Patent Application
20220370966
The present application relates to a device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, a container for holding at least one solid component, a container comprising a housing with an interior for holding at least one fluid, a computer-implemented method for controlling or regulating a device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, and a system comprising a device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer.
The preparation of a mixture of substances or a solution is one of the most common and time-consuming activities in a laboratory environment in industry and academia. For example, a mixture of substances, such as a medium or buffer, is regularly prepared whose pH or concentration of oxonium ions changes much less when an acid or base is added than would be the case in an unbuffered system. Buffer refers to the aqueous buffer solutions specifically prepared in chemistry.
A number of tasks that may be involved in solution preparation, such as measuring, dispensing, mixing, adjusting pH, adjusting temperature, degassing, filtering, filling, labeling, and cleaning before or after solution preparation, are usually performed manually and require a great deal of time from laboratory technicians. Consistent handling of a wide range of solids, including fine powders, clumpy powders, and crystalline solids in an accurate manner is currently often achieved manually.
For example, media or buffers are usually placed under a safety cabinet or clean bench in research or process development laboratories. This means that several utensils must be introduced into the safety cabinet. Powder and liquids (e.g. ultrapure water) are then mixed together here. For this purpose, the powder must be weighed out precisely and the liquids must be dosed microliter by microliter with a pipette. Powder and liquids are then mixed. Often, the pH value must then be adjusted and the finished medium or buffer sterile filtered.
Automation can reduce the amount of time individuals spend on these routine tasks and allow them to use their time for other tasks.
As an alternative, it is possible to purchase sterile liquid ready-to-use medium or buffer. As a rule, liquid ready-to-use medium/buffer is significantly more expensive than powder. This is especially the case if the medium is to contain all components that are required for a specific cell line, for example. The same applies to buffers. The liquid medium/buffer is usually supplied in 250 ml or 500 ml bottles. The medium/buffer is usually not used up completely, due to the size of the bottle. The rest is stored in the refrigerator or discarded. In addition, shipping liquid medium/buffer is expensive because it must be transported refrigerated at 2° C. to 8° C. Laboratories usually purchase larger quantities right away to have immediate access to medium. The medium or buffer is then stored in cold rooms or many refrigerators.
This consumes a lot of power and space. Liquid medium or buffer solutions only have a short storage time even when cooled. Therefore, it often happens that a medium expires and has to be discarded. This causes additional costs.
Almost all liquid additives must be stored at least in the refrigerator. A large proportion must even be frozen. Some of these additives may only be thawed and refrozen a few times in liquid form. For this reason, these substances (for example, a serum) are portioned into smaller volumes (for example, Falcon tubes). However, in order to cover different volumes and all the different concentrations required, a large number of tubes must be prepared. The substances are usually thawed in a water bath and the portioning of the substances takes place under the clean room bench.
A water bath must be operated with ultrapure water and it must be cleaned, which is very costly. The sterility requirements for the production of media and buffers are very high. All components, for example permanently installed hose lines, pumps, and dosing equipment, which are necessary for the production of the substance mixture, must therefore be cleaned regularly.
Based on the prior art, it is therefore the task of the present invention to provide a device which enables a simplified preparation of a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer.
According to the invention, this task is solved by the object of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments result from the dependent claims.
According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, comprising: at least one first container adapted to receive at least one solid component, at least one first dosing means for dosing said at least one solid component, said first dosing means being connected or connectable to said first container, at least one fluid connection for connecting at least one second container adapted to receive at least one fluid and/or a fluid line for supplying a fluid, and at least one second dosing means for dosing said at least one fluid, said second dosing means being connected or connectable to said second container and/or said fluid line, respectively, said at least one second container and/or said fluid line being connected or connectable to said at least one second container and/or said at least one second container, respectively the fluid line, wherein the at least one second container and/or the at least one second dosing device are exchangeable and are designed as disposable articles, and/or wherein the at least one first container and/or the at least one first dosing device are exchangeable and are designed as disposable articles.
With the device according to the invention, the solid component, for example a powder, from the first container and the fluid, for example a liquid such as ultrapure water or sterilized laboratory water, from the second container can be dosed by means of the first dosing device and the second dosing device in a dosage desired for the mixture of substances to be prepared and prepared into a mixture of substances.
The device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances may comprise a plurality of first containers for holding at least one solid component and a plurality of second containers for holding at least one fluid. It is conceivable that the device comprises a plurality of containers. For example, the device may comprise a container for holding ultrapure water and/or a container for holding sodium bicarbonate (NaBi) and/or a container for holding a base, for example a sodium hydroxide solution, and/or a container of a hydrochloric acid or hydrochloric acid for pH adjustment. Other second containers with further fluids are conceivable depending on the substances required for the preparation of the mixture of substances.
Furthermore, a first container for holding sodium bicarbonate (NaBi) is also conceivable, which is required for reconstituting almost all solid components or powders for preparing a mixture of substances. For each of the individual first and second containers, the apparatus may have a separate first receiving area and second receiving area. These receiving areas may be fixedly and/or non-detachably connected to each other. However, it is also conceivable that these receiving areas are connectable to each other and can be easily clicked together and detached from each other depending on the number of first containers for a solid component and/or number of second containers for a fluid required for the preparation of the respective mixture of substances.
The device has a fluid connection, which is designed to connect to the second container, so that fluid from the second container can be supplied to the device for preparing the mixture of substances. Alternatively or additionally, the fluid port may be configured to connect a fluid line. This fluid line may in turn be fluid-connected to a fluid supply device, for example an ultrapure water plant, so that ultrapure water can be supplied to the device directly from the ultrapure water plant. It is also conceivable that the second container has an opening, preferably with a closable lid, so that the second container can be connected or connected to an ultrapure water system. In this case, the fluid connection can be dispensed with, since the ultrapure water from the ultrapure water system can be filled directly into the second container.
In addition to the second container and/or the second dosing device and/or the first container and/or the first dosing device, the fluid line for supplying the fluid, for example one or more hoses, can also be replaceable and designed as a disposable article. By the fact that the second container and/or the second dosing device and/or the first container and/or the first dosing device and/or the fluid line are replaceable and developed as disposable articles, cleaning of the respective components can be dispensed with. The components can simply be discarded after a certain time and replaced by new components. This simplifies the manufacturing process of the medium or buffer. The buffer can be produced fresh and under optimal sterile conditions at any time. In addition, the buffer can be manufactured in the desired quantity, leaving no leftovers that need to be refrigerated in a refrigerator. This enables an efficient production or manufacturing process.
Preferably, the first container and/or the second container and/or the first dosing device and/or the second dosing device and/or the fluid line are made of a bioplastic or bioplastics or a bio-based plastic.
Preferably, the first container and/or the second container and/or the first dosing device and/or the second dosing device and/or the fluid line comprise a bioplastic or bioplastic or a bio-based plastic, preferably rock paper and/or wood.
Preferably, the device furthermore comprises one preparation device, which is designed to accommodate a solid component dosed using the first dosing device from the first container and a fluid dosed using the second dosing device from the second container or the fluid line and to prepare a mixture of substances using these.
With the device, the solid component from the first container and the fluid (e.g. a liquid such as ultrapure water) from the second container can be fed in the desired dosage to a preparation device and prepared there to form a mixture of substances. In the following, the device is mostly described only in connection with a first container or a second container and a solid component or a fluid. Thereby, each of the descriptions may also relate to more than one first container or more than one second container and more than one solid component or more than one fluid.
For example, to prepare a 1 N (N=normality) solution, 2so much solvent, for example water or alcohol, can be added to 36.5 g HCl, 49 g 2HSO4, 40 g NaOH or 85.5 g Ba(OH) that exactly one liter of solution is obtained. Sodium carbonate (NaCO23) consists of two sodium ions (Na+) and one carbonate ion. Thus, a 1 molar (M) sodium carbonate solution corresponds to a 2 normal (N) sodium carbonate solution in terms of sodium ions (z=2).
The preparation device can be arranged below the device for dosing and/or preparing the mixture of substances. In this way, the fluid and the solid component can be fed to the preparation device gravimetrically or by gravity alone. Expensive peristaltic pumps can thus be dispensed with. In particular, peristaltic pumps with an “easy load” pump head can be dispensed with. With other peristaltic pumps, a tube cannot be inserted reproducibly, which can lead to incorrect dosing. This is particularly critical when dosing and preparing a mixture of substances, for example a medium or a buffer.
Preferably, the preparation device comprises one mixing chamber, wherein the mixing chamber is designed to accommodate a solid component dosed from the first container and a fluid dosed from the second container or the fluid line and mix these, wherein the mixing chamber is connected to or can be connected to a collection container to enable to mixture of substances prepared by the mixing chamber to be collected by the collection container.
The mixing chamber may be configured to mix the fluid supplied to the preparation device and the solid component supplied to the preparation device. Furthermore, the collecting container may be part of the mixing chamber or may be connected or connectable to the mixing chamber in such a way that the mixture of the fluid and the solid component or the prepared mixture of substances can be received or collected. Preferably, the collection container is arranged below the mixing chamber, in particular connected or connectable to the mixing chamber, so that the mixture of substances can be supplied gravimetrically or by gravity alone to the collection container, in particular fluid-tight. Further components, such as hoses or pumps, can thus be dispensed with. The collection container can be used to store the prepared mixture of substances.
Preferably, the preparation device furthermore comprises a stirrer element for stirring or mixing the solid component and the fluid and/or a vacuum connection for generating a vacuum.
The stirrer element may be an elongated element extending along a stirrer element longitudinal axis between a drive end and a free end. At the drive end, a coupling means may extend in the stirrer element longitudinal axis direction towards the free end, the coupling means being configured to interact in a coupling manner with an actuation and/or drive unit. The actuation and/or drive unit may be a drive shaft which is connected to a motor and is thus driven. At the free end, the stirrer element may have a stirrer or propeller. Preferably, the stirrer element is arranged at least partially within the mixing chamber. Thereby, the stirrer element and the mixing chamber may extend along the same longitudinal axis. Thus, the mixing chamber may extend symmetrically about the stirrer element, preferably the stirrer element extends along a mixing chamber central longitudinal axis. Thus, by driving the motor, the stirrer element can be set into a rotating motion so that the fluid and the solid component can be mixed by means of the stirrer to form a mixture of substances.
Furthermore, a vacuum can be generated in the mixing chamber and/or in the collection container by means of a vacuum connection. The vacuum connection can be designed to connect to a vacuum generator, for example a vacuum pump. The vacuum connection can be arranged on the collection container, in particular on its upper area, adjoining or adjacent to the mixing chamber. However, the vacuum connection can also be arranged in the wall of the mixing chamber or in the wall of a hopper element or filter element described later. However, the vacuum connection can also be arranged at the lower area of the collection container or below the hopper element or filter element. Thus, by means of the vacuum generator, a negative pressure can be generated in the collection container so that the prepared substance mixture can be fed to the collection container under sterile conditions. The vacuum connection can comprise a protective filter or a protective fleece. This serves to prevent liquid from being drawn into the vacuum pump.
Furthermore, the mixed at least one solid component and at least one fluid can be sterile filtered through the filter in the filter element. Thus, the filtration can be performed via a vacuum. Preferred filters are 0.2 μm or 0.22 μm sterile filters or 0.1 μm PES (polyethersulfone) or CA (cellulose acetate) membrane filters or 0.1 μm mycoplasma filters or virus filters. It is also conceivable that regenerated CA or PVDF membrane filters are used.
