EP2848320B1 - Connector for connecting a storage container to a static mixer - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a static mixer which is provided for connection to a storage container for components to be mixed, in particular a discharge cartridge or a discharge device.

A static mixer according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from US 6,161,730 A known. Another static mixer is in the WO 2007/109915 A1 described. A discharge arrangement consisting of a multi-component discharge device or a multi-component cartridge as well as a static mixer is known, for example, from US Pat EP0730913 known. According to this solution, the static mixer also comprises a connecting piece intended for assembly with a dispensing cartridge or a dispensing device. The static mixer and the connecting piece are in this case designed as a single component, which can be produced by injection molding.

A disadvantage of this embodiment is that it is difficult to manufacture this component by injection molding. In particular, if the static mixer consists of a plurality of individual mixing elements, so that the mixer has a considerable length, this complicated tools are required. The connector, which contains the channels for the two components to be mixed in the static mixer, must already be made with a tool that contains cores to make the channels. Due to the component geometry, long and complicated flow paths for the polymer melt result. The polymer melt must in any case fill the last element furthest away from the connecting piece. At the same time, it must be ensured that after completion of the injection process, the component can be cooled, so that the polymer melt, the Forming mixer, and solidify the polymer melt, which forms the connector. The required cooling times for the mixer can differ considerably from the cooling times for the connector. In particular, when the mixer is formed as a thin-walled component, the cooling time for the mixer is lower than for the connector. It follows that the mixer must remain unnecessarily long in the tool, namely, until the connector is sufficiently cooled in order to be able to be demolded dimensionally stable.

An object of the invention is to optimize the manufacture of the static mixer and the connector by injection molding. Another object of the invention is to safely avoid contamination of the mix before its proper entry into the mixer and at the same time to prevent errors during assembly. A further object is to provide a guide means and coding means, by means of which it can be avoided that the inlets tilt during assembly.

To solve these objects, a static mixer with the features of claim 1 is provided, which has an intermediate piece for the connection of the static mixer with a discharge cartridge or a dispenser for a plurality of components. The intermediate piece is no longer coupled in this form to the static mixer. That is, the intermediate piece is produced in a separate tool, preferably by injection molding. The intermediate piece includes a first channel for a first component and a second channel for a second component, the first channel passing through the intermediate piece separately from the second channel. Of course, more than two channels can be provided. A first inlet opening is provided, which opens into the first channel, and a second inlet opening, which opens into the second channel. In addition, at least one coding means is provided by means of which a correct positioning of the intermediate piece on the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge is vornehmbar.

The first inlet port may include an element such that the first inlet port may be disposed by the element in a mating position with the static mixer. The second inlet opening may also comprise such an element. The element is formed in particular by the shape of the cross-sectional area, wherein the shape of the cross-sectional area is preferably oval, round, polygonal, that is to say in particular diamond-shaped or rectangular. The shape of the cross-sectional area is thus one Optical aid for detecting the correct installation direction. The direction of installation is predetermined, since it is important in the case of reusable cartridges in particular that one channel of the intermediate piece always contains the same component. If this were not the case, the contamination could lead to a premature reaction of the two components to be mixed. In particular, when such components tend to cure, the premature reaction at individual locations may result in degrading the quality of the material or clogging channels.

The cross-sectional area of the first inlet port may differ from the cross-sectional area of the second inlet port, especially if the mixing ratio of the components is not 1: 1. In particular, the mixing ratio can be in the range from 1: 1 to 1:25, preferably in the range from 1: 1 to 1:10, according to the exemplary embodiments in FIG Fig. 15 1: 1 to 1: 3 and Fig. 16 1 : 4 to 1 : 10, so that it is advantageous if the ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the first inlet opening and the second inlet opening is adapted to the mixing ratio. In this case, it is ensured that the components get into the static mixer in the correct mixing ratio.

The first channel terminates in a first outlet port and the second channel in a second outlet port mounted on an end surface opposite to the plane defined by the first and second inlet ports. From the outlet ports, the components to be mixed enter the part of the mixer housing containing static mixers. The end face is flat according to a preferred embodiment, but may also have a guide element for deflecting the component flows, which protrudes from the end face.

The first channel has a first inlet opening and the second channel has a second inlet opening, wherein at least one of the first and the second inlet openings for receiving a plug-in element of the dispensing device or the discharge cartridge are suitable. The plug-in element of the dispensing device or of the dispensing cartridge can in particular be designed as a tubular connecting piece, which is inserted into the associated inlet opening during the assembly of cartridge and intermediate piece. The shape of the outer contour, that is, the shell of the tubular nozzle corresponds to the shape of the cross-sectional area of the inlet opening. Alternatively, at least one of the first and second inlet openings may be formed as a plug-in element for receiving in a corresponding recess of the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing device. In this case, the plug-in element, which is designed in particular as a tubular nozzle, inserted into a matching recess of the discharge cartridge or the dispensing device. A slight excess of the plug element with respect to the associated recess may be permitted. The shape of the cross-sectional area of the plug-in element corresponds to the shape of the jacket of the inlet opening delimiting the cross-sectional area of the associated inlet opening.

