinge device between these frame strips to form a circumferential snap frame together are connected, so that the inner sides of adjacent and / or opposing frame strips to form a, in particular environmentally sealed closure are hinged to each other (also called the second embodiment of the coupling closure).

It has proved to be particularly advantageous here, as the first or outer coupling closure the latter coupling closure, e.g. in the form of a so-called parallelogram coupling closure to use, as can be realized with this without any special effort a very large opening cross-section through which then the second coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure can be passed.

In the adjacent coupling closures of the multiple coupling closure according to the invention, the second or inner coupling closure preferably has one or more rotatable or displaceable sealing flaps or slides, which are present in a substantially rigid pipe socket. On the other hand, the first or outer coupling closures preferably have a closure system with movable or flexible frame or closure strips, so that a tight closure does not usually come about via a sealing flap or a sealing slide, but by relative movements of frame or closure strips.

For example, the coupling closure according to the first or the second embodiment may be part of a plastic bag, in particular a conveying means, and be present in the area of the peripheral opening edge thereof. In this case, the second bar directly adjoins the end of the first bar, wherein the two remaining ends or end sections of the first and second bar are likewise directly connected to one another. By not only the inner sides of the first and second strip have mutually corresponding closure elements, but also their tops are equipped with closure elements, the environmentally sealed coupling to another, ie corresponding coupling closure according to the first embodiment, for example as a first or outer coupling closure part of a can be coupled to enable the second multi-coupling closure, can be an environmentally sealed loading and / or decanting be ensured by bulk material even with very flexible bag and / or strip materials.

A preferred coupling closure according to the first embodiment further comprises a closure lid comprising at least one seventh and / or eighth closure element that is complementary to the third and / or fourth closure elements of the tops of the first and second bars, the seventh and eighth closure elements are connectable to the third and / or fourth closure elements to form a temporary cover of the connection slot of the first and second strip, when the inner sides of the first and second strip are connected to each other via an interaction of first and second closure element.

In particular, when bulk containers are to be transported or stored for a long period of time, it has proven to be advantageous to seal or cover the connecting slot of adjoining first and second strips with respect to the environment. In this way it is avoided that the tops of the coupling closure according to the first embodiment are contaminated with dust or other particles.

In an expedient further development, the coupling closure according to the first embodiment likewise has at least one fifth and / or sixth closure element on at least one outer side of the first and / or second strip. These fifth and sixth closure elements on the outside of a bar can be used to make a temporary connection with a closure lid, which has corresponding seventh and eighth closure elements in the case of docking two coupling closures according to the first embodiment.

It has proven to be advantageous if the closure lid, in particular in one piece, is connected to the first or second strip, in particular by means of at least one film hinge.

To simplify the handling of the coupling fasteners according to the first embodiment and to make reliable, it is advantageous if the closure lid has at least one operating handle.

This contributes in the same way that the first and / or second strip, in particular on the outside, at least one operating handle has or have.

The coupling closure according to the first embodiment is particularly suitable for loading and / or decanting of bulk material from flexible containers, e.g. Plastic bags or bags and for the transfer of bulk material via a connected conveyor. Accordingly, in one embodiment, such a coupling closure already has a flexible bag, hose or, in particular, conveying means, the opening edge of which is connected to the first and second strips separately or in one piece. Thus, the coupling closure can be both an integral part of a flexible bag, in particular conveyor, in particular in the region of the opening edge of this bag or conveyor, as well as in retrospect reversibly or irreversibly connected to a bag or conveyor.

The coupling closure according to the first embodiment preferably constitutes the first or outer coupling closure of the multiple-coupling closure according to the invention. In this function, the coupling closure according to the first embodiment is preferably connected to a delivery means extending to the second or inner coupling closure of the multiple-coupling closure. On the other hand, if the coupling closure according to the first embodiment constitutes the second or inner coupling closure of the multiple-coupling closure according to the invention, this can be connected, in addition to the connection to the aforementioned conveying means, with a container, container, bag or another conveying means.

The risk of contamination can preferably also be reduced by at least the inner side and / or the upper side of the first and / or second strip having or having at least sections an adhesive and / or adhesive layer.

Also, the coupling closure according to the second embodiment is preferably used as a first or outer coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure according to the invention. Of course, this coupling closure can also be used as the second or inner coupling closure of the multiple-coupling closure according to the invention.

In the coupling closure of the second embodiment, it may be advantageously provided that the folding frame comprises x frame strips and x hinge devices, wherein in particular x = 2 · n and n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2. Of course Folding frames with, for example, five frame rails and five hinge devices fulfill the desired purpose.

Be particularly advantageous coupling fasteners have proven according to the second embodiment, the folding frame is composed of four frame strips and four hinge devices to form a so-called parallelogram closure.

Particularly suitable are also coupling fasteners according to the second embodiment, the folding frame have six or eight frame strips, and preferably six or eight hinge devices.

As very particularly preferred, such coupling fasteners have proven according to the second embodiment, in which the folding frame six frame strips and six hinge devices comprises a first pair of adjacent, connected via a hinge device, in particular substantially the same frame strip, with a second pair of adjacent, about a hinge device connected, in particular substantially the same length, frame strips and with a third pair of non-adjacent and / or not directly connected via a hinge device, in particular substantially equal, frame strips, the sum of the length of a frame strip of the first pair and the Length of a frame strip of the second pair is not greater than the length of a frame strip of the third pair of frame strips.

In this case, those embodiments are of particular advantage, in which the inside of the first frame strip of the first pair and the inside of the first frame strip of the second pair are both the inside of the first frame strip of the third pair, and that the inside of the second frame strip of the first pair and the inside the second frame strip of the second pair both of the inside of the second frame strip of the third pair are zuwendbar to form a sealed closure slot.

A particular degree of tightness can be achieved, in particular, by virtue of the fact that the folding frame has a substantially circumferential sealing lip extending inwards and / or beyond the edge in the region of at least one of its peripheral edges.

Coupling closures according to the second embodiment are further characterized by at least one spacer on the outside of the first and / or second frame strip of the first and / or second pair of frame rails closer to the common hinge device (s) with the one or more Frame strip (s) of the third pair of frame strips as to the / the hinge device (s) connecting the frame strips of the same pair of frame strips is arranged.

These spacers result in the outer sides of the frame strips of the first and / or second pair, which are spaced apart in the closed state, being further spaced from one another in the region of the articulated connections with the frame strips of the third pair, e.g. in the range of 0.5 to 5 mm, as in the hinge device that connects the frame strips of a common pair. In this way, an even denser shutter slot is ensured.

By adjacent frame strips are connected to each other via a hinge device, the inner sides of the frame strips can be folded together to form a locking slot.

The mobility and fixation of adjacent frame strips succeeds e.g. via hinge devices in the form of hinges, film hinges and / or elastic materials. Here, the use of film hinges has proven to be particularly suitable. These can connect, for example, neighboring frame strips over their entire width, in particular, in an environmentally sound manner. Such film hinges may be made of a rubber elastic material, e.g. a thermoplastic elastomer, preferably be produced by means of the two-component injection molding. In this way, one obtains a one-piece folding frame or a one-piece coupling closure according to the second embodiment, which is absolutely environmentally sealed even in the region of the transitions from frame strips to hinge device or film hinge.

In addition, recourse is preferably made to those folding frames, in which the frame strips and the hinge strips connecting these joint devices consist of the same material, wherein the material thickness or thickness in the region of the hinge devices is chosen so thin that a non-destructive reversible mobility is ensured. The thickness or thickness of the material in the region of the frame strips, however, is adjusted in such a way that substantially rigid frame strips result. Suitable materials preferably include plastics such as polyamides, polyoxyalkylenes, in particular polyoxymethylene (POM), PVC, polyketones, in particular aliphatic alternating polyketones, their impact-modified variants and any mixtures of said plastics. Folding frames in which frame strips and hinge devices are made of the same material are preferably made in one piece.

A particularly high degree of environmental tightness can also be achieved if the inner sides of the frame strips at least partially, in particular complementary and / or elastomeric or resilient, first and second closure rails for environmentally sealed, wherein the total length of the first locking rail substantially the total length of the second locking rail and wherein the first and second closure rails or their sections are arranged on the inner sides of the frame strips such that they form an environmentally sealed closure slot in mutually folded frame strips, in particular flush with each other. Consequently, in one embodiment, first and second closure rails can also be formed identically.

Preferably, mutually complementary closure rails are formed and arranged such that they automatically and without further interlock when folding the folding frame.

It is advantageous if first and / or second closure rails also extend to the inner sides of hinge devices and / or are present or attachable to these.

It can be provided that the first locking rail is a groove and the second locking rail is a spring complementary to the groove. Of course, a closure rail may also comprise a tongue and groove combination.

In particular, when using film hinges, which are incorporated by means of two-component injection molding in the coupling closure according to the second embodiment, can already be provided in the production also, in particular elastomeric, Verschlussschieneriabschnitte on the inside of these film hinges. Of course, on the inside of frame strips and film hinges and two or more closure rails with each other, for example, be mounted in parallel, or be present, which can increase the level of environmental tightness again. With such conceived Coupling closures according to the second embodiment is already by the type of handling when closing the same inevitably a very environmentally sealed closure slot.

Accordingly, it can be provided, for example, that at least one first closure rail is present at least in sections on the inside of adjacent first and second frame strips and at least one second closure rail at least in sections on the inner sides of adjacent third and fourth frame strips.

The attachment of the corresponding closure rails can basically be arbitrary, however, it has proved to be advantageous if a second closure rail of the same length adjoins a first closure rail, with both closure rails extending over the entire circumference of the folding frame. Of course, first and second closure rails can also be distributed in sections over the inner circumference of the folding frame, as long as an interlocking complementary sections is ensured when closing.

Alternatively or in addition to the closure rails described, the folding frame may have a preferably circumferential sealing lip in the region of its circumferential edge or its peripheral edge. This sealing lip preferably takes on at least a double function. Thus, in one embodiment, it is attached to, on and / or in the region of the edges of the frame forming the folding frame substantially circumferentially and extends at least slightly in the direction of the interior of the opening surface spanned by the snap frame. Then, if the inner sides of adjacent or opposite frame strips of the folding frame are guided or placed against each other, the at least partially inwardly facing sealing lips meet each other or are pressed against each other and form a sealed closure slot. In a second embodiment, the preferably circumferential sealing lip extends at least slightly beyond the edge of the folding frame and / or rests on this. In this way, it is ensured that, when two coupling closures are coupled together according to the second embodiment, which preferably both have over the edge extending and / or resting on this sealing lips, an environmentally sealed docking is obtained. Thus, it can be ensured that by pressing the sealing lip of a coupling closure of the second embodiment of the folding frame or the sealing lip of the corresponding coupling closure of the second embodiment at least temporarily results in a sealed coupled system. As a sealing lip material is preferably resorted to synthetic or natural rubber or thermoplastic elastomers.

The handling of the coupling closure according to the second embodiment can be increased by at least two, in particular non-adjacent frame strips attachable or present, operating handles again.

Furthermore, it can be provided that at least the folding frame is formed in one piece.

The coupling closures according to the second embodiment are further characterized in that at least one, in particular all Rahmleisten on the upper side at least partially have at least one first, in particular elastomeric or resilient, closure element.

It can be provided that the first closure element is a, in particular continuous, groove and / or spring.

By the tops of the frame strips are provided at least in sections with a closure element, provision is made that two coupling closures according to the second embodiment can connect to each other with the formation of a docking particularly environmentally sealed.

The handling safety can be further increased by the fact that the coupling closure according to the second embodiment has at least one second closure element on the outside of at least one frame strip or an extension thereof. This may be e.g. to act an omission, an extension, a groove or a spring. Such second closure elements can also be used to lock a closure lid particularly secure.

Accordingly, a coupling closure according to the second embodiment has at least one closure lid with at least one third closure element, which is substantially complementary to the closure element, and / or with at least one fourth closure element, which is substantially complementary to the second closure element, so that the closure lid covered with closed coupling closure the locking slot of the snap frame at least in sections.

It can be provided that the closure lid is at least partially connected to a frame strip via a hinge, a film hinge or a flexible connecting element.

The handling and transportability of this coupling closure according to the second embodiment can be increased by providing the closure lid with at least one operating and / or transport handle.