The collection container can be designed to hold a mixture of substances of at least 150 ml. It is conceivable to prepare a mixture of substances with a volume of 150 ml or 250 ml or 500 ml or 1000 ml or 2000 ml. Therefore, the collecting container can be designed in such a way that it can hold at least 150 ml and at most 2000 ml. However, it is also conceivable to have a collection container that can hold a mixture of substances with a volume of more than 2000 ml.
Preferably, the preparation device extends along a preparation device longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, the preparation device furthermore comprising a retention element that is arranged on the preparation device and a filter that is arranged or can be arranged in the retention element.
From the first end toward the second end, the preparation device may include a lid, the mixing chamber, a filter element or hopper element, and the collection container. The lid may be disposed adjacent the first end of the preparation device. The lid may be configured to cover or conceal the mixing chamber. Adjacent to the lid, the mixing chamber may be arranged, followed by a hopper element or filter element and the collection container, which may be arranged at the second end of the preparation device. When connected or assembled together, the lid, mixing chamber, hopper element, and collection receptacle may extend about the same longitudinal axis or preparation device longitudinal axis. The hopper element may be connected or connectable to the holding element. This arrangement makes it particularly easy to feed the fluid and solid components to the mixing chamber, where they are mixed to form a mixture of substances, and finally fed to the collection container under vacuum conditions. Expensive pumps, for example hose pumps or peristaltic pumps, can thus be dispensed with. The fluid and the solid component can be conveyed to the mixing chamber and then to the collection container by gravity alone.
The mixing chamber may extend between a first end and a second end about a longitudinal mixing chamber axis. The mixing chamber may be open at the first end and/or at the second end. By the mixing chamber being open at the first end, the at least one solid component and the at least one fluid can be introduced into the mixing chamber at the first end. Further, the stirrer element can be inserted into the mixing chamber through the first end to mix the components and the fluid together in the mixing chamber. The mixing chamber may be connected or connectable to the hopper element or the filter element by the second end. Thus, the at least one solid component and the at least one fluid can be mixed in the mixing chamber and then filtered through the filter element or hopper element before the finished mixture of substances is filled into the collection container.
Preferably, the lid is designed to cover one end of the mixing chamber.
The lid may be configured to cover the first end of the mixing chamber. This allows the mixing chamber and the hopper element to be protected from germs and contaminants from the environment.
Preferably, the lid has a lid plate with a central opening, the central opening being configured to receive the stirrer element such that two opposite ends of a stirrer element shaft or drive shaft are arranged on opposite sides of the lid and the lid plate surrounds the stirrer element shaft in a rotationally symmetrical manner.
The lid can thus be placed on the first end of the mixing chamber together with the stirrer element. Thus, the at least one solid component and the at least one fluid can be mixed together inside the mixing chamber by means of the stirrer element, with the lid preventing impurities from entering the interior of the mixing chamber. Furthermore, the lid prevents parts of the mixture of substances to be prepared from spraying out of the mixing chamber as a result of the stirring movement.
Preferably, the lid is formed in one piece with the stirrer element. However, it is also conceivable that the lid and the stirrer element are designed as two separate components or units. In this case, the stirrer can be operated via a magnetic coupling or via a mechanical coupling. Lowering of the preparation device, for example by means of the lifting device described later, for stirring or mixing the solid component and the fluid in the mixing chamber does not then necessarily have to take place.
The lid and the stirrer element can be made from an injection molded part.
Preferably, the cover plate comprises at least one additional opening, further preferably the cover plate comprises at least two additional openings, wherein the at least one opening is arranged in a rotationally symmetric way to the central opening.
Through the at least one further opening, the at least one solid component and/or the at least one fluid can be filled into the mixing chamber without having to remove the lid and/or the stirrer element from the mixing chamber. However, at least two further openings may also be provided in the lid plate, which are preferably located on opposite sides of the central opening and thus on opposite sides of the stirrer element. This allows, for example, that through a first of the at least two openings, a first solid component and/or a first fluid can be introduced into the mixing chamber without having to remove the lid from the first end of the mixing chamber. Further, through a second of the at least two openings, a second solid component and/or a second fluid may be introduced into the mixing chamber without removing the lid from the second end of the mixing chamber.
Preferably, the stirrer element is connected to or can be connected to a lock washer in such a way that the lock washer surrounds the stirrer element shaft in a rotationally symmetric way and closes or opens at least one additional opening in the cover plate by turning or rotating the stirrer element.
Like the lid and the stirrer element, the lock washer may be made from another injection molded part and may be joined or connected or connectable to the lid and the stirrer element. The lock washer may be arranged in a plane adjacent and/or parallel to a plane of the lid plate. Preferably, the lock washer is arranged below the lid plate so as to face the interior of the mixing chamber when the lid covers the first end of the mixing chamber. Like the lid plate, the lock washer may comprise at least one further opening, further preferably at least two further openings, wherein the at least one opening is arranged in a rotationally symmetric way around the stirrer element. The further openings in the lock washer may have substantially the same dimensions and configuration as the openings in the lid plate. For example, the openings in the closure plate may be located on opposite sides of the stirrer element. Preferably, the openings in the cover plate close an angle of about 180° about the central opening. Correspondingly, the openings in the closure plate include an angle of about 180° about the central opening.
By rotation of the stirrer element, the lock washer can be set into a rotational movement and close or cover and/or reopen at least one, preferably two, of the further openings. Thus, the openings can be opened in a simple manner, by rotation of the stirrer element, so that the at least one solid component and/or the at least one first fluid can be filled into the mixing chamber through the openings in the cover plate and in the lock washer. It is also conceivable that the lock washer can be opened and/or closed manually, for example by means of a finger. An open state is present when the openings of the lock washer and the openings of the cover plate are located one above the other. The closed state is when the openings of the lock washer and the openings of the cover plate are offset from each other.
The lid with the lid plate, the stirrer element and the lock washer can be connected to each other. Thus, not only the stirrer element can be driven in rotation by means of the stirrer element shaft, but also the lock washer. For example, the stirrer element may first rotate or be rotatable to the right (or to the left) so that the lock washer is rotated to the open position by at least partially overlapping the openings in the lock washer with those in the cover plate. Now, for example, the at least one fluid can first be filled into the mixing chamber through at least one of the at least one opening, and thereafter the at least one solid component can be filled into the mixing chamber through at least one of the at least one opening. Thereafter, the agitating element, driven by a motor and the agitating element shaft, may again rotate or be rotatable in the other direction so that the lock washer is rotated to the closed position by not overlapping the openings in the lock washer with those in the cover plate.
The lid may rest on or close the first end of the mixing chamber in the closed position. Possibly, the lid has an engagement so that the required resistance to unscrew the lock washer can be generated. In this way, a counter-pressure can advantageously be formed inside the mixing chamber, which allows the closing disc to be opened and/or closed. In the closed state, mixing of the components inside the mixing chamber can then take place by means of the stirrer element. The fact that the lock washer is rotatably mounted on the stirrer element or on the stirrer element shaft means that the lock washer can remain in a stationary state during rotation of the stirrer element when mixing the components.
The lid may have a peripheral limitation area or edge area that faces away from the lid plate at an angle of substantially 45° to the lid plate and thus protrudes. When the lid is placed on or closes the first opening of the mixing chamber, the inside of the edge area may contact or be adjacent to the outside of the mixing chamber. The edge area of the lid can thus surround the mixing chamber.
The lid not only protects the interior of the mixing chamber and/or the filter element from germs and contamination, but also allows the exterior of the preparation device to be cleaned or wiped clean with alcohol. This allows the preparation device to be inserted into a safety cabinet. It is thus also possible to add further substances to the substance mixture under the safety workbench or to filter them. Here it is possible to separate the hopper element or the filter element from the collection container. Under the safety cabinet, the prepared mixture of substances can be transferred from the collection vessel into appropriately provided cell culture vessels (WellPlates, Erlenmeyer flasks, Falcon tubes, bioreactors), for example by pipetting. The collection vessel can be sealed in the safety cabinet and transferred from there to a refrigerator for storage.
The hopper element or filter element may have a first end and a second end, and extend between the first end and the second end about a longitudinal hopper element axis. The first end and the second end of the hopper element may have an open configuration. The hopper element may have a substantially conically shaped cross-section transverse to the hopper longitudinal axis, the hopper element having an outer wall that decreases in distance from the hopper longitudinal axis from the first end toward the second end. The first end of the hopper element may be connected or connectable to the second end of the mixing chamber. Thus, the at least one solid component and the at least one fluid may be mixed in the mixing chamber. Between the first end and the second end, the hopper element may be configured to receive a filter. However, the filter may also be fixedly integrated into the hopper element or filter element, for example, the filter may be welded to the hopper element. With the second end, the hopper element can be connected or connectable to the collection container. Thus, the at least one solid component and at least one fluid mixed together in the mixing chamber can be filtered through the filter in the filter element or hopper element, respectively, before the finished mixture of substances is filled into the collecting container.
The hopper element can be connected or connectable to the retention element. The retention element may be configured to retain and/or receive the hopper element. The retention element may be disposed adjoining or adjacent to the first end of the filter element. The retention element may include a first protrusion and a second protrusion extending from the first end in a direction away from the filter element longitudinal axis and the hopper element longitudinal axis, respectively. The first protrusion and the second protrusion may be disposed opposite from the filter element longitudinal axis. This allows for easy holding and or replacement of the filter element by allowing the filter element to be held or grasped by means of the protrusions. Furthermore, the two protrusions may be configured as planar elements each having a first surface and an opposing second surface. One of the two surfaces in each case, for example the first surface of the first protrusion and the first surface of the second protrusion, can serve as a support surface, for example for resting on a preparation device receiving device.
Preferably, the retention element is designed to hold the preparation device, wherein the retention element is designed for insertion into a preparation device receiving device, wherein, preferably, the preparation device receiving device is connected to or can be connected to a housing for the device for dosing and/or preparation of a mixture of substances.
It is conceivable that the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances has a preparation device receiving device, which is designed to hold the preparation device. The preparation device receiving device may be configured as a planar element having a first surface and an opposing second surface. The preparation receiving device may have a recess extending from a side edge or from a side edge of the planar element to the interior of the planar element. This recess may be configured to receive the filter element. Thus, the filter element may be inserted into the recess and held by the preparation device receiving device by having the bearing surfaces of the protrusions of the filter element, for example the second surface of the first protrusion and the second surface of the second protrusion, bear on one of the two surfaces of the preparation device receiving device, for example the first surface. By allowing the first end of the hopper element to be connected to the mixing chamber, and by allowing the second end of the hopper element to be connected to the collection receptacle, the mixing chamber may be disposed above the preparation device receiving device when the preparation device is inserted into the preparation device receiving device, adjoining or adjacent to the first surface of the preparation device receiving device. The collection receptacle may be disposed below the preparation device receiving device, adjoining or adjacent to the second surface of the preparation device receiving device, when the preparation device is inserted into the preparation device receiving device.
The first surface and the second surface of the preparation device receiving device may have a distance from each other that tapers from the edge area of the preparation device receiving device toward the recess in a plane in which the recess extends, preferably in a plane that intersects the plane of the preparation device receiving device at an angle of 45°. The cross-section of the preparation device receiving device in a plane transverse to the plane in which the recess extends may thus be wedge-shaped. This is particularly preferred, as this shape has a positive effect on the stability of the preparation device receiving device.
