EP1712859B1 - Process for operating freeze-drying plants having a chamber and loading and unloading devices, and appropriate plants of this type. - Google Patents

Process for operating freeze-drying plants having a chamber and loading and unloading devices, and appropriate plants of this type. Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1712859B1
EP1712859B1 EP06005688.4A EP06005688A EP1712859B1 EP 1712859 B1 EP1712859 B1 EP 1712859B1 EP 06005688 A EP06005688 A EP 06005688A EP 1712859 B1 EP1712859 B1 EP 1712859B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
loading
transfer table
freeze
chamber
containers
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EP06005688.4A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1712859A2 (en
EP1712859A3 (en
Inventor
Hubert KLÜTSCH
Johannes Selch
Jörg Rosenbaum
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GEA Lyophil GmbH
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GEA Lyophil GmbH
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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F26—DRYING
    • F26B—DRYING SOLID MATERIALS OR OBJECTS BY REMOVING LIQUID THEREFROM
    • F26B25/00—Details of general application not covered by group F26B21/00 or F26B23/00
    • F26B25/001—Handling, e.g. loading or unloading arrangements
    • F26B25/003—Handling, e.g. loading or unloading arrangements for articles
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F26—DRYING
    • F26B—DRYING SOLID MATERIALS OR OBJECTS BY REMOVING LIQUID THEREFROM
    • F26B5/00—Drying solid materials or objects by processes not involving the application of heat
    • F26B5/04—Drying solid materials or objects by processes not involving the application of heat by evaporation or sublimation of moisture under reduced pressure, e.g. in a vacuum
    • F26B5/06—Drying solid materials or objects by processes not involving the application of heat by evaporation or sublimation of moisture under reduced pressure, e.g. in a vacuum the process involving freezing