Coupling closures according to the second embodiment may further include a flexible container or hose or flexible hose member which is sealingly connected to the frame rails and / or hinge means.

Of course, these coupling closures according to the second embodiment may be reversibly as well as irreversibly connected to a hose or a flexible bag.

In order to reduce the extent of contamination when loading or transferring bulk material, it may further be provided that at least the inner side and / or the upper side of at least one frame strip at least partially has or have an adhesive and / or adhesive layer.

A particularly preferred coupling closure according to the second embodiment is further characterized by at least one present on the inside of at least one frame strip first locking element and at least one present in an inner side of at least one frame strip first locking or first latching element, wherein the first locking element upon closure of the folding frame in the first locking hole, in particular reversible, can be latched.

By using, for example, locking pins on the inner sides of the frame strips, which are arranged so that they can engage in corresponding locking openings or latching elements, it is ensured that the closure once obtained does not come loose again without external effort. In addition, this internal latching mechanism, depending on the dimensioning of the length of the locking element, causes the complementary closure rails present on the inner sides of the frame strips to be pressed against one another, which contributes to a particularly pronounced environmental tightness. Under Arretieröffnungen are in the present example, both passages through the wall the frame strips, as well as omissions, ie indentations or indentations in the inner wall of the frame strips, which do not lead to a passage opening to understand. Consequently, there is no loss of environmental integrity associated with such a locking measure. Of course, even with the use of locking holes, the locking elements or pins may be shaped such that they, as soon as they snap into the holes, keep them completely closed and environmentally sealed. For example, in a Parallelogrammverschluss on two adjacent sides a plurality of locking pins are present, and wherein the remaining two sides are provided with corresponding Arretierauslasses or snap-in elements. These locking pins and openings or omissions and latching elements are to be mounted in such a way that, when the frame strips are folded onto one another, they engage one another in an essentially fitting manner.

Furthermore, coupling fasteners according to the second embodiment are also characterized by at least one handle on the outside of at least two, in particular opposite, frame strips, in particular in the region or below the transition from the outside to the top of a frame strip.

It is particularly advantageous if the handle at least one mounted on the outside of a frame strip retaining strip, comprising at least a second locking hole, at least a first handle member, in particular a first handle plate, at least a second handle element, in particular at least a second handle plate, and at least a first and at least one second film hinge, wherein the first handle element with the retaining strip via the first film hinge and the second handle member with the first handle member via the second film hinge are connected and wherein the second handle member, in particular in the edge region, has at least one second locking member, the correspond to the second locking opening and wherein the second handle member is hinged to the first handle member and the second locking member in the second locking opening, in particular reversible, can be latched.

According to a further embodiment, it is proposed that, in the case of at least one joint, in particular in the case of two opposing or not directly adjacent joints, adjacent frame strips and / or their extension in the joint form an angle, in particular acute or right angle, at least in sections at least in the joint.

It can be provided that at least one notch, in particular substantially parallel to the joint axis of rotation, at least along a portion on the inside of at least one joint, in particular on the inner sides of opposing joints, is present. Notch in the sense of the present invention should be understood to mean such a constructional measure which makes it possible to place adjacent frame strips extending from this joint onto one another without an opening remaining, in particular in the joint area. Due to the notch, the hinge acts as a hinged hinge with a substantially tightly located, fixed pivot point at the point of inflection of the notch. In this way, not only the inner sides of the mutually folded frame strips lie flush against each other, but also this frame strips extending to the actual pivot point joint sections that meet in this fulcrum.

The coupling closures according to the second embodiment may be e.g. be obtained that the coupling closure by means of injection molding, in particular by means of two-component injection molding, is produced, wherein for the hinge means a rubber-elastic material or a thermoplastic elastomer and the frame strips are used a thermoplastic and / or thermosetting material.

It can be provided that this method with a single injection mold, in particular single-stage, or with at least two injection molds, in particular two or more stages is performed.

It is also proposed that the one or more joints on adjacent frame strips or that one or more frame strips are molded onto adjacent joints.

According to an alternative method of production, the frame strips can also be connected to the joints by gluing or welding. It has been found to be particularly advantageous to connect frame strips and joints by means of injection molding technology. Suitable adhesives and welding and Anspritztechniken are familiar to the expert.

According to a further embodiment, the, in particular second or inner, coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure according to the invention comprises a closing flap with a first pipe socket, wherein the closing flap can be brought into a closed position in which the first end of the pipe socket with respect to the atmosphere, in particular tight, lockable is - also called coupling closure according to the third embodiment. Such systems can be found for example in the DE 695 04 581 T2 disclosed.

Suitable coupling closures according to the third embodiment are, for example, according to the DE 200 14 871 U1 also in devices before for coupling two storage and / or conveying means, such as in the form of containers, containers, pipes and / or the like, for the purpose of transferring a product from a first storage and / or conveying means with a first closing flap in a first pipe socket a first end in a second storage and / or conveying means with a second closing flap in a second pipe socket at a second end using a pivoting device and a securing device, by means of which the closing flaps of a closed position in which the first closing flap the first storage and / or conveying means at the first end against atmosphere, in particular tightly closes, the second closing flap the second storage and / or conveying means at the second end against atmosphere tightly closes and the two closing flaps and / or the two pipe sockets are movable relative to each other, in a lock ungsstellung in which the two closing flaps and / or the two pipe sockets are firmly connected together, as well as in an open position with firmly interconnected closing flaps and / or pipe socket, in the at least one flow opening of the first storage and / or funding in the second storage - And / or conveying means for the product is open, and are movable from the open position into the locking position and in the closed position, in particular an actuating device, via which the securing means for changing from the closed position to the locking position in which the two storage and / or funds are sealed against each other, then the pivoting device for driving into and then retreating from the open position and then the security device for changing from the locking position to the closed position can be driven.

Furthermore, for example, according to the DE 200 14 872 U1 suitable coupling closures according to the third embodiment also in devices for coupling two storage and / or conveying means, such as in the form of containers, containers, tubes and / or the like, for the purpose of transferring a product from a first storage and / or conveying means with a first Closing flap in a first pipe socket at a first end and in operative connection with at least one shaft in a second storage and / or conveying means with a second closing flap in a second pipe socket at a second End and in operative connection with the at least one shaft, wherein the closing flaps from a closed position in which the first closing flap the first storage and / or conveying means at the first end to atmosphere sealed, the second closing flap the second storage and / or conveying means at the second end against atmosphere tightly closes and the two closing flaps and / or the two pipe sockets are movable relative to each other, in a cleaning position in which the two closing flaps and / or the two pipe sockets are spaced from each other while limiting a cleaning space connectable to a cleaning device, and upon actuation of the at least one shaft in an open position in which the closing flaps rest on each other and at least one flow opening of the first storage and / or conveying means in the second storage and / or conveying means for the product is open, and from the O Ffenstellung in the cleaning position under actuation of the at least one shaft and in the closed position are movable, in particular characterized by a first substantially annular seal between the first closing flap and the first pipe socket, a second substantially annular seal between the second closing flap and the second pipe socket, a third substantially annular seal between the first pipe stub and the second pipe stub and a fourth substantially annular seal between the second pipe stub and a second shaft portion cooperating with the at least one shaft and fixedly connected to the second closing flap, the first, second, third and fourth seals seal the cleaning space to both the atmosphere and the product.

Furthermore, it can thus be provided that the second coupling closure comprises a closing flap with a first pipe socket, wherein the closing flap can be brought into a closed position in which the first end of the pipe socket is tightly sealable with respect to the atmosphere.

The above-described coupling closures according to the third embodiment are particularly suitable as second or inner coupling closures of the multiple coupling closure according to the invention. Such a coupling closure can be designed as an active or passive closure. Active and passive coupling closures according to the third embodiment each have pipe sockets in which flaps or valves are rotatably mounted. Only the flap or the valve of the active coupling closure can be actively actuated, preferably using a transmission device, in order to be converted into an open or closed position. The valve of active and passive closure generally comprises a closing flap with a closing surface and a circumferential closing flap seal, with which the closing flap is sealed against the pipe socket in the locking position. In addition, the valve generally has a circumferential flap seal, which comes with the coupling sealing engagement with the corresponding coupling seal. With coupled active and passive coupling closures, the passive closure flap can be due to their concerns or their connection to the active closing flap by pressing the latter also from a closed-in an open position, and vice versa, convict. Of course, it is also possible to couple two of the aforementioned active coupling closures with each other. In an exemplary embodiment, a multi-coupling closure according to the invention as first or outer coupling closure comprises a coupling closure according to the first or second embodiment and as a second or inner coupling closure a coupling closure according to the third embodiment. Corresponding coupling closures according to the third embodiment, in particular in the form of active and passive closure, in the context of the present invention in the coupled state form a docking device according to the third embodiment.

Furthermore, on a coupling element for environmentally insulated filling and / or emptying containers, such as in the WO 03/037717 A1 be used, which is fixed or detachable and substantially isolated from the environment on a first side, in particular the underside, connected to at least at least partially substantially flexible container or connectable, the coupling element is at least partially elastically deformable and a second side, in particular a Upper side, which is on a second side, in particular an upper side, a second coupling element is substantially tight and reversible in particular dockable, wherein said coupling element is closed in the ground state and under elastic deformation, in particular over at least one slot, reversibly openable, so that there is a passage from the first to the second side of the coupling element (also called coupling closure according to the fourth embodiment). Corresponding coupling closures according to the fourth embodiment form in the context of the present invention in the coupled state, a docking device according to the fourth embodiment.

In principle, therefore, such closures can be used as the first or outer and second or inner coupling closures for the multi-coupling closure according to the invention, as they are known from DE 195 20 409 C1 , of the DE 43 42 962 C1 , of the WO 02/18248 and of the WO 02/18247 are known. Furthermore, as suitable coupling closures systems come into question, as in the WO 03/037756 , of the WO 03/037717 and the German patent application DE 103 21 814 are described.

According to a further aspect of the multiple coupling closures according to the invention, they can also have at least one conveying means which connects adjacent first and / or outer and second or inner coupling closures, which is designed to be substantially rigid and, at the same time, in particular transparent. Such conveying means or hoses are suitable for such cases in which a coupling closure of a second multiple coupling closure corresponding to the second coupling closure attached to the rigid conveying means is introduced into the conveying means through the opening of the first or outer coupling closure of the first multiple coupling closure and to the substantially movement invariant second or inner coupling closure can be docked. Under a rigid conveyor in the context of the present invention is not only to be understood that in its length or width extension is not to change, but also such that allows a certain relative movement of adjacent first and second coupling closure, but it allows the second or inner coupling closure is not allowed, not at least in sections, to be inserted or passed into the opening of the first coupling closures.

According to a further embodiment, the multiple-coupling closure according to the invention has at least one, in particular reversible and / or environmental, connection device, in particular Triclamp connection, to at least one coupling closure or to a main body connected to a coupling closure, conveying means or container, with which the first or second conveying means indirectly or directly, in particular environmentally sealed, with a coupling closure or connected to this body or container is connected or connected.

The attachment device includes, for example, mechanical connections, such as clip or snap locks, flanges, such as Triclamp connections, Ansi flanges and DIN flanges, and bonded or welded connections. These attachment devices, in particular the Triclamp connection, are regularly in solid connection and in particular circumferentially on the coupling closure or the main body, container or conveying means which is connected to this coupling closure. Thus, the adjacent coupling fasteners connecting conveyor on one side or at one of its openings on the Tying device with the coupling closure, its body, container or other funding are tightly connected. Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible to connect the conveyor or an opening of the conveyor by means of gluing and / or welding with the coupling closure, its body, a connected container or conveyor tight.

It has proven particularly expedient if the conveying means can be fastened reversibly to at least the second or inner coupling closure, so that e.g. a system of first or outer coupling closure and associated funding can be attached as needed and application with a second coupling closure or connected to this body or container. In this way, the degree of contamination can be adjusted as needed, allowing a very flexible handling. For the reversible connection of conveying means or hoses, e.g. so-called triclamp compounds in question. These are known to the person skilled in the art and are commercially available.