A recess may be disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion of the retention element at the first end of the filter element. This recess may be disposed relative to the first protrusion and the second protrusion at an angle of 45° about the longitudinal axis of the filter element. This recess may be configured to be received by a protrusion on one of the two surfaces of the preparation device receiving device, for example on the first surface. This protrusion may extend away from the first surface of the preparation device receiving device, and may be disposed adjoining or adjacent to the side edge of the preparation device receiving device opposite the side edge from which the recess extends. The protrusion and the recess may engage after the filter element has been inserted into the preparation device receiving device. This contributes to improved retention of the hopper element in the preparation device receiving device. In addition, this interlocking ensures that the vacuum connection is always in the correct location and faces away from the edge of the preparation device receiving device from which the recess extends to receive the hopper element.
Preferably, the hopper and/or the lid and/or the stirrer element and/or the retention element and/or the collecting container and/or the filter and/or the mixing chamber are replaceable and designed as disposable or disposable articles.
Since all components of the preparation device are disposable, they can be easily replaced after each individual preparation of a mixture of substances or after a certain number of preparations of a mixture of substances. Thus, cleaning of the individual components can be dispensed with. In principle, an infinite number of different substance mixtures could be prepared without leaving residues or without cleaning the device for dosing and/or preparing a substance mixture.
However, it is also conceivable that the hopper and/or the lid and/or the stirrer element and/or the retention element and/or the collecting container and/or the filter are designed as reusable components. In this case, the components of the preparation device must be cleaned after each preparation of a mixture of substances or after a certain number of preparations. In this case, the stirrer element can have one or more integrated spray balls or spray heads or spray nozzles for cleaning. It is conceivable that liquid is introduced into the mixing chamber via the stirrer element and, in particular, via the spray balls provided on the stirrer element. The preparation device can thus also be used for cleaning in particular the mixing chamber and the hopper element connected thereto. For this purpose, the preparation device must be connected or coupled to a corresponding cleaning device. If cleaning liquid is introduced into the spray heads from the cleaning device, this causes the preparation device to be cleaned. The preparation device comprising reusable components can also be inserted or clicked into a cleaning and sterilization device for cleaning. The stirrer element and/or the lid and/or the hopper element can be clicked together into the cleaning and sterilization device. The filter can be inserted into the filter element after cleaning. The filter may be replaced in the reusable preparation device after a period of time, as the filter becomes blocked over time and cannot be cleaned. However, commercially available cleaning machines, which are located in laboratory, can be used for the previously described cleaning.
Preferably, the stirrer element is made of plastic or glass and/or the filter is made of plastic or cellulose.
Preferably, the preparation device, preferably the mixing chamber and/or the collection container, has at least one sensor, wherein the sensor is designed to measure the pH value and/or the conductivity.
A variety of pH sensors can be used, including but not limited to glass membrane electrodes, pHFETs, metal/metal oxide pH sensors, liquid membrane electrodes, pH sensitive polymer modified electrodes, potentiometric pH sensors, ion selective electrodes, fiber optic pH probes, optical and fluorescent pH sensors, or miniaturized pH sensors.
By means of the conductivity sensor, the electrical conductivity of the mixture of substances can be measured by determining the resistance of the mixture of substances. The resistance can be measured using a conductivity meter. Flat/cylindrical electrodes or induction-based measurements can be made. The pH sensor can be replaceable and designed as a disposable or disposable item. However, it is also conceivable to use a reusable pH sensor. In this case, the pH sensor and/or the conductivity sensor can be arranged on the stirrer element. It is also conceivable that at least one pH sensor or also other sensors can be inserted and carried out by the lock washer. This is particularly advantageous for reusable sensors.
Preferably, a first of the two opposite ends of the stirrer element shaft is designed as a drive end that is connected to or can be connected to a stirrer element motor, wherein a second of the two opposite ends is designed as a free end that is connected to or can be connected to a stirrer.
The stirrer element motor can thus be arranged at the first end of the stirrer element shaft. The stirrer element motor is thus preferably arranged above the preparation device and above the lid. The stirrer element motor can be coupled to the stirrer element shaft, and thus drive the stirrer element and/or the lock washer of the lid in rotation.
Preferably, the apparatus for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances comprises a lifting device, wherein the lifting device is designed to change the position of the preparation device in relation to the position of the stirrer element motor.
The lifting device can be arranged below the preparation device. The lifting device can have a lifting platform on which the collection container of the preparation device can be placed. Furthermore, the lifting device may comprise a first stroke element or lifting spindle and a second stroke element or lifting spindle by means of which the position of the lifting platform and thus the position of the preparation device on the lifting platform can be changed. Each of the stroke elements may comprise a stroke element motor. By means of the lifting device, the position of the previously described preparation device relative to the stirrer element motor can be changed. By moving the lifting platform to a first lifting position, for example by lifting the lifting platform, the preparation device can be moved relative to the stirrer element motor so that the stirrer element motor can engage with the drive end of the stirrer element shaft, and rotationally drive the stirrer element. In a second lifting position, for example by lowering the lifting platform, the preparation device can be moved away from the stirrer element motor. The stirrer element motor can thus disengage from the drive end of the stirrer element shaft, such that the rotational drive of the stirrer element shaft is interrupted. Further, the preparation device can now be easily removed from the device for dispensing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. The stirrer element with lid can easily float or be spaced above the hopper or hopper element. Thus, by means of the lifting platform, the preparation device can be moved upwards, towards the stirrer element, so that the stirrer element can engage with the preparation device. Special latching elements can be provided on the stirrer element and the preparation device for this purpose. To open the lid, the stirrer element can then turn to the left and to close the lid, the stirrer element can turn to the right. In this case, the lid rests coupled with the stirrer element on the hopper element. The lifting platform is lowered for mixing. The stirrer element remains connected to the motor. This allows mixing to take place. To remove the substance mixture, the preparation device is moved upwards by means of the lifting platform. The stirrer element can be unclicked. Brief pressure from the hopper element on the stirrer element with lid decouples the stirrer element from the stirrer element motor. In this way, the stirrer element can remain coupled during rotation, but can also be removed together with the preparation device when moving down or downward by means of the lifting platform.
Preferably, the lifting device comprises a lifting bracket or lifting clamp, wherein, preferably, the lifting bracket or lifting clamp is connected or can be connected to a sensor or set of scales.
Preferably, the second dosing device for dosing the at least one fluid from the second container and/or from the fluid line features at least one stroke system, wherein the stroke system comprising a piston pump with a piston, so that the fluid is dosed from the second container and/or the fluid line by a deflection of the piston.
In addition to the piston, the piston pump can comprise a turntable, whereby the piston can be deflected by means of the turntable. The turntable can be reusable and connected to a stroke element motor. The piston pump may be connected or connectable to the pivot plate. For example, the piston pump may be detachably connected to the turntable, for example by the two elements being clicked together. However, it is also conceivable that the piston pump is firmly connected, for example glued, to the turntable. As an alternative to the turntable, the stroke system or the piston pump can also be driven linearly, for example by means of a lifting magnet or a servo drive.
Thus, by means of the stroke system, a pressure can be exerted on the second container or the fluid line by means of a pump mechanism, so that the fluid can be dosed correctly. However, it is also conceivable that pressure can be exerted on the second container or the fluid line by means of a rotary mechanism or another mechanism, so that the fluid can be dosed correctly and in a particularly easy-to-implement manner. The stroke system can dose the fluid by means of the piston pump. The turntable can be driven by means of the stroke element motor and exert a pressure on the piston. Instead of a turntable, a camshaft may be provided, or a solenoid, or a servo drive. The piston can be connected or connected to the second container or the fluid line in such a way that the piston is deflected or moved by the turntable. This deflection or movement allows the fluid to be pumped from the second container or fluid line and dosed correctly.
The stroke system can be designed to dispense a discrete or predefined amount of fluid, wherein, preferably, the discrete or predefined amount of fluid can be dispensed with a stroke or piston stroke. By stroke is meant the distance that the piston travels during a reciprocation or the distance that the piston travels during the deflection. However, it is also conceivable that the discrete or predefined quantity cannot be dispensed with one stroke, but can be dispensed with more than one stroke or with several strokes.
This design of the second dosing device enables exact, precise and particularly simple dosing of the fluid by means of the piston pump. Simultaneously with the dosing or with a time delay, for example immediately or shortly before the dosing or immediately or shortly after the dosing by means of the piston pump, the fluid in the second container or in the fluid line can be tempered to a desired temperature by means of a tempering device and/or kept at this temperature for a longer time. Thus, the fluid can be dosed from the second container or the fluid line by the stroke system and tempered to the desired temperature by, preferably simultaneously, the temperature control. Thus, a fluid can be brought to the temperature intended for the preparation of the mixture of substances. Furthermore, however, the stroke system also enables a particularly efficient and time-saving dosing and controlling the temperature of the fluid. During the preparation of a mixture of substances, longer downtimes are thus avoided and efficient work is made possible. By means of the temperature control, the fluid from the second container or from the fluid line can be heated to about 37° C. The cell culture or the medium must be kept at a constant temperature. The cell culture or medium usually needs to be heated to 37° C. Heating is usually done in water baths, which takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Especially on weekends or when cell culture media have to be changed quickly, this time hinders considerably. Furthermore, water baths have to be cleaned and ultrapure water is used. With the aid of the temperature control, it is also possible to thaw frozen liquids, such as sera, and then dispense them using the stroke system. Thus, with the stroke system and the second container or fluid line connected or connectable thereto, particularly efficient work is possible in the preparation of a mixture of substances, for example a medium or a buffer. In the preparation of media and buffers, additives in a quantity of about 0.01 to 0.1 ml could preferably be dosed by means of the stroke system. However, other dosing quantities or stroke settings are also conceivable. It is conceivable that a discrete or predefined fluid quantity, for example 0.1 ml, can be dosed by means of a stroke. However, pistons can also be provided, which are designed, for example, to dispense a smaller fluid quantity of 0.01 ml. In this case, ten strokes are necessary to dispense a discrete or predefined fluid quantity of 0.1 ml. The second stroke system described later, which may comprise a pipette-like outlet or a pipette-like outlet orifice, is particularly suitable for dispensing a smaller amount of fluid in the range of 1 ml to 2 ml, preferably from 0.01 ml to 0.1 ml, most preferably from 0.01 ml to 0.05 ml. Conceivably, the pipette-like outlet of the second stroke system described later allows droplet-wise dosing. In particular, hydrochloric acid and base or sodium bicarbonate require dosing in the milliliter range, for example in the range of 1 ml to 2 ml. The second stroke system with a pipette-like outlet is advantageous for dosing these fluids.
