EP3461760A2 - Container and device for dosing liquid media - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a stand-up pouch (1) for receiving a flowable composition having two ports (2, 3) and a container system for a flowable composition with such a stand-up pouch. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a device for volumetric metering of a flowable composition with a recirculating container system according to the invention and a method for mixing a color formulation.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a stand-up pouch for receiving a flowable composition having two ports and a container system for a flowable composition with such a stand-up pouch. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a device for volumetric metering of a flowable composition with a recirculating container system according to the invention and a method for mixing a color formulation.

STATE OF THE ART

Conventional metering devices for liquid media generally have at least one reservoir, which is driven to remove the medium via mechanical or electrical pumps. These are usually open systems in which the reservoirs are filled from the outside. For example, the containers have removable lids. Special requirements are placed on dosing systems for liquid media which contain solid particles or which potentially have the possibility of solid particles forming in them. These include z. Suspension, d. H. Dispersions of insoluble solid particles in liquids, but also partially solidified melts or liquid media with solid particles resulting from crystallization of a liquid originally dissolved in the solid. The metering systems for such media have z. As containers containing a mechanical agitator to reduce settling of the solid or at best to avoid. With the pumps connected to the containers, the media are conveyed in the desired (that is to say to be metered) quantity into a storage container (dosing template) and optionally combined with other media to form the desired product. In most conventional systems, the production of a particular product mixture is sequentially from individual doses, that is, each of the individual components required to produce a particular product mixture is added in succession from the respective container. In these systems, the reservoir and the metering device structurally form a unit.

Previous metering devices have many disadvantages. Thus, many conventional metering devices usually do not allow simultaneous metering of the individual components. Other, self-dosing devices are open systems in which the reservoirs have to be filled from the outside. In open systems There is a risk that the media in the containers thicken, since liquid can evaporate. The not clearly quantified fluid loss is not taken into account in the dosage. Due to the increasing solids content of the medium over time, this leads to the products having different compositions at the same dosage. In the worst case, the media are thickened so that a pump delivery is no longer possible and / or the agitator mechanism is blocked or destroyed. This may result in the entire affected dosing unit (container with stirring device, lines, pump) having to be replaced.

The use of storage containers, which are filled directly with the liquid medium, has further disadvantages. Thus, it often happens that during filling the dosing material is poured next to the containers, the components are filled into the wrong containers or the containers overflow when filling. Even in such cases, the container system must be laboriously cleaned or even replaced.

Further disadvantages of conventional metering devices arise from the fact that the media often dry in the metering valves and / or clog them. The metering valves then do not work reliably, have to be laboriously cleaned and often replaced.

The EP 2067716 describes a container system comprising a dimensionally stable container and a two-port flexible bag disposed in the container. The container system described is suitable for use in a closed circuit in which a liquid medium, in particular a settling-prone medium can be homogenized by circulation without the use of an agitator.

In particular, the timely replacement of the paint bag has proven to be expensive in the known devices and methods. Residues remaining in the bag are usually lost or need to be pumped.

Surprisingly, it has now been found that a container system which has a stand-up pouch with two connections arranged one above the other is particularly advantageous for use in a dosing device for settling-prone liquid media. The container system is designed so that the circulation, liquid phase separation, sedimentation, crystallization and drying of settling media are virtually eliminated by circulation of the liquid media. The use of a stirrer can be dispensed with.

In addition, it has been found that the use of a stand-up pouch and, if appropriate, the integration of a buffer container and / or a vacuum switch into the dosing circuit allows the residual emptying of the pouches to be improved while correct completion of color tone preparations. The emptying of the used stand-up pouches can be carried out up to almost complete emptying of the pouches so that no unused residual quantities remain in the pouches.

When using systems in which the reservoirs are filled from the outside, there is also the risk of contaminating the liquid media by unwanted matter or contaminated by microorganisms and / or other harmful substances.

Surprisingly, it has been found that the materials for the pouches can be selected such that sterilization of the pouch contents, for example by irradiation, is possible.

The stand-up pouch according to the invention or the container system according to the invention advantageously make it possible to homogenize sedimentation-prone fluids while maximizing residual emptying, even under sterile conditions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first subject of the present invention is a stand-up pouch for receiving a flowable composition having a first connection in its lower region and a second connection, which is arranged above the first connection at least when the stand-up pouch is completely filled.

The connections of the stand-up pouch are preferably selected from rotary, plug-in, clamped, screwed connections and combinations thereof.

Another object of the present invention is a container system for a flowable composition with a stand-up bag according to the invention in a receiving device, a conveyor, a withdrawal line from the first terminal of the stand-up pouch, and a supply line to the second terminal of the stand-up pouch. In this case, the receiving device preferably has a recess which corresponds to the first connection of the stand-up pouch.

Another object of the present invention is a device for volumetric dosing a flowable composition with a recirculating container system according to the invention and an outgoing from the circulation dosing.

• Wählen eines Farbmusters,
• Dosieren von Farbstoffzusammensetzungen aus einem Standbodenbeutel oder aus mehreren Standbodenbeuteln, mit einem ersten Anschluss im unteren Bereich und einem zweiten Anschluss, der zumindest bei vollständiger Befüllung des Standbodenbeutels oberhalb des ersten Anschlusses angeordnet ist, über zwei oder mehr Vorrichtungen zum volumetrischen Dosieren, wobei die Vorrichtungen zum volumetrischen Dosieren einen Kreislauf für die fließfähige Zusammensetzung mit einem in den Kreislauf integrierten Behältersystem und eine von dem Kreislauf abgehende Dosierstrecke umfassen, und wobei das Behältersystem
  • - eine Aufnahmevorrichtung mit dem darin angeordneten Standbodenbeutel,
  • - eine Fördereinrichtung,
  • - eine Entnahmeleitung vom ersten Anschluss des Standbodenbeutels,
  • - eine Zuführleitung zum zweiten Anschluss des Standbodenbeutels, umfasst, und wobei das Dosieren in einen geeigneten Behälter entsprechend dem gewählten Farbmuster erfolgt, und
• anschließendes Konfektionieren der dosierten Farbstoffzusammensetzungen in dem Behälter zu der gewünschten Farbformulierung.