Of course, it is also possible in one embodiment that the first and / or second conveying means, for example, a coupling closure according to the first or second embodiment and that the connection device has a corresponding thereto coupling closure, so that an environmentally-friendly connection of the conveyor to the coupling closure, the body or the tethered container to form a docking device, comprising a first and a second or corresponding coupling closure according to the first embodiment achieved, wherein the first and second strip of the first coupling closure and the first and second strip of the second coupling closure are in particular substantially the same length and wherein the third and fourth closure elements of the tops of the first and second strips of the first coupling closure are each complementary to the third and fourth closure elements of the O berseiten of first and second strip of the second coupling closure, so that the first and second strips of first and second coupling closure, in particular environmentally sealed, are reversibly connectable to each other (also called first embodiment of a docking device), or a docking device for, in particular environmentally sealed, Be and / or transfer of bulk material, comprising a first and a second coupling closure according to the second embodiment, wherein the first and second coupling closures substantially coincide in number, length and arrangement of their frame strips, so that connectable first and second snap frames result, and wherein in particular the first closure element of the upper side of the frame strips of the first coupling closure is complementary to the first closure element of the upper side of the strips of the second coupling closure, so that first and second coupling closures, in particular environmentally sealed, reversibly connectable (also called second embodiment of a docking device), can be produced is.

The object underlying the invention is further achieved by a Mehrfachandockeinrichtung, in particular Doppelandockeinrichtung, for, in particular environmentally sealed, loading and / or transfer of bulk material, comprising a first and a second inventive multiple coupling closure, wherein the first and outer coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closure to form a first, in particular environmentally sealed docking device can be coupled to each other and wherein the adjacent second or inner coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closure with each other to form a second docking device can be coupled. Advantageous Mehrfachandockeinrichtungen invention accordingly have each corresponding first or outer and second or inner coupling fastener pairs, which may be present coupled side by side in the form of docking devices simultaneously. The actual bulk material transfer takes place via the opened second docking device, i. the formed from respectively second or inner coupling closures docking instead. The conveying means or hoses connected to one another via the respective first or outer coupling closures form a protective sheath which hermetically shields the second or inner docking device from the outside world, at least during the transferring operation.

A further development of the multiple docking device according to the invention may also include a multi-coupling closure according to the invention and a coupling closure which can be coupled to the second or inner coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure to form a, in particular environmentally sealed, first or second embodiment of a docking device and on or on the base body or at least one attachment device is present on the vessel or conveying means connected to the coupling closure, which, in particular environmentally sealed, can be docked to the first or outer coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure.

In contrast to the previously described embodiment, therefore, only one inventive multi-coupling closure part of an inventive Be multi-docking device, if further exists a coupling closure which can be coupled to the second or inner coupling closure of the multi-coupling closure, ie the closure with the smaller opening area. Unlike the multiple coupling closure according to the invention, this coupling closure does not have conveying means connecting adjacent first and second coupling closures. Rather, a further coupling device or a coupling closure is attached to this coupling closure, to the base body or to the container or container connected to this coupling closure or the body, which is suitable for forming a docking device with the first or outer coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure. Thus, for example, a parallelogram closure or a coupling closure according to the second embodiment or a connection device, for example in the form of a Triclamp connection or coupling, be attached to the main body of the above-mentioned coupling closure, which with a corresponding first parallelogram coupling closure or coupling closure of the second embodiment of the multiple coupling closure is reversibly connectable. Compared with the first-mentioned variant of a multi-docking device according to the invention, it is not possible in this variant to separate the first coupling closure of the multiple-coupling closure from the attachment device in the closed state.

Accordingly, it can further be provided that the first or outer coupling closures of the first and second multiple-coupling closure with the attachment device form a docking device according to the first or second embodiment.

Inventive Mehrandandockeinrichtungen distinguished in a further embodiment in that the second or inner coupling fasteners of first and second multiple coupling closure a device for coupling two storage and / or conveying means for the purpose of transferring a bulk material from a first storage and / or conveying means with a first Closing flap in a first pipe socket at a first end and in operative connection with at least one shaft in a second storage and / or conveying means with a second closing flap in a second pipe socket at a second end and in operative connection with the at least one shaft, wherein the closing flap of a closed position in which the first closing flap closes the first storage and / or conveying means at the first end with respect to the atmosphere, in particular tight, the second closing flap the second storage and / or conveying means at the second end against the atmosphere tightly seals and the two closing flaps and / or the two pipe sockets are movable relative to each other.

Furthermore, multi-docking devices according to the invention can also have at least one suction device and / or at least one flushing device in operative connection with the first or second docking device and / or at least one conveying device.

The invention further relates to a container, in particular a flexible container comprising a multiple coupling closure according to the invention, wherein the, in particular second or inner, coupling closure at the outlet opening of the multiple coupling closure with the container directly or via a flexible hose member is connected or connected or integrally Part of the same is.

Likewise, the present invention comprises a conveying means, in particular a hose, containing at least one multi-coupling closure according to the invention, wherein the conveying means, in particular an opening edge region of the conveying means, is directly or indirectly connected or connectable to a second or inner coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure.

The two coupling closures to be joined together according to the first embodiment are dimensioned substantially identically in order to enable an environmentally sound coupling. A particular advantage of the docking device according to the first embodiment is also that two identical coupling fasteners according to the first embodiment can be used. For this purpose, it is already sufficient if the third and fourth closure elements of the first and second strips of the coupling closure are designed to be complementary to one another. For example, the third closure element on the top of the first strip represent a spring and the fourth closure element on the top of the second bar a complementary groove. With substantially identical dimensions or length of the coupling closures to be coupled, these can then be connected to each other in an environmentally sealed manner. In this way, the manufacturing and storage costs for the docking devices according to the first embodiment can be considerably reduced.

A preferred embodiment of a docking device according to the first embodiment further has at least one fifth and / or sixth closure element on at least an outer side of first and / or second strip of first and / or second coupling closure, which is or are complementary to the seventh and / or eighth closure elements of the closure cover of the first and / or second coupling closure. Even if only one coupling closure is equipped with a closure lid, which has seventh and / or eighth closure elements that can engage in mounted on the outside of a bar fifth and / or sixth closure elements, the handling safety during the transfer process is considerably increased. By appropriate use of a second closure lid, which is present on the second coupling closure, an even higher degree of environmental tightness and safety is achieved.

Accordingly, it can be provided that the closure lid of the first coupling closure with at least one seventh and / or eighth closure element of the second coupling closure and that the closure lid of the second coupling closure are reversibly connectable or connected to at least a seventh and / eighth closure element of the first coupling closure, if the third and fourth closure elements of the first and second coupling closure are connected to each other.

According to a further aspect, the aforementioned docking devices according to the first embodiment can already be connected or connectable via at least one flexible container, hose or hose element via their first and second coupling closures.

Docking devices according to the second embodiment in the sense of the present invention are composed of two corresponding, i. coupling coupling closures according to the second embodiment, as previously disclosed together. Clutch closures in the context of docking devices according to the second embodiment are consequently always coupling clutches according to the second embodiment.

Docking devices according to the second embodiment are further characterized by at least one second closure element on the outside of at least one frame strip of the first and / or second coupling closure, which is complementary to the fourth closure element of the closure lid.

Such docking devices according to the second embodiment have in a further embodiment of a flexible container and / or a hose or Schlauclielement which is connected in an environmentally sealed manner with the first and / or second coupling closure.

For particularly environmentally sealed sampling also flexible containers may be provided with at least one removal device, in particular in the form of a spoon or spatula, which is connected to the flexible container on the inside.

Of particular advantage in the above-described second embodiment of a coupling closure is that by using a folding frame a particularly reliable and error-prone Verschließ- and Umfüllvariante has been found. Alone by moving adjacent frame strips against each other complementary locking rails can be made to interlock. It is also of particular advantage, in particular with respect to coupling closures or elements known from the prior art, that adjacent frame strips can also be opened widely against one another, thereby avoiding that bulk material residues, e.g. remaining in acute-angled niches when decanting and subsequently contributing to the contamination of the environment. In addition, therefore, no additional suction devices must be provided in the region of the joint devices.

1. a) ein erstes erfindungsgemäßes Behältnis, das im wesentlichen umweltdicht mit dem zweiten bzw. inneren Kupplungsverschluss eines ersten Mehrfachkupplungsverschlusses verbunden ist, mit einem stationären oder transportierbaren zweiten erfindungsgemäßen Behältnis, das im wesentlichen umweltdicht mit dem zweiten bzw. inneren Kupplungsverschluss eines zweiten Mehrfachkupplungsverschlusses verbunden ist, oder einem erfindungsgemäßen Fördermittel, das im wesentlichen umweltdicht mit dem zweiten bzw. inneren Kupplungsverschluss eines zweiten Mehrfachkupplungsverschlusses verbunden ist, über die jeweils ersten bzw. äußeren Kupplungsverschlüsse von erstem und zweitem erfindungsgemäßen Mehrfachkupplungsverschluss unter Ausbildung einer Andockeinrichtung, insbesondere gemäß der ersten oder zweiten Ausführungsform, im geöffneten oder insbesondere geschlossenen Zustand miteinander verbindet,
2. b) die Andockeinrichtung aus den ersten bzw. äußeren Kupplungsverschlüssen von erstem und zweitem Mehrfachkupplungsverschluss unter Beibehaltung einer, insbesondere umweltdichten, Andockeinrichtung öffnet,
3. c) die zweiten bzw. inneren Kupplungsverschlüsse von erstem und zweitem Mehrfachkupplungsverschluss unter Ausnutzung der Öffnung der ersten Andockeinrichtung miteinander unter Ausbildung einer, insbesondere umweltdichten, zweiten Andockeinrichtung, insbesondere gemäß der dritten Ausführungsform verbindet,
4. d) die zweiten bzw. inneren Kupplungsverschlüsse von erstem und zweitem Mehrfachkupplungsverschluss unter Beibehaltung einer, insbesondere umweltdichten, zweiten Andockeinrichtung öffnet,
5. e) das Schüttgut von dem ersten in das zweite Behältnis, oder umgekehrt, oder durch das Fördermittel in das erste oder zweite Behältnis überführt, oder umgekehrt,
6. f) die zweiten bzw. inneren Kupplungsverschlüsse von erstem und zweitem Mehrfachkupplungsverschluss unter Beibehaltung einer, insbesondere umweltdichten, Andockeinrichtung, insbesondere umweltdicht, verschließt,
7. g) die zweiten bzw. inneren Kupplungsverschlüsse von erstem und zweitem Mehrfachkupplungsverschluss unter Entkopplung der zweiten Andockeinrichtung, insbesondere umweltdicht, voneinander trennt,
8. h) die ersten bzw. äußeren Kupplungsverschlüsse von erstem und zweitem Mehrfachkupplungsverschluss unter Beibehaltung einer, insbesondere umweltdichten, Andockeinrichtung, insbesondere umweltdicht, verschließt, und
9. i) die ersten bzw. äußeren Kupplungsverschlüsse von erstem und zweitem Mehrfachkupplungsverschluss unter Entkopplung der ersten Andockeinrichtung, insbesondere umweltdicht, voneinander trennt.

The object underlying the invention is further achieved by a method for, in particular environmentally sealed, filling, transfer and / or emptying of flexible or rigid containers, wherein

1. a) a first container according to the invention, which is connected in a substantially environmentally sealed manner to the second or inner coupling closure of a first multiple coupling closure, with a stationary or transportable second container according to the invention, which is connected in a substantially environmentally sealed manner to the second or inner coupling closure of a second multiple coupling closure, or a conveying means according to the invention, which is connected in a substantially environmentally sealed manner with the second or inner coupling closure of a second multiple coupling closure, via the respective first or outer coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closure according to the invention, forming a docking device, in particular according to the first or second Embodiment, connects in the open or closed state in particular,
2. b) the docking device opens from the first or outer coupling closures of the first and second multiple-coupling closure while maintaining a, in particular environmentally-sealed, docking device,
3. c) connecting the second or inner coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closure by utilizing the opening of the first docking device with one another to form a, in particular, environmentally sound, second docking device, in particular according to the third embodiment,
4. d) the second or inner coupling closures of the first and second multiple-coupling closure opens while maintaining a, in particular environmentally-sealed, second docking device,
5. e) the bulk material from the first to the second container, or vice versa, or transferred by the conveying means in the first or second container, or vice versa,
6. f) closes the second or inner coupling closures of the first and second multiple-coupling closure while maintaining a, in particular, environmentally-sealed, docking device, in particular environmentally sealed,
7. g) the second or inner coupling closures of first and second multiple coupling closure with decoupling of the second docking device, in particular environmentally sealed, from each other,
8. h) closes the first or outer coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closure while maintaining a, in particular environmentally sealed, docking device, in particular environmentally sealed, and
9. i) the first or outer coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closure with decoupling of the first docking device, in particular environmentally sealed, separated from each other.