An extension that can be coupled to the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances is conceivable. The entire control can then be carried out via the first stroke system. The extension is used for pH adjustment. The second stroke system can be used for dosing a base and a hydrochloric acid. Alternatively, a peristaltic pump can be used, with the feed line being via a closure flap of the preparation device. It is conceivable that the hoses can be or are clicked into the first stroke system in this way. Furthermore, a lowerable pH probe may be clicked into the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. The pH probe may be configured as a reusable sensor. The pH probe may be connected or connectable to the preparation unit. However, it is also conceivable that it can be arranged or stored in a storage or cleaning liquid, preferably within the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. For this purpose, there may be a container, which is preferably arranged within the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, which comprises the storage or cleaning liquid and the pH probe. A gripping element, for example a gripping arm, may be provided so that the pH probe, after use, is automatically inserted into the storage or cleaning liquid within the container by means of the gripping element. The same gripping element may be configured to remove the pH probe from the container again and/or to insert the pH probe into the preparation unit. Other sensors, for example a conductivity sensor, can also be inserted into the storage or cleaning liquid within the container by means of the same gripping element or by means of a different gripping element, removed again and inserted into the preparation unit.
The extension for pH adjustment may have its own peristaltic pumps or stroke systems. A sensor may be provided in the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, which may be inserted through the lid, for example through one of the openings in the lid, into the hopper for measuring. Tubing may extend from the extension for pH adjustment into the device so that acid and/or base can be introduced through the lid, for example through one of the openings in the lid, into the funnel
The stroke system can be connected to the second container or the fluid line via the fluid connection. However, it is also conceivable that the stroke system is permanently connected to the second container or fluid line. In other words, the stroke system can be integrated into the second container or fluid line and offered or supplied integrated in this way. However, it is also conceivable, as described above, that the stroke system and the second container or fluid line are two separate elements that can be combined or connected to each other via the fluid connection, so that fluid can be dosed from the second container or fluid line.
The stroke system can preferably be connected or connectable to the outlet of the second container. Thus, by actuating the stroke system, the fluid can be pumped from the second container and precisely dosed. Thus, the correctly dosed fluid from the second container or fluid line can be filled directly into the mixing chamber.
Preferably, the preparation device is arranged in the direction of gravity below the stroke system that can be connected or is connected to the second container or fluid line. Preferably, the stroke system is arranged or positioned in the direction of gravity between the preparation device and the second container or fluid line. By direction of gravity is meant the direction of a straight line pointing towards the center of the earth. In this way, the fluid can be easily guided from the second container or fluid line in the direction of the stroke system by gravity alone and pumped from the second container or fluid line into the mixing chamber of the preparation device. Expensive pumps can thus be dispensed with.
Preferably, the stroke system comprises at least one UV-C illuminant.
The UV-C illuminant can be, for example, a UV-C tube or a UV-C lamp, which emit ultraviolet radiation in the UV-C range with a wavelength between 280 nm and 100 nm. The UV-C illuminant may be connected or connectable to the stroke system. The UV-C illuminant may be arranged adjoining or adjacent to the stroke system, in particular adjoining or adjacent to its outlet and/or to its piston. The UV-C illuminant thus enables sterilization and disinfection of the outlet and/or the piston. It is also conceivable that the UV-C illuminant or another UV-C illuminant is arranged adjoining or adjacent to further components of the stroke system, so that these components can be reliably sterilized or disinfected. The output of the first dosing device, for example the output of a screw conveyor housing as described later, can also be sterilized in this way. It is also conceivable that the UVC illuminant sterilizes the sensors, for example the pH probe.
Preferably, all components of the stroke system are designed as disposable articles.
If fluid-carrying hoses or lines are provided, all fluid-carrying hoses or lines, for example hoses or lines by means of which the fluid is pumped out of the second container or fluid line, can be designed as disposable or single-use articles and thus be replaceable. This is particularly advantageous because the fluid-carrying lines can become germy and calcified. Even regular cleaning cannot prevent this, so completely replaceable components that are in fluid contact are advantageous. Ideally, a “single batch” process can be used, i.e., after the fluid in the second container is used up, the entire second container is replaced or discarded. This eliminates the need for cleaning and/or descaling with chemicals, which is particularly environmentally friendly and advantageous when preparing a mixture of substances. Furthermore, long downtimes due to additional cleaning of the components are avoided. This enables particularly efficient work.
The second container can be supplied prefilled with a fluid, for example ultrapure water. The second container can be designed in such a way that it cannot be opened by the user and thus cannot be refilled. Alternatively, however, the second container may be configured as a reusable article. The second container may then have a second opening with a closure element, for example a lid or a fastener or a zipper, for example on a side of the container opposite to the first opening, so that the fluid inside the second container can be refilled through the second opening. It is also conceivable that the second container can be refilled with fluid through the first opening, which is connectable to the piston pump. In this case, the piston pump must be temporarily disconnected or removed from the first opening so that the fluid can be refilled through the first opening.
Preferably, the second opening of the second container includes a tamper-evident element in addition to the closure element.
The tamper protection element may be connected to the closure element and/or the opening. The tamper protection element may be a seal and comprise a seal tape connected to the closure element in such a way that it is not possible to forcibly open or manipulate the seal without leaving clear traces. The tamper-evident element can be, for example, a seal or a sealing sticker or sealing sticker that is stuck onto the opening and thus seals it. It is also conceivable that the tamper protection element is integrally connected to the closure element. In the case of a screw cap, the closure element may include a tamper-evident ring that detaches from the screw cap when the screw cap is opened for the first time. The tamper-evident element thus provides protection against unauthorized opening of the container. This means that no one can open the container unnoticed, for example in the store, and fill it with something that could cause damage.
Preferably, the temperature control features a heating device, in particular, a heating plate, wherein the heating device is arranged at least partially in contact with the second container or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the heating device at least partially adjoins or closely aligns the housing of the second container.
The heating device can be designed as a heating plate or as a heating mat or as a metal plate and can comprise integrated or adjacent heating elements. The heating plate should be arranged in relation to the second container or fluid line in such a way that the second container or fluid line is as close as possible to the heating plate. This enables heat to be transferred from the heating plate to the second container, in particular to one of the outer sides or to the housing of the second container, so that the fluid inside the second container can be reliably heated. However, it is also conceivable that the temperature control comprises a cooling device, in particular a cooling plate, wherein the cooling device is arranged at least partially in contact with the second container or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the cooling device at least partially adjoins or contacts the housing of the second container. The cooling device may be configured as a cooling plate or as a cooling mat or as a metal plate and may comprise integrated or contacting cooling elements. This enables cooling of one of the outer sides of the housing of the second container, so that the fluid inside the second container can be reliably cooled. Particularly preferably, the temperature control comprises both a heating plate and a cooling plate. Alternatively, the temperature control may comprise a temperature control plate which can both heat and cool. The heating device and/or cooling device and/or the heating plate and/or cooling plate may be an integral part of the housing of the second container and/or the fluid line. However, it is also conceivable that the heating device and/or cooling device and/or the heating plate and/or cooling plate are arranged within the housing of the second container and/or the fluid line.
Thus, it is possible that, depending on the type of mixture of substances to be prepared, the fluid inside the second container or the fluid line can first be heated and then cooled. Preferably, the heating plate is designed to heat the fluid to a temperature of at least 100° C. or to the boiling temperature. This enables reliable killing of germs and bacteria. By means of the cooling plate, the fluid can then be cooled to a temperature of 37° C. Above this, the bag contents can be heated or thawed by means of the heating plate. For example, a second container comprising a fluid, preferably sodium bicarbonate, could be tempered or cooled to a temperature of about 2° C. to 8° C., which is the temperature at which this type of fluid should be stored. As an alternative to the cooling plate, the second container comprising a fluid could also be stored in a refrigerator and clicked or inserted into the corresponding second receiving area of the device shortly before the preparation of the mixture of substances.
Preferably, the heating plate and/or the cooling plate and/or the temperature control plate for heating and cooling is in contact with the housing of the second container in the lower region thereof in the direction of gravity. This arrangement of the heating plate allows the fluid in the lower region of the interior of the second container to be heated, so that a circulating motion of the fluid in the interior of the second container is initiated and the fluid in the interior of the container can be uniformly heated. By arranging the cooling plate, the lower area inside the second container can be cooled so that the circulation movement of the fluid inside the second container can be stopped and the fluid inside can be cooled. Particularly preferably, the heating plate and/or the cooling plate are in contact with the body of the container in the adjacent region between the lower and upper regions along the longitudinal axis of the container. Conceivably, in the case where the temperature control comprises both a heating plate and a cooling plate, the heating plate and the cooling plate at least partially contact or contact the housing of the second container on respective opposite sides thereof. This enables particularly efficient heating and/or cooling of the fluid inside the second container.
Preferably, the heating plate and/or the cooling plate are configured to be connected or connectable to the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, for example a medium or a buffer. It is conceivable that the heating plate and/or the cooling plate can be arranged in an inclined position in the previously described device, for example on an inclined side wall. This enables the second container to rest particularly close to the heating plate and/or the cooling plate, which enables particularly efficient heating and/or cooling. However, this effect can also be achieved by alternatively or additionally limiting the area in the previously described device to such a narrow extent that the second container must necessarily rest against the heating plate and/or the cooling plate. It is also conceivable that the heating device and/or cooling device and/or the heating plate and/or cooling plate surround the second container at least partially, preferably completely. Thus, the container may be completely surrounded by the heating device and/or cooling device and/or the heating plate and/or cooling plate, wherein the heating device and/or cooling device and/or the heating plate and/or cooling plate may contact or be arranged adjacent or neighboring the container. An inclined or sloped position of the heating plate and/or cooling plate is further advantageous for constructing a system in which the second container with stroke system and temperature control is to be used. For example, hanging cabinets or the safety workbench often limit the height of a system. With an inclined or sloped heating plate and/or cooling plate, a larger second container can be used, which also rests on the heating plate and/or cooling plate at an inclined or sloped angle, if the vertical distance of the safety workbench does not permit vertical alignment of the container.
Preferably, the heating plate comprises at least two heating zones, preferably three heating zones.
The heating zones can be designed as heating rods which extend at least partially between two opposite sides or side edges of the heating plate. Preferably, the heating rods extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the heating plate at least partially between the opposite sides, and further preferably the heating rods extend over the entire area between the opposite sides. Alternatively, the heating rods may extend substantially transverse to the direction of the longitudinal heating plate axis at least partially between opposite sides. Preferably, the heating rods extend across the entire area between two opposite sides transverse to the longitudinal axis of the heating plate. Thus, a lower heating zone, a middle heating zone and an upper heating zone may be provided in the direction of gravity. The heating rods may be arranged on an outer side of the heating plate which is opposite to the outer side of the heating plate against which the second container for the fluid contacts or is adjacent. Conceivably, the heating rods may also be integral with the heating plate and extend through the interior of the heating plate. The heating rods may be integrally formed with the heating plate. However, it is also conceivable that the heating rods are connectable or connected to the heating plate. For example, they may be bonded to an external surface of the heating plate. The different heating zones prevent the second container from melting at very high temperatures at the points where the second container has no fluid inside. This is particularly advantageous when the second container empties and the fluid as a heat-conducting medium is no longer uniformly present in the second container.
Preferably, the at least two heating zones, preferably three heating zones, can be controlled or regulated. Preferably, the heating zones or the heating elements can be controlled or regulated individually.
The fact that the heating zones can be controlled individually means that, for example, only the middle heating zone and/or the lower heating zone can be controlled when the fluid in the second container has already been partially emptied. In this way, the upper area of the second container, which no longer contains fluid, would not be tempered, and melting of the second container or its housing is prevented. Alternatively to the heating zones or heating rods, a container material could be used which is extremely heat resistant.