A further subject of the present invention is a process for producing a color formulation comprising the following steps:

• Choosing a color pattern,
• Dosing dye compositions from a stand-up pouch or a plurality of stand-up pouches, with a first port in the lower region and a second port, which is arranged at least when fully filled the stand-up pouch above the first port, two or more devices for volumetric dosing, the devices for volumetric dosing comprise a circuit for the flowable composition with a recirculating container system and a dosing path extending from the circuit, and wherein the container system
  • a receiving device with the stand-up pouch arranged therein,
  • - a conveyor,
  • a withdrawal line from the first port of the stand-up pouch,
  • a feed line to the second port of the stand-up pouch comprises, and wherein the dosing into a suitable container takes place in accordance with the selected color pattern, and
• then tailoring the metered dye compositions in the container to the desired color formulation.

The invention is especially suitable for settling hazardous flowable compositions.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The stand-up bag according to the invention for accommodating a flowable composition has a first connection in its lower region and a second connection, which is arranged above the first connection at least when the stand-up pouch is completely filled. Here are the connections independently selected under turn, plug, clamp, screw connections and any combinations thereof.

Stand-up bags within the meaning of the present invention are understood to be bags which are commercially available under this name. The term stand-up pouch (also known as "stand-up pouch" or SUP briefly) refers to a self-standing bag for the transport and / or storage of liquid and free-flowing materials. Since these bags can stand without aids, for example on store shelves, they have meanwhile become established as an alternative to bag-in-box packaging systems. Commercially available stand-up pouches often have additional application-friendly features such as zipper reclosure, valves, tear notches, etc. Usual stand-up pouches may have a plough bottom or an inserted bottom. The block bottom is made of a folded piece and sealed in the bag profile. Stand-up pouches with an inserted bottom have a bottom brim that forms the body's center of gravity and enables a secure position of the pouch. According to the invention, stand-up pouches with inserted bottom are preferably used.

The bag according to the invention can be designed in one or more layers. The individual layers can be made of the same or different materials. The bag according to the invention is preferably made of film. As the material for the films, plastics, composites such as metal composites are preferably used. Materials suitable for the respective intended use are sufficiently known to the person skilled in the art.

In the context of the present invention, a flowable composition is generally understood to mean a flowable medium which has at least one liquid phase or at least one particulate phase or a combination of at least one liquid phase and at least one particulate phase. Preferably, the flowable composition has at least one liquid phase. Specifically, the flowable composition is a single or multi-phase liquid. Examples of flowable compositions are solutions, emulsions (biphasic and multiphase liquids), suspensions, dispersions and other liquid media. A flowable composition may contain particulates or potentially have the potential for particulate matter to form therein. These include z. As suspensions, that is, dispersions of insoluble solid particles in liquids, but also partially solidified melts or liquid media with solid particles from the crystallization of a liquid in the originally dissolved solid result. The flowable composition may also be a mixture of finely divided solids, such as powder or granules. The flowable composition may be endangered, ie tend to form a solid sediment. In particular, the flowable composition may be a dye composition. The viscosities of flowable compositions can vary within a wide range, ranging from light to viscous / pasty.

The connections may be conventional connections known to the person skilled in the art and commercially available. These include z. As taps, such as taps, lids, such as IBC caps, hoses, couplings or other Konnektierungen.

The connections are preferably selected independently of one another under taps, lids, in particular IBC closures, hoses, one-sided or double-sided blocking couplings and combinations thereof.

The connections can be permanently sealed to the material of the stand-up pouch by technical methods known to the person skilled in the art, such as, for example, welding, gluing, vulcanization, etc.

In a preferred embodiment of the self-supporting bag according to the invention, the first connection for removal and the second connection for supplying a flowable composition are provided.

In a likewise preferred embodiment of the self-supporting bag according to the invention, the first and the second connection are arranged substantially vertically one above the other when the bag is completely filled.

In the context of the present invention, the arrangement of the straight connecting line of the center points with a slight deviation, for example of less than 10 °, preferably of less than 5 °, in particular of not more than 2 °, orthogonally, is to be arranged essentially vertically one above the other the level surfaces of the earth's gravity field in the direction of the resultant of the gravity of the earth. Arranged substantially vertically one above the other, based on the flat-folded stand-up pouch, should therefore mean that the straight line passes through the center points of the terminals with a slight deviation, for example less than 10 °, preferably less than 5 °, in particular not more than 2 ° °, is a standard of the footprint of the stand-up pouch.

In a preferred embodiment of the stand-up pouch according to the invention, the distance between the first and the second connection is in the range of 10% to 99%, preferably in the range of 30% to 97%, particularly preferably in the range of 50% to 95% of the maximum possible filling level of the bag. The distance of the connections is determined here as the length of the straight line connecting the two centers. In the context of the present invention, the maximum possible filling level of the bag is understood to mean the filling level of the upright bag with the maximum possible filling with water or a solution with rheologically similar behavior. The connections are specially arranged so that in each filling state of the bag, a thorough mixing of the bag contents by a circulation of the medium, for. B. in the circulation of a metering device is achieved.

In a further preferred embodiment of the stand-up pouch according to the invention, at least the first connection has a valve function.

In order to allow a controlled removal of the flowable composition from the stand-up pouch, the first connection for removal advantageously has a valve function. In particular, the first connection is designed as a so-called single-sided or double-sided blocking coupling.

In a special embodiment, both the first (removal) and the second (supply) connection are designed as a so-called single-sided or double-sided blocking coupling.

• bei der fließfähigen Zusammensetzung handelt es sich um eine absetzgefährdete fließfähige Zusammensetzung,
• die fließfähige Zusammensetzung zeigt thixotropes Verhalten,
• bei der fließfähigen Zusammensetzung handelt es sich um eine Dispersion oder Suspension mit einem Äquivalentdurchmesser der Feststoffpartikeln im Bereich von 1 nm bis 100 µm,
• bei der fließfähigen Zusammensetzung handelt es sich um eine Farbdispersion,
• die fließfähige Zusammensetzung weist eine Viskosität bei Raumtemperatur im Bereich von 0,1 mPa·s bis 10⁷ mPa·s, bevorzugt im Bereich von 1 mPa·s bis 10⁵ mPa·s, besonders bevorzugt im Bereich von 10 mPa·s bis 10³ mPa·s auf.

