EP2768620B1 - Cartridge and multi-component cartridge - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a cartridge and a multi-component cartridge. In particular, the invention relates to a cartridge having at least one longitudinally extending receiving chamber for a medium to be discharged, and a multi-component cartridge using the same. See also US6158621 as state of the art. In the industrial sector, in construction, for example, of buildings, and also in the dental field cartridges are often used to store liquid flowable, often pasty or viscous to highly viscous substances and carry out as needed for the application. Examples of such substances are joint sealants, compounds for chemical dowels or chemical anchors, adhesives, pastes or molding compounds in the dental field. Usually, these cartridges are made of plastic and are manufactured in an injection molding process.

A distinction is made between one-component systems in which the material to be discharged consists of only one component, and two-component or multi-component systems in which at least two different components are stored in separate chambers of the same cartridge or in separate cartridges, the components being discharged by means of a dynamic or a static mixing device are intimately mixed. Examples include two-component adhesive or chemical dowels that cure only after mixing the two components. Especially in the industrial sector, two-component systems are also used for paints that are often used to produce functional protective layers, eg for corrosion protection, can be used.

It is often the case that the cartridges comprise one (or more) axially displaceable delivery pistons, by the movement of which the material is discharged from the chamber or the chambers. It is understood that for this purpose the chambers must have sufficiently thick walls in order to withstand the pressure arising during discharge can. In addition, the cartridges must have sufficiently thick walls to be sufficiently diffusion-tight. This is particularly important with regard to storage, in order to effectively prevent the inward diffusion or outward diffusion of the chemical substances and thus a degradation of the cartridge contents. Since such plastic cartridges are usually designed for single use, resulting from both the volume and the mass of a considerable amount of waste, which is particularly disadvantageous from aspects of environmental protection.

A known alternative to the plastic cartridges are hoses in which the respective materials are stored. These hoses are then placed in special support or discharge devices to discharge their contents for the particular application. Although such hoses are significantly cheaper than cartridges, especially as regards the volume of waste, they have other disadvantages. It requires significantly more complex filling devices to fill the hoses and seal. In addition, their storage is more problematic because hoses are not stable, so special measures or packaging must be provided for storage. There may also be problems with the tightness of such hoses. In addition, the mass of the residual volume in the hose, which can not be discharged, is relatively high. Hoses also have the disadvantage that they are very sensitive to mechanical influences, especially against sharp edges or sharp corners.

In addition to the aspect of environmental protection, the issue of sustainability is also becoming increasingly important. The use of renewable raw materials, the minimization of raw material and energy consumption and the greatest possible reduction of waste both with regard to the cartridge itself and on the residual mass remaining in the cartridge are becoming increasingly important.

The EP 0 721 805 A2 describes a two-piston mixing gun for mixing and dispensing a molding compound which is formed with a gun body, a receiving shaft for two filled with individual components of the molding compound cartridges and a subsequent to the receiving shaft static mixer with an outlet nozzle. The cartridges consist of separate cardboard sleeves and are provided with a cover plate and a piston element. The receiving shaft can be closed with a pressure-resistant and the cardboard sleeves flush comprehensive support housing. Between the static mixer and the cardboard sleeves, an insertable into the receiving shaft head piece is provided, which has separate and open to the cardboard sleeves flow channels that unite directly at the entrance to the static mixer.

The JP 7 256 178 A describes a carton cartridge and its use in connection with a hand-operated or air-driven discharge gun, in which a cylindrical cardboard element is connected to a metallic piston. The cardboard element can be constructed in a multilayered manner and have an outlet nozzle at the front end. The multiple layers of paperboard sleeve may be at least partially made of a sheet material.

The GB 1,118,419 A1 describes a cartridge for pistol-like dispensers. The cartridge is formed by a completely collapsible tubular elements in the manner of a film and without head and base part.

The GB 1 029 489 A describes a cartridge and an extrusion sleeve for receiving them. The cartridge is made of a thermoplastic material for forming a receiving chamber and is so thin-walled that it is easily compressible and does not have a tightly fitted shape.

The US 6,158,621 shows a cartridge with a head part which is designed as a solid part. A film cartridge, which is filled with a medium to be discharged, is permanently connected to the head part. The head part and film cartridge can be placed in a separate container to discharge the medium to be discharged by means of a dispenser.

It is an object of the invention to propose a cartridge which is an improvement in terms of sustainability and environmental protection, in particular also with regard to their waste volume and their amount of waste. In this case, a high reliability and good storage life of the cartridge should be ensured. Furthermore, to be created by the invention, a corresponding multi-component cartridge or multi-component application.

The object underlying the invention is achieved in a cartridge according to the invention with the features of independent claim 1 and in a multi-component cartridge according to the invention with the features of independent claim 9. Advantageous developments of the cartridge according to the invention and the multi-component cartridge according to the invention are the subject of the respective dependent claims.

According to the invention, therefore, a cartridge is proposed with at least one longitudinally extending receiving chamber for a medium to be discharged, with a head part, a bottom part and a cartridge wall, which delimit the receiving chamber, wherein the head part an outlet for the medium having. The cartridge wall is designed as a film, the head part and the bottom part in each case as a dimensionally stable part, and the head part is sealingly and permanently connected to the cartridge wall. A further protective film is further provided at the end of the receiving chamber bounded by the head part, which closes the receiving chamber at this end in a sealing manner.