Preferably, the housing of the first container and/or the housing of the second container comprise at least partially a flexible material or the housing of the first container and/or the housing of the second container are formed of a flexible material, wherein, preferably, the housing of the first container and/or the housing of the second container comprise an aluminium film or are formed from an aluminium composite film.
Due to the flexible material, the second container can lie particularly close to the heating plate and/or cooling plate, especially when it is inserted or arranged in one of the previously described devices. This enables particularly efficient heating and/or cooling. The use of an aluminium composite foil provides an impermeable barrier to air and light, thus ensuring reliable protection of the fluid inside the containers from external influences. The metal particles or the metal content also enables particularly good heat conduction between the heating plate and/or cooling plate and the fluid inside the second container.
Preferably, the housing of the first container and/or the housing of the second container comprises at least partially a shape-retaining material or the housing of the first container and/or the housing of the second container is formed of a shape-retaining material. Preferably, the material of the container comprises metal particles.
Instead of the flexible material, the housing of the containers may also comprise a non-flexible material. For example, the first container and/or the second container may be configured as a shape-retaining container or container. The shape-retaining container may comprise a housing that is relatively thin or that has a thickness such that it allows for the transfer of heat between the heating plate and/or cooling plate and the interior of the second container. Also, the shape-retaining container may comprise metal particles such that improved thermal conductivity is enabled. Conceivably, the first container and/or the second container may also comprise a combination of a flexible and non-flexible material.
Preferably, the at least one stroke system and/or the second container comprise at least one sensor.
By means of a sensor, the level of the fluid in the second container can be determined. The sensor may be arranged adjoining or adjacent to the second container. The sensor can be, for example, a scale that is arranged with the second container in such a way, for example below the second container, that the weight of the second container and/or the weight or change in weight of the fluid inside the second container can be determined. Thus, the level of the second container can be determined and displayed at any time so that the fluid can be refilled or the empty container can be replaced or exchanged. The scale can also be used alternatively, for example for readjusting fluid, as described later in connection with the second, further stroke system. Particularly preferably, the scale is placed in the direction of gravity below a collection container or below a preparation device for this purpose. The sensor or the set of scales can be connected to a clamping element, for example a clamp or lifting bracket or stroke clamp. The sensor or scale may therefore also be placed at the same level as the second container or above the second container. The clamp may be arranged on one of the side walls of the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, for example a medium or a buffer. Preferably, the clamp is connected to this device in such a way that it is displaceable in the direction of gravity. Thus, it is possible to arrange or place the second container in or on or on the lifting bracket or stroke clamp, so that the position of the second container can be changed in the direction of gravity. At the same time, the weight of the fluid inside the second container can be determined by means of the sensor or the scale.
The sensor or the scale can be connected to an application software, for example a mobile app, in such a way that the filling level of the fluid can be automatically indicated, for example by a signal tone or a signal light, so that a new fluid or a new second container with fluid can be provided. It is also conceivable to automatically order a new fluid or a new second container with fluids.
It is also conceivable that the level of the fluid is determined using the initial volume or weight of the fluid, which corresponds, for example, to the volume or weight of the commercial fluid container that has not yet been opened (and contains fluid). The data on the volume or weight of the commercial fluid container that has not yet been opened (and contains fluid) can, for example, be stored in a database or in an app and can be taken from this. By means of a processor, based on the initial volume or weight of the container for a fluid and the number of doses, the consumption of the fluid can be determined or calculated. The processor may be part of the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, for example a medium or a buffer. Based on these determined or calculated values, fluid can be reordered automatically, for example on the Internet. For this purpose, a memory unit can be provided in which the usage frequencies are stored. This enables an order to be triggered taking into account the delivery times and/or the consumption quantities and/or the safety stock of containers not yet used and/or the expiry date of the fluid inside the container. In this way, the user no longer needs to pay attention to how much fluid is still available. This is automatically reordered and delivered without the user having to specifically place an order and without the user having to purchase the fluid from a retailer. The containers that arrive can first be scanned, whereby a stock of containers can be determined or registered. In this way, a safety stock or stock of containers can be automatically taken into account when new orders are placed. As an alternative to automated ordering, it is also conceivable that the user receives an indication, for example by means of a signal tone or a message, for example on the screen of a computer or smart device, that the stock of containers with fluid has fallen below a certain minimum number or a certain safety stock level, so that the user can place the reorder manually.
In addition, it is conceivable that the screen of a computer or smart device can display how many first containers and second containers are used or are being used in the device for dispensing and/or preparing a mixture of substances in the corresponding first and second receiving areas. Conceivably, a series of complicated recipes can be scrolled on the screen so that the user can be shown which solid components and/or fluids are needed to prepare the mixture of substances. The individual receiving areas or dispensers can also communicate with each other in order to run individual recipes.
A first preferred method or sequence of a formulation for preparing a mixture of substances with L-glutamine and without sodium hydrogen carbonate could be as follows:
Add 10% less distilled water or fluid than the desired total volume of the substance mixture or medium to the mixing chamber.
This sequence could be displayed on the screen.
A second preferred method or sequence of a formulation for preparing 1 liter of the mixture of substances DMEM (Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium), which is a standardized nutrient medium for cell culture with broad applicability for human and various animal cells, could be as follows:
This second preferred procedure or sequence may be displayed on the screen. It is conceivable that step 14 is performed directly after step 11. It is also conceivable that step 11 is performed directly after step 7. Additional opening and closing of the openings in the lid plate could thus be avoided. It is also conceivable that the pH adjustment under step 13 is carried out separately, for example at a later time under the safety cabinet with an external device. This can be advantageous, especially if the user wishes to add further additives to the stock mixture.
The second preferred method is based on the preparation of a mixture of substances with a volume of 1 L, in which g13,09662+/−0.0654 g of a solid component is added to a fluid of 1 L. The mixture of substances with a volume of 500 ml can be prepared. Alternatively, a mixture of substances with a volume of 500 ml can be prepared, in which g6,5483+/−0.0327 g of a solid component is added to a fluid of 500 ml. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 250 ml may be prepared in which g3,2741+/−0.0163 g of a solid component is added to a fluid of 250 ml. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 150 ml can be prepared in which g1,9644+/−0.0098 g of a solid component is added to a fluid of 150 ml.
By means of the previously described method for preparing a mixture of substances, the mixture of substances RPMI, which is a cell culture medium for normal and neoplastic leukocytes as well as other human and animal cell types, could alternatively be prepared. The preparation can be performed using steps 1 to 17 described previously. To prepare a mixture of substances having a volume of 1 L, 15.0193 g+/−0.075 g of a solid component could be added to a fluid of 1 L. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 500 L, could be prepared by adding g7,509+/−0.03754 g of a solid component to a fluid of 500 L. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 250 ml may be prepared in which g3,755+/−0.01877 g of a solid component is added to a fluid of 250 ml. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 150 ml can be prepared in which g2,252+/−0.011 g of a solid component are added to a fluid of 150 ml.
By means of the previously described method for the preparation of a substance mixture, the substance mixture MEM (Minimum Essential Medium) could alternatively be prepared. The preparation can be carried out with the steps 1 to 17 described before. To prepare a mixture of substances with a volume of 1 L, 10.72093 g+/−0.536 g of a solid component could be added to a fluid of 1 L. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 500 ml, could be prepared by adding 5.3605 g+/−0.0268 g of a solid component to a fluid of 500 ml. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 250 ml may be prepared in which g2,6802+/−0.0134 g of a solid component is added to a fluid of 250 ml. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 150 ml can be prepared in which g1,6081+/−0.008 g of a solid component is added to a fluid of 150 ml.
By means of the previously described method for preparing a mixture of substances, the mixture of substances DPBS (Dulbecco's phosphate-buffered saline), a phosphate-buffered saline solution, could alternatively be prepared. The preparation can be carried out using steps 1 to 17 described previously. To prepare a mixture of substances having a volume of 1 L, 10.87 g+/−0.543 g of a solid component could be added to a fluid of 1 L. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 500 ml, could be prepared by adding 5.435 g+/−0.0272 g of a solid component to a fluid of 500 ml. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 250 ml may be prepared in which 2,7175 g+/−0.0135 g of a solid component is added to a fluid of 250 ml. Further, a mixture of substances having a volume of 150 ml can be prepared in which 1,6305 g+/−0.0082 g of a solid component is added to a fluid of 150 ml.
However, other substance mixtures are conceivable with other concentrations or variants. The substance mixtures described above are only three exemplary variants. The following variations are conceivable: DMEM 4.5 gL glucose w/o sodium pyruvate w/L glutamine, DMEM 4.5 g/L glucose w/o sodium pyruvate w glutamax, DMEM 1.0 g/L Glucose, RPMI 1640 Medium w/L Glutamine, RPMI 1640 with Glutamac, PBS w/o Calcium w/o Magnesium, D-PBS w/o Calcium and Magensium, S-MEM Spinner Modification, MEM w/Earle Salt w/L Glutamine, DMEM F12 1× Liquid with Glutamax I, Opti MEM I Liquid w/Glutamax I, MEM NEAA (100×), PBS buffer, etc.
Other substance mixtures could be: SF-900 Medium w/L Glutamine, Lennox L-Broth Base, MOPS 99.5%, Yeast Extract, Bacto Tryptone, S-MEM, Knockout DEMEM, Grace'S Medium, Embryomax ES Cell Qualified, Medium 199, L-15 Leibovitz Medium, MC Coy's Medium, etc. But other substance mixtures are also conceivable.
Preferably, the device comprises a printer. It is conceivable that the printer can be controlled automatically so that, based on the prepared mixture of substances, it automatically prints out a label or tag with information about the mixture of substances, for example the individual solid components and fluids used, the user, the expiry date, the values of pH and conductivity, etc. This label can be stuck onto the collection container or the container in which the prepared mixture of substances is stored. This label can be affixed to the collection container or the container in which the finished mixture of substances is stored.
Preferably, the second dosing device comprises two stroke systems, the stroke systems are connected to or can be connected to the second container or fluid line, wherein, preferably, one of the stroke systems is connected to or can be connected to a second opening of the second container or fluid line.
Thus, in addition to a first stroke system as previously described, the second dosing device may comprise a further, second stroke system. The further, second stroke system can have all the previously described features of the first stroke system and their advantages. The container may comprise, in addition to the first opening, a further opening in the lower region or at the lower end (as seen in the direction of gravity), such that the further stroke system is connected or connectable to the further opening. This connection can be made in a manner analogous to the connection between the previously described stroke system and the first opening. By the fact that the container can be connected with two stroke systems, for example, different dosing quantities or lifting volumes can be made possible with the two stroke systems. For example, a larger amount of fluid can be dispensed with the first stroke system and a smaller amount of fluid can be dispensed with the second stroke system. Thus, with the second stroke system, with which a smaller amount of fluid can be dosed, a more precise dosing can be carried out, whereas with the first stroke system, with which a larger amount of fluid can be dosed, a faster dosing can be made possible.
Preferably, each of the stroke systems comprises an outlet with an outlet opening through which the fluid is able to escape from the inside of the second container or the fluid line, the outlet of at least one of the stroke systems features a cross-section transverse to its outlet longitudinal axis, which is tapered towards the outlet opening.