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for operating freeze-drying plants having a chamber and loading and unloading devices and systems designed for this type having the features of the preambles of the independent patent claims.
  • the containers pass from a filling device via a conveyor belt to the freeze-drying chamber.
  • the filling device operates substantially continuously, while the loading of the shelves is discontinuous. It is therefore necessary to provide a buffer zone for the containers between the filling device and the chamber. It consists, for example, of a plurality of conveyor belt loops adapted to the buffer requirement.
  • the loading of the chamber or the shelves is carried out by means of a transfer table and a slide system, through a closable loading opening therethrough, which is part of a wall or door of the freeze-drying chamber.
  • the transfer table In its operating position, connects the levels of the conveyor belt and the loading surface to be loaded.
  • the containers are still open.
  • a plug which has a recess for the removal of water vapor during freeze-drying.
  • the plug is closed in the still closed chamber by moving the shelves together.
  • the unloading of the shelves follows, also with the aid of the transfer table and the slide system.
  • the containers are fed to a device in which they are provided with caps.
  • Freeze-drying mainly serves the preservation of pharmaceutical products, so that the requirements for sterility are very high. Freeze drying systems are therefore located in clean rooms or they are equipped with so-called isolators.
  • the insulator space which is preferably formed by transparent wall sections, encloses those regions of the freeze-drying installations in which clean-room conditions must be maintained.
  • These include above all the means, in particular conveyor belts, which serve to supply the still open container from the filling device to the chamber, and the area in front of the chamber in which the loading and unloading are.
  • the means of transport between the freeze-drying chamber and the device for the final closure of the container with caps are housed in the insulator.
  • the products to be freeze-dried are generally more or less temperature-sensitive.
  • the shelves are therefore already set during the loading phase to low temperatures (for example - 20 ° C).
  • the temperature of the product in the plurality of containers at the beginning of the freeze-drying process is as uniform as possible.
  • the aim is therefore to keep the heat exchange between the interior of the chamber or the shelves therein and the outer clean room or the insulator interior small. This happens on the one hand by the choice of the smallest possible loading opening. It extends across the width of the chamber and has a height that is only slightly greater than the height of the loading means (Tranfertisch, slide system). If the temperature sensitivity of the product is particularly high, the loading opening between each of the loading strokes or partial drawers must also be closed.
  • EP 0 618 417 A1 describes a loading and unloading system for a freeze dryer according to the preamble of the independent claims.
  • the present invention has for its object to reduce the loading time of the freeze-drying chamber of a freeze-drying plant, without the freeze-drying products in terms of temperature sensitivity to endanger and without having to compromise on the quality of the final product.
  • the periods of time in which a heat exchange between chamber interior and exterior takes place are shorter.
  • the desired thermal decoupling can be improved in the context of the invention by further measures that can be implemented individually, in pairs or together. One of these measures is to close at least part of the loading opening during the unavoidable loading pauses, that is, between the plurality of loading strokes.
  • Further measures relate to the mechanical / thermal contact between the transfer table and the loading plate located in loading. Appropriately, this contact is limited to the smallest possible contact surfaces.
  • This contact is limited to the relatively short time intervals in which the actual loading strokes or the actual Beladeteilschübe take place.
  • the latter is achieved in that the transfer table is equipped in the region of its front edge with one or more liftable edge portions.
  • the thermal contact between loading space to be loaded and transfer table is thereby limited to the absolutely necessary time intervals.
  • FIGS. 1a, b . 2a to h and 3 show vertical sections through embodiments of a freeze-drying plant according to the invention.
  • FIG. 4 shows exemplary embodiments for the mutually facing edges of the transfer table and a footprint.
  • the wall of the freeze-drying chamber in which the loading opening is located at 1 1, the loading opening itself with 2, the interior of the chamber with 3, therein vertically-displaceable shelves with 4 and examples of thereon vials with 5 designated.
  • the shelves are usually heated and cooled. Coolant connections and also the means which allow the desired vertical movements of the shelves 4 - be it for adjustment to the loading height or for closing the containers 5 - are not shown.
  • the means for loading and unloading the shelves 4 include a conveyor belt 6, a transfer table 7 and a loading slide 8.
  • the components are all shown schematically, from the loading slide 8 only the front strip. Actuators are not shown for reasons of clarity. You can be trained in the way it is in the DE 103 07 571.2 A1 is described.
  • the outside of the loading opening 2 outer space is generally designated 10. It is either part of a clean room in which the freeze-drying plant is located, or an insulator.
  • the freeze-drying chamber partially shown has a first door 11, by means of which the loading opening 2 can be completely and tightly closed. It is hinged above the loading opening 2 pivotable about a horizontal axis.
  • FIG. 1 a shows the door 11 in its closed position, FIG. 1b in their open position.
  • FIG. 1 a also shows the transfer table 7 in its rest position, FIG. 1b in his operating position.
  • the transfer table 7 In its rest position, the transfer table 7 is in an inclined position below the loading level.
  • drive means he is in its operating position ( FIG. 1b ) and pivoted. In this position, it connects the levels of conveyor belt 6 and to be loaded footprint 4.
  • the location of the loading opening 2 is chosen so that the transfer table 7 rests in its operating position of the lower edge of the loading opening 2.
  • the loading opening 2 is associated with a further closing means. It is a vertically sliding sliding door 12, which is arranged above the loading opening 2. In connection with the description of the loading process according to the invention on the basis of FIGS. 2a to 2h will be discussed in more detail on the function of the sliding door 12. In principle, it is possible to equip the loading opening 2 with only one door, which has the functions of both the described doors 11, 12.
  • the stack of piles is located in the lower part of the freeze-drying chamber.
  • This is moved to the loading height ( FIG. 2 a) .
  • the transfer table 7 is already in its operating position.
  • Containers 5 delivered via the conveyor belt 6 are formatted on the transfer table with the aid of the loading slider or pusher 8 in such a way that they permit a loading thrust.
  • the thermal decoupling of the interior 3 of the freeze-drying chamber from the exterior 10 is achieved, on the one hand, by the sliding door 12 being lowered and thereby closing the region of the loading opening 2 lying above the transfer table 7.
  • the lying below the transfer table 7 area of the loading opening 2 is closed by the fact that the transfer table the lower edge of the loading opening 2 rests.
  • the transfer table 7 is equipped with a liftable edge portion 13, which will be described in detail below. This is in its raised position, so that a heat transfer between the already cold shelves 4 and the transfer table 7 does not take place.
  • FIG. 2h corresponds to FIG. 2 b. It shows the preparation of the first Beladeteilschubs the second footprint 4. The further loading process takes place in the same manner as it to the FIGS. 2c to 2f has been described.
  • FIG. 3 shows more details.
  • One way of actuating the edge portions 13 comprises a lever system 16 operated by the sliding door 12. With the closing movement of the sliding door 12, a first, the transfer table 7 enforcing lever 17 is moved downward. This downward movement causes a longitudinal movement of a parallel to the transfer table 7 to the edge portion 13 extending lever rod 16. Below the edge portion 13, the movement of the lever rod 18 is translated into a rotational movement of a further lever 19 which touches the underside of the edge portion 13 with its free end.
  • the lever system 16 is formed overall such that the downward movement of the sliding door 12 causes lifting of the edge portion 13. The reverse movement takes place when the upward movement of the sliding door 12 releases the lever 17, by the weight of the edge portion thirteenth
  • lever system 16 is shown schematically and housed below the transfer table 7. However, it is expedient to accommodate the lever system 16 at least partially in bores or recesses in the transfer table 7, so that it is able to close the area of the loading opening 2 lying below the transfer table 7 in its operating position by closing the lower edge of this opening 2 rests.
  • the edge portions 13 should - regardless of whether they are raised or maintained during the loading breaks their operating position - have only a minimal surface contact with the loading surface 4 to be loaded.
  • the free edges of the edge portions 13 end in thin tongues 20, which in the operating position of the edge portions 13 projections 21 (FIGS. Figures 3 and 4 ) Lie. These are located on the end of the transfer table 7 facing the shelves 4.
  • the projections 21 have a cylindrical portion 22 (near the platform) and a conical section 23. Get the edge portions 13, which have a slightly downwardly inclined position in their rest position, during the approach of the transfer table 7 In the vicinity of the shelves 4, the tongues 20 first touch the conical sections 23. On this they slide on and are raised until the transfer table 7 has reached its operating position. In this position, the tongues 20 are the cylindrical portions 22 virtually linear, so with the smallest surface contact on.
  • the dimensions of the elements described are chosen so that a gapless and stepless transition from the transfer table 7 is ensured on the shelves 4.
  • transfer table 7 On edge portions of the type described could be dispensed with, if possible by other means a gap-free and stepless demarcation of transfer table 7 and to be loaded footprint 4 could be achieved. Likewise, mechanical contact between the transfer table 7 and the loading surface 4 to be loaded during the loading pauses could also be achieved in that the transfer table 7 is moved back only by a small distance. In the illustrated embodiments, however, this is not possible because the mutual position of transfer table 7 and conveyor belt 6 must be maintained between the load strokes.
  • a plurality of adjacent edge portions 13 and projections 20 are present ( FIG. 4 ), so that minor and unavoidable unevenness of the relatively wide shelves 4 can be compensated.
  • the transfer table 7 It is equipped with heat transfer barriers, which consist of a poorly heat-conductive material, eg plastic. These are strip-shaped sections 25, 26, which extend parallel to the end face of the transfer table 7. The first section 25 is located where the transfer table 7 rests in its operating position of the lower edge of the loading opening 2. The second section lies in the plane of the sliding door 12. The thermal barriers 25, 26 thus prevent not only a cold flow from near the area of the transfer table 7 to the area remote from the pitch, but also to the chamber wall 1 (section 25) and to the sliding door 12 (section 26).
  • the above-described loading device is also used in the discharge of the shelves 4. As a rule, however, it is no longer necessary to ensure thermal decoupling of the interior 4 from the exterior 10.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Drying Of Solid Materials (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Betrieb von Gefriertrocknungsanlagen mit einer Kammer und mit Be- und Entladeeinrichtungen sowie dafür geeignet ausgebildeten Anlagen dieser Art mit den Merkmalen der Oberbegriffe der unabhängigen Patentansprüche.The invention relates to a method for operating freeze-drying plants having a chamber and loading and unloading devices and systems designed for this type having the features of the preambles of the independent patent claims.