Due to the dimensionally stable head and bottom part cartridge according to the invention offers the advantages of a conventional cartridge with respect to their filling and storage, so they do not have to be filled in elaborate filling as this is usually required for hoses and can much easier, for example, stored upright become. The design of the cartridge wall as a film means in comparison to conventional cartridges a very substantial reduction of waste and a reduction of the raw materials required for the production. In addition, the design of the cartridge wall as a film brings a very high degree of flexibility with regard to the choice of material. Depending on the application, the film can be adapted to the specific cartridge content. The film is also a very efficient diffusion barrier, so that no concessions to the shelf life or the maximum storage time are necessary despite the well-reduced wall thickness compared to today known. Even with longer storage times, the contents of the cartridge are effectively protected against the exudation or diffusion of substances or "outgassing". Preferably, the cartridge according to the invention is inserted in the discharge of its contents in a reusable support cartridge, so that the cartridge wall withstands the mechanical loads during discharge.

By the measure to provide a protective film at the end of the receiving chamber bounded by the head part of a protective film, the cartridge contents is also protected against diffusion processes through the end face and the headboard.

In practice, it has proven useful if the cartridge wall has a wall thickness of at most 0.3 mm, preferably of about 0.1 mm. The thinner the cartridge wall is designed, the lower the raw material requirements for the production of the cartridge and the amount of waste after emptying the cartridge

A particularly advantageous measure is that the film forming the cartridge wall is designed as a multilayer system. As a result, it is possible to optimally adapt the film to the particular application. The properties of the barrier film can be tailored to make it as efficient as possible with respect to the media in the receiving chamber. Preferably, such a multilayer system is configured as a composite film. The multilayer system may also include metallic layers.

In a preferred embodiment connecting means are provided in the cartridge, by means of which the cartridge with a second cartridge is connectable. These connecting means can be designed in particular as a latching or as a click or snap connection. The connecting means are preferably arranged so that the two cartridges are connected side by side connectable side by side, so that their longitudinal directions and longitudinal axes parallel to each other. The possibility of connecting a plurality of cartridges via the connecting means significantly increases the flexibility with regard to the fields of application, in particular because the cartridges can be used very easily for multicomponent systems.

In a preferred embodiment, the bottom part comprises a piston, which is insertable into the receiving chamber at the end facing away from the head part and can be displaced in a sealing manner along the cartridge wall in the longitudinal direction. The use of a piston in the receiving chamber for discharging the medium has the advantage that as a rule lower residual mass volumes remain in the cartridge, as a result of which the amount of waste is reduced. In addition, chemical risks in the receiving chamber minimize the risks associated with chemistry. The piston is preferably designed as a valve piston, so that a simple venting during insertion of the piston is possible
A further advantageous measure is that a dimensionally stable support ring is provided, which encloses the cartridge wall at the end of the receiving chamber intended for receiving the piston from the outside. This support ring is particularly advantageous in terms of storage, because it improves the seal between the cartridge wall and the piston.

Preferably, a sealing closing cover sheet is provided on the bottom part. In combination with the protective foil provided in the region of the head part and the cartridge wall designed as a foil, the medium in the cartridge is then completely surrounded by foil, i. completely wrapped in foil.

Further, it is advantageous if the bottom part or the support ring is sealingly and permanently connected to the cartridge wall. This is a particularly reliable protection of the medium, in particular during storage feasible. This connection can be realized, for example, by producing the bottom part or the support ring in an injection molding process in which the film forming the cartridge wall is partially encapsulated with a liquid plastic. Through this encapsulation, it is possible to easily melt or plasticize the film so that it then enters into an intimate, permanent connection with the bottom part or with the support ring during cooling and solidification of the plastic. In an analogous manner, the connection between the head part and the cartridge wall can be realized. Of course, it is also possible to realize the connection between the head part or the bottom part or the support ring and the cartridge wall by welding or gluing or clamping the parts together. In such cases, preferably, the head part and the bottom part and the optional support ring are each made in an injection molding and welded or glued or clamped in a subsequent processing step with the film forming the cartridge wall.

The invention further proposes a multi-component cartridge having at least two cartridges according to the invention, wherein the two cartridges are arranged side by side with respect to the longitudinal direction. Through this multi-component cartridge, the field of application of the cartridge according to the invention can be extended to two- or multi-component systems.

Preferably, the two cartridges are firmly coupled to each other via the connecting means, so that the multi-component cartridge forms a storable and dischargeable unit.

A particularly advantageous measure is when the outlets of the cartridges form a common connecting piece or are configured for receiving a common connecting piece, wherein the connecting piece is designed to cooperate with an accessory, in particular with a closure or with a mixer. In this way it is possible, for example, to use per se known accessories in conjunction with the multi-component cartridge. This compatibility is advantageous for practical and economic reasons

In order to protect the contents of the discharge chambers during storage, it is advantageous according to a preferred embodiment, when the multi-component cartridge has a closure which is designed to cooperate with the connector and has two plugs, each of which can engage in an outlet to this close.