In other words, at least one of the stroke systems, for example the second stroke system, comprises a pipette-like outlet. The outlet of either stroke system may extend along a longitudinal outlet axis between a first end and a second end. The outlet may extend in a substantially tubular manner along the longitudinal outlet axis. Further, the outlet may have a substantially equal cross-section (as viewed transverse to the longitudinal outlet axis) between the first end and the second end. Fluid may be pumped from within the container to the outlet by the piston pump, and may enter the outlet at the first end and exit the outlet opening at the second end and be filled into the mixing chamber of the preparation device. The outlet opening may thus be arranged at the second end.
In at least one of the stroke systems, for example in the second, further stroke system, the outlet may be pipette-shaped. In this case, the outlet may have a first outlet portion extending between the first end and the second end as previously described. Adjoining or adjacent to the second end, the outlet may have a second outlet section that also extends along the longitudinal outlet axis between the second end and a third end. The third end is spaced further from the first end than the second end. The outlet may have a cross-section in the second outlet portion that tapers toward the third end. The outlet opening may then be located at the third end, and may have a cross-sectional area (as viewed transversely to the longitudinal outlet axis) adjoining or adjacent to the third end that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the outlet at any location in the first outlet section. The first outlet portion and the second outlet portion may be integrally made or integrally joined together. However, it is also conceivable that the two outlet sections are manufactured as individual parts, and are connected to each other at the second end of the outlet, for example by fitting or gluing.
Due to the pipette-like outlet or the pipette-like outlet opening, the fluid inside the fluid can be readjusted in a particularly simple manner. For example, by means of the first stroke system, a larger amount of fluid can be dosed and a larger amount of fluid can be pumped out of the container first. By means of the second stroke system with the pipette-like outlet or the pipette-like outlet opening, a small amount of fluid can then be subsequently dosed so that a predetermined, exact amount of fluid can be dosed from the second container or from the fluid line. This is particularly advantageous, as particularly small amounts of fluid can be dosed.
Preferably, at least one of the stroke systems is designed to balance a dosing inaccuracy of another dosing device for dosing at least one fluid.
This plays a major role when the dosing accuracy is particularly relevant, such as in the preparation of a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, in which a dosing inaccuracy can occur that is caused by the dosing of a powder necessary for the medium or the buffer. Thus, by means of the pipette-like outlet of the second stroke system of the second dosing device, a possible dosing inaccuracy of the first dosing device for dosing the at least one solid component from the at least one first container can be compensated.
It is also conceivable that several containers, for example two containers, are connected or connectable with a stroke system. Preferably, at least one of the containers comprises a temperature control with all the features described above, for example the design as a heating plate, and the advantages thereof. Further preferably, each of the containers comprises its own temperature control having all the previously described features. This allows the fluid inside the plurality of containers to be tempered differently. Preferably, the stroke system is connected or connectable to the outlet of each of the plurality of containers. This is advantageous, since a fluid inside each of the containers can thus be dosed by means of one and the same stroke system. Therefore, several containers with the same fluid may be provided, or several containers with a different fluid may be provided, which are connectable or connected to one and the same stroke system. Two or more containers are thus advantageous if two or more mixtures of substances have to be produced and thus two or more substances, for example powder with water and/or sodium bicarbonate, have to be mixed together.
The following combination is conceivable: a container with ultrapure water with two stroke systems, one for coarse dosing and one for fine dosing, a container for sodium bicarbonate (with fine and/or coarse dosing), and two further containers, one containing acid and the other containing base. It is also conceivable to have a container which is designed to adjust the pH value (with fine and/or coarse dosing). In particular, the container with sodium bicarbonate can be connected or linked to two stroke systems. In this way, the dosing can be accelerated. In particular, a first stroke system can first be used for rapid coarse dosing of sodium bicarbonate, and a second stroke system can then be used for fine dosing of sodium bicarbonate.
Experiments with sodium bicarbonate as a substance for preparing the mixture of substances, which is thus added to the mixture of substances, have shown that the added amount of sodium bicarbonate in milliliters (ml), including the permissible deviation of +/−0.5%, can vary as follows depending on the mixture of substances to be prepared:
Preferably, the device is connected or can be connected to an analysis device or to an analysis system, wherein a dosing of the at least one solid component and/or a dosing of the at least one fluid take place in depending on data determined or transmitted by the analysis system.
Preferably, the first dosing device for dosing the at least one solid component and/or the second dosing device for dosing the at least one fluid, in particular the stroke system, is connected or connectable to the analysis device or to the analysis system. The analysis system may comprise a measuring device, for example a scale, and/or a smart device and/or a smart watch. Preferably, the dosing of the fluid and/or the powder from one of the previously described containers is performed as a function of data determined or transmitted by the analysis system.
The powder dosing and/or the fluid dosing of the device for preparing a mixture of substances, for example a medium or a buffer, can be carried out as a function of the data determined or transmitted by the measuring device, for example a scale, and/or by the smart device and/or by the smart watch. For example, a powder dosage and/or a fluid dosage is conceivable depending on various user-based characteristics, such as the body mass index (BMI), the weight or the blood oxygen of a person in question. It is further conceivable that dosing may be performed as a function of an electrocardiogram (ECG), heart rate, heart rhythm, exercise activities, eating habits, and/or sleeping habits, such as length of bedtime, of a subject. These values can be obtained directly, such as via the smartwatch and transmitted to the hub system. However, the values, such as those based on an electrocardiogram, can also be stored in the smart watch and/or in the smart device, for example in an app, and transmitted automatically or on demand to the device and/or to the stroke system. In an advantageous manner, a user-based mixture of substances can thus be prepared, which is a suitable mixture of different substances, such as vitamins, magnesium, omega-3, turmeric, zinc, choline, chromium, copper, and/or selenium. These substances are mentioned only by way of example. Other substances are conceivable.
Preferably, the second dosing device comprises at least one clamping element that is designed to dose the fluid from the second container or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the second dosing device features at least a variety of clamping elements that are designed to dose the fluid from the second container or the fluid line.
Alternatively or in addition to the at least one stroke system, the second dosing device can have at least one clamping element which is designed for dosing the fluid from the second container or the fluid line. Thus, as an alternative to the first stroke system, a clamping element can be provided with which a larger amount of fluid can be dosed, whereby a smaller amount of fluid can be dosed with the second stroke system. Thus, with the second stroke system, with which a smaller amount of fluid can be dosed, a more precise dosing can be performed, whereas with the at least one clamping element, with which a larger amount of fluid can be dosed, a faster dosing can be enabled. Furthermore, the dosing of fluid by means of a clamping element is associated with dosing inaccuracies, which can be compensated for by means of the second stroke system for dosing a smaller quantity of fluid.
Preferably, the at least one clamping element is configured as a clamp. Preferably, the at least one clamping element or the clamp is configured to heat and/or cool at least a portion of the fluid inside the fluid reservoir.
Preferably, the second dosing device comprises up to six clamping elements, wherein any two of the six clamping elements are arranged in one level and on opposite sides of the second container or the fluid line.
Preferably, the clamping elements are designed as brackets, wherein, preferably, one of the clamping elements is replaced by the temperature control for controlling the temperature of the fluid to be dosed by means of the clamping elements. Preferably, the temperature control comprises a heating device, in particular a heating plate, wherein the heating device is arranged at least partially in contact with the second container or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the heating device at least partially adjoins or contacts a housing of the second container.
The heating plate can be used to heat the water to 37 degrees, for example. Lower or higher temperatures than 37 degrees are also conceivable. Thus, it is possible that the mixture of substances is immediately brought to the required temperature. The temperature of 37 degrees is a suitable cell culture. The heating plate allows users to dispense with a water bath for stock mixture heating. With the help of the temperature control, the fluid inside the second container or fluid line can be stored in a sterile state and can also be boiled. In this way, ultrapure water could be stored in the second container for a longer period of time. This enables another safety aspect, because a formation of a biofilm in the second container or in the fluid line can be excluded. Sterility or the reduction of bioburden, i.e., the number of germs present on the surface of a product before sterilization, plays a major role in laboratories when producing mixtures of substances.
However, it is also conceivable that the second dosing device has a peristaltic pump instead of a stroke system and/or one or more clamping elements, by means of which the fluid can be dosed from the interior of the second container or from the fluid line.
Preferably, the first dosing device comprises a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing, wherein the screw conveyor, preferably in its full length, is inserted into the screw conveyor housing and arranged within it as rotatable, so that the screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing extend around a shared screw conveyor longitudinal axis.
The dosing device may be designed as a screw conveyor with a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing. The screw conveyor may be configured as a shaft, coiled around one or more helically wound flights in the form of flat plates and/or rubber lobes or wings extending transversely away from the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor substantially in the form of a screw thread. Preferably, the screw conveyor is in the form of a rigid screw conveyor. However, it is also conceivable that the conveyor screw is designed as a flexible, in particular bendable, screw. The screw thread can either be firmly connected to the shaft, for example welded, or manufactured or fabricated in one piece with the shaft. Preferably, the conveying screw comprises a continuous, ongoing screw thread extending between opposite ends of the conveying screw along the longitudinal axis of the conveying screw. In particular, this allows the solid component to be transported by the screw conveyor along its longitudinal axis. The screw conveyor, in particular the screw thread, can be turned from a solid material, for example from a piece of round steel, or can be manufactured as a cast part or injection-molded part. The screw conveyor and/or the screw conveyor housing are essentially cylindrical in shape.
The design of the dosing device enables the solid component to be fed from the first container into the dosing device and transported along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor by means of the screw conveyor in the screw conveyor housing. With each rotation of the conveying screw, a certain amount of powder can be conveyed, so that the dosing of the at least one solid component for preparing a mixture of substances can be determined by the number of (partial) revolutions. This enables precise and simplified dosing of the solid component, which can be performed either automatically, for example controlled by a regulating or control device, or manually.
Preferably, the screw conveyor housing has an inlet with an inlet opening and an outlet with an outlet opening. Preferably, the inlet and the outlet are arranged in the screw conveyor housing on opposite sides as seen transversely to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor.
Through the inlet opening into the inlet, a solid component for preparing a mixture of substances can be fed from the first container into the interior of the screw conveyor housing to be received by one or more helically wound flights of the screw conveyor. The device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances may comprise a shaking device, by means of which the first container or its contents may be set into a shaking motion. This enables the solid component to be guided almost completely from the first container through the inlet opening into the interior of the screw conveyor housing, in particular if the solid component does not slide down by itself and is to be guided into the interior of the screw conveyor housing by gravity, for example. The vibrating device can preferably be arranged in a first receiving area.
As a result of the rotation of the screw conveyor, the solid component is conveyed by the screw conveyor substantially along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor after entering the interior of the screw conveyor housing and can exit through the outlet opening of the outlet. By the outlet being located on an opposite side of the inlet as viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor, the solid component can exit the screw conveyor housing upon reaching the inlet.
Preferably, the screw conveyor has a screw flank diameter, i.e. an outer diameter transverse to the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor, which is in a range of about 20 to 40 mm. Particularly preferably, the screw flank diameter is about 25 mm. This dimensioning of the screw flank diameter favors the conveying or dosing of the solid component. Moisture, in particular, can greatly change the properties of the solid component, especially if the solid component (partially) clumps or sticks together. The previously described dimensioning of the screw flank diameter ensures correct conveying and dosing of the solid component even in the event of moisture ingress.