The intermediate piece comprises a first connection element which is intended to receive a housing of a static mixer, a flange which adjoins the first connection element and serves as a support for the housing of the static mixer, and a second connection element which adjoins the opposite side of the flange and intended for assembly with a dispenser or dispensing cartridge. The first connection element, the flange, as well as the second connection element contain the first and the second channel. In addition, the first connection element has a positioning element for aligning the static mixer with respect to the connection element, as well as the intermediate piece as a whole. Preferably, two oppositely arranged positioning elements can be provided. Of course, a plurality of positioning elements can be provided, which serve to align the mixer relative to the intermediate piece.

In particular, the positioning element can be designed as a projection. The first connection element comprises a lateral surface on which the projection is attached. Such a positioning element has the advantage that the projection during assembly is visible, so that a faulty insertion of the intermediate piece in the static mixer is unlikely. In addition, the projection would hinder the assembly, if the groove receiving it is not in the correct position, so that the mixer housing and thus the mixer can be arranged only in the allowable position relative to the intermediate piece. Of course, a plurality of permissible positions may be provided if a plurality of positioning elements is present. A number of different positioning elements may also be provided to combine the intermediate piece with static mixers of different types.

The element by means of which the inlet opening can be positioned in a suitable position relative to the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing device comprises an encoding means, so that the correct positioning of the intermediate piece on the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge can be carried out. This coding means can be additionally or alternatively formed to the inlet openings, which in turn can already serve as coding element. Such a coding means is particularly expedient if the two inlet openings or all the inlet openings are configured identically at a plurality of inlet openings.

A further advantage of the use of the element as coding means is that an alignment of the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing device to the intermediate piece can already take place before the plug element can come into contact with the associated inlet opening. In particular, the element projects beyond the inlet opening. That is, when assembling intermediate piece and discharge cartridge or Austraggerät first engages the element in a corresponding counter element on the Dispensing cartridge or dispenser before the inlet ports come into contact with the dispenser or dispensing cartridge.

For this purpose, the element is designed in particular as a groove or a projection which extends from the inlet side in the axial direction. The axial groove or the projection are arranged outside the inlet openings. On the one hand, the element can be designed as a groove into which a projection, which is arranged on the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing element, can engage. The projection may in particular be designed as an arm, which engages positively in the associated groove on the inlet side of the intermediate piece.

On the other hand, the element may be formed as a projection, in particular as an arm, which engages in an associated recess on the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing device.

This results in particular the advantage that for the coupling of static mixers with Austragkartuschen or Austraggeräten only the spacer needs to be replaced to produce any static mixer with any dispensing cartridge or a dispenser.

The element may include a first arm and a second arm having different cross-sectional areas. The arms can thus be positioned only in a single position relative to the associated recess, with the result that the intermediate piece can be mounted only in a single position relative to the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge. A faulty assembly of adapter and discharge or discharge cartridge can thus be excluded.

Advantageously, at least one of the first and second arms has a greater length than the element, so that in attempting to assemble the intermediate piece in a faulty position relative to the dispensing cartridge or the dispenser, this error is noted before the Component-containing channels of the discharge cartridge or the dispenser come into contact with the inlet side of the intermediate piece.

By using the intermediate piece, surprisingly, the cost of the system consisting of the static mixer, the intermediate piece and the discharge device or the discharge cartridge could be reduced, although the number of parts to be produced according to the invention has increased. The tools for the production of the intermediate piece, the static mixer and the housing are designed much simpler compared to the prior art.

The adapter is universally applicable and can be easily changed in its construction. Universally applicable means that any static mixers can be combined with any storage containers. It is sufficient to adapt the geometry of the inlet openings of the intermediate piece to the corresponding outlet openings of the storage container, ie the discharge cartridge or the discharge device.

For the intermediate piece no overly complicated tool is required. So far, the static mixer and the intermediate piece were made as a unit, that is, for example, in a single injection molding cycle. In particular, for thin-walled static mixer of greater length with complex geometry, the production by injection molding proves to be difficult, since a long flow path is needed with a small wall thickness, which entails not inconsiderable difficulties for the operation of the injection molding.

In particular, the combination of static mixer and intermediate piece in a single component, as is common in the prior art, is difficult to control spritzgiesstechnisch. In this case, a tool with cores and sliders must be used to make the intermediate piece, and the pressure and temperature control must be designed so that following the intermediate piece even the entire static mixer in a single injection molding cycle of a single Starting point completely filled with polymer melt, cooled and demolded. The cooling of such a complex component with different wall thicknesses and cavities is expensive. Surprisingly, it has been shown that the departure from functional integration, ie the concept of assembling an injection-molded part from as few individual parts as possible, can lead to more economical solutions. Not only is the design of the injection molds simpler, but also the parts are simpler and therefore faster to manufacture than a one-piece injection molded part. If in this case the static mixer, the housing for the static mixer and the intermediate piece are produced as individual parts, then each of the individual parts can be optimized for injection molding technology. This means that the tools for each item have simpler design, and that the cooling can be made more uniform, since the wall thickness of the items is much less variable than the wall thickness of a complex one-piece injection molding, as is common in the art.