In order to increase the flexibility of the multi-component cartridge with respect to the fields of application and applications, the receiving chambers of the two cartridges may have different volumes, so that in particular mixing ratios between the two media contained in the receiving chambers of the cartridges can be realized, which differ from the ratio 1: 1.

Further advantageous measures and embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims.

• Fig. 1: ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Kartusche in einem Längsschnitt,
• Fig. 2: ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Kartusche in einem Längsschnitt,
• Fig. 3: eine perspektivische Explosionsdarstellung eines ersten Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Mehrkomponentenkartusche,
• Fig. 4: eine perspektivische Explosionsdarstellung eines zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Mehrkomponentenkartusche,
• Fig. 5: das zweite Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Mehrkomponentenkartusche in einem Längsschnitt,
• Fig. 6: eine Darstellung der Auslässe des ersten Ausführungsbeispiels,
• Fig. 7: eine Darstellung der Auslässe des ersten Ausführungsbeispiels mit einem aufgesetzten Mischer (nur teilweise dargestellt),
• Fig. 8: eine Darstellung der Auslässe des zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels mit einem eingesetzten Verbindungsstück und einem eingesetzten Verschluss,
• Fig. 9: eine Darstellung der Auslässe des zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels mit einem eingesetzten Verbindungsstück und einem aufgesetzten Mischer (nur teilweise dargestellt),
• Fig. 10: eine Ansicht eines dritten Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Mehrkomponentenkartusche,
• Fig. 11-12: Darstellungen einer Austragsvorrichtung, welche für die erfindungsgemäße Kartusche bzw. die erfindungsgemäße Mehrkomponentenkartusche geeignet ist, und
• Fig. 13: das zweite Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Mehrkomponentenkartusche im entleerten Zustand.

In the following the invention will be explained in more detail by means of embodiments and with reference to the drawing. In the schematic drawing show partly in section:

• Fig. 1 FIG. 1: a first embodiment of a cartridge according to the invention in a longitudinal section, FIG.
• Fig. 2 FIG. 2: a second embodiment of a cartridge according to the invention in a longitudinal section, FIG.
• Fig. 3 FIG. 3: an exploded perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of a multicomponent cartridge according to the invention, FIG.
• Fig. 4 FIG. 3: an exploded perspective view of a second exemplary embodiment of a multicomponent cartridge according to the invention, FIG.
• Fig. 5 : the second embodiment of the multi-component cartridge according to the invention in a longitudinal section,
• Fig. 6 FIG. 2 is an illustration of the outlets of the first embodiment. FIG.
• Fig. 7 FIG. 2: a representation of the outlets of the first exemplary embodiment with an attached mixer (only partially shown), FIG.
• Fig. 8 FIG. 2: a representation of the outlets of the second exemplary embodiment with an inserted connecting piece and an inserted closure, FIG.
• Fig. 9 : a representation of the outlets of the second embodiment with an inserted connector and a mounted mixer (only partially shown),
• Fig. 10 FIG. 3: a view of a third exemplary embodiment of a multicomponent cartridge according to the invention, FIG.
• Fig. 11-12 : Representations of a discharge device which is suitable for the cartridge according to the invention or the multi-component cartridge according to the invention, and
• Fig. 13 : the second embodiment of the multi-component cartridge according to the invention in the deflated state.

Fig. 1 shows in a longitudinal section a first embodiment of a cartridge according to the invention, which is designated overall by the reference numeral 1. The cartridge 1 comprises a longitudinally extending receiving chamber 2 for a medium to be discharged. The longitudinal direction is defined by the longitudinal axis A of the cartridge 1. The receiving chamber 2 is bounded by a cartridge wall 3, a head part 4, and a bottom part 6. The bottom part 6 in this embodiment comprises a piston 8, which in Fig. 1 not yet inserted into the receiving chamber 2, but outside of this is shown.

The receiving chamber 2 of the cartridge 1 is cylindrical, that is, the cartridge wall 3 is the lateral surface of a cylinder. The head part 4 of the cartridge 1 has an outlet 5 with an outlet channel 51 for the medium, through which the medium can be discharged from the receiving chamber 2. The outlet 5 is formed here as a projecting tube to the head part 4. The head part 4 with the outlet 5 is integrally injection-molded, that is it is entirely produced in a single, usually single-stage injection molding process.

According to the invention, the cartridge wall 3 is designed as a film 3 and the head part 4 and the bottom part 6 are each designed as a dimensionally stable part. By the term foil is meant a very thin sheet, which consists in particular of plastic, metal or a combination of plastic and metal. Most films are not dimensionally stable, that is, they can be bent, crumpled, folded or the like without much effort. In contrast, the head part 4 and the bottom part 6 are each designed as dimensionally stable parts, preferably plastic parts. By this is meant that these parts do not change their shape during normal use and are at most elastically deformable without considerable expenditure of force. Films are generally much thinner compared to the rigid parts. For the cartridge according to the invention, in particular those films 3 are preferred as the cartridge wall 3, which are at most 0.3 mm, in particular at most 0.2 mm and preferably about 0.1 mm thick. That is, the wall thickness D of the cartridge wall 3 is preferably at most 0.3 mm, and more preferably about 0.1 mm. For comparison, it should be mentioned that today known injection-molded plastic cartridges usually have a wall thickness of at least 1.5 to 3 mm

The design of the bottom part 6 as a dimensionally stable part also has the advantage that the cartridge 1 is capable of standing, that is, it can be stored upright on the bottom part 6 standing.