According to a preferred embodiment of the stand-up pouch according to the invention, the flowable composition has at least one of the following features:

• the flowable composition is a flowable composition which is liable to settle,
• the flowable composition shows thixotropic behavior,
• the flowable composition is a dispersion or suspension having an equivalent diameter of the solid particles in the range from 1 nm to 100 μm,
• the flowable composition is a color dispersion,
• the flowable composition has a viscosity at room temperature in the range of 0.1 mPa · s to 10 ⁷ mPa · s, preferably in the range of 1 mPa · s to 10 ⁵ mPa · s, more preferably in the range of 10 mPa · s to 10 ³ mPa · s.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the self-standing bag according to the invention, the flowable composition has thixotropic behavior and / or a viscosity at room temperature in the range of 10 mPa · s to 10 ³ mPa · s.

A common method for determining the viscosity of a settling risk fluid is z. B. the determination by means of rotational viscometer according to DIN 53 019.

In a likewise particularly preferred embodiment of the stand-up pouch according to the invention, it is collapsible.

For the purposes of the present invention, a collapsible bag is understood to be a bag which can be compressed, pressed, folded, folded, folded or otherwise compacted without aeration or venting. The inner walls should preferably not stick together and / or the wall should not be damaged.

In a preferred embodiment, the seal on the inside of the bag is designed so that dead volumes, in particular by the drape of the bag, are reduced to the lowest possible degree. In particular, the floor area is designed such that the smallest possible sediment space is formed.

Inventive stand-up bag can z. B. for chemicals, feed, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and color mixtures.

In particular, the stand-up pouch according to the invention contains a flowable composition capable of settling.

For the purposes of the present invention, flowable compositions capable of settling are understood as meaning flowable mixtures and liquids, such as, for example, solutions, emulsions (di- and multiphase liquids) and liquid media which contain solid particles or which potentially have the possibility of solid particles forming in them. These include in particular suspensions or dispersions of insoluble solid particles in liquids, but also partially solidified melts or liquid media with solid particles resulting from the crystallization of a liquid originally dissolved in the solid. In particular, the settling flowable composition is a dye composition. The viscosity of the sedimentation flowable compositions can vary within a wide range, ranging from light to viscous / pasty.

• eine Aufnahmevorrichtung,
• einen in der Aufnahmevorrichtung angeordneten erfindungsgemäßen Standbodenbeutel,
• eine Fördereinrichtung,
• eine Entnahmeleitung vom ersten Anschluss des Standbodenbeutels, und
• eine Zuführleitung zum zweiten Anschluss des Standbodenbeutels.

The container system for a flowable composition according to the invention comprises:

• a recording device,
• a stand-up pouch according to the invention arranged in the receiving device,
• a conveyor,
• a sampling line from the first port of the stand-up pouch, and
• a feed line to the second port of the stand-up pouch.

In this case, the receiving device has a recess which corresponds to the first connection of the stand-up pouch.

Preferably, the flowable composition is at risk of settling. In particular, the flowable composition is a dye composition.

In a preferred embodiment of the container system according to the invention, at least the first (lower) connection of the bag is guided through the corresponding opening of the container. In this context, a corresponding opening is understood to mean the opening which corresponds in function to the corresponding connection of the bag, for example for feeding into the container system or for removal from the container system, in particular for removal from the container system.

In a suitable embodiment of the container system according to the invention, at least the first (lower) port of the bag is connected to the corresponding opening of the container. Under connected in the context of the present invention, it is understood that there is a connection that allows the passage of a medium located in the container system. As a rule, this is a line.

In a preferred embodiment of the container system according to the invention, the second connection of the self-supporting bag is arranged above the first connection, independently of the filling of the stand-up pouch.

In a preferred embodiment, the (first) removal and the (second) supply port are designed as so-called single or double-sided blocking couplings in order to avoid a container system or system side leakage of the liquid media during the separation or changing operation.

By the receiving device, the stand-up pouches should be fixed. In particular, the stand-up pouch is fixed in the receiving device such that the second port of the pouch is positioned above the removal opening of the container, regardless of the degree of filling of the pouch.

In a preferred embodiment of the container system according to the invention, the receiving device has a substantially cuboid outer basic shape. The removal opening is arranged in particular on an end face of the receiving device. The bottom of the receiving device may be inclined in the direction of the end face of the removal opening.

In a preferred embodiment, the receiving device has a substantially rectangular base plate and a front end wall with the removal opening. The receiving device may also have a front wall arranged opposite the rear wall and / or one or two side walls. Alternatively or additionally, the receiving device may also have a ceiling plate.

In a suitable embodiment, the receiving device is a surrounding dimensionally stable container, as it is for example in the EP 2067716 is described.

In a preferred embodiment, the stand-up pouch is not completely surrounded by the receiving device.

In a further preferred embodiment of the container system according to the invention, the receiving device has a removal opening in its lower region, which is coupled to the first connection of the bag.

In particular, the removal opening and the supply opening are arranged on the same end face of the receiving device. This embodiment proves to be particularly advantageous when several containers are stacked, especially in a modular design.

In a suitable embodiment of the container system according to the invention, the receiving device has a removal opening arranged in the lower region of the container, a connection from the removal opening to a first connection in the bag, optionally a feed opening and optionally a connection from the feed opening to the second connection of the bag.

Alternatively to a connection from the removal opening to the first connection, the first connection of the bag can also be guided through the removal opening of the receiving device. Also as an alternative to a connection from the feed opening to the second connection, the second connection can be guided through the feed opening.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the container system according to the invention has a connecting line from the feed opening of the container to the second terminal of the bag, which is designed to be completely or partially flexible. The flexible part of the connecting line is preferably made of a suitable plastic, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, poly (ethylene) terephthalate, plasticized PVC or silicone. The flexible part of the connection line can also be formed by a fabric tube.

According to a special embodiment, the flexible connecting line is fixed by a suitable holding device in the rear part of the receiving device and thus behind the bag.

According to an alternative embodiment, the connecting line in the interior of the receiving device is rigid up to its upper part and from there to the second port of the bag designed to be flexible.