The static mixer may find particular use for mixing a thermosetting mix of flowable components.

Another possible use of the static mixer is the mixing of impression compounds in the dental field or the mixture of multicomponent adhesives or the mixture of curing fillers in the construction sector, for example chemical anchors.

Fig. 1

einen Schnitt durch einen statischen Mischer mit einem Zwischenstück gemäss der Erfindung

Fig. 2

einen Schnitt durch ein Zwischenstück gemäss des Ausführungsbeispiels nach Fig. 1 oder Fig. 13 oder Fig. 14.

Fig. 3

eine Ansicht auf das Zwischenstück nach Fig. 2 gemäss einer ersten Variante gesehen von der Einlassseite.

Fig. 4

einen Schnitt durch ein Zwischenstück gemäss eines zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels

Fig. 5

eine Ansicht auf das Zwischenstück des zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels gemäss Fig. 4.

Fig. 6

eine Ansicht auf das Zwischenstück des zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels nach der Fig. 4 in einer Ansicht auf die Einlassseite

Fig. 7

eine Ansicht eines Zwischenstücks 4 gemäss eines dritten Ausführungsbeispiels.

Fig. 8a

zeigt die Ansicht auf die Eingangsseite des Zwischenstücks gemäss des Ausführungsbeispiels nach Fig. 7.

Fig. 8b

die Ansicht der Ausgangsseite des Zwischenstücks gemäss des Ausführungsbeispiels nach Fig. 7.

Fig. 9

ein Zwischenstück 4 nach einem vierten Ausführungsbeispiel, welches mit einem statischen Mischer und einem Austraggerät oder einer Austragkartusche verbunden ist.

Fig. 10

das Zwischenstück 4 gemäss Fig. 9 sowie den gesamten statischen Mischer und das Austraggerät oder die Austragkartusche.

Fig. 11

eine vergrösserte Darstellung des Zwischenstücks gemäss Fig. 9

Fig. 12

eine Ansicht auf die Einlassseite des Zwischenstücks gemäss Fig. 9 bis Fig. 11

Fig. 13

ein Zwischenstück nach einem fünften Ausführungsbeispiel, welches mit einem statischen Mischer und einem Austraggerät oder einer Austragkartusche verbunden und nicht erfindungsgemäß ist.

Fig. 14

das Zwischenstück gemäss Fig. 13 sowie den gesamten statischen Mischer und das Austraggerät oder die Austragkartusche.

Fig. 15

eine vergrösserte Darstellung des Zwischenstücks gemäss Fig. 13

Fig. 16

eine Ansicht auf die Einlassseite des Zwischenstücks gemäss Fig. 13 bis Fig. 15

The invention will be explained with reference to the drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

a section through a static mixer with an intermediate piece according to the invention

Fig. 2

a section through an intermediate piece according to the embodiment according to Fig. 1 or FIG. 13 or FIG. 14 ,

Fig. 3

a view of the spacer after Fig. 2 according to a first variant seen from the inlet side.

Fig. 4

a section through an intermediate piece according to a second embodiment

Fig. 5

a view of the intermediate piece of the second embodiment according to Fig. 4 ,

Fig. 6

a view of the intermediate piece of the second embodiment of the Fig. 4 in a view on the inlet side

Fig. 7

a view of an intermediate piece 4 according to a third embodiment.

Fig. 8a

shows the view on the input side of the intermediate piece according to the embodiment according to Fig. 7 ,

Fig. 8b

the view of the output side of the intermediate piece according to the embodiment according to Fig. 7 ,

Fig. 9

an intermediate piece 4 according to a fourth embodiment, which is connected to a static mixer and a discharge device or a discharge cartridge.

Fig. 10

the intermediate piece 4 according Fig. 9 as well as the entire static mixer and the dispenser or the dispensing cartridge.

Fig. 11

an enlarged view of the intermediate piece according to Fig. 9

Fig. 12

a view of the inlet side of the intermediate piece according Fig. 9 to Fig. 11

Fig. 13

an intermediate piece according to a fifth embodiment, which is connected to a static mixer and a discharge device or a discharge cartridge and not according to the invention.

Fig. 14

the intermediate piece according to Fig. 13 as well as the entire static mixer and the dispenser or the dispensing cartridge.

