EP2593239A1

EP2593239A1 - Cartridge dispenser with rotational lock

Info

Publication number: EP2593239A1
Application number: EP11729043.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: William Brem; Andy Greter
Original assignee: Medmix Systems AG
Current assignee: Medmix Systems AG
Priority date: 2010-07-12
Filing date: 2011-06-23
Publication date: 2013-05-22
Also published as: CN103002992B; US20130087578A1; CN103002992A; US8733593B2; WO2012006749A1; CH703427A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a dispenser for discharging at least one flowable component from a cartridge. The dispenser has a cartridge holder (110) and an advancing element (120) that can be moved in said holder. A cartridge (200) can be inserted axially into the cartridge holder (110) against an advancing direction (V). A rotating element (140) is attached to the cartridge holder in order to axially fix the cartridge (200). The cartridge can be inserted into the cartridge holder against the advancing direction in a first orientation, while the rotating element (140) axially fixes the inserted cartridge in the second orientation. The rotating element can further be rotated about the rotational axis in a third orientation in order to open (215) at least one outlet opening of the cartridge.

Description

TITLE

Kartuschendispcnser with ürehverriegelung

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a discharge device for discharging at least one viscous substance from a replaceable cartridge having at least one reservoir for a component to be discharged. The component is discharged from the reservoir by a distal advance of a feed element along an axial feed direction. Such a discharge device is referred to below as a cartridge dispenser or shortened simply as a dispenser.

STATE OF THE ART

From the prior art, a variety of different dispensers are known to squeeze at least one high-viscosity component of a cartridge of the type mentioned above. It is often necessary with such dispensers to remove a deflated cartridge in relatively quick succession and to insert a fresh cartridge. Such dispensers are used in a wide variety of fields and can accordingly be designed and dimensioned in the most diverse ways. Thus, e.g. so-called pistol dispensers for the manual discharge of silicone sealant and other viscous materials from cartridges with sliding piston known from the construction and find there widespread use. As a rule, the cartridge with the material to be discharged is placed there transversely to the feed direction of the piston into the dispenser.

However, dispensers are also widely used in the medical field in order to dispense viscous materials such as medical adhesives, dental materials, etc. An example of such a dispenser is given in US 6,790,037. A 9 carpule-like cartridge with a dental mass is inserted at the distal end of the dispenser transverse to the feed direction in the dispenser and secured by means of a rotary ring against falling out. A feed element in the form of a piston rod then pushes a piston in the cartridge in the distal direction and thereby presses the sealant out of the cartridge.

In some applications, two or more components are to be simultaneously discharged from syringe-type containers and mixed only shortly before use. Examples of this are e.g. two-component medical or non-medical adhesives, bone cements or certain pharmaceuticals which are not storage stable in the mixed state. For such applications, various dispensers have been proposed that allow two or more components to be dispensed simultaneously. An example of such a dispenser is given in US 5,336,014. In this dispenser, a cartridge with two reservoirs, each of which is delimited by a displaceable piston, is inserted transversely to the feed direction of the pistons into the dispenser. The cartridge is secured to the dispenser by means of a hinged safety flap. By operating an actuating lever, the components received in the reservoirs are discharged simultaneously. A dispenser of a similar type has also been proposed in US 5,992,694.

Dispensers are also known in which a cartridge is axially opposite to the feed direction of the piston, from the distal side. is introduced into the dispenser and secured to the dispenser. Such a dispenser is e.g. disclosed in US 6,047,864. The cartridge is here held between flexible tongues which extend in the distal direction and which can be secured in the radial direction by means of a displaceable sleeve. Since the tongues are exposed to a bending load, one is limited in such mechanisms in the choice of materials.

Frequently, the components to be discharged are air-sensitive or moisture-sensitive, aggressive or volatile substances. It is therefore often necessary to close the substances airtight in their respective reservoirs until shortly before the discharge process and to open the reservoirs only immediately before the discharge process. As a rule, the reservoirs are opened manually before the Cartridge is inserted into the dispenser. For example, peel-off seals are known which seal the outlet openings of the reservoirs in the storage state and are withdrawn from the outlet openings immediately before use. In US 2008/03 14929 a cartridge is disclosed which has two reservoirs, each with a distal outlet opening. An accessory, eg in the form of a mixer, is rotatably mounted on the distal end of the reservoirs. The accessory has two deformable plugs that seal the outlet openings of the two reservoirs in a first orientation of the accessory. When the accessory is twisted against the reservoirs, the plugs slide out of the outlet ports and release them. Such a cartridge may optionally be placed in a suitable dispenser. Although such a cartridge can be opened very easily, the opening process must still be done separately from the process of loading into the dispenser. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a discharge device for discharging at least one component from a cartridge, which makes it possible to insert the cartridge from the distal side axially into the dispenser and to securely fix it to the dispenser in a simple manner.