It can be provided according to the invention that, following step h), the first and second conveying means, i. the conveying means of the first and second multiple coupling closure, as well as from the first docking device formed interior is occupied by at least one suction device with a vacuum.

Suitable suction devices are for example from the DE 195 20 409 C1 known.

Furthermore, it can be provided that, after step g), in each case the interior formed between the closed first and second coupling closures of the first and second multiple-coupling closure by the first and second conveying means is subjected to a vacuum via in each case at least one suction device.

Finally, the method according to the invention also encompasses those embodiments in which, after step h) and / or step g), the interior space present between the second or inner coupling closures of the first and second multiple-coupling closure and / or between the first and second coupling closures of first and second Multiple coupling closure present interiors and / or after step f) and / or h) the docking device (s) are flushed with a cleaning liquid.

Suitable cleaning devices for docking devices or provided with cleaning chambers docking facilities are for example from the WO 02/18247 and WO 02/18248 known.

Of particular advantage in the above-described embodiment of a multi-coupling closure according to the invention and a multi-docking device formed from such closures is that an extremely high degree of contamination safety can be achieved even with structurally less demanding coupling closure systems or docking devices. This is accompanied by a classification into a higher purity class also for the aforementioned coupling closure systems according to the first and second embodiments. It has been found to be particularly advantageous that even in the case of malfunction of a container closing a coupling closure the environment is not contaminated with the bulk material to be filled. The same protective effect can be achieved in an incomplete or faulty cleaning cycle for an internal, second docking device. Furthermore, the multi-component closure according to the invention is characterized by its very high variation in the attachment of hose elements. It is also advantageous that the advantages presented above with a variety of different coupling closures, which come with the multi-couplings according to the invention are used, as long as it is ensured that two coupling closures of two Mehrfachandockeinrichtungen correspond in pairs and form an environmentally-friendly docking. By selecting, for example, transparent hose elements which connect the individual coupling closures of a multiple coupling closure or their basic body to one another, can already be controlled externally during the transferring or cleaning process whether irregularities or disturbances have occurred during loading or unloading. In the same way, this embodiment makes it possible to continue the cleaning or suction process until bulk material remains in the interior formed by hose elements and coupling closures of corresponding multiple coupling closures or can no longer be recognized.

Figur 1

eine schematische Querschnittsseitenansicht eines ersten Kupplungsverschlusses;

Figur 2

eine schematische Querschnittsseitenansicht einer alternativen Ausführungsform eines Kupplungsverschlusses;

Figur 3

eine schematische Querschnittsseitenansicht eines Kupplungsverschlusses gemäß Figur 2;

Figur 4

eine schematische Querschnittsseitenansicht zweier Kupplungsverschlüsse;

Figur 5

eine schematische Querschnittsseitenansicht einer Andockeinrichtung;

Figur 6

eine schematische Querschnittsseitenansicht einer Andockeinrichtung gemäß Figur 5;

Figur 7

eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht eines weiteren, zweiten Kupplungsverschlusses;

Figur 8

eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht einer alternativen Ausführungsform eines Kupplungsverschlusses gemäß Figur 7;

Figur 9

eine schematische Draufsicht auf einen Kupplungsverschluss gemäß Figur 7;

Figur 10

eine schematische Draufsicht auf den Kupplungsverschluss gemäß Figur 7 im geschlossenen Zustand;

Figur 11

eine schematische Querschnittsseitenansicht des Kupplungsverschlusses gemäß Figur 10 entlang der Schnittebene I-I;

Figur 12

eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht einer weiteren Andockeinrichtung;

Figur 13

eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht einer alternativen Ausführungsform eines zweiten Kupplungsverschlusses im geschlossenen Zustand;

Figur 14

eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht des Kupplungsverschlusses gemäß Figur 13 im geöffneten Zustand;

Figur 15

eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht einer weiteren Ausführungsform einer Andockeinrichtung;

Figur 16

eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht einer Andockeinrichtung gemäß Figur 15 im geöffneten Zustand.

Figur 17

eine schematische Seitenansicht auf einen erfindungsgemäßen Mehrfachkupplungsverschluss;

Figur 18

eine schematische Seitenansicht auf eine erfindungsgemäße Mehrfachandockeinrichtung; und

Figur 19

eine schematische Querschnittsansicht einer Triclamp-Verbindung.

Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description in which embodiments of a multi-coupling closure according to the invention and of a multi-docking device according to the invention as well as coupling elements and docking devices, which are used in the multi-coupling closure and the Mehrfachandockeinrichtung used are explained with reference to schematic drawings in detail. Showing:

FIG. 1

a schematic cross-sectional side view of a first coupling closure;

FIG. 2

a schematic cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of a coupling closure;

FIG. 3

a schematic cross-sectional side view of a coupling closure according to FIG. 2 ;

FIG. 4

a schematic cross-sectional side view of two coupling closures;

FIG. 5

a schematic cross-sectional side view of a docking device;

FIG. 6

a schematic cross-sectional side view of a docking device according to FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 7

a schematic perspective view of another, second coupling closure;

FIG. 8

a schematic perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a coupling closure according to FIG. 7 ;

FIG. 9

a schematic plan view of a coupling closure according to FIG. 7 ;

FIG. 10

a schematic plan view of the coupling closure according to FIG. 7 when closed;

FIG. 11

a schematic cross-sectional side view of the coupling closure according to FIG. 10 along the cutting plane II;

FIG. 12

a schematic perspective view of another docking device;

FIG. 13

a schematic perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a second coupling closure in the closed state;

FIG. 14

a schematic perspective view of the coupling closure according to FIG. 13 in the open state;

FIG. 15

a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of a docking device;

FIG. 16

a schematic perspective view of a docking device according to FIG. 15 in the open state.

FIG. 17

a schematic side view of a multiple clutch closure according to the invention;

FIG. 18

a schematic side view of a multi-docking device according to the invention; and

FIG. 19

a schematic cross-sectional view of a Triclamp connection.

FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of a coupling closure 1 in a schematic cross-sectional view in the closed state. The first strip 2 and the second strip 4 of the coupling closure 1 are closely adjacent to each other via their inner sides 6 and 8, under closure of the flexible bag 26. In this case, the first closure element 10 located on the inner side 6 of the first strip, which is configured in the form of a spring, engages in the second closure element 12, which is configured in the form of a groove, on the inner side 8 of the second strip 4. The first and second closure elements 10 and 12 can be designed as desired, as long as they are complementary in shape and size and ensure that that the first and second strips 2 and 4 do not separate from each other without external force. Suitable clip, groove or rivet fasteners are known in the art. The first and second closure elements 10 and 12 advantageously extend along the entire inner sides of the first and second strips 2 and 4. Of course, it is also possible on the inner sides 6 and 8 of the first and second strips 2 and 4 further complementary to each other first and second closure elements 10 and 12 provide. In this way, the tightness of the coupling closure 1 can be increased again. Furthermore, the upper sides 14 and 16 of the first and second strips 2 and 4 have third and fourth closure elements 18 and 20. On the outer side 22 of the first strip 2, a fifth closure element 24 is attached, which is used to further lock one of two coupling closures 1 and 1 '(not shown) formed docking device. Their exact mode of action will be discussed in more detail below.

In FIG. 2 FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a coupling closure 1 according to the first embodiment, which essentially corresponds to that of FIG FIG. 1 corresponds, wherein the first bar 2 of the coupling closure 1 is connected via a hinge 28 with a closure lid 30. For example, the hinge 28 may be a hinge, a series of multiple hinges, or a living hinge. Conveniently, the hinge 28 is located in the region of the transition from the upper side 14 to the outer side 22 of the first strip 2. In the closure lid 30, a sixth closure element 32 is incorporated, which is designed in shape, size and position such that when the closure lid 30 is placed over the tops 14 and 16 of the first and second strips 2 and 4, a locking interaction with the fourth closure element 20 on the top 16 of the second strip 4 takes place. Also with regard to the fourth and sixth closure element 20 and 32, a complementary design in shape and size has proven to be particularly advantageous. In this way, the slot 34 of the coupling closure 1 is not only completely covered and achieved an even higher degree of environmental tightness, but in addition to the interaction between the first and second closure element 10 and 12 on the inner sides 6 and 8 also carries the interaction between the fourth and sixth closure element 20 and 32 in that the closely spaced inner sides 6 and 8 can not be opened easily. Of course, it is also possible to provide in the closure lid 30 a further, seventh closure element (not shown), which corresponds to the third closure element 18 on the upper side 14 of the first strip 2 and can form a locking closure.

FIG. 3 shows the embodiment according to FIG. 2 with an unfolded closure lid 30. In this state, it is possible, for example, to bring a second coupling closure 1 ', as shown in FIG. 4, against the first coupling closure 1 in order to form a docking device. In this case, the third and fourth closure elements 18 'and 20' of the second coupling closure 1 'are to be matched to the third and fourth closure elements 18 and 20 of the first coupling closure 1 in order to achieve the desired latching effect. In this case, the third closure element 18 of the first strip 2 engages in the fourth closure element 20 'of the second strip 4' of the coupling closure 1 '. The same applies to the closure elements of the second and first strip 4 and 2 'of the first and second coupling closure 1 and 1'. By also the slot 34 'of the second coupling closure 1' by the interaction of first and second closure element 10 'and 12' is kept sealed environmentally sealed, the first and second coupling closures 1 and 1 'unproblematically join together to form a docking device 36, as in FIG. 5 shown. The coupling closures 1 and 1 'of the docking device 36 according to the in FIG. 5 In addition, each embodiment shown has closure covers 30 and 30 ', which in both cases are used to interact in a locking manner with fifth locking elements or locking elements 24 and 24' mounted on the outer sides 22 and 23. In this way, a particularly intimate connection between the coupling closures 1 and 1 'is produced. This also has the advantage that the closure covers 30 and 30 'can also be used as grips to separate the first and second strips of first and second coupling closures 1 and 1' while maintaining an environmentally sealed closure as in FIG. 6 shown. Now, bulk material, which is located, for example, in the indicated flexible container 38, which is environmentally sealed via the bag edge 26 with the coupling closure 1, in a second container 40, which in turn is connected to the second coupling closure 1 'environmentally sealed, transferred. After completion of the transfer operation, the first and second coupling closures 1 and 1 'are closed again and the coupling closures can be separated from each other.

FIG. 7 shows a further, second embodiment of a coupling closure 50 in the form of a so-called parallelogram closure. The illustrated coupling closure 50 is composed of a total of two narrow frame strips 52 and two longer frame strips 54 as well as these frame strips each connecting hinge devices 56 in the form of film hinges. Such a construction can be obtained for example by means of a two-component injection molding process, wherein for the film hinges thermoplastic Elastomers and for the frame strips thermoplastic resins or thermosets can be used. In such a constructed folding frame 58, the degrees of freedom of movement of the individual frame strips 52, 54 are severely limited. Nevertheless, a very large opening cross-section can be achieved. By reducing or increasing the angle of adjacent frame strips 52 and 54, the opening cross-section can also be varied as desired. Thus, the inner sides 60 and 62 of the frame strips 52 and 54 can be easily superimposed to form a closure. A particularly high degree of environmental tightness is achieved by the first and second closure rails 64 and 66 being mounted on the inner sides 60 and 62. These rails preferably also extend over the inner sides of the joints 56. This may be, for example, a resilient material, for example in the form of bands, which are pressed against one another when folding frame 58 is folded. In an expedient embodiment, the closure rails consist of the same material as the joints 56. In a further embodiment, first and second closure rails 64 and 66 may also be present as complementarily shaped closure elements, which engage flush and sealingly when the folding frame 58 is folded. For example, a groove construction can be used for the first closure rail 64 and a spring rail corresponding thereto can be used for the second closure rail 66. Here, too, a particularly high level of environmental tightness is achieved, in particular, when the first and second closure rails 64 and 66 likewise extend over the inner sides of the hinge devices 56, in particular hinged.