Fig. 15

an enlarged view of the intermediate piece according to Fig. 13

Fig. 16

a view of the inlet side of the intermediate piece according FIGS. 13 to 15

Fig. 1 shows a section through a static mixer 1 with an intermediate piece 4 according to a first embodiment of the invention. This static mixer 1 for a dispensing cartridge or a dispensing device for a plurality of components comprises a mixer housing 2 which contains at least one static mixing element 3, in particular can be constructed from a plurality of mixing elements, so that preferably a number of similar mixing elements forms a group of mixing elements. Such mixing elements are for example from the EP749776 B or the EP1426099 B1 known or formed in the illustration as a helical mixer with a helical structure. The mixer has the function of mixing the individual components well, so that a substantially homogeneous mixture is formed. The in Fig. 1 shown mixer can be used for the mixture of two or more components in the same way. The components may be in a mixing ratio to each other, which deviates from a 1: 1 mixing ratio. The static mixer according to Fig. 1 is attached to a dispensing cartridge or a dispenser for two components by means of an annular Coupling element 5 attached. The coupling element 5 contains the inlet region of the housing 2 of the static mixer and the intermediate piece 4, which contains a first channel 30 and a second channel 40, which each leads a component to the static mixer. Of course, more than two channels may also be contained in the intermediate piece 4 if more than two components are to be supplied to the static mixer 1 separately from one another. The coupling element 5 can be fastened, for example, by means of a bayonet fastening means 6, 7 on the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing device. According to an embodiment, not shown, the coupling element could also have a connecting element which engages in counter-element of the discharge or the Austragkartusche, for example, to form a latching connection. The static mixer 1 is thus fastened by means of the coupling element 5 together with the intermediate piece 4 to the discharge cartridge or the dispensing device. For this purpose, the inlet region of the housing 2 of the static mixer has an inlet end 10, which serves to receive the intermediate piece 4. The intermediate piece comprises a first connection element 24 and a second connection element 25, which are separated from one another by a retaining flange 9. The first connection element 24 is accommodated in the interior of the inlet region and can be held in the inlet end 10 by a retaining flange 14, which engages in a circumferential groove 15 of the inlet end 10. The first connection element 24 is thus intended to receive a housing of a static mixer. The adjoining the first connecting element 24 flange 9 serves as a support for the inlet end 10 of the housing of the static mixer. The first connecting element 24 and the second connecting element 25 are cylindrical in this embodiment, could also have a quadrangular, diamond-shaped, rectangular, round, oval or another, matching the associated inlet end 10 cross-sectional area with the same operation. The first connection element 24 has a positioning element 29 for aligning the static mixer with respect to the Connection element on. Also several, in particular two positioning elements can be provided. This measure is advantageously used in mixers in which the mixing quality changes depending on the position of the mixing elements to the position of the intermediate piece. In particular, the positioning element 29 indicates the optimum position of the static mixer 1 with respect to the intermediate piece 4. For this purpose, the positioning element 29 as a projection 50 (see Fig. 7 ), which also visibly shows the position of the static mixer 1 with respect to the intermediate piece 4 and thus also provides assistance for the assembly. The first connection element 24 comprises a lateral surface 51, on which the projection 50 is attached. The second connection element 25 adjoins the opposite side of the flange 9 and is intended for assembly with a dispensing device or a dispensing cartridge.

According to another variant, in particular in Fig. 5 1, the first or the second outlet opening 32, 42 may be configured such that it can be aligned in a suitable position relative to the static mixer. In particular, the shape of the cross-sectional area of at least one of the first or second outlet openings 32, 42 is preferably not rotationally symmetrical, in particular oval or rectangular or diamond-shaped. The first connection element 24, the flange 9, as well as the second connection element 25 contain the first and the second channel 30, 40. The second connection element 25 may comprise a coding means. The intermediate piece 4 is in particular designed such that the first channel 30 has a first center axis 33 and the second channel 40 has a second center axis 43. The second connection element 25 comprises a first coding means 60, 61 and optionally a second coding means 60, 65, the first coding means 60, 61 being opposite one another with respect to a plane which is spanned by the first and second central axes 33, 43 of the channels 30, 40 is arranged to the second coding means 60,65. (see in particular Fig. 2 . 3 such as Fig. 8 ) In particular, the first coding means 60 is formed as an arm 61, wherein the arm can also be referred to as a web. The first arm 61 has a finger element 62 which is intended to engage in an associated recess of the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge. Finger member 62 may be formed as an axial ledge intended to engage an associated groove of the dispenser or dispensing cartridge.

The coding means 60 can also be designed as a groove in the outer jacket of the second connection element 25, which is not shown here in the drawing.

It could also be provided only a single coding means 60. If two or more coding means 60 are provided, the coding means also need not be arranged opposite each other. If two or more coding means are provided, the cross-sectional area of at least one of the coding means should be different from the cross-sectional area, or the further coding means, in particular if the coding means are arranged symmetrically to each other.

Alternatively, a plurality of coding means 60 may also have an asymmetrical arrangement on the inlet side. Due to the asymmetrical arrangement, which is found in the same way on the Austragkartusche or the dispensing device, a clear positioning of the intermediate piece and thus connectable with the intermediate static mixer to the discharge cartridge or the dispenser can be done.