A suitable embodiment of the container system according to the invention comprises at least one vacuum sensor and / or one buffer container. The additional use of a vacuum sensor and / or buffer container allows the emptying of the bag used according to the invention to be optimized.

For example, if the bag contains less than the amount needed to produce a selected color, the bag must be changed before the selected color is finished. By customary procedures, the residual amount remaining in the bag is lost or it has to be pumped into the exchanged container. To avoid this elaborate procedure, a Vacuum switch or a buffer tank, optionally in combination, integrated into the circulation of the metering device.

In a preferred embodiment, the container system according to the invention additionally comprises a vacuum sensor in the supply and / or removal line.

A negative pressure sensor registers when the pressure drops below a specific value below the normal pressure. A drop in the pressure in the line to or below this value indicates that no more liquid is being pumped into or out of the bag. The conveyor can be switched off on this signal by hand or automatically. Subsequently, the stand-up pouch can be disconnected and optionally filled or replaced.

In particular, the vacuum sensor is arranged in the extraction line.

In a likewise preferred embodiment, the container system according to the invention additionally comprises a buffer container in the supply and / or removal line.

In the buffer container remaining in a stand-up pouch remaining amount can be transferred in a simple manner or optionally stored for further use. The remaining quantity can alternatively be disposed of properly.

As a material for the buffer tank z. As plastics, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, poly (ethylene) terephthalate, plasticized PVC or silicone, metal, ceramic, glass, paper, composite materials or suitable combinations thereof. When using rigid materials, a pressure equalization system may preferably be installed.

In particular, the buffer container is arranged in the supply line.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the container system according to the invention, the supply line and the withdrawal line can be connected to form a circuit for the flowable composition.

The container system described advantageously comes without additional mechanical stirring device when the mixing takes place via a circuit which by connecting the supply line and the extraction line is closed. The flowable composition can thus be circulated at intervals or continuously, so that segregation or sedimentation of solids is avoided or at least greatly reduced. The container system can be designed as a single or reusable change system.

In a suitable embodiment of the container system according to the invention, the receiving device has a further recess, which corresponds to the second connection of the stand-up pouch.

In a preferred embodiment of the container system according to the invention, the delivery device is a metering pump, preferably a piston pump, in particular an oscillating piston pump.

The device according to the invention for the volumetric metering of a flowable composition comprises a circuit for the flowable composition with a container system according to the invention integrated in a circuit and a metering section extending from the circuit.

The container system used according to the invention is an essentially closed unit which can already be filled and used in the circuit. The container system is advantageously without additional mechanical stirring device, since the mixing takes place via the circuit. Since the container system is integrated into a substantially closed system, the flowable composition can be circulated at intervals or continuously. Thus, segregation or sedimentation of solids can be avoided or at least greatly reduced. The container system can be designed as a single or reusable change system. It can be modularly connected to the circuit. Thus, the filling of the device with the liquid medium to be dispensed is comparably simple and clean.

When using the container system according to the invention in the device, the stand-up pouch used is almost completely emptied. Under almost emptied is understood to mean that the emptied bag contains at most 5 wt .-%, preferably at most 3 wt .-%, more preferably at most 1 wt .-%, based on the weight of the maximum capacity. In this case, the inner tube or hose parts, if present, fold or lay together with the stand-up pouch to the lowest possible degree. After emptying the bag contents, optionally via a coupling located outside the container system, the container system can be removed from the circuit. Container and Pouches can either be separated or disposed of together or reused.

The lines of the circuit and the dosing are made of a suitable for the corresponding medium, d. H. made of inert material. They are preferably flexible and easy to exchange. Suitable materials are for. B. commercially available plastic tubing, z. As polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) or polyurethane (PU), poly (ethylene) terephthalate, plasticized PVC or silicone.

In particular, the metering section comprises at least one valve. This valve is preferably a controllable metering valve.

In a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the metering section comprises at least one conveying device. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the metering is as high pressure metering, for example, with the in the EP 2067716 described split dosage operated.

In a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the amount of the flowable composition to be metered is controllable over the time a valve is opened and / or a delivery device is switched on.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, the amount of the flowable composition is metered by means of a piston pump, preferably an oscillating piston pump.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the metering section comprises a removal device.

Such a removal device may be a tap, a valve, a dispenser, a reducer, a transition piece, such as a spout, an olive, etc., an adapter, a coupling, a reusable fitting, such as a Y or a T-piece, a manifold, other fittings, such as an elbow, or any other, suitable for the application of extraction device act. In particular, a reusable fitting, in particular a Y or a T-piece, or a metering valve described below is used as a removal device in order to be able to meter a second liquid medium as an alternative or in addition to the liquid medium to be metered.

In a suitable embodiment of the device according to the invention, the removal device contains a self-closing valve (metering valve). A particularly suitable self-closing valve is for example in the EP 2067716 described.

The valve is opened by the liquid medium to be dispensed when the pressure of the pending medium to be dispensed is high enough to overcome the spring force of the spring piston. Thus, the liquid medium to be dosed simultaneously serves as a type of hydraulic fluid.

In the in the EP 2067716 described dosing the dosing simultaneously assumes the function of the hydraulic fluid and the sealant. In addition, it can be rinsed via a second access, in particular a second fitting. Another advantage is that the dosing medium is sealed against air contact directly at the nozzle opening. A drying of the nozzle is thus very effectively avoided. Even if particles should clog the nozzle orifice, the valve pin pushes through the nozzle orifice as it closes by the force of the plunger. As a result, the nozzle opening is always kept free by mechanical means. Repeated rinsing with suitable solvents or cleaning agents can almost eliminate clogging of the valve, even with long service lives. Especially when dosing dye compositions, adhesives and other critical liquid formulations, a reliable and maintenance-free valve is available.

In particular, the self-closing valve for opening and closing is controlled electronically, mechanically or pneumatically.

The valve can be additionally or optionally equipped with a drive means, such as a motor or auxiliary motor, a pneumatic drive or a magnet to control the valve can. About the control of the corresponding drive means, the pull rod can be raised or lowered.

It is also possible to dose several media via a single sampling device or to dose solvent and dosing simultaneously (admixture). For this purpose, the sampling device must have a second access. The pressure conditions determine the mixing ratio of the components. Especially the use with two-component systems is possible.