As far as the coupling closures 50 according to the second embodiment are intended to form a docking device according to the second embodiment, it is of great advantage if there are first closure elements 72 on the upper sides 68 and 70 of the frame strips 52 and 54 which are suitable for this purpose corresponding closure elements of a second coupling closure 50 'according to the second embodiment (not shown) to engage flush and environmentally sealed. Such first closure elements preferably extend over the entire length of the upper side of the frame strips 52 and 54. A particularly high degree of environmental tightness can be achieved by providing a combined tongue and groove construction for these first closure elements.

In order for a once closed coupling closure 50 to remain permanently tightly sealed without external force or without additional expenditure on apparatus, first arresting elements 76, for example arresting pins, are provided on the inner sides of adjacent frame strips 52 and 54. and a pair of adjacent locking members 76 corresponding in shape and size to first locking apertures 78, or pairs thereof, which are attached to the insides of the remaining two frame rails 52 and 54 of the snap-fit frame 58, and preferably in shape, size and position correspond to the first locking elements. If one closes the coupling closure 50, these first locking elements 76 engage in the locking openings 78 or rails, so that the closure obtained can not be released again without external effort. Advantageously, one agrees the position and size of the locking hooks 76 and Arretiereinrastöffnungen 78 from each other so that once the locking elements 76 are engaged, the adjacent sides 60 and 62 of the frame strips 52 and 54 and their closure rails 64 and 66 experience a certain pressing pressure.

Again FIG. 7 can still be seen, a closure lid 80 can serve as a transport handle at the same time. If the inner sides 60 and 62 of the frame rails 52 and 54 abut one another to form a locking slot, the illustrated closure cover 80 can be placed over the locking slot and the second locking element 94 can be locked into a third locking opening 84. In this way, on the one hand at least a portion of the top of the coupling closure 50 is covered and protected against contamination and on the other hand additionally or alternatively to the function of the first locking member 76 and the first locking hole 78 provided a further closure assurance. The closure cover or the transport handle 80 is presently connected via a retaining strip 96 with the outside of the frame strip 52 and 54, respectively. This bar 96 is generally aligned substantially perpendicular to the outside and has at least one second locking opening 82. Via a first film hinge 86, the strip 96 is adjoined by a first grip element 90, which forms a lower grip plate. A second film hinge 88, which forms an upper grip plate, is connected to the first grip element 90 via a second film hinge 88. In one embodiment, the second gripping element 92 can be dimensioned such that a second arresting element 94 located on its outer edge can latch into the second arresting opening 82 as soon as the second gripping element 92 is folded onto the first gripping element 90.

In order for a particularly reliable connection of the coupling closure 50 to a second coupling closure 50 '(not shown) to be established, 52 corresponding temporal closure elements are mounted in the upper region of the frame strip. Thus lie along the upper edge of a narrow side 52 and a longitudinal side 54 of the Coupling closure 50 each third locking holes 84 in the form of elongated passage slots before. These locking openings 84 are mounted in wall elements which extend over the upper sides 68, 70 of the frame rails 52 and 54. Along the upper portion of the remaining frame rails 52 and 54 of the coupling closure 50, which have no openings 84, there are a plurality of latching elements 98. If two coupling closures 50 and 50 'are now coupled to one another, these latching elements 98 engage in corresponding third locking openings 84' of a second coupling closure 50 '. In the same way, there is an occlusive interaction between the third locking openings 84 of the first coupling closure 50 and the latching elements 98 'of the second coupling closure 50'. It has proven to be advantageous if the third locking openings 84 having wall elements are separated by material leaks 99 from each other, so that a higher degree of flexibility is given when latching. Of course, these material leaks 99 are equipped such that they do not allow passage to the interior of the coupling closures, and are preferably incorporated in narrow-side extensions 74 of the frame strips. Furthermore, it is of course sufficient if the locking openings 84, 84 'indentations for receiving the Einratsselemente 98, 98' represent that do not perforate the wall of the frame strip.

A particularly high degree of environmental tightness when closing the coupling closure 50 is also achieved in that at least two opposing joints 56 on their insides at least partially, in particular in the upper region, ie starting from the top 68, 70 of the frame strips 52, 54, respectively at least have a notch 57. Exemplary is in the FIGS. 7 and 8th only one joint 56 is shown, which has such a notch 57. These opposing notches 57 having joints 56 are particularly suitable as opposite end portions of a sealed coupling closure 50. Here are adjacent frame strips 52 and 54 forming an angle of 0 ° to each other, while the adjacent joints 56, which have no indentations, Rahmleisten Connect 52 and 54 with each other, which form an angle of about 180 ° with closed coupling closure 50. By using at least two joints 56, containing at least partial notches 57 on their inner sides, a particularly high degree of tightness of the closure slot of the coupling closure 50 is ensured even in the opposite end portions. In the event that two opposing joints with notches 57 are provided for a coupling closure 50 with four frame strips 52, 54, which are only equal in pairs, there are usually not identical coupling closures 50 to form a docking device. This requires mirror-image active and passive forms. Moreover, it should be noted that when using a coupling closure 50 with a pair of hinges including notches 57, the degrees of freedom of collapse of the frame rails 52, 54 are necessarily restricted, to avoid the opposing hinges without indentations forming the end portions of the collapsed coupling closure. In Fig. 8 there is a coupling closure 50 'shown, with the coupling closure according to Fig. 7 can be coupled.

FIG. 9 is the plan view of a coupling closure 50 according to the second embodiment shown in the fully open state. The frame strips 52 and 54 form the shape of a rectangle with the hinge devices 56 in the respective corners. When closed, the frame strips 52 and 54 or their insides 60 and 62, as in FIG. 10 shown flush with each other. For closing the coupling closure 50 only three frame strips are regularly to move. In FIG. 11 FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the coupling closure 50 taken along the sectional plane II to show how the first and second closure rails 64 and 66 are flush with each other when the frame rails 52 and 54 are folded one upon another. On the upper sides 68 and 70 of the frame strips 52 and 54 is also already a first closure element 72nd

In FIG. 12 a second embodiment of a docking device 100 is shown, which consists of two coupling closures 50 and 50 'according to the second embodiment. The corresponding first closure elements 72 and 72 'on the upper sides 68 and 68' of the coupling closures 50 and 50 'have been flush fitted into each other to form an environmentally sealed statements. Among other things, this contributes to the fact that both coupling closures 50 and 50 'are dimensioned identically, in particular with respect to their snap frames 58 and 58'. The transport handles 80 can now be formed by folding the first and second gripping elements 90 and 92 together and possibly locking the second arresting element 94 in the second arresting opening 82. They make the handling of the docking device 100 according to the second embodiment particularly user-friendly, but can be very easy to close or open the coupled snap frame on these handles 80. A particularly high degree of tightness in the coupling of the coupling closures 50 and 50 'is also achieved in that the latching elements 98 of the coupling closure 50 in the third locking openings 84 'of the coupling closure 50' engage, which ensures that the docking device 100 does not open easily without external force.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a further development of a coupling closure 50 'according to the second embodiment in the closed state. The coupling closure 50 'is shown from the outlet or bottom 150. The illustrated coupling closure 50 'has two opposing frame rails 152 and 154 which form the third frame rail pair 156 and are each provided on their outer sides 158 and 160 with a control handle 162, 164. The operating handle 162, 164 in each case has a centering cone 166, 168 and a locking sleeve 170, 172. The centering cone 166, 168 is designed in such a way that it can be inserted into the corresponding locking sleeve of a corresponding second coupling closure (not shown). In the same way, the locking sleeve 170, 172 is adapted to receive the centering cone of a corresponding second coupling closure (not shown). It is particularly advantageous if the inner diameter of the locking sleeve or provided on the inner wall of the same guide rails taper away from the opening and / or if the centering cone or on the outer wall of the same existing guide rails widen away from the top. In this way, corresponding coupling fasteners can be particularly easy and safe dock in such a way that their snap frames or sealing lips automatically reach the environment-proof to the plant. It has proven particularly advantageous if both operating handles 162, 164 on the outer sides of the frame strips 152, 154 of the third frame strip pair 156 have the above-described locking and centering aids. For stiffening the operating handles 162, 164, these transverse ribs 174 may have. The frame strips 152, 154 of the third pair are connected via elastic hinge devices 176, 178, 180, 182 respectively to shorter dimensioned frame strips 184, 186 and 188, 190 of the first and second frame strip pair 192, 194, respectively. Consequently, the first frame strip 152 of the third frame strip pair 156 is followed by the first frame strip 184 of the first frame strip pair 192 via a hinge device 176 at one end and the first frame strip 188 of the second frame strip pair 194 via a hinge device 182 at the opposite end of the first frame strip 152 third frame strip pair 156. In the same way, the respective second frame strips 186 and 190 of the first and second frame strip pair 192, 194 are connected to the second frame strip 154 of the third frame strip pair 156 via a respective hinge device 178 or 180. A circumferential snap frame 58 'is now obtained by the first and second frame strips 184, 186 of the first pair 192 and the first and second second frame strips 188, 190 of the second pair 194 are each connected to each other via a hinge device 196 and 198, respectively. In the present embodiment, the first and second frame rails 184, 186 and 188, 190 of the first and second frame rail pair 192, 194 fold inwardly upon closing, their respective hinge devices 196 and 198 move toward each other.

On the edges of the frame strips 152, 154, 184, 186, 188, 190, a circumferential sealing lip 200 made of an elastomeric material is mounted, which projects beyond the cross-sectional dimension of the frame strips on the inside. If the inner sides of the frame strips 184, 186 or 188, 190 of the first and second pair moves toward the inner sides of the first and second frame strips 152, 154 of the third pair, the sealing lips abut one another on the edge profiles of the respective frame strips and form a tight closure.

In the present embodiment according to Fig. 13 the frame strips 184, 186 and 188, 190 of the first and second pair 192 and 194 are identically dimensioned and have a length which is shorter than half the length of the frame strips 152, 154 of the third frame strip pair 156. Accordingly arrive in the central region of Coupling closure 50 ', the sealing lips 200 of the first and second frame strip 152, 154 of the third pair 156 to the plant. For this purpose, the contour of the first and second frame strip 152, 154 of the third frame strip pair in the central region is provided with a recess 202, 204. The contours of the first and second frame bar 184, 186 and 188, 190 of the first and second pair are adapted to the contour of the frame strips 152, 154 of the third pair. This contour has the advantage that it forces the folding movement of the first frame strips of the first and second pair in the direction of the first frame strip of the third pair when moving towards each other from the first and second frame strip of the third pair. The same applies to the second frame bars of the first and second pairs with respect to the second frame bar of the third pair.

When closed, the frame strips 152, 154 of the third pair 156 are held or pressed against each other by suitable locking or snap-in closures. In the closed state, the spacers 212, 214 and 216, 218 which are present on the outer sides of the frame rails 154, 186 and 188, 190 of the first and second pair, respectively, also engage each other in the region of the hinge devices 176, 178 and 180, 102 , These spacers are dimensioned in such a way that the sum of their maximum distances from the base surface of the respective frame strips, in particular slightly, beyond the distance of the substantially parallel and opposite outer sides of the first and second frame strips 184, 186 of the first pair 192 and the first and second frame strips 188, 190 of the second pair 194 go. This has the consequence that in the closed state, in particular when the first and second frame strips 152, 154 of the third pair 156 are locked together in the central region, the portion where the first bar 184 of the first pair 192 on the first bar 152 of the third Pair 156, and the portion where the second bar 186 of the first pair 192 abuts against the second ledge 154 of the third pair 156 are each spaced apart from the central portion of the locked third frame pair 156 by utilizing the resilience of the adjacent pairs of frame bars. The same mechanism of action is used in the strips 188, 190 of the second pair 194 used. In this way, the already already abutting each other sealing lips 200 of the frame strips in particular in the region of the outer hinge devices 176, 178 and 180, 182 pressed even more against each other.