The cross-sectional area of the first inlet port 31 may differ from the cross-sectional area of the second inlet port 41. The element 16 has the function of an optical coding means in this embodiment. An example designed as an oval, polygonal, in particular square or diamond-shaped cross-sectional area element 16 is optically clearly visible, so that the static mixer 1 in Assembly in a unique position to the element 16 can be aligned. The shape of the cross-sectional area of at least one of the first or second inlet openings (31, 41) is preferably not rotationally symmetrical, in particular oval or polygonal, in particular rectangular or diamond-shaped.

The intermediate piece 4 is held over the retaining flange 14 in the housing 2 of the mixer. The flange 9 is adapted to the inlet end 10 of the housing 2 and abuts against a shoulder 11 of the inner wall of the coupling element 5. The intermediate piece 4 has an end face 20 on its outlet-side end plate. This end face 20 may be equipped with a guide element, which is designed in particular as a separating edge 17 and / or as a partial barrier 18, for deflecting the component flows, so that the components flow substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 27 of the mixer and parallel to the end face 20 against a divider edge 8 have to. The divider edge 8 is the edge 4 of the first static mixing element 3 facing the intermediate piece 4, which comes into contact with the two components.

The end face 20 contains the two outlet openings 31, 41 of the channels 30, 40. The dividing edge 17 is attached to the end face 20 in such a way that each component which exits through the two outlet openings 31, 41 is already divided into two partial streams by the dividing edge 17. in particular two halves, is divided. The component streams of each of the components combine in a collection chamber 23. Subsequently, the streams in the collection chamber are divided again by the divider edge 8 of the static mixer. Advantageously, the separating edge 17 and the divider edge 8 are normal to each other. This has the advantage that the component flow is subdivided into two partial flows which differ in their composition from the partial flows generated by the separating edge 17. This results in a first mixing stage even before the entry of the components in the static mixing elements 3 of the static mixer 1. In particular, when the mixing ratio of the components of a 1: 1 Mixing ratio is different, corresponds to the division of each component into at least two partial streams and the subsequent union of each of the partial streams of a first mixing stage, because then ensures that the component having the smaller volume fraction, to uniform parts enters the first mixing element 3 of the static mixer , Each of the partial streams thus contains a proportion of the first and the second component, which corresponds to the mixing ratio. By this first mixing stage thus the entry conditions are improved in the static mixer. In addition to the separating edge 17, a partial barrier 18 and further internals for diverting the flow in the direction of the two subspaces of the mixing chamber of the static mixer subdivided by the dividing edge 8 may be provided.

The separating edge 17 extends according to Fig. 1 from the end face 20 to a shoulder 22 of the housing 2 of the static mixer, which encloses the collecting space 23. The shoulder 22 connects the inlet area of the housing 2, which extends from the inlet end 10 to an inner surface 21, with the mixing space containing the static mixing elements 3.

During assembly, the mixer elements 3 are positioned in the housing 2 of the static mixer 1 in a first step. In a second step, the intermediate piece 4 is connected to the inlet region 26 of the housing 2, for example via the retaining flange 14, which is intended for engagement in the groove 15, which runs along the inner wall of the inlet region 26. For this purpose, the element 16 is optically aligned with the static mixer, so that the static mixer 1 and the intermediate piece 4 are assembled in exactly one matching position to each other. Then, the static mixer 1 and the intermediate piece 4 are inserted into the coupling element 5. The intermediate piece 4 is provided with a flange 9 which engages in a groove 13 which is located on the inside of the wall 12. The coupling element 5 is then connected via the bayonet fastening means 6, 7 with the discharge device or the discharge cartridge. This connection only comes about if that Coding means 60 engages in a receiving means of the discharge or the Austragkartusche. In this condition, the system is ready to mix the components.

Fig. 2 shows a section through an intermediate piece according to the embodiment according to Fig. 1 or FIG. 13 or FIG. 14 , The intermediate piece 4 is constructed from the first connection element 24, the flange 9 and the second connection element 25. Several channels 30,40 pass through the first connection element 24, the flange 9 and the second connection element 25. Through the channels 30, 40 components to be mixed are passed from a dispenser or a dispensing cartridge to a static mixer 1, in which the two components to each other meet and be mixed. There are a variety of different dispensers or Austragkartuschen, which serve the storage and transport of the individual components. Furthermore, different types of static mixers are used depending on the desired mixing ratio and required throughput. These static mixers can differ in terms of their installations, whereby the flow velocity and the flow guidance changes, they can have different outer diameters, so that different volume flows can be processed, thus achieving a characteristic throughput for the type of static mixer. Depending on requirements, a variety of combination options are thus available to the user. But in order to combine any dispensing or dispensing cartridges with any mixer, the spacer 4 is used. The channels 30, 40 of the intermediate piece 4 have inlet openings 31, 41, which engage in a discharge means of a discharge device or discharge cartridge or in which a discharge means can engage. In the illustration according to Fig. 2 the second connection element 25 is constructed from two pipe sections 34, 44 which project away from the inlet side 52 of the flange 9. These tube pieces 34, 44 are received during assembly with a dispensing device or a dispensing cartridge from corresponding outlet openings of the discharge, so in Therefore, they represent an embodiment of a plug-in connection. So that the intermediate piece 4 is in the correct position to the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge, a coding means 60 may be provided.