According to the invention, the head part 4 is sealingly and non-releasably connected to the foil 3 forming the cartridge wall. This connection can be realized, for example-as will be explained further below-in the injection molding process for the head part 4, in that the film 3 is partially encapsulated with the liquid plastic, which forms the head part 4 after its solidification. Alternatively, it is of course also possible to first produce the head part 4 as a separate component, which subsequently is welded or glued or otherwise sealingly connected to the film 3.

In the first embodiment, at the end of the cartridge wall 3, which is adjacent to the head part 4, a protective film 7 is provided which seals the receiving chamber 2 at this end. Since the receiving chamber 2 is designed cylindrical, the protective film 7 is designed circular and closes or seals the receiving chamber 2 at its the head part 4 facing end face. In particular, the protective film 7 also prevents the medium from getting out of the receiving chamber 2 into the outlet channel 51.

The cartridge 1 may further comprise connecting means 10, by means of which the cartridge 1 with a second cartridge 1 is connectable. In the embodiment described here, the connecting means 10 are provided adjacent to the outlet 5 on the head part 4 of the cartridge 1. The connecting means 10 are preferably configured in a manner known per se as a click or as a snap connection or as a latching connection and arranged so that two cartridges 1 are arranged side by side with parallel longitudinal axes A next to one another (see, for example, FIG. Fig. 3 ). Alternatively or additionally, connecting means can, of course, also be arranged along the cartridge wall 3 or on the bottom part 6.

At the end facing away from the head part 4, the cartridge 1 or the receiving chamber 2 is open. As the bottom part 6, a piston 8 is provided in the first embodiment, which is preferably designed as a valve piston, and which at the head part 4 facing away from the open end of the cartridge 1 in the receiving chamber 2 can be inserted. The piston 8 is designed and dimensioned such that it can be displaced sealingly in the longitudinal direction along the cartridge wall 3. For this purpose, the piston 8 may be configured in a manner known per se with sealing lips or sealing edges, not shown, which bear against the cartridge wall 3 when the piston 8 is inserted into the receiving chamber 2.

The piston 8 is produced separately from the cartridge 1, for example, in an injection molding and usually used only after filling the receiving chamber 2.

An advantageous measure is that the piston on its surface facing away from the receiving chamber 2, ie that surface which forms the outside of the bottom of the cartridge 1 after the insertion of the piston 8, provide a sealing closing foil 9.

At the end of the cartridge wall 3, on which the bottom part 6 is arranged, a solid support ring 11 is further provided which surrounds the cartridge wall 3 from the outside in full. In the direction of the longitudinal axis A, the support ring 11 has an axial height H which substantially corresponds to the axial height of the piston 8. After the piston 8 is inserted into the receiving chamber 2, the support ring 11 supports the cartridge wall 3 in the region in which the piston 8 is located. This ensures a high sealing effect between the cartridge wall 3 and the piston 8, in particular during storage of the filled cartridge 1.

The support ring 11 is sealingly and permanently connected to the cartridge wall 3. This can be done in the same way as described above for the head part 4, namely by partial encapsulation of the cartridge wall 3 forming film 3 in an injection molding process, or by a separate bonding or welding of the support ring 11 and the film. 3

The cartridge wall 3 designed as a foil 3 also serves as a barrier or as a diffusion barrier, which prevents the inward diffusion or outward diffusion of substances. These substances may be, for example, chemical constituents of the medium contained in the receiving chamber 2 or atmospheric moisture or oxygen. The film 3 thus allows a particularly long shelf life of the filled with a medium cartridge 1. Because the Slide 3 acts as a barrier layer or diffusion barrier, it is possible to design the cartridge wall 3 only as a film 3 and thus with a thickness D, which is significantly lower than in known cartridges.

The greatly reduced thickness D of the cartridge wall 3 compared to known cartridges has the advantageous effect that significantly less raw material is required for the production of the cartridge 1 and that the amount of waste of the cartridge 1, which is usually designed for single use, is as large as the volume also significantly reduced on the weight.

The second advantageous effect of the cartridge wall 3 designed as a foil is that the foil 3 reduces the friction between the piston 8 and the cartridge wall 3 in comparison with known cartridges. During use, for discharging the medium from the receiving chamber 2, the piston 8 is moved in the direction of the longitudinal axis A in order to convey the medium through the outlet channel 51. Here, the film 3 allows easier sliding of the piston. 8

The protective film 7 and the cover film 9 have the advantage that with them the entire receiving space 2 of the cartridge 1 is surrounded by a barrier layer or a diffusion barrier, that is, the medium in the receiving chamber 2 is completely covered by the films 3, 7, 9 surrounded or enclosed by these, which is advantageous in terms of a particularly good shelf life. The foils 3, 7, 9 may - but need not - be configured identically in terms of their thickness D and their composition. For practical reasons, it is preferred if the films 3, 7, 9 each have a thickness of at most 0.2 mm, and preferably of approximately 0.1 mm.