Figure 14 shows a partial section of a coupling closure 50 'according to FIG. 13 in the open state. Evident are the first and second frame strips 184, 186 of the first pair 192, which are connected via hinge devices 176, 178 with the first and second frame strip 152, 154 of the third pair 156. The inner sides of the first and second frame strips 184, 186 of the first pair 192 have in the region below the central axis in each case approximately centrally spacers 230. These have the function when in abutment with the inside of the first and second frame strip 152, 154 of the third pair 156 to keep the respective frame strips substantially in parallel alignment. Because due to the inside protruding beyond the edge sealing lip 200, the inner sides of the frame strips usually not the entire surface to the plant. The same function take over the below the central axis in the region of the indentations 202, 204 of the first and second strip 152, 154 of the third frame strip pair present essays 238. With this measure, the tightness is increased again. Furthermore, the inner sides of the frame strips of the first to third frame strip pair have adjusting elements 232, 234 which are nested and ensure that the adjoining sealing lips 200 adjacent frame strips always present in the closed state over the entire length at the same height. Suitable adjustment elements 232, 234 represent, for example, strip-shaped bulges, which, when brought into contact with the inside of the adjacent frame strips, on the underside and / or top side by means of corresponding adjustment elements the opposite inside be absorbed. So that the first and second strips 152, 154 of the third frame strip pair 156, which reach the middle region, ensure a tight seal, the sealing lip 200 is in each case reinforced to a greater extent via the conventional sealing ring profile with corresponding sealing tongues 240 and 242 (not shown).

FIG. 15 is one of two identical coupling closures 50 ', 50 "according to FIG. 13 to be formed docking device 100. The first and second frame strips 152 ', 154' of the third frame strip pair of the upper coupling closure are firmly but releasably connected to each other via locking means 210 '. The centering cones 166, 168, which are present on the opposite operating handles 162, 164 of the lower coupling closure 50 ', are inserted into the locking sleeves 170', 172 'of the operating handles 162', 164 'of the upper coupling closure 50 " Zentrierkonusse 166 ', 168' of the upper coupling closure 50 ", which are present in the locking sleeves 170, 172 of the lower coupling closure 50 '. In this way, the circumferential sealing lips 200 and 200 'of the lower and upper coupling closure 50 and 50' automatically come to rest, without the need for further adjustment steps. The upper and lower coupling closure 50 and 50 'are connected to each other by forming on the outer sides of the frame strips and interlocking closure elements 244 and 244', which engage in each other reversibly, forming a docking device 100.

A flexible container or conveyor can be connected either outside or inside along the frame rails of the folding frame 58 ", for example by gluing, welding, clipping or latching FIG. 15 can be easily separated in the closed state. In the same way, the coupling closures 50 ', 50 "forming this docking device can readily be tightly reconnected to one another .Furthermore, the docking device 100 can easily be moved from the closed state into an open state by pulling the first and second frame strips 152, 152' apart. , 154, 154 'of the third frame bar pairs 156 and 156'.

FIG. 16 shows the docking device according to FIG. 15 in the open state. The sealing lips 200 and 200 'of the lower and upper snap frames 58' and 58 "are still close to each other on the inside of the frame strips of the snap frames 58 'and 58" can also, as in FIG. 16 shown, corresponding positioning aids 250 and 252 and 250 'and 252' may be provided which prevent the shorter frame strips of a folding frame from shifting laterally relative to the longer frame strip of the third frame strip pair of a folding frame in the closed state. For this purpose, bulges or webs 252 'are provided on the frame strip 154' parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hinge devices 176 'or 182' in the coupling closure 50 ".These bulges engage in recesses 250 'which are located on the inside of the adjacent frame strips of the first and As far as bulge 252 'and notch 250' are made to fit, relative movements of frame strips which are adjacent to the frame strip of a third pair of frame strips can be completely excluded despite relatively movable hinge devices takes place in the docked snap frame 58 'application.

The notch 250 'generating strip-shaped projections or webs 254', which are arranged approximately parallel to the circumferential sealing lip, in interaction with the slightly offset webs 256 and 256 'contribute to a relative movement of adjacent frame strips in the closed state is also prevented perpendicular to the circumferential sealing lip. Of the FIG. 16 Furthermore, locking or snap-in closures 210, 210 'can be seen, which are present in the region of the indentations of the frame strips of the third frame strip pairs and enter into a fixed, but detachable connection with corresponding locking or snap-in locks on the opposite recess of the frame strip of the third pair. Also with this latching catch is ensured that the sealing lips 200, 200 'pressed against each other.

In FIG. 17 is a schematic side view of a multi-coupling closure 120 according to the invention shown. In the illustrated embodiment, this multiple coupling closure 120 is composed of a first coupling closure 101 at the front end and a downstream second coupling closure 110. Furthermore, the first and the second coupling closure 101, 110 are connected to one another in an environmentally tight manner via an at least partially flexible hose 102. The outer diameter of the second coupling closure 110 and the inner diameter of the first coupling closure 101 or the opening surface are to be selected such that when the first coupling closure 101 is open, the second coupling closure 110, in the opened or closed state, is introduced into the opened first coupling closure 101 or even passed through can. The hose or hose element 102 is in its dimensions or to select its length and its flexibility such that the above-described relative movement of the first and second coupling closure 101, 110 is allowed, damage to the same or losses in the environmental tightness of the multi-coupling closure 120 should not occur. For example, a hose or a flexible or rigid container 114 can be connected to the second coupling closure 110. The hose member 102 may be formed in a conventional manner, eg by gluing and / or by means of a clamping connection, as in the previous embodiments of FIGS FIGS. 1 to 12 described to be attached to the first coupling closure 101, in particular on its outer wall. The rear end of the hose element or hose 102 pointing away from the opening of the multiple-coupling closure 120 is in turn permanently or temporarily connected to the second coupling closure 110, in particular its outer wall or to a base body connected to the second coupling closure 110. If the second coupling closure 110 is followed by a flexible or rigid container or a hose element, the hose or the hose element 102 can also be temporarily or permanently attached to these components. In particular, if the second coupling closure 110 changes its external shape when it is opened or closed, it is advantageous if the tube element 102 is connected to a base body or container, which is essentially non-moving, on the second coupling closure 110. This connection 116 may be, for example, commercially available Triclamp compounds. For example, in the illustrated multiple coupling closure 120, the first coupling closure 101 may be a parallelogram coupling closure, while the second coupling closure 110 may be one which includes a pivotable closure flap operable externally (not shown). Of course, any combination of known and previously described environmentally sealed coupling closures is possible to form an inventive multiple coupling closure system 120. According to a further embodiment, it is possible that the dimensions of the second coupling closure while it is not allowed to be passed through the opening of the first coupling closure, but for the opening area of the second coupling closure is dimensioned such that a corresponding coupling closure through the opening of the first coupling closure passed through and can be connected to form a docking with the second coupling closure.

In FIG. 18 a multi-docking device 130 according to the invention is shown, which is composed of two multi-coupling closures 120 and 120 '. In the illustrated embodiment the first coupling closures 101 and 101 'are environmentally sealed to form a first docking device 104 and are in the closed state. Via flexible hose elements 102 and 102 ', the first coupling closures 101 and 101' are directly or indirectly connected to second coupling closures 110 and 110 '. In the illustrated embodiment, it is to be assumed that the containers connected to the second coupling closures 110 and 110 'are rigid containers. The remote from the first coupling closure 101 end of the hose member 102 is environmentally sealed, for example via a so-called Triclamp connection 116, connected to the outer wall of the container 114 or the base body 112, 112 'of the coupling closures. Here, it has been found to be particularly user-friendly if the connection 116 is of a reversible nature, so that a multiple or double closure 120 can be assembled only when necessary, for example in the case of very high purity requirements during a transfer process. Suitable Triclamp compounds, for example, sit down as in FIG. 19 shown, from two Triclamp components 132 and 134, one of which, 132, fixed to eg the container or the body of the coupling closure, for example via a welded joint, is connected. At the second Triclamp component 134 of the hose 102 is attached, for example by means of vibration or ultrasonic welding, although this component as well as the hose made of plastic. A high degree of environmental tightness is ensured by means of a seal 136 placed in two diametrically opposite, circumferential grooves of the triclamp components 132 and 134. The two Triclamp components 132 and 134 are held together by means of a hose clamp 138. The second coupling closure 110 of the multiple coupling closure 130 according to FIG. 14 is intended to represent in the present case, a pivotable slide flap closure, which can close a first pipe socket using a pivoting device, in particular a shaft, against the atmosphere. Accordingly, the second coupling closure 110 'is a complementary to the second coupling closure 110 system that can form a second docking device (not shown) with the second coupling closure 110. For this purpose, the first docking device 104 is to be opened, so that the second coupling closure 110 can pass through this opening and can be coupled to the second coupling closure 110 '. Here, for example, the second coupling closure 110 'likewise has a closing flap which can be firmly and sealingly connected to the closing flap of the second coupling closure 110, in which case both closing flaps can be pivoted via an actuating device 118 from a closed position into an open position. After completion of the transfer process, the closing flaps brought back via the actuating device 118 in the closed position, so that the respective subsequent pipe sockets against the atmosphere are sealed environmentally sealed. The two coupled containers 114 and 114 'can be separated again by decoupling the second coupling closures 110 and 110'. In the event that in this Umfüllvorgang bulk material has not been completely transferred or bulk material residues for other reasons, especially during decoupling, could escape from the vessels 114 or 114 ', via the hose elements 120 and 120' and the environmentally-friendly docking 104 of the first Coupling closures 101 and 101 'of the multi-docking device 130 according to the invention avoids contamination of the environment. Such bulk material residues can be removed, for example, via a suction device (not shown) by applying a vacuum prior to decoupling the docking device 104 from the described interior. In addition, this interior space or the partial internal spaces of the hose elements 120 and 120 'obtained after closing the docking device 104 can first be cleaned with a cleaning agent, in particular a cleaning liquid, and then dried or evacuated. Of course, it is also possible, after closing the closing flaps of the second coupling closures 110 and 110 'and the decoupling of the second docking device, for example, to initially transfer bulk material remaining inside the hose element 120 mechanically into the interior of the hose element 120', to close the docking device 104, optionally decouple, and by opening the closing flap on the actuator 118 to transfer the now in the interior of the tubular element 120 'located bulk material, for example, gravity driven, in the container 114'. For this purpose, the hose element 120 'and / or the coupling closure 110' should preferably form a conical or funnel-shaped transition or shape in the direction of the opening of this coupling closure. A particularly high degree of safety can be achieved in that the hose elements 120 and 120 'are at least partially transparent. After completion of the Umfüllvorgangs the hose elements 120 and 120 'can be detached from the walls of the vessels or coupling closures and are available for further use with other dockable vessels.