The coding means 60 comprises an arm 61 which projects from the flange 9 in the direction of the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge. The arm 61 is attached to the inlet side 52 of flange 9. The arm 61 includes a finger member 62 formed, for example, as a bead, ledge, or protrusion which engages an associated groove or recess of the dispenser or dispensing cartridge when the adapter 4 is assembled with the dispenser or dispensing cartridge. Opposite the arm 61, another arm 65 may be provided, which in Fig. 3 is indicated. This arm 65 also includes an engagement element, which is designed here as a recess 66. If two arms 61, 65 are provided, they should differ from one another in such a way that already the correct position of the intermediate piece to the discharge device or the discharge cartridge can be determined visually. This means that the finger element can be seen as a bulge, groin or bead, and the arm 65 has a recess. Thus, mistakes in assembly can be avoided. In addition, due to the different configuration of the first arm 61 with respect to a possible second arm an aid for the optical detection of the correct position. Furthermore, the arm 61 is longer than the plug-in elements, ie the pipe pieces 34, 44, so that the position of the intermediate piece is fixed relative to the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge, before engagement of the pipe sections 34, 44 takes place with the outlet openings of the discharge or the Austragkartusche. Of course, one coding means after all else in connection with Fig. 1 be provided variants described.

Fig. 3 shows a view of the spacer 4 after Fig. 2 according to a first variant seen from the inlet side 21, so the side to which the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge is to be attached. The intermediate piece 4 comprises the second connection element 25, which comprises an end face 19 which contains the inlet openings 31, 41. At least one of the inlet ports 31, 41 is configured as an element 16 which allows optical alignment with the static mixer. According to this embodiment, the first inlet opening 31 has an oval cross-sectional area and the second inlet opening has a diamond-shaped cross-sectional area. Furthermore, the position of the coding means 60 is shown, which in connection with Fig. 2 is described, with reference to the description Fig. 2 should be referenced.

Fig. 4 shows a section through an intermediate piece according to a second embodiment. Parts of the intermediate piece 4, which have the same function as in Fig. 2 have the same reference numerals and reference is made to the description of Fig. 2 directed. In contrast to Fig. 2 the diameters of the first and second channels (30, 40) are of the same order of magnitude. In this case, the two components are preferably in a mixing ratio which lies in a range from 1: 1 to 2: 1 inclusive. At least one of the first or the second inlet openings 31, 41 is suitable for receiving a plug-in element of the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge. The plug-in element of the dispensing device or the dispensing cartridge is in Fig. 4 indicated by dashed lines. It may be tubular nozzle, which project through the inlet openings 31, 41 in the channels 30, 40. Furthermore, an encoding means 60 is shown which, as in FIG Fig. 1-3 is constructed and will not be described in detail.

Fig. 5 shows a view of the intermediate piece according to the second embodiment Fig. 4 , In Fig. 5 the mixer-side view of the intermediate piece 4 is shown, ie its outlet side. Accordingly, the first outlet port 32 of the first channel 30 and the second Outlet opening 42 of the second channel 40 on the end face 20 visible. The first channel 30 in this case has a larger cross-sectional area than the second channel 40. Both channels have, as in Fig. 4 shown, circular inlet openings 31, 41, in Fig. 5 partially visible. However, the outlet openings 32, 42 have an elliptical cross-sectional area. In this case, a circular cross-sectional area in the region of the outlet openings would result in insufficient space for an optional separating edge 18 being available or that the outlets would overlap. Therefore, an oval or elliptical cross-sectional area is provided for the outlet opening, the size of which corresponds to the cross-sectional area of the corresponding circular area having the corresponding inlet opening. In the case of Fig. 5 the first channel 30 has a larger cross-sectional area than the second channel 40. A positioning element 29 has been arranged opposite to a second positioning element 28, which is similar to the positioning element according to FIG Fig. 3 can be trained.

Fig. 6 shows a view of the intermediate piece of the second embodiment of the Fig. 4 in a view on the inlet side 21 of the intermediate piece, which is opposite to the discharge cartridge or the dispensing device. In contrast to Fig. 5 For example, the outlet opening 42 of the channel 40 was not ovalized. In this case, sufficient space is available for the outlet opening 42 so that a circular cross-sectional area can be used, which can be produced less expensively. On the right side of the Fig. 6 shown oval cross-sectional area of the outlet opening 32 of the channel 30, is thus used only in the case in which the space on the end face 20 is not sufficient to provide any part locks and / or separating edges or to ensure that the mixing ratio of the ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the first and second outlet openings (32, 42) corresponds. In particular, at mixing ratios ranging from 4: 1 to 10: 1 or more, the channel of smaller cross-sectional area, in this case the channel 40 of such small cross-section, is the transition to an outlet opening with an oval Cross-section for reasons of better utilization of the space on the end face 20 is not required. In addition, two opposite coding means 60 are shown, referring to the description of Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 is referenced.