Bei modernen Gefriertrocknungsanlagen, wie sie aus der EP 391 208 , der WO 93 23319 und der DE 103 07 571 A1 bekannt sind, besteht die Notwendigkeit, eine Mehrzahl von Stellflächen, die sich übereinander in einer Kammer befinden, mit einer Vielzahl von Behältern, Fläschchen o.dgl. zu beschicken und diese nach der Durchführung der Gefriertrocknung wieder von der Stellfläche zu entfernen.In modern freeze-drying plants, as they are known from the EP 391 208 , of the WO 93 23319 and the DE 103 07 571 A1 are known, there is a need, a plurality of shelves, which are located one above the other in a chamber, with a plurality of containers, vials or the like. to feed and remove them after the freeze-drying again from the footprint.

Die Behälter gelangen von einer Fülleinrichtung über ein Transportband zur Gefriertrocknungskammer. Üblicherweise arbeitet die Fülleinrichtung im wesentlichen kontinuierlich, während die Beladung der Stellflächen diskontinierlich erfolgt. Es ist deshalb erforderlich, zwischen der Fülleinrichtung und der Kammer eine Pufferzone für die Behälter vorzusehen. Sie besteht zum Beispiel aus einer dem Pufferbedarf angepassten Mehrzahl von Transportbandschleifen.The containers pass from a filling device via a conveyor belt to the freeze-drying chamber. Usually, the filling device operates substantially continuously, while the loading of the shelves is discontinuous. It is therefore necessary to provide a buffer zone for the containers between the filling device and the chamber. It consists, for example, of a plurality of conveyor belt loops adapted to the buffer requirement.

Die Beladung der Kammer bzw. der Stellfächen erfolgt mit Hilfe eines Transfertisches und eines Schiebersystems, und zwar durch eine verschließbare Beladeöffnung hindurch, die Bestandteil einer Wand oder einer Tür der Gefriertrocknungskammer ist. Der Transfertisch verbindet in seiner Betriebsstellung die Ebenen von Förderband und zu beladender Stellfläche.The loading of the chamber or the shelves is carried out by means of a transfer table and a slide system, through a closable loading opening therethrough, which is part of a wall or door of the freeze-drying chamber. In its operating position, the transfer table connects the levels of the conveyor belt and the loading surface to be loaded.

In den Phasen der Zuführung und der Beladung sind die Behälter noch offen. Üblicherweise liegt der Öffnung der Behälter ein Stopfen auf, der eine Aussparung zur Abführung des Wasserdampfes während der Gefriertrocknung aufweist. Nach der Durchführung des Gefriertrocknungsprozesses erfolgt das Verschließen der Stopfen in der noch geschlossenen Kammer, indem die Stellflächen zusammengefahren werden. Nach dem Öffnen der Beladeöffnung schließt sich das Entladen der Stellflächen an, ebenfalls mit Hilfe des Transfertisches und des Schiebersystems. Mit Hilfe des bereits erwähnten oder eines weiteren Transportbandes werden die Behälter einer Vorrichtung zugeführt, in der sie mit Kappen versehen werden.In the phases of feeding and loading, the containers are still open. Typically, the opening of the container, a plug which has a recess for the removal of water vapor during freeze-drying. After carrying out the freeze-drying process, the plug is closed in the still closed chamber by moving the shelves together. After opening the loading opening, the unloading of the shelves follows, also with the aid of the transfer table and the slide system. With the help of the already mentioned or another conveyor belt, the containers are fed to a device in which they are provided with caps.

Die Gefriertrocknung dient überwiegend der Konservierung pharmazeutischer Produkte, so dass die Anforderungen an die Keimfreiheit sehr hoch sind. Gefriertrocknungsanlagen befinden sich deshalb in Reinräumen oder sie sind mit sogenannten Isolatoren ausgerüstet. Der vorzugsweise von durchsichtigen Wandungsabschnitten gebildete Isolatorraum umschließt diejenigen Bereiche der Gefriertrocknungsanlagen, in denen Reinraumbedingungen aufrecht erhalten werden müssen. Dazu gehören vor allem die Mittel, insbesondere Förderbänder, die der Zuführung der noch offenen Behälter von der Fülleinrichtung bis zur Kammer dienen, und der Bereich vor der Kammer, in dem sich die Be- und Entlademittel befinden. In aller Regel sind auch die Transportmittel zwischen der Gefriertrocknungskammer und der Einrichtung zum endgültigen Verschließen der Behälter mit Kappen im Isolator untergebracht.Freeze-drying mainly serves the preservation of pharmaceutical products, so that the requirements for sterility are very high. Freeze drying systems are therefore located in clean rooms or they are equipped with so-called isolators. The insulator space, which is preferably formed by transparent wall sections, encloses those regions of the freeze-drying installations in which clean-room conditions must be maintained. These include above all the means, in particular conveyor belts, which serve to supply the still open container from the filling device to the chamber, and the area in front of the chamber in which the loading and unloading are. In general, the means of transport between the freeze-drying chamber and the device for the final closure of the container with caps are housed in the insulator.

Mit der zunehmenden Anzahl der Behälter mit dem zu gefriertrocknenden Produkt werden die Beladezeiten immer länger. Es ist häufig nicht mehr möglich, die bis zu zwei und mehr Quadratmeter großen Stellflächen in einem einzigen Schub zu beladen. Eine Mehrzahl von Teilschüben ist erforderlich.With the increasing number of containers with the product to be freeze-dried, the loading times become longer and longer. It is often no longer possible to load the up to two and more square meters of space in a single push. A plurality of partial thrusts is required.

Jeder Teilschub erfordert eine Hin- und Her-Bewegung des Beladeschiebers. Beladezeit und Stellplattenwechelzeit verlängern sich dadurch erheblich. Außerdem ergibt sich die Notwendigkeit der Vergrößerung der Pufferzone.Each partial thrust requires a reciprocating movement of the loading slider. Loading time and plate changeover time are considerably longer. In addition, there is a need to increase the buffer zone.