This object is achieved by a device according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments are given in the dependent claims. Thus, a discharge device for discharging at least one flowable component from a cartridge with at least one reservoir is specified. The discharge device has:

a cartridge holder; and

at least one attached to the cartridge holder, relative to the cartridge holder along a distal feed direction axially advanceable feed element, which is designed for this purpose. acting on the at least one reservoir oir the cartridge to discharge a component received in the reservoir from the reservoir. The cartridge holder is designed such that the cartridge against the feed direction axially into the cartridge holder insertable (in particular purely axially insertable) is. For axial fixation of the cartridge, the discharge device has a rotary member which is mounted on the cartridge holder and axially secured relative to the cartridge holder and at least between a first orientation and a second orientation about a along the feed direction extending (imaginary) rotation axis is rotatable. In the first orientation, the rotary member allows the axial insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge holder counter to the feed direction. In the second orientation, the rotary member axially fixes the cartridge inserted into the cartridge holder.

In this way, a very simple and quick cartridge change is possible. The cartridge can be connected securely to the cartridge holder in a very simple way.

In the following, the term "cartridge" is understood to mean any interchangeable unit which contains at least one reservoir for a component which can be discharged by pressure application.Particularly, the cartridge can be designed in the manner of a single or multiple syringe with one or more cylindrical reservoirs. however, alternative embodiments are conceivable in which at least one reservoir is delimited, for example, by a bellows-type structure or by a flexible bag, for example, the cartridge may in principle be similar to that in WO Regardless of the specific embodiment of the cartridge, two or more reservoirs may be connected together to form a single, inseparable unit, or one or more reservoirs may be releasably held in a cartridge housing, from which the reservoirs can be removed individually. The reservoirs may also protrude beyond the cartridge housing. Thus, it is conceivable, for example, for one or more reservoirs to be inserted from the proximal side into a relatively short kartsuchen housing and held therein detachably or permanently, whereby they protrude proximally over the cartridge housing. This is especially true in the event that the reservoirs are syringe-like or in the form of carpules. It is also conceivable, for example the cartridge comprises a relatively short, rigid cartridge housing. to which one or more flexible, bag-shaped reservoirs are fixed, which protrude proximally from the cartridge housing, so that the advancing element can act on these reservoirs to squeeze out the components received in the reservoirs. Preferably, the cartridge generally includes a generally rigid distal end portion for providing a rotationally secure connection with the cartridge holder in that region. The cartridge may comprise, in addition to the reservoirs, further elements, for example a detachably or permanently connected to the reservoirs accessory in the form of a mixer or a spray attachment.

A "cartridge holder" is accordingly understood to mean a device which is designed to at least partially receive a corresponding cartridge.

In the present invention, a rotary member is provided, which is axially secured relative to the cartridge holder and rotatable about an axis of rotation. Preferably, at least in the second orientation, the rotary member is axially substantially (i.e., apart from design-related axial clearance) non-displaceable, and more preferably axially substantially displaceable even in the entire region between the first and second orientations. But it is also conceivable that the rotary member during its rotational movement from the first to the second orientation relative to the cartridge holder is guided axially such that it undergoes an axial displacement. e.g. To press the cartridge proximally into the cartridge holder and thereby reduce the game. In either case, the rotary member is configured to prevent axial movement of the cartridge in the distal direction in the second orientation.

Preferably, the angular range between the first orientation and the second orientation is less than 90 °. in particular preferably less than 60 °. The axial locking of the cartridge in the cartridge holder can thus be achieved preferably with a relatively small rotational movement.

The at least one reservoir of the cartridge preferably remains rotationally fixed relative to the cartridge holder, so that the reservoir does not or at least does not at least not rotate the rotary element from the first to the second orientation completely taken away. For this purpose, the cartridge holder is preferably rotationally asymmetrical relative to the axis of rotation of the rotary element, for example by having at least one tangential retaining means for the reservoir. In preferred embodiments, the rotary member is used not only for locking the cartridge on the cartridge holder, but also for opening the outlet opening of the at least one reserve oirs. For this purpose, the rotary element relative to the cartridge holder is preferably rotatable in a third orientation about the axis of rotation. This third orientation differs from the first and second orientations and is preferably achieved by further rotation of the rotary member in the same rotational direction as when rotating from the first to the second orientation. In this case, the rotary element preferably has at least one driver, which is designed to entrain a carrier element of a cartridge held in the cartridge holder in the third orientation in order to open at least one outlet opening of the cartridge.

The cartridge can thus be fixed by a simple rotational movement of the rotary member not only on the cartridge holder, but also open automatically with the same rotational movement. It is therefore no longer necessary to manually open the outlet openings of the cartridge before insertion into the discharge device.

The advancing element may in particular have a piston rod which is designed for this purpose. to act on a piston that limits the reservoir to its proximal end. If the Austragvomchtung is adapted to cooperate with a cartridge having a plurality of parallel reservoirs, the feed element may also comprise two or more such piston rods, which piston rods are then preferably connected to each other at its proximal end.

The discharge device may also comprise the actual cartridge. For possible embodiments of the cartridge, reference is made to the above statements.