Fig. 7 shows a view of an intermediate piece 4 according to a third embodiment. The intermediate piece 4 also in this case includes a channel 30 and a channel 40, wherein the cross-sectional area of the channel 30 differs significantly from the cross-sectional area of the channel 40. In addition, it is shown that the channel 40 has a cone visible in the illustration. This cone ensures the gradual transformation of the circular cross-sectional area of the inlet opening 31 into a cross-sectional area which forms the outlet opening 32. The outlet opening 32 encloses the outlet opening 42. In the assembled state, tubular plug-in elements of the dispensing appliance or the dispensing cartridge engage in the inlet openings 31, 41, as in FIG Fig. 4 is shown.

Fig. 8a shows the view of the input side of the intermediate piece 4 according to the embodiment according to Fig. 7 , In particular, here the second connection element 25 is visible, which contains the first and second channels 30, 40, as well as the associated inlet openings 31, 41. In addition, the coding means 60 are visible, which in connection with Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 have been described, thus the intermediate piece 4 does not differ on its input side of the embodiment according to Fig. 6 , Also in this case, the flange 9 simultaneously forms the connection element 25. As in previous embodiments, the connection element 25 can also extend as a cylindrical body from the flange 9 in the direction of the input side.

Fig. 8b shows the view of the output side of the intermediate piece 4 according to the embodiment according to Fig. 7 , In this case, the outlet opening 32 lies within the outlet opening 42. The inlet opening 41 belonging to the outlet opening 42 is visible in this illustration, because the Cross-sectional area of the channel 40 extending from the inlet opening extended, in particular continuously expanded. If one were to cut the two channels 30, 40 along a plane which contains the central axes 33, 43 of the channels 30, 40, a substantially conical cross-sectional profile may result, at least for the channel 40.

Fig. 9 shows an intermediate piece 4 according to a fourth embodiment, which is connected to a static mixer 1 and a dispensing device or a dispensing cartridge. In this illustration, similar to that in the expanded Fig. 7 . 8a . 8b illustrated variant of the cross section of a channel, here the channel 30, from the inlet opening 31 to the outlet opening 32. This embodiment is particularly suitable for mixing ratios which are 4: 1 to 10: 1. In Fig. 9 two connection elements 25 are provided which, as in FIG Fig. 2 are formed as pipe sections 34, 44 and are suitable for receiving in a corresponding outlet opening of the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing device.

Fig. 10 shows the spacer 4 according to Fig. 9 and the entire static mixer 1 and the dispenser or the dispensing cartridge.

The intermediate piece 4 according Fig. 9 is injection molding technology optimized, which is based on the representation according to Fig. 11 even more clearly expressed. Fig. 11 is an enlarged view of the intermediate piece after Fig. 10 , The wall thicknesses of the pipe sections 34, 44 essentially correspond to the wall thicknesses of the connecting element 24 surrounding the channels 30, 40.

The channels 30, 40 have a curved course. The curvatures are required to adjust the spacing of the center axes of the inlet openings 31, 41 to the distance between the center axes of the outlet openings 32, 42. The distance between the center axes of the inlet openings 31, 41 is predetermined, since it must match the corresponding distance of the outlet openings of the discharge cartridge or the dispensing device. The course of the curves is preferably such that a minimal pressure loss occurs in the channel.

An element 60, which is used as coding means, projects beyond the inlet openings, as already described in connection with the preceding exemplary embodiments. It comprises a finger element 62, which is designed as a projection and which is intended for engagement in a corresponding recess of the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing device.

Fig. 12 shows a view of the inlet side of the intermediate piece of Fig. 11 , To the description of the elements designated by the same reference numerals is on Fig. 6 directed. The embodiment according to Fig. 12 differs from Fig. 6 such that the inlet openings 31, 41 are formed as pipe sections 34, 44. The space between the pipe sections 34, 44 is not filled with material, that is, accumulations of material are avoided in order to reduce the consumption of material and to achieve shorter cycle times in the injection molding process.

Fig. 13 shows an intermediate piece 4 according to a fifth embodiment, which is connected to a static mixer 1 and a discharge device or a discharge cartridge. This embodiment is particularly suitable for mixing ratios that are 1: 1 to 1: 3. In Fig. 9 two connection elements 25 are provided which, as in FIG Fig. 2 are formed as pipe sections 34, 44 and are suitable for receiving in a corresponding outlet opening of the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing device.

Fig. 14 shows the spacer 4 according to Fig. 13 and the entire static mixer 1 and the dispenser or the dispensing cartridge.