Also possible is the use of a so-called split-dosing, as in the EP 2067716 is described. Split dosing is a modified form of split injection known from gas chromatography, which is used here for quotient dosing liquids. In the case of split metering, adjustable amounts of solvent are added to a secondary metering channel via a further access, preferably via a T, Y, X piece or an (automatic) valve. If, for example, the secondary dosing channel delivers a quantity of 1000 μl at a certain dosing pulse and the split ratio is set to 1: 100, 990 μl of solvent and 10 μl of the secondary dosing line are now dosed at a dosage of 1000 μl. The excess amount is discharged via the split valve.

The use of such a split-dosing makes it possible to dose very small amounts of liquid to be dosed with a very high accuracy and precision, since only a quotient of the liquid / solvent mixture to be dosed and dosed via the metering valve. The desired split ratio setting can be controlled and calibrated by adjusting the valve and changing the pump pressure.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the device according to the invention contains a rinsing unit. This rinsing unit comprises a valve and / or a conveying unit for a solvent or cleaning agent and a container for a solvent or cleaning agent. The solvent or cleaning agent passes from the container through the conveyor unit and / or the valve via a second access in the sampling device.

In a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, a piston pump, preferably an oscillating piston pump, is arranged in the supply line.

Particularly advantageously, two or more devices according to the invention and optionally a flushing unit described above can be used together in one system. In such a system, the individual conveyors, conveyor units and / or valves of the devices and the conveyor unit and / or the valve of the flushing unit can be controlled by a central control unit.

Within a system, a plurality of devices according to the invention and / or a flushing unit can be operated in parallel or alternately. A corresponding control electronics and operating software allows the control of Conveyors, conveyor units and / or valves, so that a simultaneous dosing of various liquid media is possible.

Such a plant can be used in particular for filling and / or metering liquid media, preferably dye compositions, more preferably pigment-containing dye compositions.

In a likewise particularly preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, a vacuum sensor is arranged in the extraction line.

• Wählen eines Farbmusters,
• Dosieren von Farbstoffzusammensetzungen aus einem oder mehreren erfindungsgemäßen Standbodenbeuteln über zwei oder mehr erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtungen in einen geeigneten Behälter entsprechend dem gewählten Farbmuster, und
• anschließendes Konfektionieren der dosierten Farbstoffzusammensetzungen in dem Behälter zu der gewünschten Farbformulierung.

The method according to the invention for producing a color formulation comprises the following steps:

• Choosing a color pattern,
• Dosing of dye compositions of one or more stand-up pouches according to the invention over two or more devices according to the invention in a suitable container according to the selected color pattern, and
• then tailoring the metered dye compositions in the container to the desired color formulation.

For the purposes of the present invention, packaging means the completion of a product. This includes all work that is necessary after filling the components to produce the product ready for sale, such as refining, mixing, packaging and / or the formation of salable units.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the respective amount of the dye composition is metered over the time a valve is opened and / or a conveyor is switched on.

In a likewise preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the respective amount of the dye composition is metered by means of a piston pump, preferably by means of an oscillating piston pump.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention gives a vacuum sensor when reaching an absolute pressure in the range of 0.1 bar to 1 bar, preferably in the range of 0.3 bar to 0.95 bar, in particular in the range of 0.5 bar to 0.9 bar, a control signal to the dosing device, preferably a piston pump, in particular an oscillating piston pump, and this switches off. The vacuum sensor assumes the function of a switch in this case.

A buffer tank may be incorporated into a paint blending / dosing unit with a closed paste pigment system to aid in the emptying and emptying of each colorant container within a metering device.

A buffer container consists essentially of a flexible container with at least one corresponding to a further opening supply line. In this case, the buffer container is integrated into the line circuit of the metering device so that the container can be filled free of air bubbles. The flowable composition conveyed from the bag flows through the buffer container and is conveyed back into the bag via the conveyor. The buffer container is designed so that the rigidity of the container wall is higher than the resistance of the wall material of the collapsible stand-up pouch.

Once the bag is emptied, the pump delivers from the buffer tank. Because of the now developing negative pressure this begins to collapse. The side walls of the buffer container in turn are connected via dimensionally stable surrounding side walls with a microswitch. As soon as the vessel wall of the buffer tank loses contact with the microswitch due to shrinkage, the control unit of the metering device receives a pulse by closing the circuit as a signal for the message "bag empty". The buffer container is preferably dimensioned such that sufficient colorant is still available to complete the currently processed recipe.

A particularly advantageous variant of the emptying provides for the use of a vacuum sensor. When using a vacuum sensor can advantageously be dispensed with a buffer tank. For this purpose, an adjustable vacuum sensor is integrated into the line system in the feed of the metering pump. The switching point can be set so that the negative pressure during the dosing with continuously trailing dosing medium does not trigger, but the fully collapsed and thus empty bag delivers a switching signal by the sudden increase in negative pressure to the maximum of the pump power.

This switching signal is detected on the control side as a message "bag empty". Since the metering pump reaches this negative pressure only in the intake phase, the metering process can be interrupted at this point. The operator receives the message "Bag empty" of the bag in question, for example on the monitor of the control computer. Alternatively or additionally, a warning light on the receptacle of the bag or on an operator panel may indicate the empty bag. The operator can now separate the empty bag from the system and connect a new, filled bag. After connecting the new, filled bag, a pressure equalization takes place, the sensor releases the device again. The dosage is continued at the point where it was interrupted without a residue remaining in the empty container.

The use of a vacuum sensor is particularly advantageous because with the connection of a new bag at the same time the emptying of the current, and the connection of a new, filled bag can be detected electronically in the metering device. These data can be transmitted to the manufacturer or supplier and / or recorded as part of inventory management or statistics. Ordering, inventory, product sales quantities, etc. can be automated based on this data. Even filling or loading with foreign material can be detected.

In addition, the vacuum sensor provides useful information about the state of the metering device. If, for example, the negative pressure is kept in the phase between the separation of the empty bag from the system to the connection of the new bag, this is an indication of a mechanically perfect function of the metering device.