The at least one reservoir is preferably substantially rotationally fixed in the cartridge holder, as already stated above. This is the reservoir or a cartridge housing connected to the reservoir, preferably rotationally asymmetric with respect to the axis of rotation and thus complementary to the cartridge holder in this respect. To fix the cartridge axially to the cartridge holder, the cartridge preferably has a holding element. This is arranged relative to the at least one reservoir with respect to the feed axially secured to the cartridge, preferably substantially non-displaceable. The rotary element is then configured such that, in the first orientation, it permits axial insertion of the retaining element into the rotary element. For this purpose, in the first orientation, the rotary element releases a cross-sectional area transversely to the feed direction, which in its shape and size corresponds at least to the cross-sectional area of the holding element. In the second orientation, a locking region of the rotary element then enters into a positive or non-positive connection with the retaining element with respect to the distal feed direction. In particular, the locking region may be at least one radially inwardly projecting cam which, in the second orientation, covers a retaining region of the retaining element in the distal direction so as to produce a positive connection with the retaining element. A preferred, alternative embodiment of the locking region as part of a mask-like configuration of a distal end wall of the rotary element will be referred to in more detail below.

The holding element may be rotationally fixed or rotatable relative to the reservoir. When it is rotatable relative to the reservoir about the axis of rotation of the rotary member. For example, it is preferred that a predetermined holding torque be overcome before the retainer is rotatable relative to the reservoir to prevent the retainer from being dragged along the first to second orientation during movement.

In order to open the at least one outlet of the at least one reservoir, the cartridge may also have at least one driving element which is movable relative to the at least one reservoir, in particular rotatable about the axis of rotation or displaceable transversely to the axis of rotation. The driving element is arranged so that it is entrained by the rotating element. if the rotary element in the already mentioned third Orientation is twisted.

In a first preferred embodiment, a closure plug for the outlet opening of the at least one reservoir is then directly or indirectly connected to the entrainment element, which can be removed from the outlet opening of the at least one reservoir by the movement of the entrainment element. For this purpose, the outlet opening of the at least one reservoir is preferably arranged offset relative to the axis of rotation of the rotary element. The closure plug may be formed deformable so that it slides during deformation of the driving element under deformation from the outlet opening. Material and dimensioning of the sealing plug are then chosen so that it can bend sufficiently without destruction, preferably up to a state in which the free end of each plug is deflected by up to 90 ° from the initial position. In particular, the cartridge may be configured in the same manner with respect to the manner in which the outlets of the at least one reservoir are opened, as described in the already mentioned US 2008/0314929, the contents of which are fully incorporated by reference herein. In an alternative embodiment, the at least one reservoir is designed as a flexible bag. The Mitnahmelemcnt is then preferably at least one cutting element connected, which is arranged such that it cuts open the reservoir when the driving element moves relative to the reservoir, in particular rotated about the axis of rotation of the rotary member or is moved transversely to the axis of rotation. For possible embodiments, reference should be made in particular to the already mentioned documents WO 2010/006455 and WO 201 0/020060, the contents of which are fully incorporated herein by reference. In particular, the cutting element may comprise one or more blades, the cutting edges of which extend substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotary member, or may comprise one or more blades, the cutting edges of which extend substantially parallel and spaced from the axis of rotation of the rotary member.

The entrainment element and / or the holding element can with an accessory in the form a mixer or a spray salt, or form an integral part of such an accessory. In a particularly simple embodiment, the driving element together with the holding element forms a rigid unit. This unit can then be rigidly connected to the accessory. The driving element can therefore simultaneously serve as a holding element and vice versa. In particular, the driving element and the holding element can be integrally formed as a component.

In a preferred embodiment, the rotary element has a distal end wall, in which a non-rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis insertion opening for the holding element is formed. This insertion opening may be formed in the manner of a mask, which is circumferentially bounded by the end wall. This makes it immediately apparent to a user in what orientation the retaining element is to be inserted. The holding element then has a shape that is complementary to the shape of the insertion opening, wherein this shape is selected such that the holding element in the first orientation through the insertion opening into the rotary member is inserted and that a subsequent rotation of the rotary member relative to the holding element in the second orientation causes engagement of the retaining element with the end wall so that the end wall prevents displacement of the retaining element in the distal direction. In particular, the retaining element itself may also have a distal end wall, wherein the distal end wall of the rotary element then at least partially covers the distal end wall of the retaining element in the second orientation.

The cartridge may in particular be a cartridge for discharging at least two components. For this purpose, the cartridge has at least two reservoirs arranged parallel to one another. Each of the reservoirs then has an outlet opening (preferably offset from the axis of rotation of the rotary element) in the region of its respective distal end or (as in the case of closed bags) an outlet region for forming such an outlet opening. The reservoirs may be rigid, in particular integrally connected to each other, but it may also be separately ausgebi ldete reservoirs, which are held together in a cartridge housing. In a preferred embodiment, the two reservoirs are at least partially bounded by a common cartridge housing, w obei this housing is not rotationally symmetrical. The rotation range of the rotary member is preferably limited. In particular, it is advantageous if the range of rotation is limited to less than 1 80 °. In this way, it can be effectively prevented that a user inserts a cartridge in an orientation of the rotary member that does not correspond to the first orientation. In order to limit the range of rotation, the rotating element may comprise at least one stop element which cooperates with the cartridge holder to limit the range of rotation. The stop element may in particular be a stop cam which runs in a guide track of the cartridge holder, wherein the guide track has a stop for the stop cam on both sides in the circumferential direction. Of course, however, the roles of the stop cam and the guideway may also be reversed, so that a guideway is formed on the rotary member in which a stop cam of the cartridge holder runs. Of course, other means are known to limit the rotational movement of a rotary member on both sides on a predetermined angular range.