The intermediate piece 4 according Fig. 13 is injection molding technology optimized, which is based on the representation according to Fig. 15 even more clearly expressed. Fig. 15 is an enlarged view of the intermediate piece after Fig. 13 , The wall thicknesses of the pipe sections 34, 44 essentially correspond to the wall thicknesses of the connecting element 24 surrounding the channels 30, 40. The channels 30, 40 have a curved course. The curvatures are required to adjust the spacing of the center axes of the inlet openings 31, 41 to the distance between the center axes of the outlet openings 32, 42. The distance between the center axes of the inlet openings 31, 41 is predetermined, since it must match the corresponding distance of the outlet openings of the discharge cartridge or the dispensing device. The course of the curves is preferably such that a minimal pressure loss occurs in the channel.

An element 60, which is used as the coding means, projects beyond the inlet openings 31, 41, as already described in connection with the preceding exemplary embodiments. It comprises a finger element 62, which is designed as a projection and which is intended for engagement in a corresponding recess of the dispensing cartridge or the dispensing device.

Fig. 16 shows a view of the inlet side of the intermediate piece of Fig. 15 , To the description of the elements designated by the same reference numerals is on Fig. 6 such as Fig. 12 directed. The embodiment according to Fig. 15 differs from Fig. 12 in such a way that the inlet openings are of the same order of magnitude. In Fig. 16 two opposite coding means 60 are also shown. The two coding elements 60 have finger elements 62, 63. The first finger element 62 differs in shape from the second finger element 63. The first finger element 62 has a smaller wall thickness than the second finger element 63. For both finger elements corresponding recesses are provided on the discharge cartridge or the dispensing device, in which exactly one of the two finger element fits. If the intermediate piece 4 is not inserted in the correct position in the discharge cartridge or the dispensing device, the finger elements do not fit into the corresponding opening so that a mistake in assembly is noticed before the inlet openings 31, 41 with come into contact with the filling material of the discharge cartridge or the dispensing device.

Claims (13)

1. A static mixer which is provided for a connection to a dispensing cartridge or to a dispensing device for a plurality of components, comprising

   - a mixing element (3);

   - a mixer housing (2);

   - an intermediate piece (4); and

   - a coupling element (5),

   wherein the mixing element (3) is arranged within the mixer housing (2) and the intermediate piece (4) is arranged within the coupling element (5);
   the coupling element (5) is provided for fastening the mixer to the dispensing cartridge or to the dispensing device and the intermediate piece (4) has a first passage (30) for a first component and a second passage (40) for a second component; wherein the first passage (30) passes through the intermediate piece separately from the second passage (40); wherein a first inlet opening (31) is provided which opens into the first passage (30) and a second inlet opening (41) is provided which opens into the second passage (40); and wherein at least one encoding means (16, 60) is provided by means of which a correct positioning of the intermediate piece (4) on the dispensing cartridge or dispensing device can be carried out,
   characterized in that
   the intermediate piece (4) has a first connection element (24) which is intended for receiving the mixer housing (2) and which has a positioning element (29) for aligning the mixer housing (2) with respect to the connection element (24).
2. A static mixer in accordance with claim 1, wherein the encoding means (16) is formed by the shape of the cross-sectional surface of the first inlet opening (31).
3. A static mixer in accordance with claim 2, wherein the cross-sectional surface of at least one of the first and second inlet openings (31, 41) is oval, round or polygonal, in particular diamond shaped or rectangular.
4. A static mixer in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first and second inlet openings (31, 41) is suitable for receiving a plug-in element of the dispensing device or of the dispensing cartridge.
5. A static mixer in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the encoding means (16) comprises at least one of the first and second inlet openings (31, 41) and is configured as a plug-in element for reception in a corresponding cut-out of the dispensing cartridge or of the dispensing device.
6. A static mixer in accordance with claim 5, wherein the plug-in element is made as a tubular support (34, 44).
7. A static mixer in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, comprising a flange (9) which adjoins the first connection element (24) and which serves as a support for the housing (2) of the static mixer; and a second connection element (25) which adjoins the opposite side of the flange (9) and which is intended for assembly with a dispensing device or with a dispensing cartridge, wherein the first connection element (24), the flange (9) and the second connection element (25) include the first and second passages (30, 40).
8. A static mixer in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the positioning element (29) is configured as a projection (50).
9. A static mixer in accordance with claim 8, wherein the first connection element (24) comprises a jacket surface (51) to which the projection (50) is attached.
10. A static mixer in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the encoding means (60) comprises an axial groove or a projection on the inlet side (21) outside the inlet opening (31, 41).
11. A static mixer in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, wherein the encoding means (60) comprises a first arm (61) and a second arm (65) which have different cross-sectional surfaces.
12. A static mixer in accordance with claim 11, wherein the first arm (61) is arranged opposite the second arm (65) with respect to a sectional plane which includes the axes of the first and second passages (30, 40).
13. A static mixer in accordance with claim 11 or claim 12, wherein at least one of the first or second arms (61, 65) has a greater length than a plug-in element which comprises at least one of the first and second inlet openings (31, 41).

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