Each of the foils 3, 7, 9 can be optimally adapted to the respective application. Depending on the composition and nature of the medium in the receiving chamber 2, the films 3,7,9 can be designed so that they have optimum shelf life and ensure optimum protection of the cartridge contents and the head part 4.

A particularly preferred measure is when, in particular, the film 3 forming the cartridge wall 3 is designed as a multilayer system, that is to say it is formed, for example, from a plurality of superimposed films or layers. These different layers of the film 3 can have different functions. On the side facing the receiving chamber 2, for example, may be a protective layer which consists of a plastic which is insensitive to the medium to be discharged, for example polyamide (PA) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). This can optionally be followed by a barrier layer which prevents the escape or entry of substances such as water, oxygen or VOC (volatile organic compounds). Then, for example, follow a filling layer, the z. B. consists of recyclate. Also, layers of a polyolefin such as PE or PP may be provided or metallic layers.

In addition or as an alternative, it is also possible to provide foamed films as a layer.

Also, the protective film 7 and the end foil 9 can be configured in the same way.

The cartridge according to the invention can be produced in particular in an injection molding process. As is common practice in injection molding, a tool is used which includes cores and cavities into which the liquid plastic is injected. When closing the tool, the core moves into a correspondingly shaped counterpart. After closing the tool then exists between the core and the counterpart a cavity which is a negative image of the part to be produced. In this cavity, the liquid plastic is injected and solidifies there. Then the tool is opened, the molded part demolded and ejected.

For sealingly connecting the foil 3 forming the cartridge wall and the head part 4 and / or the support ring 11, the foil 3 can be applied to the lateral surface of that core which forms the side of the head part 4 facing the receiving chamber or the inner surface of the support ring 11.

After closing the tool, the film 3 is partially encapsulated with the liquid plastic. In this case, the film 3 melts slightly due to the contact with the liquid plastic or is plasticized. This results in a particularly intimate and permanent connection between the cartridge wall 3 and the head part 4 b between the support ring 11.

To produce the protective film 7, a circular disk-shaped film is placed on the end face of the core, which forms the side of the head part 4 facing the receiving chamber 2, before the injection molding, which then forms the protective film 7 in the finished cartridge. The circular disk-shaped film is preferably dimensioned so that it projects beyond the edge of the end face of the core. Then, when the liquid plastic is injected after the closing of the tool, it bends the part of the circular disc-shaped film, which protrudes beyond the edge of the end face of the core. As a result, the circular disk-shaped film 7 is intimately connected to the film 3, so that in the finished cartridge 1 a tight and firm connection between the cartridge wall 3 and the protective film 7 is made.

It is of course important that the films 3 and 7 adhere to the core until they are overmoulded with plastic. This adhesion can be realized in various ways, for example electrostatically or by generating a negative pressure through corresponding suction openings in the core

For the production of the head part 4, the bottom part 6 and the support ring 11 of the cartridge 1 are all known per se, used for cartridges Plastics such as polyamides (PA), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or polyolefins in general.

The cartridge 1 is first produced without the piston 8 by injection molding and is then closed by the protective film 7 - and optionally other closure means at its outlet 5. From the still open in accordance with the bottom end of the receiving chamber 2, the medium is then filled into the receiving chamber 2. Subsequently, the piston 8, which is optionally provided with the end foil 9, inserted into the receiving chamber 2, and then forms the bottom of the chamber, which closes the receiving chamber 2 sealing. Frequently, the piston 8 is designed as a valve piston, so that when inserting the piston 8, the possibly present between the medium and the piston air is easily dissipated.

Fig. 2 shows in a longitudinal section a second embodiment of a cartridge 1 according to the invention. In the following, only the differences from the first embodiment will be discussed. The explanations made in connection with the first embodiment apply mutatis mutandis to the same for the second embodiment. In particular, identical or functionally equivalent parts are provided with the same reference numerals.

A significant difference is that in the second embodiment of the cartridge 1 according to the invention no piston is provided, but the dimensionally stable bottom part 6 is permanently connected and sealingly connected to the cartridge wall 3. The one-piece bottom part 6 has two of the outer shape in each case substantially cylindrical portions, namely an upper portion 62 which engages in the receiving chamber 2 and thus represents the bottom boundary of the receiving chamber 2, and a base portion 61 which no longer of the designed as a foil cartridge wall 3 is encompassed. Consequently, the cartridge wall 3 extends with respect to the longitudinal direction to an edge 612, at which the upper region 62 and the base region 61 adjoin one another.

Of course, this cartridge 1 is also capable of standing on the base area 61 of the fixed base part 6. The bottom part 6 is also here preferably an injection-molded plastic part, wherein the relevant explanations of the first embodiment apply to the materials.

Of course, it is also possible for the base region 61 to project outwardly beyond the cartridge wall 3. As a result, serving as a cartridge wall foil 3 is enclosed by both sides.

In contrast to the piston 8 provided with the first embodiment, the second embodiment is designed as a collapsible cartridge 1, that is, when discharging the medium from the receiving chamber, the cartridge 1 is collapsed or collapsed with respect to the longitudinal direction. This will be explained later.