Preferably, the rotary member is disposed at the distal end of the cartridge holder and defines a distal insertion opening for the cartridge. In a preferred embodiment, a retaining flange is formed in the region of the distal end of the cartridge holder, which projects radially and is formed at least partially encircling. The rotary member has two half-shells, which are autogenous transversely to the feed direction on the retaining flange and are interconnected. In order to fix the half-shells radially, the rotary member may have a fixing ring, which is rotatably connected to the half-shells, in particular axially pushed onto the half-shells.

Between the cartridge holder and the rotary element may be formed an inhibiting device, which leads to the rotation of the rotary member relative to the cartridge holder overcoming a certain torque threshold is required. In this way, unintentional rotation of the rotary member relative to the cartridge holder is prevented. The inhibitor may, for example, comprise an O-ring which causes increased friction between the cartridge holder and the rotary member. Alternatively, a ratchet connection, for example in the form of a symmetrical or asymmetrical helical gearing, between the cartridge holder and be provided to the rotating element.

The discharge device may also have a handle which extends substantially transversely to the feed direction. In a particularly simple embodiment, the handle is designed such that it can be grasped with at least two fingers of a user's hand, preferably with an index finger. Middle finger, ring finger and little finger. In this case, the index finger is preferably located on a first (upper) radial side of the cartridge holder during intended use, while the remaining three mentioned fingers are located on the other (lower) side of the cartridge holder. At the proximal end of the advancing element, a ball rest is then preferably designed such that it can be advanced in the distal direction with the ball of the same hand with which the user holds the handle. In this way, a very simple one-handed discharge of the components from the reservoir or reservoirs is made possible. Of course, the discharge device may, however, also have a different structure and, for example, comprise mechanical means for generating a lever effect, as is known in the most varied embodiments of the prior art. For example, the discharge device can also be constructed in the manner of a pistol dispenser known per se.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, which are given by way of illustration only and are not to be interpreted as limiting. In the drawings show:

Fic. 1 is a perspective view of an inventive

Cartridge dispenser with associated cartridge according to a first

Out of the box;

Fi. " FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cartridge dispenser of FIG. 1 after the cartridge has been inserted into the dispenser; FIG.

Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the thawing of the distal end of the cartridge dispenser;

FIGS. 4 and 5 each show a half-shell of a rotary element of the cartridge dispenser: 6 is a partial perspective view of the distal end of the cartridge housing with removed accessory:

7 is a perspective view of the accessory to illustrate the

Closures of the reservoirs of the cartridge;

Figl. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the cartridge:

9 shows a central longitudinal section through the cartridge dispenser with

inserted cartridge:

10 is an enlarged detail view of the detail X of FIG. 9:

1 1 is a front view of the cartridge dispenser with inserted cartridge in one (a) first, (b) second and (c) third orientation of the rotary member:

12 shows a cross section through the cartridge dispenser with inserted

Cartridge in the plane A-A in the first, second and third orientation; 13 shows a cross section of the cartridge dispenser with inserted cartridge in the plane B-B. and

14 is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge according to a

second embodiment;

Fig. 1 shows a central longitudinal section through the assembled cartridge of

Fig. 14;

16 is an enlarged perspective view of a mixing element with attached opening element: and

Fig. 1 7 shows a cross section through the cartridge of Fig. 15 in the plane C- C.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS In FIGS. 1 to 1 3, a first embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention is illustrated in various representations. In the following, this discharge device is referred to as a cartridge dispenser or shortened simply as a dispenser. The dispenser 1 00 has a cartridge holder 1 1 0, which with a housing 1 1 1 two mutually parallel, on their lateral surfaces interconnected cylindrical cavities for receiving two reservoirs 21 1 of a cartridge 200 forms. From the rear (proximal) end, two piston rods 121 extend Feed element 120 into the cylindrical cavities of the cartridge holder 1 10 inside. The piston rods 121 are connected at their proximal end via a feed flange 122 in the form of a palm rest. The feed element 120 can be advanced relative to the cartridge holder 110 along a distal feed direction V (see FIG. 3).

A U-shaped handle 130 having a first leg 131. a second leg 132 and a leg connecting connecting portion 133 is rigidly connected to the cartridge holder 1 10. The legs 131, 1 32 extend substantially transversely to the feed direction, at an angle of about 1 10 ° to this direction. In this case, the cartridge holder 1 10 passes through the two legs 131, 132 of the handle 130 in such a way that the legs protrude beyond the cartridge holder 110 in an overhanging region 1 34 on an opposite side of the cartridge holder 110. Stabilizer bars 135 stabilize the handle against axial shear forces that may occur during handling of the dispenser.