The features of the invention disclosed in the foregoing description, the drawings and the claims may be essential both individually and in any combination for the realization of the invention in its various embodiments.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1, 1 '

coupling lock

2, 2 '

first bar

4, 4 '

second bar

6

Inside of the first bar

8th

Inside of the second bar

10, 10 '

first closure element

12, 12 '

second closure element

14, 14 '

Top of the first bar

16, 16 '

Top of the second bar

18, 18 '

third closure element

20, 20 '

fourth closure element

22

Outside of the first strip

23

Outside of the second bar

24, 24 '

fifth closure element

26

bag edge

28

joint

30, 30 '

cap

32, 32 '

sixth closure element

34

slot

36

docking

38

first flexible container

40

second flexible container

50, 50 '

coupling lock

52

Frame border, narrow

54

Frame border, long

56

Joint device, film hinge

57

notch

58, 58 '

folding frame

60

Inside the frame strip 52nd

62

Inside the frame strip 54th

64

first locking rail

66

second locking rail

68

Top of the frame strip 52

70

Top of the frame strip 54

72, 72 '

first closure element

74

Extension of the frame strip

76

first locking element

78

first latch opening

80

Cover, transport handle

82

second locking opening

84, 84 '

third locking opening

86

first movie hinge

88

second movie hinge

90

first handle element

92

second handle element

94

second locking element

96

retaining strip

98, 98 '

latching

99

Material omission, notches

100

docking

101, 101 '

first coupling closure

102, 102 '

Hose, hose element

104

first docking device

110, 110 '

second coupling closure

112, 112 '

Basic body of the coupling closure

114, 114 '

container

116

Triclamp connection

118

actuator

120, 120 '

Multiple coupling lock

130

Mehrfachandockeinrichtung

132

Triclamp component

134

Triclamp component

136

poetry

138

hose clamp

150

Outlet or underside of the coupling closure 50 ', 50 "

152, 152 '

first frame bar of the third frame bar pair

154, 154 '

second frame strip of the third frame strip pair

156, 156 '

third frame strip pair

158

Outside of the first frame strip 152

160

Outside of the second frame rail 154th

162, 162 '

Operating handle of the first frame strip 152

164, 164 '

Operating handle of the second frame rail 154th

166, 166 '

Centering cone on the first operating handle 162

168, 168 '

Centering cone on the second operating handle 164

170, 170 '

Locking sleeve on the first operating handle 162

172, 172 '

Locking sleeve on the second operating handle 164

174

Cross ribs on the control handle

176

joint device

178

joint device

180

joint device

182

joint device

184

first frame bar of the first frame bar pair

186

second frame strip of the first frame strip pair

188

first frame bar of the second frame bar pair

190

second frame strip of the second frame strip pair

192

first frame strip pair

194

second frame strip pair

196

joint device

198

joint device

200, 200 '

circumferential sealing lip

202

Indentation of the first frame strip of the third frame strip pair

204

Indentation of the second frame strip of the third frame strip pair

210, 210 '

Locking or snap closure

212

spacer

214

spacer

216

spacer

218

spacer

230

spacer

232

adjusting

234

adjusting

238

essay

240

seal tongue

242

seal tongue

244, 244 '

closure element

250, 250 '

notch

252, 252 '

Bulge, bridge

254, 254 '

Groin, footbridge

256, 256 '

Groin, footbridge

Claims (59)

1. Multiple coupling closure (120, 120') for the substantially environmentally tight, reversible closure of and for the substantially environmentally tight filling and/or refilling of bulk products from flexible and/or rigid containers or conveyance means, in particular hose portions, comprising at least two coupling closures (101, 101'; 110, 110') which are joined or can be joined together, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, in each case via a conveyance means (102, 102'), in particular a hose, which is flexible and/or rigid at least in certain portions, wherein the opening area, in particular the inner diameter, of an opened first coupling closure (101, 101') is larger than the outer circumferential and/or opening area, in particular the outer and/or inner diameter, of a second coupling closure (110, 110'), wherein the second coupling closure (110) can be docked, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, when the first coupling closure (101) is opened, to a corresponding coupling closure (110') within the conveyance means (102, 102') and/or while passing through the opening of the first coupling closure (101) at least in certain portions, so as to form a docking means.
2. Multiple coupling closure (120, 120') according to Claim 1, characterized in that a third coupling closure is connected or connectable to the second coupling closure, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, via a second conveyance means which is flexible at least in certain portions, the opening area, in particular the inner diameter, of the opened second coupling closure being larger than the outer circumferential and/or opening area, in particular the outer and/or inner diameter, of the third coupling closure, wherein the third coupling closure can be docked, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, when the second coupling closure is opened, to a corresponding coupling closure within the first and/or second conveyance means and/or while passing through the opening of the second coupling closure at least in certain portions, so as to form a docking means.
3. Multiple coupling closure (120, 120') according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one, in particular a first, coupling closure (101, 101') comprises at least a first flexible strip (2) with at least a first, in particular continuous, closure element (10), in particular a tongue, on the inner side (6) thereof and at least a second flexible strip (4) with at least a second, in particular continuous, closure element (12) on the inner side (8) thereof, which second closure element is complementary to the first closure element (10) and allows reversible, tight closure therewith, in particular a groove, the first and second strips (2, 4) and/or the first and second closure elements (10, 12) being of substantially the same length, the first and second strips (2, 4) being joined together, in particular via their respective end portions, in particular so as to form a closed circumference, and the upper side (14) of the first strip (2) having at least a third, in particular continuous, closure element (18) and/or the upper side (16) of the second strip (4) having at least a fourth, in particular continuous, closure element (20).
4. Multiple coupling closure (120, 120') according to Claim 3, characterized in that the coupling closure comprises at least a fifth (24) and/or sixth (32) closure element on at least one outer side of the first and/or second strip.
5. Multiple coupling closure (120, 120') according to Claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the coupling closure comprises a closure lid (30) containing at least a seventh and/or eighth closure element which is/are complementary to the third and/or fourth closure elements (18, 20) of the upper sides (14, 16) of the first and second strips (2, 4), the seventh and/or eighth closure elements being connectable to the third and/or fourth closure elements (18, 20) so as to form a temporary cover of the connecting slot (34) of the first and second strips when the inner sides (6, 8) of the first and second strips (2, 4) are joined together via interaction of the first and second closure elements (10, 12).
6. Multiple coupling closure (120, 120') according to Claim 5, characterized in that the closure lid (30) is connected, in particular integrally, to the first or second strip (2, 4), in particular by means of at least one film hinge (28).
7. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the closure lid (30) has at least one operating handle.
8. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the first and/or second strips (2, 4) has/have at least one operating handle, in particular on the outer side (22, 23).
9. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 3 to 8, characterized in that the coupling closure (101, 101') comprises a flexible bag (38, 40) or hose, the opening edge (26) of which is separately or integrally connected to the first and second strips (2, 4).
10. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 3 to 9, characterized in that at least the inner side (6, 8) and/or the upper side (14, 16) of the first and/or second strips (2, 4) have a bonding and/or adhesive layer at least in certain portions.
11. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one, in particular a first, coupling closure (101, 101') comprises in particular substantially rigid frame strips (52, 54) and articulation means (56), directly adjacent frame strips being joined together via in each case at least one articulation means between these frame strips so as to form a peripheral folding frame (58), so that the inner sides (60, 62) of adjacent and/or opposing frame strips can be folded onto one another so as to form an, in particular environmentally tight, closure.
12. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 11, characterized in that the folding frame (58) comprises x frame strips (52, 54) and x articulation means (56), wherein in particular x = 2·n and n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2.
13. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the articulation means (56) are hinges, film hinges and/or resilient materials.
14. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 13, characterized in that at least one, in particular a first coupling closure (50') comprises a folding frame (58) comprising six frame strips (152, 154, 184, 186, 188, 190) and six articulation means (176, 178, 180, 182, 196, 198), with a first pair (192) of adjacent frame strips (184, 186) which are in particular of substantially the same length and are connected via an articulation means (196), with a second pair (194) of adjacent frame strips (188,190) which are in particular of substantially the same length and are connected via an articulation means (198), and with a third pair (156) of frame strips (152, 154) which are in particular of substantially the same length and are not adjacent and/or not directly connected via an articulation means, the sum of the length of a frame strip (184, 186) of the first pair (192) and the length of a frame strip (186, 188) of the second pair (194) being not greater than the length of a frame strip (152, 154) of the third pair (156) of frame strips.
15. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 14, characterized in that the inner side of the first frame strip (184) of the first pair (192) and the inner side of the first frame strip (186) of the second pair (194) can both be turned toward the inner side of the first frame strip (152) of the third pair (156) and in that the inner side of the second frame strip (186) of the first pair (192) and the inner side of the second frame strip (190) of the second pair (194) can both be turned toward the inner side of the second frame strip (154) of the third pair (156) so as to form a tight closure slot.
16. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 15, characterized in that the folding frame (58) has in the region of at least one of its peripheral edges a substantially peripheral sealing lip (200) extending inward and/or beyond the edge.
17. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 14 to 16, characterized by at least one spacer (212, 214, 216, 218) on the outer side of the first and/or second frame strips (184, 186, 188, 190) of the first and/or second pairs (192, 194) of frame strips, which spacer(s) is/are arranged closer to the one or more common articulation means (176, 178, 180, 182) with the frame strip(s) (152, 154) of the third pair (156) of frame strips than to the one or more articulation means (196, 198) connecting the frame strips of the.same pair of frame strips.
18. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 17, characterized in that the inner sides (60, 62) of the frame strips (52, 44) have at least in certain portions, in particular complementary and/or elastomeric or resilient, first and second closure rails (64, 66) for environmentally tight closure, the total length of the first closure rail (64) corresponding substantially to the total length of the second closure rail (66) and the first and second closure rails or the portions thereof being arranged on the inner sides of the frame strips in such a way that they form an environmentally tight closure slot, in particular interlock flush, when the frame strips (52, 54) are folded onto one another.
19. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 18, characterized in that first and/or second closure rails (64, 66) extend onto the inner sides of articulation means (56) and/or are present or can be attached thereon.
20. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 18 or 19, characterized in that the first closure rail (64) is a groove and the second closure rail (66) is a tongue which is complementary to the groove.
21. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 18 to 20, characterized in that at least a first closure rail is present at least in certain portions on the inner side of adjacent first and second frame strips and at least a second closure rail is present at least in certain portions on the inner sides of adjacent third and fourth frame strips.
22. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 21, characterized in that the coupling closure comprises at least two operating handles which can in particular be attached to or are present on non-adjacent frame strips.
23. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 22, characterized in that at least one operating handle (162, 164) has at least one centring and/or arresting unit (166, 168; 170, 172) for interaction with a corresponding coupling closure, in particular the centring and/or arresting unit thereof, so as to form a docking means.
24. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 23, characterized in that at least the folding frame is configured in one piece.
25. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 24, characterized in that at least one frame strip, in particular all frame strips (52, 54) has/have on the upper side (68, 70) at least in certain portions at least a first, in particular elastomeric or resilient, closure element (72).
26. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 25, characterized in that the first closure element (72) is an, in particular continuous, groove and/or tongue.
27. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 26, characterized in that the coupling closure comprises at least a second closure element (74) on the outer side of at least one frame strip (52, 54).
28. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 27, characterized in that the coupling closure comprises at least one closure lid (80) with at least a third closure element which is substantially complementary to the first closure element and/or with at least a fourth closure element which is substantially complementary to the second closure element, so that the closure lid covers the closure slot of the folding frame at least in certain portions when the coupling closure is closed.
29. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 28, characterized in that the closure lid is connected at least in certain portions to a frame strip via a hinge, a film hinge or a flexible connecting element.
30. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 28 or 29, characterized in that the closure lid is provided with at least one operating and/or transportation handle.
31. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 30, characterized in that the coupling closure comprises a flexible container or a flexible hose or a flexible hose element which is connected to the frame strips (52, 54) and/or the articulation means (56) so as to produce a seal.
32. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 31, characterized in that at least the inner side (60, 62) and/or the upper side (68, 70) of at least one frame strip (52, 54) has/have at least in certain portions a bonding and/or adhesive layer.
33. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 32, characterized in that the coupling closure comprises at least a first arresting element (76) which is present on the inner side (60, 62) of at least one frame strip (52, 54) and at least a first arresting opening (78) which is present in an inner side (60, 62) of at least one frame strip (52, 54), wherein the first arresting element can be locked, in particular reversibly, into the first arresting opening during closure of the folding frame (58).
34. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 14 to 33, characterized in that the first and second frame strips (152, 154) of the third pair (156) of frame strips have, in particular on their inner sides, in each case at least one mutually corresponding arresting device (210, 210') for reversibly connecting these frame strips in the closed state of the coupling closure.
35. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 34, characterized in that the coupling closure comprises at least one holding handle (80) on the outer side of at least two, in particular opposing, frame strips (52, 54), in particular in the region of or below the transition from the outer side to the upper side (60, 62) of a frame strip (52, 54).
36. Multiple coupling closure according to Claim 35, characterized in that the holding handle (80) comprises at least one holding strip (96) which is attached to the outer side of a frame strip (52, 54) and contains at least a second arresting opening (82); at least a first handle element (90), in particular a first handle plate; at least a second handle element (92), in particular at least a second handle plate, and at least a first and at least a second hinge (86, 88), in particular a film hinge, the first handle element (90) being connected to the holding strip (96) via the first film hinge (86) and the second handle element (92) being connected to the first handle element (90) via the second film hinge (88), and the second handle element (92) having, in particular in the edge region, at least a second arresting element (94) corresponding to the second arresting opening (82), and wherein the second handle element (92) can be folded onto the first handle element (90) and the second arresting element (94) can be locked, in particular reversibly, into the second arresting opening (82).
37. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 37, characterized in that in at least one joint (56), in particular in two opposing or non-directly adjacent joints, adjacent frame strips (52, 54) and/or the extension thereof in the joint form at least in certain portions, at least in the joint (56), in cross section an angle, in particular an acute or right angle.
38. Multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 11 to 37, characterized in that the coupling closure comprises at least one notch (57), in particular substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the joint, at least along a portion on the inner side of at least one joint (56), in particular of opposing joints.
39. Multiple coupling closure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second coupling closure (110, 110') comprises a closing flap with a first pipe connection, wherein the closing flap can be brought into a closed position in which the first end of the pipe connection can be closed off tight from the atmosphere.
40. Multiple coupling closure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one, in particular reversible and/or environmentally tight, device (116), in particular a tri-clamp connection, for connecting to at least one coupling closure (101, 101'; 110, 110') or a basic element (112, 112') or container (114, 114') which is connected to a coupling closure and by which the first or second conveyance means (102, 102') is connectable or connected directly or indirectly, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, to a coupling closure or the basic element or container connected thereto.
41. Multiple coupling closure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and/or second conveyance means (102, 102') and the connecting device (116) has/have a coupling closure (101, 101', 110, 110') (first embodiment) for the substantially environmentally tight, reversible closure of and for the substantially environmentally tight filling and/or refilling of bulk products from, in particular flexible, containers or hose elements, comprising at least a first flexible strip (2) with at least a first, in particular continuous, closure element (10), in particular a tongue, on the inner side (6) thereof and at least a second flexible strip (4) with at least a second, in particular continuous, closure element (12) on the inner side (8) thereof, which second closure element is complementary to the first closure element (10) and allows reversible, tight closure therewith, in particular a groove, the first and second strips (2, 4) and/or the first and second closure elements (10, 12) being in particular of substantially the same length, the first and second strips (2, 4) being joined together, in particular via their respective end portions, in particular so as to form a closed circumference, and the upper side (14) of the first strip (2) comprising at least a third, in particular continuous, closure element (18) and/or the upper side (16) of the second strip (4) comprising at least a fourth, in particular continuous, closure element (20), and/or a coupling closure (101; 101'; 110, 110') (second embodiment) for the substantially environmentally tight, reversible closure of and/or for the substantially environmentally tight filling and/or refilling of bulk products from, in particular flexible, containers, hoses or hose elements, in particular substantially rigid frame strips (52, 54) and articulation means (56), directly adjacent frame strips being joined together via in each case at least one articulation means between these frame strips so as to form a peripheral folding frame (58), so that the inner sides (60, 62) of adjacent and/or opposing frame strips can be folded onto one another so as to form an, in particular environmentally tight, closure, so that an environmentally tight connection of the first or second conveyance means can be established so as to form a docking means for the, in particular environmentally tight, filling and/or refilling of bulk products, comprising a first and a second coupling closure according to the first embodiment, the first and second strips (2, 4) of the first coupling closure (1) and the first and second strips (2', 4') of the second coupling closure (1') being in particular of substantially the same length, and the third and fourth closure elements (18, 20) of the upper sides (14, 16) of the first and second strips (2, 4) of the first coupling closure (1) being complementary to the third and fourth closure elements (20', 18') of the upper sides (14', 16') of the first and second strips (2', 4') of the second coupling closure (1'), so that the first and second strips (2, 2', 4, 4') of the first and second coupling closures (1, 1') can be reversibly joined together, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, and/or so as to form a docking means for the, in particular environmentally tight, filling and/or refilling of bulk products, comprising a first and a second coupling closure (50, 50') according to the second embodiment, the first and second coupling closures substantially corresponding to one another in number, length and arrangement of their frame strips (52, 54; 52', 54'), thus resulting in first and second folding frames (58, 58') which can be joined together, and the first closure element (72) of the upper side of the frame strips (52, 54) of the first coupling closure (50) being complementary to the first closure element (72') of the upper side of the frame strips (52', 54') of the second coupling closure (50'), so that the first and second coupling closures are reversibly connectable, in particular in an environmentally tight manner.
42. Multiple docking means (130), in particular double docking means, for the, in particular environmentally tight, filling and/or refilling of bulk products, comprising a first and a second multiple coupling closure (120, 120') according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling closures (101, 101') of the first and second multiple coupling closures (120, 120') can be coupled to one another so as to form a first, in particular environmentally tight, docking means (104) and wherein the adjacent, second coupling closures (110, 110') of the first and second multiple coupling closures (120, 120') can be coupled to one another so as to form a second docking means.
43. Multiple docking means (130) for the, in particular environmentally tight, filling and refilling of bulk products, comprising a multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 1 to 35 and a coupling closure which can be coupled to the second coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure so as to form an, in particular environmentally tight, docking means and is present on the at least one connecting device (116) which can be docked, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, to the first coupling closure (101, 101') of the multiple coupling closure.
44. Multiple docking means (130) according to Claim 43, characterized in that the first coupling closures (101, 101') of the first and second multiple coupling closures (120, 120') or the first coupling closures of the first or second multiple coupling closures with the connecting device (116) form a docking means for the, in particular environmentally tight, filling and/or refilling of bulk products, comprising a first and a second coupling closure (1, 1') (according to the first embodiment), comprising at least a first flexible strip (2) with at least a first, in particular continuous, closure element (10), in particular a tongue, on the inner side (6) thereof and at least a second flexible strip (4) with at least a second, in particular continuous, closure element (12) on the inner side (8) thereof, which second closure element is complementary to the first closure element (10) and allows reversible, tight closure therewith, in particular a groove, the first and second strips (2, 4) and/or the first and second closure elements (10, 12) being in particular of substantially the same length, the first and second strips (2, 4) being joined together, in particular via their respective end portions, in particular so as to form a closed circumference, and the upper side (14) of the first strip (2) having at least a third, in particular continuous, closure element (18) and/or the upper side (16) of the second strip (4) having at least a fourth, in particular continuous, closure element (20), the first and second strips (2, 4) of the first coupling closure (1) and the first and second strips (2', 4') of the second coupling closure (1') being in particular of substantially the same length, and the third and fourth closure elements (18, 20) of the upper sides (14, 16) of the first and second strips (2, 4) of the first coupling closure (1) being complementary to the third and fourth closure elements (20', 18') of the upper sides (14', 16') of the first and second strips (2', 4') of the second coupling closure (1'), so that the first and second strips (2, 2', 4, 4') of the first and second coupling closures (1, 1') can be reversibly connected to one another, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, or a docking means for the, in particular environmentally tight, filling and/or refilling of bulk products, comprising a first and a second coupling closure (50, 50') (according to the second embodiment), comprising in particular substantially rigid frame strips (52, 54) and articulation means (56), directly adjacent frame strips being joined together via in each case at least one articulation means between these frame strips so as to form a peripheral folding frame (58), so that the inner sides (60, 62) of adjacent and/or opposing frame strips can be folded onto one another so as to form an, in particular environmentally tight, closure, the first and second coupling closures substantially corresponding to one another in number, length and arrangement of their frame strips (52, 54; 52', 54'), thus resulting in first and second folding frames (58, 58') which can be joined together, and the first closure element (72) of the upper side of the frame strips (52, 54) of the first coupling closure (50) being complementary to the first closure element (72') of the upper side of the frame strips (52', 54') of the second coupling closure (50'), so that the first and second coupling closures are reversibly connectable, in particular in an environmentally tight manner.
45. Multiple docking means according to Claim 44, characterized in that the docking means comprises at least a fifth and/or sixth closure element on at least one outer side of the first and/or second strip of the first and/or second coupling closure, which fifth and/or sixth closure element(s) is/are complementary to the seventh and/or eighth closure elements of the closure lid(s) of the first and/or second coupling closure.
46. Multiple docking means according to Claim 45, characterized in that the closure lid (30) of the first coupling closure is (1) reversibly connectable or connected to at least a seventh and/or eighth closure element (24') of the second coupling closure (1') and in that the closure lid (30') of the second coupling closure (1') is reversibly connectable or connected to at least a seventh and/or eighth closure element (24) of the first coupling closure (1) when the third and fourth closure elements (18, 18', 20, 20') of the first and second coupling closures (1, 1') are joined together.
47. Multiple docking means according to one of Claims 44 to 46, characterized in that the first and/or second coupling closure (1, 1') is connectable or connected to a flexible container (38, 40) or flexible hose or hose element.
48. Multiple docking means according to one of Claims 44 to 47, characterized in that the first and the second coupling closures (1, 1') are substantially identical.
49. Multiple docking means according to Claim 44, characterized in that the docking means comprises at least a second closure element (74, 74') on the outer side of at least one frame strip (52, 54; 52', 54') of the first and/or second coupling closure (50, 50') (according to the second embodiment), which second closure element is complementary to the fourth closure element or the second arresting element (94) of the closure lid (80).
50. Multiple docking means according to Claim 44 or 49, characterized in that the docking means comprises a flexible container and/or a hose or a hose element which is connected to the first and/or second coupling closure (50, 50') in a substantially environmentally tight manner.
51. Multiple docking means (130) according to one of Claims 42 to 50, characterized in that the second coupling closures (110, 110') of the first and second coupling closures (120, 120') comprise a device for coupling two storage and/or conveyance means for the purpose of transfer of a bulk product from a first storage and/or conveyance means which has a closing flap in a first pipe connection at a first end and is operatively connected to at least one shaft to a second storage and/or conveyance means which has a second closing flap in a second pipe connection at a second end and is operatively connected to the at least one shaft, the closing flaps being movable from a closed position in which the first closing flap tightly closes off the first storage and/or conveyance means at the first end from the atmosphere, the second closing flap closes off the second storage and/or conveyance means at the second end from the atmosphere, and the two closing flaps and/or the two pipe connections are movable relative to one another.
52. Multiple docking means according to one of Claims 42 to 51, characterized by at least one suction means and/or at least one rinsing means operatively connected to the first or second docking means and/or at least one conveyance means.
53. Container, in particular a flexible container, comprising a multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 1 to 41, wherein the coupling closure is connectable or connected at the outlet opening of the multiple coupling closure to the container directly or via a flexible hose element or is an integral component of the container.
54. Conveyance means, in particular a hose, comprising at least one multiple coupling closure according to one of Claims 1 to 41, wherein the conveyance means, in particular an opening edge region of the conveyance means, is connected or connectable to a second coupling closure of the multiple coupling closure.
55. Method for the, in particular environmentally tight, filling, refilling and/or emptying of flexible or rigid containers, characterized in that