Die zu gefriertrocknenden Produkte sind in der Regel mehr oder weniger temperaturempfindlich. Die Stellflächen werden deshalb bereits während der Beladephase auf niedrige Temperaturen (z.B. - 20°C) eingestellt. Zur Vermeidung von Qualitätseinbußen des Endproduktes wird außerdem angestrebt, dass die Temperatur des Produktes in der Vielzahl der Behälter zu Beginn des Gefriertrocknungsprozesses möglichst gleichmäßig ist. Ziel ist es deshalb, den Wärmeaustausch zwischen dem Innenraum der Kammer bzw. den darin befindlichen Stellflächen und dem äußeren Reinraum bzw. dem Isolatorinnenraum klein zu halten. Diese geschieht zum einen durch die Wahl einer möglichst kleinen Beladeöffnung. Sie erstreckt sich über die Breite der Kammer und besitzt eine Höhe, die nur etwas größer ist als die Höhe der Belademittel (Tranfertisch, Schiebersystem). Ist die Temperaturempfindlichkeit des Produktes besonders hoch, muss darüber hinaus die Beladeöffnung zwischen jedem der Beladeschübe oder Teilschübe geschlossen werden.The products to be freeze-dried are generally more or less temperature-sensitive. The shelves are therefore already set during the loading phase to low temperatures (for example - 20 ° C). To avoid loss of quality of the final product is also desired that the temperature of the product in the plurality of containers at the beginning of the freeze-drying process is as uniform as possible. The aim is therefore to keep the heat exchange between the interior of the chamber or the shelves therein and the outer clean room or the insulator interior small. This happens on the one hand by the choice of the smallest possible loading opening. It extends across the width of the chamber and has a height that is only slightly greater than the height of the loading means (Tranfertisch, slide system). If the temperature sensitivity of the product is particularly high, the loading opening between each of the loading strokes or partial drawers must also be closed.

Dieses setzt voraus, dass der Transfertisch, der die Ebenen von Transportband und zu beladender Stellfläche verbindet, vor jedem der Schübe eingefahren und nach jedem der Schübe entfernt werden muss. Die Öffnungs- und Schließzeiten der Beladeöffnung sowie die für das ständige Verfahren des Transfertisches notwendigen Zeiten verlängern die Beladezeiten erheblich. Die Pufferzone muß zusammen mit den zugehörigen Isolatorräumen den verlängerten Beladezeiten entsprechend maßgeblich vergrößert werden.This presupposes that the transfer table, which connects the levels of conveyor belt and loading space to be loaded, must be retracted before each of the thrusts and removed after each of the thrusts. The opening and closing times of the loading opening and the times required for the continuous operation of the transfer table considerably lengthen the loading times. The buffer zone must be significantly increased along with the associated Isolatorräumen the extended loading times accordingly.

EP 0 618 417 A1 beschreibt ein Be- und Entladesystem für einen Gefriertrockner nach dem Oberbegriff der unabhängigen Patentansprüche. EP 0 618 417 A1 describes a loading and unloading system for a freeze dryer according to the preamble of the independent claims.

Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, die Beladezeiten der Gefriertrocknungskammer einer Gefriertrocknungsanlage zu reduzieren, ohne die gefrierzutrocknenden Produkte hinsichtlich ihrer Temperaturempfindlich-keit zu gefährden und ohne Qualitätseinbußen des Endproduktes in Kauf nehmen zu müssen.The present invention has for its object to reduce the loading time of the freeze-drying chamber of a freeze-drying plant, without the freeze-drying products in terms of temperature sensitivity to endanger and without having to compromise on the quality of the final product.

Dadurch, dass der Transfertisch während der Beladung seine Betriebsstellung beibehält, wird eine Verkürzung der Beladezeit erreicht, da es nicht mehr erforderlich ist, den Transfertisch nach jedem Schub oder Teilschub von seiner Betriebsstellung in seine Ruhestellung zu verfahren und vor jedem weiteren Schub oder Teilschub in umgekehrter Richtung. Die Zeitabschnitte, in denen ein Wärmeaustausch zwischen Kammerinnenraum und Außenraum stattfindet, sind kürzer. Die erstrebte thermische Entkopplung kann im Rahmen der Erfindung durch weitere Maßnahmen verbessert werden, die einzelnen, paarweise oder auch gemeinsam realisiert werden können. Eine dieser Maßnahmen besteht darin, dass während der unvermeidbaren Beladepausen, d.h., zwischen der Vielzahl der Beladeschübe, zumindest ein Teil der Beladeöffnung geschlossen wird. Weitere Maßnahmen betreffen den mechanischen/thermischen Kontakt zwischen dem Transfertisch und der in Beladung befindlichen Stellplatte. Zweckmäßig wird dieser Kontakt auf möglichst kleine Berührungsflächen begrenzt. Dieser Kontakt wird auf die relativ kurzen Zeitintervalle beschränkt, in denen die eigentlichen Beladeschübe bzw. die eigentlichen Beladeteilschübe stattfinden. Das letztere wird dadurch erreicht, dass der Transfertisch im Bereich seiner Vorderkante mit einem oder mehreren anhebbaren Randabschnitten ausgerüstet ist. Der thermische Kontakt zwischen zu beladender Stellfläche und Transfertisch wird dadurch auf die unbedingt nötigen Zeitintervalle beschränkt.The fact that the transfer table retains its operating position during loading, a shortening of the loading time is achieved, since it is no longer necessary to move the transfer table after each thrust or partial thrust from its operating position to its rest position and before each further thrust or partial thrust in reverse Direction. The periods of time in which a heat exchange between chamber interior and exterior takes place are shorter. The desired thermal decoupling can be improved in the context of the invention by further measures that can be implemented individually, in pairs or together. One of these measures is to close at least part of the loading opening during the unavoidable loading pauses, that is, between the plurality of loading strokes. Further measures relate to the mechanical / thermal contact between the transfer table and the loading plate located in loading. Appropriately, this contact is limited to the smallest possible contact surfaces. This contact is limited to the relatively short time intervals in which the actual loading strokes or the actual Beladeteilschübe take place. The latter is achieved in that the transfer table is equipped in the region of its front edge with one or more liftable edge portions. The thermal contact between loading space to be loaded and transfer table is thereby limited to the absolutely necessary time intervals.