The dimensionally stable head part 4 is arranged in this second embodiment partially inwardly with respect to the cylindrical cartridge wall 3, that is, the film forming the cartridge wall 3 is located on the outside of the head part 4 and is sealingly and permanently connected to the head part.

Of course, embodiments are also possible here in which the cartridge wall 3 is enclosed on both sides, ie from the inside and outside of the head part 4.

At its upper end according to the illustration, the head part 4 has a collar 41, up to which the cartridge wall 3 extends. The outlet 5 is designed as a substantially cylindrical opening in the head part 4. As will be explained later (see eg Fig. 4 ) serves the outlet 5 in the second embodiment for receiving an adapter 501 or 502 ( Fig. 4 ) designed to cooperate with an accessory, such as a closure or a mixer.

With regard to the sealing, non-detachable connection between the cartridge wall 3 and the head part 4 or the bottom part 6, the explanations regarding the first exemplary embodiment apply analogously. Thus, for example, in the injection molding of the head part 4 and or of the bottom part 6, the foil forming the cartridge wall 3 can be partially back-injected with the liquid plastic. Alternatively, it is also possible first to produce the head part 4 and the bottom part 6 by means of injection molding and then to weld or glue the cooled plastic parts, namely the head part 4 and the bottom part 6, in each case to the foil 3 forming the cartridge wall or to seal them in a different way connect to.

It is understood that individual features that have been explained in connection with the second embodiment can be realized in a similar manner in the first embodiment and vice versa. Thus, for example, in the first exemplary embodiment, too, the head part 4 may be configured partially inwardly with respect to the cartridge wall 3.

Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a multi-component cartridge according to the invention, which is generally designated by the reference numeral 100. The multi-component cartridge comprises at least two cartridges 1, each of which is designed according to the invention. Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a multi-component cartridge according to the invention, which is also generally designated by the reference numeral 100. In Fig. 5 the second embodiment of the multi-component cartridge 100 according to the invention is shown in a longitudinal section.

The first embodiment of the multicomponent cartridge 100 according to the invention comprises two cartridges 1, each of which is in accordance with the in Fig. 1 shown first embodiment of the cartridge 1 according to the invention is designed. The second embodiment of the multi-component cartridge according to the invention 100 comprises two cartridges 1, each of which is in accordance with the in Fig. 2 shown second embodiment of the cartridge 1 according to the invention is designed.

In the following, by way of example, reference is made to the case, which is particularly important in practice, in that the multicomponent cartridge 100 is a two-component cartridge comprising exactly two cartridges 1. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to such cases, but that the multi-component cartridge may also comprise three or more cartridges.

The two cartridges 1 of the multicomponent cartridge 100 are arranged side by side side by side so that their longitudinal axes A (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 ) parallel to each other.

The two cartridges 1 of the first embodiment ( Fig. 3 ) are preferably fixedly connected to each other via the connecting means 10. But it is also possible that the two head parts 4 and / or the two support rings 11 of the cartridges 1 are manufactured in a common injection molding and are then connected non-destructively releasable elements firmly together, so that the two-component cartridge with respect to the head parts 4 and / or Floor parts 6 is one piece.

For each of the two cartridges 1, a piston 8 is provided in each case, which is introduced after filling the respective receiving chamber 2 in this. The two outlets 5 of the cartridges 1 are arranged and configured such that they form a common connecting piece 50, which comprises the two separate outlets 5, and which is designed to cooperate with an accessory.

Fig. 6 shows the connector 50 with the two outlets 5 in a larger view. In principle, it is not necessary, the two outlets 5 in common Connector to be provided with a closure 50, because the respective medium is protected in the receiving chambers 2 by the protective films 7 against diffusion processes and leakage. However, it is understood that additional closure means may be provided, for example, in the same way as in connection with Fig. 8 is described.

Fig. 7 shows the connector 50 and the outlets 5 with an accessory, namely with a mixer 70. This is a static mixer 70 for mixing the two media, which are present in the respective receiving chambers 2 of the two cartridges 1. The static mixer 70 comprises in a conventional manner a in Fig. 7 only indicated mixer tube 72 with mixing elements arranged therein (not shown). The mixer 70 further comprises two inlets 71 and a coupling 73. When the mixer 70 is placed on the multi-component cartridge 100, each of the separate inlets 71 engages in or via one of the outlet channels 51, so that the inlets 71 in each case with one of the outlets 5 a flow connection form and the respective medium from the respective receiving chamber 2 passes through the respective outlet 5 in the mixer 70. Here, the two media meet and are intimately mixed with each other as they pass through the mixer 70.

For the connection of the mixer 70 with the connector 50 via the coupling piece 73 are all known per se types of compounds, in particular screw, snap or bayonet connections.

Are the cartridges 1 as in Fig. 7 provided with the protective film 7, it must be pierced or pierced before discharging the media. For this purpose, many possibilities are known to the expert. A variant consists in that the inlets 71 of the mixer - or corresponding parts of another accessory - are designed at their ends cooperating with the outlets 5, for example with a bevelled edge 74 or a Mandrel that the inlets 71 pierce the film 7 when placing the mixer 70 or otherwise open.