If a pressure equalization without a new, filled bag was used, it can be concluded that the fluid-carrying system at one or more points has leaks. This may possibly indicate an increase in wear of the metering pump, the metering valve or the connections. These data can also be electronically recorded, documented and / or evaluated.

The operator thus receives, for example, the information, for. B. on the monitor of the control unit that is expected in the near future with a malfunction of the metering device. With this information, if necessary, a preventive maintenance or repair can be performed without the system actually failing.

A simplified variant of the metering device with a vacuum sensor is also suitable for completely emptying a bag with only one access without loss of metering medium from the bag. Again, all the advantages described above can be used.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figur 1

zeigt einen erfindungsgemäßen Standbodenbeutel.

Figur 2

zeigt ein erfindungsgemäßes Behältersystem für ein flüssiges Medium mit einem Pufferbehälter.

Figur 3

zeigt ein erfindungsgemäßes Behältersystem für ein flüssiges Medium mit einem Unterdrucksensor.

Figur 4

zeigt eine erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung zum Dosieren eines flüssigen Mediums mit einem Unterdrucksensor und einer Dosierstrecke.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS FIGS. 1 to 4 explained. The possibilities offered are to be understood as examples only and not as a limitation to these possibilities.

FIG. 1

shows a stand-up pouch according to the invention.

FIG. 2

shows a container system according to the invention for a liquid medium with a buffer tank.

FIG. 3

shows a container system according to the invention for a liquid medium with a vacuum sensor.

FIG. 4

shows a device according to the invention for dosing a liquid medium with a vacuum sensor and a Dosierstrecke.

1

Standbodenbeutel

2

Fitting für Zuführung

3

Fitting für Entnahme

4

Rückführleitung

5

Entnahmeleitung

6

Pufferbehälter

7

Zulauf zum Pufferbehälter

8

Ablauf vom Pufferbehälter

9

Gehäuse

10

Sensor

11

Ablaufleitung

12

Stromversorgung für Fördereinrichtung

13

Fördereinrichtung für Umwälzung

14

Zuführleitung zur Dosierstrecke bzw. -pumpe

15

Sensorkabel

16

Aufnahmevorrichtung

17

Unterdrucksensor

18

Dosierventil

19

Dosierpumpe

20

Schrittmotor

21

Dosierleitung

22

Entnahmevorrichtung

23

Produktbehälter

24

Kupplung

Der in Figur 1 dargestellte erfindungsgemäße Standbodenbeutel (1) weist zwei senkrecht übereinander angeordnete Anschlüsse auf. Die Anschlüsse sind mit Fittings (2, 3) versehen, die den Durchfluss fließfähiger Zusammensetzungen, hier und im Folgenden auch als flüssige Medien oder Flüssigkeiten bezeichnet, erlauben. Die Abmessungen der Anschlüsse und Fittings (2, 3) werden für den jeweiligen Anwendungsfall entsprechend ausgewählt. Üblicherweise werden der obere Anschluss zur Zuführung und der untere Anschluss zur Entnahme genutzt. Insbesondere bei der Verwendung des Beutels für absetzgefährdete flüssige Medien lassen sich auf diese Weise eine optimale Durchmischung des Beutelinhaltes und/oder eine vollständige Entleerung des Beutels verwirklichen. Selbstverständlich können die Anschlüsse auch umgekehrt oder beide zur Zuführung oder beide zur Entnahme genutzt werden. Die Entnahme und die Zuführung können simultan oder nacheinander erfolgen. Bevorzugt werden der obere Anschluss zur Zuführung und der untere Anschluss zur Entnahme zeitgleich, insbesondere zur Realisierung eines Kreislaufs, genutzt.In the FIGS. 1 to 4 the following reference numbers are used:

1

Stand-up pouches

2

Fitting for feeder

3

Fitting for removal

4

Return line

5

withdrawal line

6

buffer tank

7

Inlet to the buffer tank

8th

Drain from the buffer tank

9

casing

10

sensor

11

drain line

12

Power supply for conveyor

13

Conveyor for circulation

14

Feed line to the dosing line or pump

15

sensor cable

16

cradle

17

Under pressure sensor

18

metering valve

19

metering

20

stepper motor

21

dosing

22

removal device

23

product container

24

clutch

The in FIG. 1 shown stand-up pouch (1) has two vertically stacked connections. The connections are provided with fittings (2, 3), which allow the flow of flowable compositions, here and hereinafter also referred to as liquid media or liquids. The dimensions of the connections and fittings (2, 3) are selected according to the respective application. Typically, the top port to the feeder and the bottom port are used for removal. In particular, when using the bag for settleable liquid media can be realized in this way optimal mixing of the bag contents and / or complete emptying of the bag. Of course, the connections can also be reversed or both used for feeding or both for removal. The removal and the supply can take place simultaneously or successively. Preferably, the upper connection for the supply and the lower connection for removal are used at the same time, in particular for the realization of a cycle.

In the in FIG. 2 shown container system according to the invention a stand-up pouch (1) is used. The stand-up pouch (1) essentially stands independently in a housing (9) or can be fixed in the container system according to the invention by means of a receiving device (not shown in this figure). The stand-up pouch (1) can be designed as a single or reusable system and at the same time serve as transport packaging. Another variant provides that the bag (1) is removed from a transport container and inserted into the receiving device (9). The bag (1) is connected to the withdrawal line (5) by means of the removal fitting (3) and to the return line by means of the delivery fitting (2). In this case, the feed connection (2) is located independently of the filling state of the bag (1) above the removal connection (3).

The extraction line (5) and the return line (4) can be connected to a circuit via a suitable connection, for example a coupling (24). At the coupling (24) of the withdrawal line (5) and return line (4), a supply line (14) goes to a removal and / or filling device. The clutch (24) is usually designed as a three-way clutch.

The two connections of the base bag (1), ie the removal fitting (3) and the feed fitting (2) are specially arranged so that in each filling state of the bag (1) a mixing of the bag contents by a circulation of the liquid medium in the Circulation is achieved.