Preferably, the screw conveyor has a length that is in a range between about 60 and 120 mm. Particularly preferably, the length of the screw conveyor is between about 90 mm and 110 mm, further preferably about 106 mm. This dimensioning of the length of the conveying screw favors the conveying of the solid component. If the length of the conveying screw is reduced, bridging of the solid component may occur in the one or more helically wound flights, so that the inlet opening is blocked and the solid component cannot be further introduced through the inlet opening. Bridging can occur especially when the solid component is to be gravity fed through the inlet opening into the auger housing.
Dimensioning the length and the screw flank diameter of the screw conveyor in the ranges of values described above allows a feed rate of the solid component in the range of about to g115, preferably from about 1.6 to 11 g, more preferably from about 0.2 to 0.88 g, particularly preferably between 0.33 and 0.55 g per revolution of the screw conveyor. Thus, the number of rotations (or the angle of rotation around the longitudinal axis) allows the desired amount of solid component to be fed through the outlet of the screw conveyor housing and thus out of the screw conveyor housing. This enables precise dosing of the solid component for the preparation of a mixture of substances.
Preferably, the inlet opening is essentially oval-shaped and extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. However, other shapes of the inlet opening are also conceivable. The inlet opening comprises a length in the range of from about 20 mm to 60 mm (e.g., of about 47 mm) in the direction of the conveyor screw longitudinal axis and/or a length in the range of from about 10 mm to 40 mm (e.g., of about 29 mm) transverse to the conveyor screw longitudinal axis, in particular viewed perpendicular to the conveyor screw longitudinal axis. Preferably, the outlet opening is substantially rectangular in shape and extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. However, other shapes of the outlet opening are also conceivable. The outlet opening comprises a length in the range of about 20 mm to 50 mm (e.g., of about 30 mm) as viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor and/or a length in the range of about 5 mm to 20 mm (e.g., of about 10 mm) as viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor. These dimensions of the inlet opening and outlet opening allow a particularly favorable introduction and execution from the fixed component into the screw conveyor housing.
Preferably, the auger housing extends between a first end and an opposite second end along the auger longitudinal axis with the outlet disposed adjoining or adjacent to the first end and with the inlet disposed adjoining or adjacent to the second end.
The inlet and outlet are preferably longitudinally spaced from each other. By the arrangement of the inlet adjoining or adjacent the second end and the arrangement of the outlet adjoining or adjacent the first end of the screw conveyor housing, the solid component can be received by the one or more helical flights after entering the interior of the screw conveyor housing through the inlet opening in the inlet and conveyed by the rotation of the screw conveyor to the second end of the screw conveyor housing and exit through the outlet opening. Thus, a predetermined or predeterminable amount of the solid component can be conveyed per revolution so that a dosage can be adjusted (or controlled) based on the number of revolutions (or the angle of revolution about the longitudinal axis).
The first end of the screw conveyor housing is preferably open and the second end of the screw conveyor housing is preferably closed. Thus, the screw conveyor can be fully inserted into the screw conveyor housing through the first end. An insertion element or removal element may be provided at the second end, extending away from the second end. The insertion element or removal element may be configured as a tab comprising a surface that is approximately the size of a thumb. In particular, the insertion element or removal element may comprise a length of about 3 to 4 cm and/or a width of about 2 to 3 cm. On opposite sides, the insertion element or removal element may comprise a haptic corrugation structure. Preferably, the corrugated structure is made of a soft, rubberized material. However, it can also be made of the same material as the insertion element or removal element.
By means of the insertion element, the dosing device can be held and/or selectively inserted into a dosing device receiving area in the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. Furthermore, by means of the insertion element, the dosing device can also be easily removed again, in particular when the first container is empty and needs to be replaced.
Preferably, the inlet comprises a flange having a peripheral wall at least partially surrounding the inlet opening and extending (preferably substantially radially) away from the auger housing, the flange being configured to connect to the dosing device to the first container and/or for inserting the dosing device into the dosing device receiving region.
The peripheral wall of the inlet in the screw conveyor housing is designed to engage with the first container, in particular with an outlet in the first container. This allows the solid component from the first container to be introduced into the screw conveyor housing in a particularly reliable manner. The peripheral wall can be made in one piece with the screw conveyor housing, or can be made as a casting or injection molded part that can be connected to the screw conveyor housing.
The peripheral wall may extend away from the edge of the inlet opening in the screw conveyor housing substantially at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular transversely. Thus, like the inlet opening, the peripheral wall can be substantially oval-shaped and extend in the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor. However, other shapes for the peripheral wall are also conceivable. In particular, the peripheral wall has substantially the same shape as the inlet opening. The peripheral wall may have a circumference in the range of about 100 mm to 130 mm (e.g., of about 122 mm). The peripheral wall may extend along a first peripheral wall central longitudinal axis, which may have a length in the range of about 30 mm to 60 mm (e.g., of about 47 mm). Further, the peripheral wall may extend along a second peripheral wall central longitudinal axis that is oriented perpendicular to the first peripheral wall central longitudinal axis and/or may have a length in the range of about 20 mm to 40 mm (e.g., of about 29 mm). Other lengths are also conceivable. Preferably, the length of the first peripheral wall center longitudinal axis is greater than the length of the second peripheral wall center longitudinal axis. The previously described lengths of the first and second peripheral wall center longitudinal axes are particularly convenient for inserting the solid component into the screw conveyor housing and/or connecting the dosing device to the first container.
Preferably, the peripheral wall includes a first contact surface and an opposing second contact surface, the first and second contact surfaces being oriented parallel to each other.
The first and second contact surfaces may be disposed on opposite sides of the second peripheral wall central longitudinal axis. These contact surfaces allow for particularly easy insertion of the dosing device into the dosing device receiving area. In particular, during insertion into the dosing device receiving area, the contact surfaces can slide along lateral guide elements in a first receiving area configured to receive the first container and can contact the lateral guide elements after being received into the dosing device receiving area. The first contact surface and the second contact surface may have a substantially parabolic cross-sectional area. The configuration of the two contact surfaces and the lateral guide elements, and their interaction when the first container is inserted into the first receiving area, allows the first container to be received in a correct position by the first receiving area so that the solid component can be guided out of the outlet of the dosing device in the correct dosage.
Preferably, a coupling device extends in the longitudinal axis direction of the screw conveyor from one drive end of the screw conveyor, wherein the coupling device is designed to interact, in particular, to intervene in a coupling manner with the actuation and/or drive unit.
The coupling device may be configured as a substantially cylindrical cavity and/or as a receptacle, such that after insertion and reception of the dosing device into the dosing device receiving area, a coupling element in the dosing device receiving area may be simultaneously received in the (preferably substantially cylindrical) cavity. Preferably, the inner wall of the (cylindrical) cavity has an inner profile that can be engaged with an outer profile of the outer wall of the coupling element. For example, the outer profile of the coupling element may have at least one material protrusion that can engage or interact with at least one material recess in the inner profile of the cylindrical cavity. The coupling element may be configured as a drive shaft, such that insertion of the coupling element into the cylindrical cavity enables the dosing device to be driven and thus the screw conveyor to rotate. Preferably, the transmission ratio of the rotational speed is adjustable or variable. This enables a change in the speed of the solid component conveyed through the screw conveyor housing and thus a change in the dosing of the solid component.
Preferably, the screw conveyor housing features an outer wall with a plurality of ribs, the ribs preferably extending at least partially in an axial direction between a first end and a second end, and/or the ribs extending essentially in a radial direction away from the outer wall, preferably two of the ribs limit the outlet opening on opposite sides in a circumferential direction to the outer wall, and preferably two more of the ribs limit the outlet opening on opposite sides in an axial direction to the outer wall.
The ribs are preferably formed as longitudinal ribs between the first and second ends and/or circumferentially surround the outer wall at regular or symmetrical intervals. The ribs may extend away from the outer wall such that each of the ribs has an outer edge that extends in a straight line that is substantially parallel to the conveyor screw longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing and/or is substantially a constant distance from the outer wall of the conveyor screw housing. However, the ribs may also comprise a conically shaped region, for example, which preferably adjoins the first end of the screw conveyor housing. In this conically shaped region, the outer edge of the ribs tapers towards the first end of the screw conveyor housing.
Preferably, two more of the ribs limit the outlet opening on or at opposite sides in the circumferential direction of the outer wall. In other words, two of the ribs are disposed adjoining or adjacent the outlet opening and extend away from the edge of the outlet opening. Preferably, two further ribs are provided limiting the outlet opening on opposite sides in the axial direction of the outer wall. These further ribs extend between the two ribs limiting the outlet opening on opposite sides in the circumferential direction and are arranged adjoining or adjacent to the outlet opening, extending away from the edge thereof. Thus, the outlet opening may be surrounded by ribs on all sides.
The ribs at the outlet, in particular at the outlet opening, advantageously prevent contact of the exiting first component with the housing of the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. As a result of the powder not touching the housing of the device, the housing does not have to be cleaned after each use and can be reused directly. In addition, the powder is prevented from contaminating the housing and/or from being used to prepare a mixture of substances. However, the ribs can further serve as a stand for the dosing device, especially when the dosing device is not inserted in the dosing device receiving area of the first receiving area. This allows easy connection of the first container to the first dosing device.
Preferably, in addition to the first dosing device described above, the device comprises a grinding device, wherein the grinding device is configured for grinding.
The grinding device may comprise a grinding mechanism. By actuating the grinding mechanism, clumps of the at least one first component can be ground and thus broken up. The screw conveyor may be inserted, preferably in its full length, into the screw conveyor housing and/or arranged or mounted therein as rotatable. The grinding mill may be inserted, preferably in its full length, into the screw conveyor housing and rotatably arranged therein, so that the screw conveyor, the grinding mill and the screw conveyor housing extend around a common longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing.
The grinder and the screw conveyor may thus be arranged together in the screw conveyor housing. The screw conveyor may be configured to transport the at least one solid component toward the grinder. The grinding mill is configured to grind and reduce any clumps of the at least one solid component.
The screw conveyor can be connected or connectable to the grinding mill in such a way that the shaft can simultaneously drive the screw conveyor and the grinding mill in rotation. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the grinding mill and the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor extend in one plane or in a straight line.
The grinding device and/or the grinding mill can be designed as a disposable article. Thus, the grinding surfaces or grinding knives of the grinding mechanism do not have to be ground or replaced after a certain period of use. Rather, the entire grinding mechanism with the dosing device and the grinding device or the packaging can be replaced, so that a high grinding quality can be permanently guaranteed.
For example, the grinder may be formed of or include ceramics.
Preferably, the auger housing extends between a first end and an opposite second end along a longitudinal axis of the auger housing, wherein the grinder is disposed adjoining or adjacent the first end and extends along a longitudinal axis of the grinder, wherein the auger is disposed adjoining or adjacent the second end and extends along the longitudinal axis of the auger, wherein the outlet is disposed adjoining or adjacent the first end, and wherein the inlet is disposed adjoining or adjacent the second end.
Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor, the longitudinal axis of the grinding mill, and the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing extend in a plane or in a straight line.