Weitere Vorteile und Einzelheiten der Erfindung sollen anhand von in den Figuren 1 bis 4 dargestellten Ausführungsbeispielen erläutert werden.Further advantages and details of the invention are intended to be based on in the FIGS. 1 to 4 illustrated embodiments will be explained.

Die Figuren 1a, b, 2a bis h und 3 zeigen Vertikalteilschnitte durch Ausführungsbeispiele einer Gefriertrocknungsanlage nach der Erfindung. Figur 4 zeigt beispielhaft Ausführungen für die einander zugewandten Kanten des Transfertisches und einer Stellfläche.The FIGS. 1a, b . 2a to h and 3 show vertical sections through embodiments of a freeze-drying plant according to the invention. FIG. 4 shows exemplary embodiments for the mutually facing edges of the transfer table and a footprint.

In den Figuren sind die Wandung der Gefriertrocknungskammer, in der sich die Beladeöffnung befindet mit 1, die Beladeöffnung selbst mit 2, der Innenraum der Kammer mit 3, darin befindliche, vertikal verschiebbare Stellflächen mit 4 und Beispiele für darauf befindliche Behälter(vials) mit 5 bezeichnet. Die Stellflächen sind üblicherweise heiz- und kühlbar. Kühlmittelanschlüsse und auch die Mittel, die die gewünschten Vertikalbewegungen der Stellflächen 4 - sei es zur Einstellung auf die Beladehöhe, sei es zum Verschließen der Behälter 5 - erlauben, sind nicht dargestellt.In the figures, the wall of the freeze-drying chamber in which the loading opening is located at 1, the loading opening itself with 2, the interior of the chamber with 3, therein vertically-displaceable shelves with 4 and examples of thereon vials with 5 designated. The shelves are usually heated and cooled. Coolant connections and also the means which allow the desired vertical movements of the shelves 4 - be it for adjustment to the loading height or for closing the containers 5 - are not shown.

Die Mittel zur Be- und Entladung der Stellflächen 4 umfassen ein Förderband 6, einen Transfertisch 7 und einen Beladeschieber 8. Die Bauteile sind sämtlich schematisch dargestellt, vom Beladeschieber 8 nur die Stirnleiste. Betätigungseinrichtungen sind aus Gründen der Übersichtlichkeit nicht dargestellt. Sie können in der Weise ausgebildet sein, wie es in der DE 103 07 571.2 A1 beschrieben ist.The means for loading and unloading the shelves 4 include a conveyor belt 6, a transfer table 7 and a loading slide 8. The components are all shown schematically, from the loading slide 8 only the front strip. Actuators are not shown for reasons of clarity. You can be trained in the way it is in the DE 103 07 571.2 A1 is described.

Der der Beladeöffnung 2 vorgelagerte Außenraum ist generell mit 10 bezeichnet. Er ist entweder Bestandteil eines Reinraumes, in dem sich die Gefriertrocknungsanlage befindet, oder eines Isolators.The outside of the loading opening 2 outer space is generally designated 10. It is either part of a clean room in which the freeze-drying plant is located, or an insulator.

Die teilweise dargestellte Gefriertrocknungskammer besitzt eine erste Tür 11, mit deren Hilfe die Beladeöffnung 2 vollständig und dicht verschlossen werden kann. Sie ist oberhalb der Beladeöffnung 2 um eine horizontale Achse schwenkbar angelenkt. Figur 1 a zeigt die Tür 11 in ihrer Schließstellung, Figur 1b in ihrer Offenstellung.The freeze-drying chamber partially shown has a first door 11, by means of which the loading opening 2 can be completely and tightly closed. It is hinged above the loading opening 2 pivotable about a horizontal axis. FIG. 1 a shows the door 11 in its closed position, FIG. 1b in their open position.

Figur 1 a zeigt weiterhin den Transfertisch 7 in seiner Ruhestellung, Figur 1b in seiner Betriebsstellung. In seiner Ruhestellung befindet sich der Transfertisch 7 in einer geneigten Stellung unterhalb der Beladeebene. Mittels nicht dargestellter Antriebsmittel wird er in seine Betriebsstellung (Figur 1b) verfahren und verschwenkt. In dieser Stellung verbindet er die Ebenen von Förderband 6 und zu beladender Stellfläche 4. Die Lage der Beladeöffnung 2 ist so gewählt, dass der Transfertisch 7 in seiner Betriebsstellung der Unterkante der Beladeöffnung 2 aufliegt. FIG. 1 a also shows the transfer table 7 in its rest position, FIG. 1b in his operating position. In its rest position, the transfer table 7 is in an inclined position below the loading level. By means not shown drive means he is in its operating position ( FIG. 1b ) and pivoted. In this position, it connects the levels of conveyor belt 6 and to be loaded footprint 4. The location of the loading opening 2 is chosen so that the transfer table 7 rests in its operating position of the lower edge of the loading opening 2.

Der Beladeöffnung 2 ist ein weiteres Schließmittel zugeordnet. Es handelt sich um eine vertikal verschiebbare Schiebetür 12, die oberhalb der Beladeöffnung 2 angeordnet ist. In Zusammenhang mit der Beschreibung des erfindungsgemäßen Beladeprozesses anhand der Figuren 2a bis 2h wird auf die Funktion der Schiebetür 12 genauer eingegangen werden. Prinzipiell besteht die Möglichkeit, die Beladeöffnung 2 mit nur einer Tür auszurüsten, die die Funktionen beider der beschriebenen Türen 11, 12 hat.The loading opening 2 is associated with a further closing means. It is a vertically sliding sliding door 12, which is arranged above the loading opening 2. In connection with the description of the loading process according to the invention on the basis of FIGS. 2a to 2h will be discussed in more detail on the function of the sliding door 12. In principle, it is possible to equip the loading opening 2 with only one door, which has the functions of both the described doors 11, 12.