As can be seen in particular from FIGS. 3 and 10. the cartridge holder 1 10 at its distal end a radially from the housing 1 1 1 above, in the circumferential direction around the housing 1 1 0 circumferential, substantially circular retaining flange 1 1 2. On the retaining flange 1 1 2, an upper half shell 142 and a lower half shell 143 of a rotary member 140 are radially mounted from opposite sides and radially fixed by an axially from the proximal side along the feed direction on the half shells pushed rotary ring 141. In this case, the retaining flange engages 1 12 in corresponding guide grooves 145, 146 of the half-shells 142, 143, which are particularly clearly visible in Figures 4 and 5. An O-ring 1 50 is pushed onto a step-like circumferential shoulder 1 13 of the retaining flange 1 12 from the proximal side (see Figures 3 and 10) and is fixed by the two half-shells 142 and 143 on the paragraph 1 1 3. In this case, the half-shells 142, 143 compress the O-ring slightly so that the O-ring generates a defined frictional force between the retaining flange 112 and the half-shells 142, 143 when the rotary element 140 rotates in the circumferential direction. The two half-shells 142, 143 bound on its distal end face circumferentially a receiving opening 144. Complementary to the cross-sectional shape of a later described in more detail support member 222 of the cartridge and through which the holding member 222 can be inserted axially in the proximal direction in the rotary member 140. In the present example, the receiving opening 144 is non-rotationally symmetrical, but symmetrical with respect to a rotation of 1 80 ° (eg symmetries), but of course also unsymmetrical shapes or shapes of other symmetry are possible a stop cam 147 is formed, which runs in a guideway 1 14 of the retaining flange 1 12 (see Figures 3 and 12) .This embodiment, the rotary member 1 40 over a defined angular range with respect to the cartridge holder 1 10 rotatable 1 14 and the dimensions of the stop cam 147 are selected so that the range around which the Drehelcment is rotatable, limited to about 160 ° in conjunction with the biconical symmetry of the receiving opening 144 and the below-described construction of the cartridge is on this This ensures that there is only one orientation of the Rotary member 140 (hereinafter referred to as "first orientation"), in which the cartridge can be inserted into the cartridge holder 1 10. Due to the friction with the O-ring 150, the rotational movement of the rotary member 140 is inhibited, as long as the torque that a user applies to the rotary member 140 relative to the cartridge holder 1 10. does not exceed at least a certain torque threshold. As a result, an unintentional rotation of the rotary member 140 is effectively avoided.

The cartridge 200 is shown in detail in particular in FIGS. 6 to 8. The cartridge includes a cartridge housing 210 defining two parallel cylindrical reservoirs 21 1. The reservoirs 21 1 each have at their respective distal end a discharge opening 215 arranged in a decentralized manner relative to the axis of rotation of the rotary element 140. At its proximal end, the reservoirs are each closed by a displaceable piston 21 6. The reservoirs are connected at their distal end via a substantially circular retaining plate 212. A partial ring-shaped Aufschnappbereich 21 3 extends from the retaining plate 21 2 in the distal Direction and is provided at its distal end with an outwardly radially projecting Aufschnapprand. The Aufschnapprand has an axial projection 214 in a peripheral region. An accessory 220 is snapped onto the cartridge housing 210. The accessory 220 comprises a mixing tube 221 which forms a static mixer together with a helical mixing element 226 arranged therein. At the distal mixer outlet of the mixing tube 221, a male Luer connection is formed with a conventional sleeve 223. In this area, for example, a cannula or a catheter can be connected to the mixer outlet.

At its proximal end region, the mixing tube 221 is connected to a retaining element 222 which can be snapped onto the snap-on region 213 of the cartridge housing 210. The holding element 222 projects radially beyond the cartridge housing 210. For stabilization, a plurality of stabilizing webs 229 are formed between the mixing tube 221 and the holding element 222.

The retaining element 222 forms an inlet chamber for the components which is open towards the proximal side and bounded laterally by a jacket wall of the retaining element, before they enter the mixing tube 221. In this inlet chamber two flexible plugs 224 are arranged. Adjacent to the plugs are grooves 225 sized to receive the plugs 224 as they are bent along the circumferential direction. In order to allow such a deformation of the plug, the holding element 222 is made together with the plug 224 and with the mixing tube 221 in one piece from a sufficiently flexible, tough material. eg a suitable polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP). Alternatively, the plugs may be made of a different material than the remainder of the support member 222. eg in the two-component injection molding process. In the jacket wall of the retaining element, a circumferential connecting groove 227 is formed. In order to establish a connection of the accessory 220 to the cartridge housing 210, the Aufschnappbereich 21 3 can be axially inserted into the connecting groove 227, whereupon the Aufschnapprand the Aufschnappbereich 21 3 locked with a corresponding undercut in the connecting groove 227. As a result, the accessory 220 in the axial direction secured to the cartridge housing 210 and sealed relative to the cartridge housing 2 10 while being rotatable relative to the cartridge housing 210. In this case, the axial projection 214 of Aufschnappbereichs 21 3 extends deeper into the connecting groove 217 than the rest Aufschnappbereich. The projection co-operates in the circumferential direction with two stops, not shown in the connecting groove 227, in order to limit the angular range along which rotation of the accessory 220 relative to the cartridge housing 210 is possible. The connection between the cartridge housing 21 0 and the accessory 220 is thereby produced in such an orientation that the plugs 224 extend into the outlet openings 215 of the reservoirs 21 1 and close them.

The holding element 222 has a cross-section which is non-rotationally symmetrical and in the present example has approximately the shape of a stylized "S". As a result, the holding element 222 forms two radially projecting driving regions 228.