The ports (2, 3) are preferably constructed or selected to facilitate connection to the circuit system, particularly via quick couplings. The flow through the container system ensures thorough mixing as soon as the circuit via the conveyor (13) is activated. When settling prone media, the construction of the bottom of the receptacle is observed. It is preferably designed so that settling particles or phases accumulate near the removal area of the bag (1) (settling funnel principle). The settling particles are detected by activating the circuit first and fed back to the highest point of the bag. It is also possible to incorporate further turbulence-promoting or generating elements which promote a stirring or mixing effect, such as agitators, or else elements which generate a movement of the medium when excited from outside.

The receiving device (16), for example, for hygienic and / or safety considerations, additionally be closed with a lid. For this purpose, the supply lines can be installed in the interior of the receiving device.

In the return line (4) there is a conveying device (13) with which the flowable composition can be circulated in the container system and / or conveyed from the coupling (24) into the feed line (14). The conveyor (13) is supplied via a supply line (12) with energy. The delivery device (13) is generally a pump, preferably a piston pump and, in particular, an oscillating piston pump.

In the extraction line (5), a buffer tank (6) is integrated. The flowable composition in the bag (1) is removed from the bag (1) via the lower connection by means of the removal fitting (3) and passes via the withdrawal line (5) through an inlet connection (7) into the buffer container (6) ). At the top of the buffer tank (6), the liquid medium via the drain port (8) is removed again. The buffer container (6) is partially or completely surrounded by a housing (9). Between the inner wall of the housing (9) and the outer wall of the buffer tank (6) is a sensor (10). The sensor (10) is mounted on the inner wall of the housing (9) so that it is in continuous operation with the outer wall of the buffer tank (6) in contact. If the bag (1) empties, the buffer container (6) is no longer filled with the liquid medium. As a result, a negative pressure in the buffer container (6) is generated, so that the buffer container (6) contracts. As a result, its outer wall loses contact with the sensor (10). over the sensor cable (15) is passed a signal that then leads to a shutdown of the conveyor (13), for example by the power supply (12) is interrupted.

This in FIG. 3 illustrated container system for a liquid medium according to the invention is equipped with a vacuum sensor (17). The structure of this container system substantially corresponds to the in FIG. 2 shown. The receiving device (16) is shown here schematically by dashed lines. The stand-up pouch (1) is essentially independent in the receiving device (16). It is fixed in the receiving device (16) so that the supply port (2) regardless of the filling state of the bag (1) above the withdrawal port (3). A fixation of the bag is usually due to the train, which induces the flow or the conveyor, advantageous.

Unlike the in FIG. 2 shown container system is located in the sampling line (5) a vacuum switch (17). On the in FIG. 2 illustrated buffer container (6) with the associated equipment (7, 8, 9, 10) can be omitted in this embodiment. Nevertheless, it is possible, the buffer container (6) with or without associated equipment (7, 8, 9, 10) also in the in FIG. 3 integrated cycle to integrate.

As in FIG. 3 1, the flowable composition located in the bag (1) is removed from the bag (1) via the lower connection by means of the removal fitting (3) and through the withdrawal line directly via the vacuum sensor to the connection (24) and further into the return line (FIG. 4).

On the suction side of the metering pump (19) is a, preferably adjustable, vacuum sensor (17) integrated into the circulatory system. The switching point of the pressure sensor (17) is usually chosen so that the negative pressure during the dosing with continuously trailing dosing does not trigger, but with completely collapsed and thus empty bag (1) by the sudden increase in negative pressure to the maximum of the pump power a switching signal supplies. This switching signal is transmitted via the sensor cable (15) to a control unit. The control unit will interrupt the dosing until a pressure equalization is achieved by inserting a full bag. As soon as the vacuum sensor (17) delivers a corresponding signal to the control unit, the device is released again and the dosage is continued.

In FIG. 4 a device according to the invention for dosing a liquid medium with a vacuum sensor (17) and a Dosierstrecke is shown. The device shown here is especially suitable for dosing dye compositions. The device essentially consists of two subassemblies: a container system connected to a circuit and a dispensing line departing from this circuit.

The according to FIG. 4 in the device integrated container system substantially corresponds to the in FIG. 3 illustrated container system. The stand-up pouch is arranged in the receiving device (16). In the present presentation, only the feed fitting (2) connected to the return line (4) and the removal fitting (3) connected to the removal line (5) can be seen from the stand-up bag.

The ports (2, 3) are designed or chosen to facilitate connection to the circuit system, preferably via quick couplings. The flow through the container system ensures thorough mixing as soon as the circuit via the conveyor (13) is activated. Since dye compositions are usually settling-prone media, the construction of the bottom of the receptacle should be noted. Settling particles or phases should be able to collect near the removal area of the bag (1) (settling funnel principle) to be detected first by activation of the circulation and re-fed at the highest point of the bag. It is also possible to incorporate further turbulence-promoting or generating elements which promote a stirring or mixing effect, such as agitators, or else elements which generate a movement of the medium when excited from outside.

If media are used which do not tend to segregate, a circulation system can be dispensed with. In this case, only one removal path (14, 18, 19, 21) from the container system for metering must be present.

The container system is connected by means of a coupling (24) to the supply line (14) to the dosing. The coupling (24) is preferably a reusable coupling. By means of a reusable coupling, for example, container systems with the same dye compositions can be connected in series or a residual emptying of the container system can be carried out.

Between the clutch (24) and the conveyor (13) may optionally be used a service clutch. Such a service coupling allows eg the Feeding additional liquid media from the outside, such as residues of the same dye composition. Via a service coupling, a residual emptying of the circulatory system can be made. Preferably, the coupling (24) and the service coupling are identical.

The conveyor (13) can be operated either continuously or at intervals, depending on the required mixing due to the properties of the medium.

At the coupling (24), the supply line (14) is connected to a metering. The metering section is essentially formed from metering valve (18), metering pump (19), stepping motor (20) and metering line (21). About the dosing the medium to be dosed can be removed from the circulation of the container system. For this purpose, the medium is pumped via the metering pump (19), for example a pressure pump, into the metering line (21). By means of the metering valve (18), the metering line (21) is enabled or disabled. The valve (18) is e.g. around a solenoid valve. At the end of the dosing line, a removal device (22) is connected. About the sampling device, the metered liquid medium enters a product container (23). From there, a further assembly can take place.