In aller Regel befindet sich zu Beginn des Beladeprozesses der Stellflächenstapel im unteren Teil der Gefriertrocknungskammer. Zur Beladung der obersten Stellfläche 4 wird diese in die Beladehöhe gefahren (Figur 2 a). Der Transfertisch 7 befindet sich bereits in seiner Betriebsstellung. Über das Förderband 6 angelieferte Behälter 5 werden mit Hilfe des Beladeschiebers oder Puschers 8 auf dem Transfertisch derart formatiert, dass sie einen Beladeschub ermöglichen. Die thermische Entkopplung des Innenraumes 3 der Gefriertrocknungskammer vom Außenraum 10 wird zum einen dadurch erreicht, dass die Schiebetür 12 abgesenkt ist und dadurch den oberhalb des Transfertisches 7 liegenden Bereich der Beladeöffnung 2 verschließt. Der unterhalb des Transfertisches 7 liegende Bereich der Beladeöffnung 2 ist dadurch verschlossen, dass der Transfertisch der Unterkante der Beladeöffnung 2 aufliegt. Außerdem ist der Transfertisch 7 mit einem anhebbaren Randabschnitt 13 ausgerüstet, der im einzelnen noch weiter unten beschrieben wird. Dieser befindet sich in seiner angehobenen Stellung, damit ein Wärmeübergang zwischen den bereits kalten Stellflächen 4 und dem Transfertisch 7 nicht stattfindet.As a rule, at the beginning of the loading process, the stack of piles is located in the lower part of the freeze-drying chamber. To load the top shelf 4, this is moved to the loading height ( FIG. 2 a) , The transfer table 7 is already in its operating position. Containers 5 delivered via the conveyor belt 6 are formatted on the transfer table with the aid of the loading slider or pusher 8 in such a way that they permit a loading thrust. The thermal decoupling of the interior 3 of the freeze-drying chamber from the exterior 10 is achieved, on the one hand, by the sliding door 12 being lowered and thereby closing the region of the loading opening 2 lying above the transfer table 7. The lying below the transfer table 7 area of the loading opening 2 is closed by the fact that the transfer table the lower edge of the loading opening 2 rests. In addition, the transfer table 7 is equipped with a liftable edge portion 13, which will be described in detail below. This is in its raised position, so that a heat transfer between the already cold shelves 4 and the transfer table 7 does not take place.

Zur Vorbereitung des ersten Beladeschubs, in diesem Fall ein Beladeteilschub, werden die Schiebetür 12 geöffnet und der Randabschnitt 13 abgesenkt (Figur 2 b). Mit Hilfe des Beladeschiebers 8 werden die Behälter 5 auf die oberste Stellfläche 4 geschoben (Figur 2c, Pfeil 14). Danach erfolgen das Zurückziehen des Beladeschiebers 8 (Figur 2d, Pfeil 15), das Absenken der Schiebetür 12 und das Anheben des Randabschnittes 13 (Figur 2 e).In preparation for the first loading stroke, in this case a loading partial thrust, the sliding door 12 is opened and the edge section 13 is lowered ( FIG. 2 b) , With the help of the loading slider 8, the containers 5 are pushed onto the uppermost footprint 4 ( Figure 2c , Arrow 14). Thereafter, the retraction of the loading slide 8 ( Figure 2d , Arrow 15), the lowering of the sliding door 12 and the lifting of the edge portion 13 (FIG. Figure 2 e) ,

Weitere Beladeteilschübe erfolgen in der vorstehend beschriebenen Weise, bis die obere Stellfläche 4 vollständig beschickt ist (Figur 2 f).Further Beladeteilschübe carried out in the manner described above until the upper footprint 4 is fully charged ( FIG. 2 f) ,

Zur Vorbereitung der Beladung der nächsten Stellfläche 4 wird die bereits gefüllte Stellfläche 4 nach oben verfahren und die zu beladende Stellfläche 4 in ihre Beladungshöhe gebracht (Figur 2 g). In dieser Zeit findet bereits das Formatieren der Behälter 5 auf dem Formatiertisch 7 statt. Figur 2h entspricht Figur 2 b. Sie zeigt die Vorbereitung des ersten Beladeteilschubs der zweiten Stellfläche 4. Der weitere Beladevorgang erfolgt in der gleichen Weise wie es zu den Figuren 2c bis 2f beschrieben wurde.To prepare the loading of the next footprint 4, the already filled footprint 4 is moved up and brought to the loading surface 4 in its load height ( FIG. 2 g) , During this time, the formatting of the container 5 is already taking place on the formatting table 7. FIG. 2h corresponds to FIG. 2 b. It shows the preparation of the first Beladeteilschubs the second footprint 4. The further loading process takes place in the same manner as it to the FIGS. 2c to 2f has been described.

Die beschriebenen anhebbaren Randabschnitte 13 unterstützen das Ziel der Erzielung einer thermischen Entkopplung zwischen Innenraum 3 der Gefriertrocknungskammer und Außenraum 10. Figur 3 zeigt weitere Details dazu. Wie beschrieben, nehmen die Randabschnitte 13 in den Beladungspausen, d.h., zwischen den Beladungsschüben oder Teilschüben, ihre angehobene Stellung ein. Eine Möglichkeit der Betätigung der Randabschnitte 13 umfasst ein Hebelsystem 16, das von der Schiebetür 12 betätigt wird. Mit der Schließbewegung der Schiebetür 12 wird ein erster, den Transfertisch 7 durchsetzender Hebel 17 nach unten bewegt. Diese Abwärtsbewegung bewirkt eine Längsbewegung einer sich parallel zum Transfertisch 7 bis zum Randabschnitt 13 erstreckenden Hebelstange 16. Unterhalb des Randabschnittes 13 wird die Bewegung der Hebelstange 18 in eine Drehbewegung eines weiteren Hebels 19 übersetzt, der mit seinem freien Ende die Unterseite des Randabschnittes 13 berührt. Das Hebelsystem 16 ist insgesamt derart ausgebildet, dass die Abwärtsbewegung der Schiebetür 12 ein Anheben des Randabschnittes 13 bewirkt. Die umgekehrte Bewegung erfolgt, wenn die Aufwärtsbewegung der Schiebetür 12 den Hebel 17 frei gibt, durch das Eigengewicht des Randabschnittes 13.The described liftable edge portions 13 support the goal of achieving thermal decoupling between the interior 3 of the freeze-drying chamber and the exterior 10. FIG. 3 shows more details. As described, take the edge portions 13 in the loading pauses, ie, between the loading batches or partial bays, their raised position. One way of actuating the edge portions 13 comprises a lever system 16 operated by the sliding door 12. With the closing movement of the sliding door 12, a first, the transfer table 7 enforcing lever 17 is moved downward. This downward movement causes a longitudinal movement of a parallel to the transfer table 7 to the edge portion 13 extending lever rod 16. Below the edge portion 13, the movement of the lever rod 18 is translated into a rotational movement of a further lever 19 which touches the underside of the edge portion 13 with its free end. The lever system 16 is formed overall such that the downward movement of the sliding door 12 causes lifting of the edge portion 13. The reverse movement takes place when the upward movement of the sliding door 12 releases the lever 17, by the weight of the edge portion thirteenth