In order to discharge the components received in the reservoirs 21 1 from the cartridge and to mix them in the mixing tube 221, the cartridge 200 is first inserted axially against the feed direction V into the cartridge holder 11. In this case, the rotary element 140 assumes the first orientation shown in FIG. 11 (a). In this orientation, the holding element 222 with its driver elements 228 and the distal opening, which is bounded by the half-shells 142, 143, aligned with each other, that the holding element can be inserted into the rotary member 140.

Once the cartridge 200 has reached its proximal end position in the cartridge holder, the user now rotates the rotating member 140 counterclockwise through an angle α, as illustrated in FIG. 11 (b). In this case, the retaining element 222 of the cartridge initially remains rotationally fixed, so that the asymmetrical shape of the retaining element and the asymmetrical shape of the insertion opening are no longer aligned. As a result, locking regions 148, 149 (compare also FIGS. 4 and 5) of the distal end wall of the rotary element 140 on the distal side come to rest axially in front of the retaining element 222 and thereby fix it with respect to movements of the cartridge in the distal direction. More specifically, the locking portions 148, 149 of the distal end wall of the rotary member, which overlap with the holding member 222, also as a kind . "

PCT / CH2011 / 000152

1 7

Holding cam of the rotary member 140 are understood, which form a positive Eingri ff with the holding member 222. In principle, it is also conceivable that such retaining cams do not come to rest in front of a distal end wall of the retaining element 222, but, for example, engage in a radial groove of the retaining element 222.

The rotary member 140 is thus relative to the cartridge holder 1 1 0 to a Drehw inkel α from a first orientation in a second orientation rotatable. In the first orientation, the cartridge can be inserted axially against the feed direction into the cartridge holder 110, while the cartridge 200 thus inserted is axially fixed in the second orientation. The angle of rotation between the first and the second orientation is approximately 25 ° in the present example. but can also be chosen larger or smaller. In order to achieve a secure fixation, the angle of rotation should be at least about 1 5 °. As can be seen from FIG. 13 (b), in the second orientation, two drivers in the form of driver webs 151 engage tangentially with respect to the direction of rotation on the carrier elements 228 of the holding element 222. In a further rotation of the rotary member counterclockwise takes the rotary member 140 therefore the holding member 222 with. Since the reservoirs 21 1 are rotationally fixed due to their shape in the cartridge holder 1 10, this leads to a rotation of the holding member 222 relative to the reservoirs 2 1 1. As a result, the plugs 224 slide out of the outlet openings 21 5 and are bent in the circumferential direction in such a way that they are received in the recesses 225 substantially parallel to the circumferential direction. As a result, the outlet openings 21 5 of the reservoir 21 1 are released.

This situation is shown in FIG. 11 (c). Fig. 12 (c) and Fig. 13 (c) illustrates. The rotary element 140 has been rotated further here by a further angle of rotation β beyond the second orientation into a third orientation. The Drehw inkel ß is in the present example about 1 30 °. but in turn can be chosen larger or smaller. In the present example, a rotation angle β of at least approximately 90 ° is advantageous.

As can be seen from Figures 1 2 (a) - (c). a further rotation of the rotary member 1 40 is prevented by the stop cam 147 at the end of the guide track 1 1 4th has arrived and thereby abuts with respect to the circumferential direction on the retaining flange 1 12. Further rotation of the rotary member 140, which could lead to destruction of the connection between the cartridge housing 210 and the accessory 220, is thereby effectively prevented. As can be seen from FIG. 12 (a), the range of rotation is also limited in the opposite direction by the cooperation of the stop cam 147 with the retaining flange 12. Overall, the range of rotation of the Drehelemcnts between the first orientation and the third orientation is thereby limited to a range of about 160 °. As already stated, a larger or smaller area can also be selected. Preferably, a range of about 105 ° to about 1 70 °. A range of less than 1 80 °, with the present bimodal symmetry, prevents the cartridge from being inserted in any orientation other than the first orientation of Figs. 11 (a), 12 (a) and 13 (a). On the other hand, if the insertion hole 144 does not have any axial symmetry, it is sufficient if the rotation range is restricted to less than 360 °.

In the third orientation, the outlet openings 21 5 of the reservoirs 21 1 are now open, and the components can be discharged from the reservoirs 21 1 by advancing the advancing element 1 20 in the distal direction and mixed in the mixing tube 221. In the present example, the dispenser is gripped with an edge, wherein the index finger between the two protruding portions 134 of the legs 1 3 1. 1 32 comes to rest, while the middle finger, the ring finger and the little finger between the cartridge holder 1 10 and the connecting portion 1 33 come to rest on the handle. The user can now exert pressure on the feed flange 122 with the palm of his hand to advance the two piston rods 121 and thereby insert the pistons 216 into the cartridge housing 210.

To change the cartridge, the rotary ring 140 is rotated back again by the angle α in the clockwise direction. In this case, the holding element 222 remains non-rotatable due to frictional forces against the cartridge housing 210. In this way, the insertion opening 144 is again brought into coincidence with the holding element 222, so that the cartridge can be pulled out distally from the cartridge holder 110. To lodge a new cartridge. Afterwards, the turntable is moved back to the Aussan «sla ^» e (ie in the first orientation) turned back.