In the second embodiment of the multi-component cartridge 100 (according to the invention) Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 ) are the outlets 5 of the cartridges 1 for receiving a common connector 50 (in Fig. 5 not shown) configured. The common connector 50 comprises - as shown in detail in FIG Fig. 4 shows - two adapters 501 and 502, each of which is designed to engage in one of the outlets 5 and this outlet 5 quasi extended. The two adapters 501, 502 can be fixedly connected to one another via the connecting means 10 and then form the common connecting piece 50. Like the detailed representation in FIG Fig. 4 shows the connecting means 10 are designed as latches, wherein in each case a rod-shaped latching element is provided on each of the adapters 501, 502, which engages in a recess on the respective other adapter 502, 501, as indicated by the two arrows without reference numerals. Of course, it is also possible to produce the connector 50 in one piece, so that the two adapters 501, 502 are not separable from each other without destroying each other.

On the side facing away from the outlets 5 of the cartridges 1 side, the connecting piece 50 is designed to cooperate with an accessory. This accessory is in Fig. 4 a closure 60 (in Fig. 5 not shown)

Fig. 8 shows the connector 50 with the two outlets 5 in a larger view. In Fig. 8 the shutter 60 is in operative connection with the connector 50, which comprises the two adapters 501 and 502, which engage in the outlets 5 of the cartridge 1. It can be seen that the closure 60 has two plugs 61, each of which engages in one of the adapters 501, 502 and thus seals the outlets 5 in a sealing manner. The shutter 60 may be configured to be connected to the connector 50 only by inserting the plugs 61 into the adapters 501, 502. It can be provided securing means be (not shown) to prevent inadvertent removal of the shutter 60, for example, predetermined breaking points, which are broken or broken before removing the closure by kinking, turning or similar measures. The securing means can also be designed as latching or snap connections. It is also possible that the closure 60 can be coupled to the connector 50 via a threaded or bayonet connection.

Furthermore, it is possible that the two adapters 501, 502 have a directly molded closure element, which are opened or removed before use by means of peeling, cutting, breaking, rotating or similar measures

Fig. 9 shows the connector 50 and the adapter 501, 502 with another accessory, namely with a mixer 70. This is a static mixer 70 for mixing the two media, which are present in the respective receiving chambers 2 of the two cartridges 1. The static mixer 70 comprises in a conventional manner a in Fig. 9 only indicated mixer tube 72 with mixing elements arranged therein (not shown). The mixer 70 further comprises two inlets 71 and a coupling piece 73. When the mixer 70 is mounted on the multi-component cartridge 100, each of the separate inlets 71 engages in or via one of the adapters 501, 502 so that the inlets 71 each with one of the outlets 5 a Form fluid connection and the respective medium from the respective receiving chamber 2 passes through the respective outlet 5 in the mixer 70. Here, the two media meet and are intimately mixed with each other as they pass through the mixer 70.

For the connection of the mixer 70 with the connector 50 via the coupling piece 73 are all known per se types of compounds, in particular screw, snap or bayonet connections.

Fig. 10 shows the view of a third embodiment of a multi-component cartridge 100 according to the invention. In the following, only the differences from the first or second embodiment will be discussed in more detail. The explanations that have been made with respect to the first and second embodiments apply mutatis mutandis to the same for the third embodiment.

In the third embodiment, the multi-component cartridge comprises two cartridges 1, wherein the receiving chambers 2 of the two cartridges 1 have different volumes. Such multicomponent cartridges 100 are intended for those two-component systems in which the two components are to be mixed with one another in a volume ratio different from 1: 1. At the in Fig. 10 The multicomponent cartridge 100 shown in the illustration has the left-hand cartridge 1, which is ten times as large as the right-hand cartridge 1 as shown. Of course, other ratios can also be realized, for example 2: 1 or 4: 1.

Also at the in Fig. 10 shown multi-component cartridge 100 further connection means (not shown) may be provided between the two cartridges 1, for example between the two support rings eleventh

It is understood that the multi-component cartridge according to the second embodiment can be configured in a similar manner for other mixing ratios than 1: 1.

As already mentioned, the two-component or multi-component cartridge 100 is preferably composed of two individual cartridges 1. Before filling the cartridges 1, the outlets 5 are - if necessary - closed with the shutter 60 or the protective films 7 close the outlets 5. From the still open the headboards 4 opposite ends of the receiving chambers then the respective media or components in the receiving chambers 2 filled. Subsequently, in each case a piston 8, optionally provided in each case with the third film 9, inserted into the receiving chambers 2, which then forms the respective chamber bottom and sealing the receiving chambers 2 sealing. Often, the pistons 8 are designed as valve pistons or self-venting pistons, so that upon insertion of the pistons 8, the air present between the piston 8 and the medium can be removed. After the multicomponent cartridge 100 has been filled, it can be stored, with the cartridge wall 3 and the optionally provided protective or closure film 7 or 9 protecting the cartridge contents against outgassing or other diffusion-related influences.

In the embodiment according to Fig. 2 respectively. Fig. 4 the filling is preferably carried out from the head part 4 through the outlet 5 or the outlets 5, which are then subsequently closed, for example by means of the adapters 501, 502. The collapsible cartridges are thus preferably filled from the head part 4 from.