In Figur 3 ist das Hebelsystem 16 schematisch dargestellt und unterhalb des Transfertisches 7 untergebracht. Zweckmäßig ist es jedoch, das Hebelsystem 16 zumindest zum Teil in Bohrungen oder Aussparungen im Transfertisch 7 unterzubringen, damit dieser in der Lage ist, in seiner Betriebsstellung den unterhalb des Transfertisches 7 liegenden Bereich der Beladeöffnung 2 dadurch zu verschließen, dass er der Unterkante dieser Öffnung 2 aufliegt.In FIG. 3 the lever system 16 is shown schematically and housed below the transfer table 7. However, it is expedient to accommodate the lever system 16 at least partially in bores or recesses in the transfer table 7, so that it is able to close the area of the loading opening 2 lying below the transfer table 7 in its operating position by closing the lower edge of this opening 2 rests.

Die Randabschnitte 13 sollen - unabhängig davon, ob sie anhebbar sind oder auch während der Beladepausen ihre Betriebsstellung beibehalten - nur einen minimalen Flächenkontakt mit der zu beladenden Stellfläche 4 haben. Um dieses zu erreichen, enden die freien Kanten der Randabschnitte 13 in dünne Zungen 20, die in Betriebsstellung der Randabschnitte 13 Vorsprüngen 21 (Figuren 3 und 4)aufliegen. Diese befinden sich an den dem Transfertisch 7 zugewandten Stirnseiten der Stellflächen 4. Die Vorsprünge 21 besitzen einen zylindrischen Abschnitt 22 (stellflächennah) und einen konischen Abschnitt 23. Gelangen die Randabschnitte 13, die in ihrer Ruhestellung eine leicht abwärts geneigte Stellung haben, während der Annäherung des Transfertisches 7 in die Nähe der Stellflächen 4, berühren die Zungen 20 zunächst die konischen Abschnitte 23. Auf diesen gleiten sie weiter und werden angehoben, bis der Transfertisch 7 seine Betriebsstellung erreicht hat. In dieser Stellung liegen die Zungen 20 den zylindrischen Abschnitten 22 praktisch linienförmig, also mit kleinstem Flächenkontakt, auf. Die Abmessungen der beschriebenen Elemente sind so gewählt, dass ein lückenloser und stufenfreier Übergang vom Transfertisch 7 auf die Stellflächen 4 sichergestellt ist.The edge portions 13 should - regardless of whether they are raised or maintained during the loading breaks their operating position - have only a minimal surface contact with the loading surface 4 to be loaded. To achieve this, the free edges of the edge portions 13 end in thin tongues 20, which in the operating position of the edge portions 13 projections 21 (FIGS. Figures 3 and 4 ) Lie. These are located on the end of the transfer table 7 facing the shelves 4. The projections 21 have a cylindrical portion 22 (near the platform) and a conical section 23. Get the edge portions 13, which have a slightly downwardly inclined position in their rest position, during the approach of the transfer table 7 In the vicinity of the shelves 4, the tongues 20 first touch the conical sections 23. On this they slide on and are raised until the transfer table 7 has reached its operating position. In this position, the tongues 20 are the cylindrical portions 22 virtually linear, so with the smallest surface contact on. The dimensions of the elements described are chosen so that a gapless and stepless transition from the transfer table 7 is ensured on the shelves 4.

Auf Randabschnitte der beschriebenen Art könnte verzichtet werden, wenn durch andere Mittel eine möglichst spaltfreie und stufenlose Abgrenzung von Transfertisch 7 und zu beladender Stellfläche 4 erzielt werden könnte. Desgleichen könnte ein mechanischer Kontakt zwischen Transfertisch 7 und zu beladender Stellfläche 4 während der Beladepausen auch dadurch erreicht werden, dass der Transfertisch 7 nur um eine geringfügige Strecke zurückgefahren wird. Bei den dargestellten Ausführungen ist dieser jedoch nicht möglich, da die gegenseitige Position von Transfertisch 7 und Förderband 6 zwischen den Beladeschüben beibehalten werden muss.On edge portions of the type described could be dispensed with, if possible by other means a gap-free and stepless demarcation of transfer table 7 and to be loaded footprint 4 could be achieved. Likewise, mechanical contact between the transfer table 7 and the loading surface 4 to be loaded during the loading pauses could also be achieved in that the transfer table 7 is moved back only by a small distance. In the illustrated embodiments, however, this is not possible because the mutual position of transfer table 7 and conveyor belt 6 must be maintained between the load strokes.

Zweckmäßig sind eine Mehrzahl nebeneinander liegender Randabschnitte 13 und Vorsprünge 20 vorhanden (Figur 4), damit geringfügige und unvermeidbare Unebenheiten der relativ breiten Stellflächen 4 ausgeglichen werden können.Suitably, a plurality of adjacent edge portions 13 and projections 20 are present ( FIG. 4 ), so that minor and unavoidable unevenness of the relatively wide shelves 4 can be compensated.