While the invention has been illustrated above with reference to a preferred embodiment, the invention is by no means limited to the above embodiment, and a variety of Abw orlungen are possible. Thus, the dispenser can in particular also be a different type of dispenser than the type shown here. e.g. a so-called pistol dispenser, as they are known from the prior art for a long time. In such Pistolendispensern a reduction between an actuating movement of the user and the feed movement of the feed element is generated by leverage, whereby a larger force can be generated on the feed element, as is possible with a simple dispenser of the type shown here.

The cartridge can also be opened in a different way than shown here. So it is conceivable, for example, that a driving element of the cartridge is formed separately from the holding element. Such a driving element could for example convert a direction of rotation tangential movement of a driver of the rotary member in an axial movement of the sealing plug, so that the plugs would be pulled axially out of the openings. This could be done, for example, via suitable, inclined to the tangential direction in the feed direction inclined surfaces. As before, it would be possible to secure the cartridge by a simple rotational movement axially on the cartridge holder and the reservoirs very easy to open by the same rotational movement. Of course, a variety of other configurations are conceivable. Instead of two Reservoir oirs, it is also conceivable to provide only a single reservoir or three or more reservoirs. Instead of a mixer, another unit acting as an accessory may also be provided on the cartridge. eg a spray attachment. Such a unit may be releasably attachable to the support member or may be omitted entirely. An alternative embodiment of a cartridge is illustrated in Figures 14-1. The same or equivalent parts are provided with the same reference numerals as in Figures 1-13. The reservoirs are here formed as elongated, substantially cylindrical bag 240. At the front, distal end, each bag has a tapered Outlet area 241 on. The proximal rear end 242 of each bag is complementary to the shape of the distal end (not shown) of the advancing member 120 to provide controlled axial advancement. The bags 240 are inserted from the proximal side into a cartridge housing 210 which defines two parallel cylindrical receiving areas for the bags. In this case, the outlet regions 241 of the bags project distally through openings of the holding plate 212. The mixing element 216 in this exemplary embodiment is rigidly connected to an annular carrier 230, which can be inserted substantially in a precisely fitting but rotatable manner from the distal side into that region of the cartridge housing which is bounded radially by the snap-on region 213. In the proximal direction, a support shaft 232 protrudes axially from the support, at the proximal end of which a cutting element 23 1 having two diametrically opposite blades extending radially outward is fastened.

In the assembled state of the cartridge there is a rotationally fixed connection between the holding element 222 and the carrier 230, so that the carrier 230 and thus also the cutting element 231 are entrained upon rotation of the holding element 222 relative to the cartridge housing 210 about the axis of rotation. In this case, the blades of the cutting element 23 1 cut through the outlet regions 241 of the two bags 240, so that the fluids received in the bags 240 can enter the inlet chamber for the mixing tube 221 bounded by the retaining element 222. The operation of the dispenser is carried out in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The cartridge is therefore also introduced axially into the dispenser in the first orientation and fixed by rotation of the Drehelemcnts 140 in the second orientation. The reservoirs are opened by rotating the rotary member 140 from the second orientation to the third orientation. During this rotation, in turn, the holding element 222 is taken by the rotary member 140. As described above, the carrier 230 is rotated relative to the cartridge housing 210, whereby the cutting element cuts open the bags 240. Again, a variety of modifications are possible. Thus, the blades of the cutting element 231 may also extend parallel to the axis of rotation in order to cut through a correspondingly arranged boundary wall of the bags. The bags may protrude proximally over the cartridge housing 21 0, so that they are applied directly to the walls of the cartridge holder 1 10 when inserted cartridge. For this purpose, the cartridge housing 210 may be designed to be very short, so that it only extends far enough into the cartridge holder 110 in the proximal direction to ensure an anti-rotation between the cartridge 200 and the cartridge holder 110. The two bags 240 may be connected together along a common connecting line. For this purpose, it is conceivable that the cartridge housing 210 forms only a single, correspondingly large receiving area for the two bags 240. The bags may also be designed differently at their ends than shown here. In particular, it is conceivable that the bags are closed at the proximal end with a straight weld. The cartridge may, as in the first embodiment, additionally comprise pistons 216 for exerting a squeezing pressure on the bags. Of course, only a single bag or three or more bags may be provided.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

Dispenser 213 snap-on area

Cartridge holder 214 projection

Housing 21 5 outlet opening

Retaining flange 216 pistons

Paragraph 220 accessory

Guideway 221 mixing tube

Feed element 222 holding element

Piston rod 223 cap sleeve

Feed flange 224 plug

Handle 225 recess first leg 226 mixing element second leg 227 connecting groove

Join-in area 228 Take-up area 229 Stabilizer bar

Stabilizing bar 230 carrier

Rotary element 23 1 cutting element

Turning ring 232 Carrier shaft Upper half shell 240 bags Lower half shell 241 Outlet area

Insertion opening 242 proximal end

guide

stop cams

locking area

O-ring

driving web

cartridge

cartridge housing

reservoir

Retaining plate

Claims

A discharge device for discharging at least one flowable component from a cartridge (200) having at least one reservoir (211; 240). comprising:

a cartridge holder (110); and

at least one advancing member (120) axially displaceable relative to the cartridge holder (110) along a distal feed direction (V) adapted to act on the at least one reservoir (211; 240) of the cartridge (200) for discharging a component received in the reservoir (211) from the reservoir (211);

the cartridge holder (110) being designed such that the cartridge (200) can be introduced axially into the cartridge holder (110) counter to the feed direction (V),

characterized in that

the discharge device has a rotary element (140) attached to the cartridge holder (110) and axially secured relative to the cartridge holder (110) and rotatable about at least a first orientation and a second orientation about a rotational axis along the feed direction (V). wherein the rotary member (140) allows axial insertion of the cartridge (200) into the cartridge holder (110) against the advancing direction (V) in the first orientation, and wherein the rotary member (140) is formed thereto. in the second orientation, axially fix the cartridge (200) inserted into the cartridge holder (110).