After completion of one or more dosing operations, the removal device (22) can be rinsed with a suitable solvent or cleaning agent via a rinsing unit (not shown here). The rinsing unit is also connected to the removal device (22). As in the dosing process, the solvent or cleaning agent is preferably metered under pressure. For this purpose, the solvent or cleaning agent is pumped via a separate conveyor unit, for example a pump, from a container for solvent or cleaning agent into the flushing section. By means of another valve, the flushing path is enabled or disabled. The valve may be, for example, a solenoid valve. Is it in the removal device (22) to that in the EP 2067716 described metering valve, the entire valve chamber and the closure mechanism of the metering valve are flushed during the flushing process in an advantageous manner.

The container for solvents or cleaning agents can be carried out in a suitable manner. In a special embodiment, it is designed as a stand-up pouch according to the invention. Thus, it is possible to design the device in a modular design.

If several devices are combined within a system, the individual removal devices (22) can be combined to form an assembly, a so-called dosing head. The EP 2067716 describes a possible embodiment of such a dosing.

According to the invention, a modular liquid metering system is produced with a closed pump / container system. The arrangement of several of these systems form multi-channel systems that allow the simultaneous dosing of any number of individual components or preparations, but also finished media thereof. Such a plant consists essentially of the device described above with one or more circuits / circuits, dosing line (s), process control unit (s), a static or modular body and housing.

The conveyors and units, pumps and valves are preferably combined in a receiving unit. They can be arranged, for example, in a drawer system. The compact or modular arrangement allows quick access to individual components for service or repair purposes. The pumps and / or the valve assembly can also be accommodated modularly as a panel in the drawer or in the dosing module. In a container module the receiving devices for the bags of media and quick coupling units are accommodated for the production of the circuit. Both modules have their own piping systems, such as internal piping and / or hose systems, which are compatible and connectable. Dosing module and container module also have their own power supply and internal wiring.

The dosing circuits with closed system can be used wherever conventional systems are already in operation. The systems with a closed system can be used with all types of liquid, paste and / or pigment systems such as adhesives, food ingredients, oils, solvents, alkyd, synthetic resin, polymer, acrylic, latex, nanolack, as well as dispersion and Natural color compositions are charged. But they are also suitable for sedimentation-endangered, pasty and / or sensitive food or feed.

Solvent-containing media can be processed problem-free with the closed system described above, as no hazardous or potentially explosive vapors can escape. In addition, the media can be sterilized in the floor bags, for example by irradiation or by heating, before or optionally during use.

The new container system enables inline mixing, homogenizing and dispersing of liquid, paste and / or pigment systems such as adhesives, food ingredients, oils, solvents, alkyd, synthetic resin, polymer, acrylic, latex, nanolack and dispersion - and natural color compositions, but also at risk of sedition, pasty and / or sensitive food or feed.

The stand-up pouches used in accordance with the invention opens up novel application possibilities, preferably in the use for color mixing. The mixing plants are not bound to specified container sizes. Depending on the quality of the bags, a reusable solution is possible, as long as re-filling is desired or preferred. The design as a stand-up bag contributes to the reduction of waste, since no separate transport packaging is necessary. The transport costs are reduced because the complete usable space is available.

Claims (15)

Stand-up pouch for receiving a flowable composition having a first connection in its lower region and a second connection, which is arranged at least upon complete filling of the stand-up pouch above the first connection, wherein the connections are selected independently of one another under rotary, plug-in, clamping, Screw connections and any combination thereof. A stand-up pouch according to claim 1, wherein the first port for removal and the second port for supplying a flowable composition are provided. Stand-up pouch according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first and the second connection are arranged substantially vertically one above the other when the bag is completely filled and / or the distance between the first and the second connection is in the range from 50% to 95% of the maximum possible filling height of the bag. Stand-up pouch according to one of the preceding claims, in which at least the first connection has a valve function. A stand-up pouch according to any one of the preceding claims, which is partially or completely filled with a flowable composition having at least one of the following characteristics: the flowable composition is a settling-endangerable flowable composition, the flowable composition shows thixotropic behavior, the flowable composition is a dispersion or suspension having an equivalent diameter of the solid particles in the range from 1 nm to 100 μm, the flowable composition is a color dispersion, the flowable composition has a viscosity at room temperature in the range from 0.1 mPa.s to 10 ⁷ mPa.s, preferably in the range from 1 mPa.s to 10 ⁵ mPa.s, more preferably in the range from 10 mPa.s to 10 ³ mPa · s, on. Stand-up pouch according to one of the preceding claims, which is collapsible. Container system comprising a flowable composition a receiving device, a stand-up pouch arranged in the receiving device according to one of claims 1 to 7, - a conveyor, a withdrawal line from the first port of the stand-up pouch, a supply line to the second connection of the stand-up pouch, wherein the receiving device has a recess which corresponds to the first terminal of the stand-up pouch. Container system according to claim 7, wherein the second connection of the stand-up pouch is arranged independently of the filling of the stand-up pouch above the first terminal. Container system according to one of claims 7 or 8, which additionally comprises a vacuum sensor in the supply and / or removal line. Container system according to one of claims 7 to 9, which additionally comprises a buffer container in the supply and / or removal line. Apparatus for volumetrically metering a flowable composition comprising a fluidic composition circuit having a recirculating container system as defined in any one of claims 8 to 10 and a metering section extending from the circuit. Apparatus according to claim 11, wherein at least one controllable metering valve is arranged in the metering section and / or a piston pump, preferably an oscillating piston pump, is arranged in the supply line. Device according to one of claims 11 or 12, wherein a vacuum sensor is arranged in the extraction line. A method of making a color formulation comprising the following steps: Choosing a color pattern, Dosing of dye compositions from one or more stand-up bags according to one of claims 1 to 6 via two or more devices according to one of claims 11 to 13 in a suitable container according to the selected color pattern, and - Subsequent assembly of the dosed
Dye compositions in the container to the desired color formulation. Method according to Claim 14, in which a vacuum sensor reaches an absolute pressure in the range from 0.1 bar to 1 bar, preferably in the range from 0.3 bar to 0.95 bar, in particular in the range from 0.5 bar to 0, 9 bar, a control signal to the metering device, preferably a piston pump, in particular a vibrating piston pump, and this shuts off.

Images