    a) a first container according to Claim 53 or a conveyance means according to Claim 54 is joined to a stationary or transportable second container according to Claim 53 or a conveyance means according to Claim 54 via the respective first coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closure so as to form a docking means in the opened or, in particular, closed state,

    b) the docking means is opened from the first coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closures so as to maintain an environmentally tight docking means,

    c) the second coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closures are joined together using the opening of the first docking means so as to form an, in particular environmentally tight, second docking means,

    d) the second coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closures are opened so as to maintain an, in particular environmentally tight, second docking means,

    e) the bulk product is transferred from the first to the second container, or vice versa, or by the conveyance means to the first or second container,

    f) the second coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closure close the docking means in an environmentally tight manner so as to maintain an, in particular environmentally tight, docking means,

    g) the second coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closures are separated from one another, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, so as to uncouple the second docking means,

    h) the first coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closures are closed in an environmentally tight manner so as to maintain an environmentally tight docking means, and

    i) the first coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closures are separated from one another, in particular in an environmentally tight manner, so as to uncouple the first docking means.
56. Method according to Claim 55, characterized in that following step h) the interior formed from the first and second conveyance means and from the first docking means is filled with a vacuum via at least one suction means.
57. Method according to Claim 55 or 56, characterized in that after step g) a vacuum is applied in each case to the interior, formed by the first and second conveyance means between the closed first and second coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closures, via in each case at least one suction means.
58. Method according to one of Claims 55 to 57, characterized in that after step h) and/or step g) the interior present between the second coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closures and/or the interiors present between the first and second coupling closures of the first and second multiple coupling closures and/or after step f) and/or h) the one or more docking means is/are rinsed with a cleaning liquid.
59. Use of multiple coupling closures according to one of Claims 1 to 41, for the environmentally tight filling, refilling or emptying of, in particular flexible, containers.

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