2. The dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the rotary element (140) relative to the cartridge holder (110) is also rotatable in a third orientation about the axis of rotation, which differs from the first and second orientation, and wherein the rotary member (140) at least one driver (151) for entraining a driving element (228) of a cartridge (200) held in the cartridge holder (110) in the third orientation 24 to open at least one outlet opening (215) of the cartridge.

The dispenser of claim 1 or 2, further comprising:

a cartridge (200) having at least one reservoir (21 1; 240) for a component.

wherein the reservoir (2 1 1: 240) is formed in such a way. in that the component can be discharged from the at least one reservoir (21 1; 240) by a distal advance of the advancing element (120) through an outlet opening (215). and

wherein the at least one reservoir (21 1: 240) substantially rotationally fixed in the cartridge holder (1 1 0) is fixable.

Discharge device according to claim 3,

the cartridge (200) having a retaining element (222) arranged axially secured to the at least one reservoir (21 1; 240) with respect to the feed direction,

wherein the rotary member (140) in the first orientation allows axial insertion of the holding member (222) in the rotary member (140), and

wherein the rotary member (140) has a locking portion (148, 149) which in the second orientation of the rotary member (140) forms a positive or non-positive connection with the retaining element (222) with respect to the distal advancing direction.

Discharge device according to claim 4,

wherein the cartridge (200) has at least one carrier element (228) which is movable relative to the at least one reservoir (21 1: 240), and

wherein the driving element (228) from the rotary member (140) is entrained. when the rotary member (140) is rotated to a third orientation different from the first and second orientations to open the at least one reservoir (21 1: 240).

Discharge device according to claim 5, wherein the entrainment element (228) opposite to the at least one reservoir (2 1 1) about the direction of rotation of the Rotary element (140) is rotatable.

7. Discharge device according to claim 5 or 6,

wherein at least one sealing plug (224) for the outlet opening (21 5) of the at least one reservoir (21 1) is connected to the driving element (228),

and wherein the closure plug (224) is removable from the outlet opening (215) of the at least one reservoir by movement of the driver element (228).

8. Discharge device according to claim 5 or 6,

wherein the at least one reservoir (240) is formed as a flexible bag, and

wherein with the entrainment element (228) at least one cutting element (23 1) is connected, which is arranged such that upon rotation of the entrainment member (228) the bag is cut open to form an outlet opening.

9. Discharge device according to one of claims 5-8, wherein the entrainment element (228) together with the holding element (222) forms a rigid unit.

10. Discharge device according to one of claims 4-9, wherein the rotary member (140) has a distal end wall, in which a rotational axis with respect to the rotational axis not rotational insertion opening (144) is formed for the holding element (222). and wherein the retaining element (222) has a shape that is complementary to the shape of the insertion opening (144), so that the retaining element (222) in the first orientation through the insertion opening (144) in the rotary member (140) is inserted and a subsequent Rotation of the rotary member (140) relative to the holding element (222) in the second orientation causes engagement of the holding element (222) with the end wall.

1 1. Discharge device according to one of claims 3- 10.

wherein the cartridge (200) at least two parallel reservoirs (211), and

wherein each of the reservoirs (211) has in the region of its respective distal end an outlet opening (215) or an outlet region for forming an outlet opening.

12. Discharge device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotary member (140) at least one stop element (147) which cooperates with the cartridge holder (110) to the area about which the rotary member (140) relative to the cartridge holder (110) rotatable is. to limit on both sides.

13. The discharge device according to claim 12, wherein the range by which the rotary member (140) is rotatable relative to the cartridge holder (110) is limited to less than 180 °.

14. Discharge device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cartridge holder (110) in the region of its distal end has a retaining flange (112), and wherein the rotary element has two half-shells (142, 143) which are transverse to the feed direction on the retaining flange (112). are deferred and connected to each other.

15. Discharge device according to claim 14, wherein the half-shells (142, 143) are at least partially surrounded by a rotary ring (141) which is non-rotatably connected to the half-shells (142, 143) and fixes the half-shells (142, 143) radially to one another.

16. Discharge device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an inhibiting device, which is thus formed between the cartridge holder (110) and the rotary member (140). that it requires the overcoming of a torque threshold for rotation of the rotary member (140).

17. Discharge device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising:

a rigidly connected to the cartridge holder (110), im Substantially transversely to the feed direction extending handle (130) which is formed in such a way. that it can be grasped with at least two fingers of a user's hand: as well as

a ball pen (1 22) formed at a proximal end of the advancing member (1 20). which is designed such that it can be advanced in the distal direction with the ball of the same hand of the user with whom it holds the handle (130).