Soweit nötig und möglich bestehen sämtliche Bestandteile der beschriebenen Gefriertrocknungsanlage üblicherweise aus Edelstahl. Nach einem weiteren Merkmal der Erfindung gilt dieses nicht oder zumindest nicht vollständig für den Transfertisch 7. Er ist mit Wärmeübergangssperren ausgerüstet, die aus einem schlecht Wärme leitenden Werkstoff, z.B. Kunststoff, bestehen. Es handelt sich um streifenförmige Abschnitte 25, 26, die sich parallel zur Stirnseite des Transfertisches 7 erstrecken. Der erste Abschnitt 25 befindet sich dort, wo der Transfertisch 7 in seiner Betriebsstellung der Unterkante der Beladeöffnung 2 aufliegt. Der zweite Abschnitt liegt in der Ebene der Schiebetür 12. Die Wärmesperren 25, 26 verhindern damit nicht nur einen Kältefluss vom stellflächennahen Bereich des Transfertisches 7 zum stellflächenfernen Bereich, sondern auch zur Kammerwandung 1 (Abschnitt 25) sowie zur Schiebetür 12 (Abschnitt 26).As far as necessary and possible, all components of the described freeze-drying plant are usually made of stainless steel. According to a further feature of the invention, this is not or at least not completely for the transfer table 7. It is equipped with heat transfer barriers, which consist of a poorly heat-conductive material, eg plastic. These are strip-shaped sections 25, 26, which extend parallel to the end face of the transfer table 7. The first section 25 is located where the transfer table 7 rests in its operating position of the lower edge of the loading opening 2. The second section lies in the plane of the sliding door 12. The thermal barriers 25, 26 thus prevent not only a cold flow from near the area of the transfer table 7 to the area remote from the pitch, but also to the chamber wall 1 (section 25) and to the sliding door 12 (section 26).

Die vorbeschriebene Beladeeinrichtung wird auch bei der Entladung der Stellflächen 4 eingesetzt. In aller Regel ist es dabei aber nicht mehr erforderlich, für eine thermische Entkopplung des Innenraumes 4 vom Außenraum 10 zu sorgen.The above-described loading device is also used in the discharge of the shelves 4. As a rule, however, it is no longer necessary to ensure thermal decoupling of the interior 4 from the exterior 10.

Claims (10)

  1. A method for operating a freeze-drying apparatus with a chamber in which superposed charging plates (4) are located, as well as loading and unloading equipment;
    the chamber has a loading aperture (2) equipped with closing means (11, 12), by means of which aperture the charging plates (4) located in the chamber are loaded with containers (5);
    the equipment for loading the charging areas (4) with containers (5) is positioned in front of the loading aperture (2) and comprises a conveyor belt (6) which serves to supply the containers (5), a transfer table (7) being movable between an operating position and an idle position and serving for bridging a space between the conveyor belt (6) and a charging plate (4), and a loading slider (8) for push-wise transfer of a plurality of containers (5) from the conveyor belt (6) via the transfer table (7) onto one of the charging plates (4);
    wherein the transfer table (7) essentially retains an operating position during loading of the charging plates (4), and the mechanical/thermal contact of the transfer table (7) with the charging plates (4) is limited to time intervals in which the actual loading push takes place,
    characterized in that
    one or several edge sections (13) attached in an articulated fashion at a free front side of the transfer table are raised following a loading push and are lowered prior to the next loading push.
  2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that at least a region of the loading aperture (2) positioned above the transfer table (7) is closed following a loading push.
  3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that an upper portion of the loading aperture (2) is closed with a sliding door (12), wherein the closing movement of the sliding door causes the raising of the edge sections (13).
  4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the region of the loading aperture (2) lying below the transfer table (7) is closed by the transfer table (7) resting on a lower edge of the loading aperture (2) during the last phase of its movement to the operating position.
  5. A freeze-drying apparatus comprising a chamber in which superposed charging plates (4) are located, as well as loading and unloading equipment;
    the chamber has a loading aperture (2) equipped with closing means (11, 12), by means of which aperture the charging plates (4) located in the chamber are loaded with containers (5);
    the equipment for loading the charging areas (4) with containers (5) is positioned in front of the loading aperture (2) and comprises a conveyor belt (6) which serves to supply the containers (5), a transfer table (7) being movable between an operating position and an idle position and serving for bridging a space between the conveyor belt (6) and a charging plate (4), and a loading slider (8) for push-wise transfer of a plurality of containers (5) from the conveyor belt (6) via the transfer table (7) onto one of the charging plates (4);
    characterized in that
    the closing means (11) already present or further closing means (12) of the loading aperture (2) are configured and actuatable such that, with the transfer table (7) inserted, the region of the loading aperture above the table can be closed,
    wherein the transfer table (7) comprises one or several liftable edge sections (13) along its front edge, and
    wherein the movement of the liftable end sections (13) is coupled with the movement of the sliding door (11).
  6. The freeze-drying apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that a lever system (16) serves to couple the movement of the sliding door (11) and the edge sections (13).
  7. The freeze-drying apparatus according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the transfer table (7) includes a least one thermal barrier (25, 26) which extends parallel to its front edge.
  8. The freeze-drying apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the thermal barrier(s) (25, 26) include(s) strip-shaped plastic sections.
  9. The freeze-drying apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the thermal barrier (26) is aligned with the sliding door (11) when the transfer table (7) is in its operating position.
  10. The freeze-drying apparatus according to claim 7, 8 or 9, characterized in that the thermal barrier (25) is located in alignment with a lower edge of the loading aperture (2) when the transfer table (7) is in its operating position.
EP06005688.4A 2005-04-13 2006-03-21 Process for operating freeze-drying plants having a chamber and loading and unloading devices, and appropriate plants of this type. Active EP1712859B1 (en)

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KR20220098318A (en) * 2020-12-30 2022-07-12 엠에스브이 시스템즈 앤 서비시즈 피티이 리미티드 Apparatus, transport method, chamber and frame for semiconductor burn-in process
CN113932566B (en) * 2021-09-22 2022-10-14 东富龙科技集团股份有限公司 Self-adjusting type slab transition plate structure
CN115682646B (en) * 2022-11-22 2024-05-14 中玉制药(海口)有限公司 Diclofenac sodium lidocaine freeze-drying equipment for injection and preparation method thereof

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DE102005017140A1 (en) 2006-10-19
EP1712859A2 (en) 2006-10-18
EP1712859A3 (en) 2011-11-02
US7421801B2 (en) 2008-09-09

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