Referring to the Fig. 11 and 12 The use of the two-component or multi-component cartridge 100 will now be explained, the explanations applying mutatis mutandis to the same manner for all embodiments. For use of the multi-component cartridge 100, it is usually inserted into the holder of a dispensing device (dispenser) 200. Since the multi-component cartridge 100 is configured with thin cartridge walls 3 due to the film 3, a support cartridge 90 is preferably used for discharging so that the multi-component cartridge 100 can withstand the mechanical stress during discharge. Alternatively, the support function can also be integrated in the holder of the discharge device. The support cartridge 90 is designed for multiple use, it can be reused as often as desired. Like the arrow without reference in Fig. 11 indicates the multi-component cartridge 100 is first inserted into the support cartridge 90 and then inserted together with this in the holder of the discharge device 200. The shutter 60 - if any - Is removed, and in its place a mixer 70 is attached by means of its coupling piece 73 to the connector 50 ( Fig. 12 ), here with a bayonet connection. The discharge device 200 comprises a double tappet 210, which can be advanced by means of an activator 220. The double tappet 210 then exerts a force on the two pistons 8 in the receiving chambers 2 in the case of the first embodiment, whereby they move along the longitudinal axes A of the cartridges 1 and convey the respective medium through the respective outlet 5 into the static mixer 70. Here, the two media (components) meet and are intimately mixed as they pass through the mixer. If the multi-component cartridge 100 according to the second embodiment designed as a collapsible multi-component cartridge, so the double plunger 210 exerts a force on the two pistons form-solid bottom parts 6, whereby they move along the longitudinal axes A of the cartridges 1 and thereby the cartridges 1 and the receiving chambers. 2 Collapse by pushing together. By pushing together, the respective medium is conveyed through the respective outlet 5 into the static mixer 70.

This collapse of the cartridges 1 for the second embodiment of the multi-component cartridge 100 according to the invention is shown in FIG Fig. 13 illustrates where a multi-component cartridge according to the second embodiment is shown in the deflated state. It can be clearly seen how the cartridge walls 3 are each pushed together like an accordion between or above the dimensionally stable bottom part 6 and the fixed head part 4.

Claims (13)

1. A cartridge (1)

   - having at least one reception chamber (2), which extends in the longitudinal direction, for a medium to be dispensed; and

   - having a head part (4), a base part (6) and a cartridge wall (3) which bound the reception chamber (2),

   - wherein the head part (4) has an outlet (5) for the medium;

   - wherein the cartridge wall (3) is designed as a film (3);

   - wherein the head part (4) and the base part (6) are designed as respective fixed shape parts;

   - wherein the head part (4) is sealingly and non-releasably connected to the cartridge wall (3); and

   - wherein a protective film (7) is provided at the end of the reception chamber (2) bounded by the head part (4) and sealingly closes the reception chamber (2) at this end.
2. A cartridge (1) in accordance with claim 1,
   in which the cartridge wall (3) has a wall thickness (D) of at most 0.3 mm, preferably of approximately 0.1 mm.
3. A cartridge (1) in accordance with claim 1 or claim 2,
   wherein the film (3) forming the cartridge wall (3) is designed as a multilayer system.
4. A cartridge (1) in accordance with any one of the preceding claims,
   in which connection means (10) are provided by means of which the cartridge (1) can be connected to a second cartridge (1).
5. A cartridge (1) in accordance with any one of the preceding claims,
   in which the base part (6) comprises a piston (8) which can be introduced into the reception chamber (2) at the end remote from the head part (4) and which is sealingly displaceable along the cartridge wall (3) in the longitudinal direction.
6. A cartridge (1) in accordance with claim 5,
   in which a fixed shape supporting ring (11) is provided which surrounds the cartridge wall (3) from the outside at the end of the reception chamber (2) intended for the reception of the piston (8).
7. A cartridge (1) in accordance with any one of the preceding claims,
   in which a sealingly closing end film (9) is provided on the base part (6).
8. A cartridge (1) in accordance with any one of the preceding claims,
   in which the base part (6) or the supporting ring (11) is sealingly and non-releasably connected to the cartridge wall (3).
9. A multicomponent cartridge (100),
   having at least two cartridges (1),

   - wherein each cartridge (1) is designed in accordance with any one of the claims 1 to 8; and

   - wherein the two cartridges (1) are arranged next to one another with respect to the longitudinal direction.
10. A multicomponent cartridge (100) in accordance with claim 9,
    in which the two cartridges (1) are fixedly coupled to one another via the connection means (10).
11. A multicomponent cartridge (100) in accordance with one of the claims 9 or 10,

    - in which the outlets (5) of the cartridges (1) form a common connection piece (50) or are designed for the reception of a common connection piece (50),

    - with the connection piece (50) being designed for cooperating with an accessory part, in particular with a closure part (60) or with a mixer (70).
12. A multicomponent cartridge (100) in accordance with claim 11,
    having a closure part (60) which is designed for cooperating with the connection piece (50) and has two plugs (61) of which each can engage into an outlet (5) to close it.
13. A multicomponent cartridge (100) in accordance with any one of the claims 9 to 12,
    wherein the reception chambers (2) of the two cartridges (1) have different volumes.

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