The inlet and the outlet of the screw conveyor housing are preferably spaced from each other in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor housing. By the arrangement of the inlet adjoining or adjacent the second end and the arrangement of the outlet adjoining or adjacent the first end of the screw conveyor housing, the at least one solid component, after entering the interior of the screw conveyor housing through the inlet opening in the inlet, can be received by the one or more helically wound flights and conveyed by rotation of the screw conveyor to the second end of the screw conveyor housing and received by the grinding mechanism so that any clumping that may occur can be ground and reduced in size. Thus, the at least one first component can exit again through the outlet opening without clumping. It is also conceivable that a predetermined or predeterminable amount of the at least one solid component can be conveyed per revolution, so that a dosage can be set (or controlled) based on the number of revolutions (or the angle of rotation around the longitudinal axis).
The first end of the screw conveyor housing is preferably open and the second end of the screw conveyor housing is preferably closed. Thus, the screw conveyor can be fully inserted into the screw conveyor housing through the first end, preferably until the second end is reached. Subsequently, the grinder can be fully inserted into the auger housing through the first end, preferably until reaching one end of the auger. However, it is also conceivable that the screw conveyor and the grinding mechanism are formed as a single piece, so that the screw conveyor and the grinding mechanism can be fully inserted as a unit into the screw conveyor housing, preferably until the second end is reached.
Preferably, a coupling device extends in the longitudinal axis direction of the screw conveyor from one drive end of the screw conveyor and a coupling device extends from a drive end of the grinding mill in the longitudinal axis direction of the grinding mill. The coupling device of the screw conveyor is configured to interact in a coupling manner with an actuation and/or drive unit of the grinding mill, in particular to engage. The coupling device of the grinding mill is designed to interact in a coupling manner with the actuation and/or drive unit for the dosing device, in particular to engage.
The coupling device of the screw conveyor is designed to interact in a coupling manner with the actuation and/or drive unit of the grinding mill, in particular to engage or be connected. In the interconnected state, the coupling device of the screw conveyor engages with the actuation and/or drive unit of the grinding mill in such a way that the longitudinal axes of the grinding mill and the screw conveyor run in a plane or in a straight line, respectively, and in the state inserted into the screw conveyor housing run in a plane or in a straight line, respectively, with the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing. Opposite to that of the actuation and/or drive unit of the grinding mill, the grinding mill comprises a coupling device. The coupling device of the grinding mechanism is designed to interact in a coupling manner with the actuation and/or drive unit of the apparatus for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular to engage or be connected. This is advantageous because thus, by actuating or driving the actuation and/or drive unit of the apparatus, the grinding mechanism and the screw conveyor can be driven simultaneously via the same shaft. However, it is also conceivable that the grinding mechanism does not have an actuation and/or drive unit and that the screw conveyor does not have a coupling device, but that instead the grinding mechanism and the screw conveyor are integrally connected to each other and can be driven together in a coupling manner via the coupling device of the grinding mechanism, as previously described.
The coupling means of the screw conveyor may be configured as a substantially cylindrical cavity and/or as a receptacle extending substantially in the longitudinal axis direction of the screw conveyor. Accordingly, the coupling device of the grinding mechanism may be configured as a substantially cylindrical cavity and/or as a receptacle extending substantially in the longitudinal axis direction of the grinding mechanism. After insertion and reception of the dosing device in the dosing device receiving area, a coupling element in the dosing device receiving area can be simultaneously received in the (preferably substantially cylindrical) cavity of the grinding mechanism. The inner wall of the (cylindrical) cavity of the screw conveyor preferably has an inner profile that can be engaged with an outer profile of the outer wall of the coupling element of the grinding mechanism. The inner wall of the (cylindrical) cavity of the grinder preferably has an inner profile that can be engaged with an outer profile of the outer wall of the coupling element of the device.
For example, the outer profile of the coupling element of the device may have at least one material protrusion that can engage or interact with at least one material depression in the inner profile of the cylindrical cavity of the grinder. Correspondingly, the outer profile of the coupling element of the grinding device may comprise at least one material protrusion capable of engaging or interacting with at least one material recess in the inner profile of the cylindrical cavity of the screw conveyor.
The coupling element of the device can be designed as a drive shaft, so that the insertion of the coupling element into the cylindrical cavity of the grinding mechanism enables the dosing device and the grinding device to be driven, and thus the grinding mechanism and the screw conveyor to rotate, when the grinding mechanism and the screw conveyor are connected to each other by means of the coupling element of the grinding mechanism and the coupling device or cavity of the screw conveyor.
Preferably, the grinding mill has a grinding mill core with a substantially conically shaped longitudinal section in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the grinding mill. The grinder or the grinder core may be configured as a shaft. The grinding mill core has a first end and an opposite second end, wherein the coupling device is arranged at the first end and wherein the coupling element, which is connectable to the coupling device of the screw conveyor, is arranged at the second end. Corresponding to the conically shaped longitudinal section of the grinding mill core, the circumference of the grinding mill core, viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the grinding mill, decreases from the first end in the direction of the second end. At no point on the grinding mill core, as viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the grinding mill, does the grinding mill core have a circumference that exceeds the circumference of the screw conveyor, as viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor. This allows the grinder core and the screw conveyor to be inserted together into the screw conveyor housing, so that the grinder core and the screw conveyor can be driven together in rotation about the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing by the actuating and driving device of the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances.
Preferably, the grinder comprises an inner ring adjoining or adjacent to the second end of the grinder core. The inner ring may extend at least partially around the grinder core from the second end toward the first end. The inner ring may surround the longitudinal axis of the grinder and preferably has a substantially conical longitudinal cross-section along the longitudinal axis, with the cross-sectional area of the inner ring tapering toward the second end of the grinder core. The inner ring of the grinding mill, which is seated on the grinding mill core or the shaft, can be moved along the longitudinal axis of the grinding mill, in the direction of the first and second ends of the grinding mill core, by means of an adjusting element, for example by means of an adjusting screw. The adjusting element is preferably arranged adjoining or adjacent to the first end of the grinding mill core and concentrically surrounds the longitudinal axis of the grinding mill. By means of the adjusting element, the position of the inner ring can be adjusted in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the grinding mill. The inner ring can thus be easily displaced in the direction of the first end and/or in the direction of the second end of the grinding mill core. This enables the adjustment of a degree of grinding in a simple manner. By means of the adjustment element, the degree of reduction of any clumping of the at least one solid component can be adjusted.
Preferably, the grinder comprises a spring element arranged adjoining or adjacent to the inner ring and/or adjoining or adjacent to the second end of the grinder core. The spring element may be arranged, for example, on the rear part of the shaft or the grinding mechanism. By rear part of the shaft is meant the second end of the grinding mill, at which the actuation and drive unit of the grinding mill is arranged. However, it is also conceivable that a recess within the grinding mill core extends from the second end of the grinding mill core at least partially in the direction of the first end. This recess may be arranged at a distance from the longitudinal axis or central longitudinal axis of the grinding mill core, extending substantially concentrically around the longitudinal axis of the grinding mill. Thus, as viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis or central longitudinal axis of the grinding mill core, the distance between the recess and the outer wall of the grinding mill core surrounded by the inner ring may be less than the distance to the longitudinal axis or central longitudinal axis of the grinding mill core. By this arrangement, the spring element can also be arranged in the recess and thus ensure that the inner ring assumes the selected position for the adjustment of the desired degree or degree of grinding for the milling or for the reduction of the possibly occurring lumps of the at least one solid component.
Preferably, the grinder has an outer ring. This outer ring may have a substantially cylindrical cross-section with an inner circumference that is larger than the outer circumference of the inner ring. Preferably, the outer ring is arranged on the inner wall of the screw conveyor housing, further preferably the outer ring is arranged on the inner wall of the screw conveyor housing by means of a retention element, for example a hold-down element. The hold-down element may extend between the first open end of the screw conveyor housing, adjoining or adjacent to the adjustment element, to the outer ring along the inner wall of the screw conveyor housing.
Preferably, the outer ring of the grinder has an outer diameter that is in a range between about 20 and 30 mm, preferably in a range of about 25 to 27 mm, more preferably the outer diameter is about 25.7 mm. Preferably, the outer ring of the grinder has an inner diameter hat is in a range between about 10 and 20 mm, preferably in a range of about 17 to 19 mm, more preferably the inner diameter is about 18 mm. Preferably, the outer ring has a length along which the longitudinal center axis of the outer ring extends that is in a range between about 5 and 15 mm, preferably in a range between about 8 and 12 mm, more preferably the length is about 11 mm.
Preferably, the grinding mill core has a diameter that lies in a range between about 10 and 25 mm, particularly preferably in a range between about 13.5 mm and 19.5 mm. Preferably, the grinder core has a length that is in a range between about 5 and 15 mm, more preferably between about 10 and 12 mm. Further preferably, the length of the grinder core is about 11.1 mm.
Thus, the outer ring can be arranged around the inner ring so that, due to the drive of the grinder, the inner ring can rotate inside the outer ring. By adjusting the degree of grinding by means of the adjusting element, the position of the inner ring relative to the outer ring (viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor or in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing) can be adjusted, so that a space between the inner ring and the outer ring and/or the interface between the inner ring and the outer ring can be adjustable. Due to the substantially conical shape of the inner ring, any clumping of the solid component at the interfaces between the rotating inner ring and the stationary outer ring can be ground and thus dissolved. The at least one solid component conveyed by the screw conveyor in the direction of the grinding mechanism thus reaches the intermediate space between the inner ring and the outer ring, so that any lumps that may occur due to the rotation of the inner ring are ground within the outer ring and thus reduced in size.
Preferably, the grinding mechanism and the screw conveyor can be driven in the interconnected state with a driving force of about 0.5 Nm to 2 Nm, preferably of about 1 Nm, in order to convey the at least one solid component by means of the screw conveyor towards the grinding mechanism, any lumps that may occur subsequently being ground by means of the grinding mechanism in accordance with the set grinding degree.
Preferably, the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances comprises at least one first receiving area and at least one second receiving area, wherein the at least one first receiving area is configured to receive the at least one first container for at least one first component of the mixture of substances to be prepared, and wherein the at least one second receiving area is configured to receive the at least one second container for a fluid. The first receiving region may include a first dosing device receiving region for receiving the first dosing device. An actuation and/or drive unit for the first dosing device may be disposed in the first dosing device receiving region. The second receiving area may include a second dosing device receiving area for receiving the second dosing device.
Preferably, the first receiving area has a rear wall, two spaced-apart side walls oriented at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular substantially transverse to the rear wall, an upper and a lower limitation oriented at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular substantially transverse to the side walls, and an open front side opposite the rear wall, so that the first receiving area is formed between the side walls and/or the upper and lower limitations.
Preferably, the device features a container mounting area for mounting the first container, wherein the container mounting area is preferably arranged over a dosing device mounting area and/or wherein one or more side walls of the container mounting comprise a plurality of ribs that extend away from one or more side walls.
The container receiving area may be arranged as a first container receiving area in the first receiving area and may be adjacent to the upper limitation, and/or the first dosing device receiving area may be adjacent to the lower limitation. Thus, through the open front, the first container together with the first dosing device may be inserted into the first receiving area by a substantially perpendicular movement to the rear wall so that the first container is received by the container receiving area and the first dosing device is received by the first dosing device receiving area. Preferably, the first container is connected to the first dosing device such that the first container, in a condition inserted into the first receiving region, is positioned above or above the first dosing device relative to the lower limitation and/or is spaced further from the lower limitation than the first dosing device. This makes it possible for the powder to be guided from the first container into the first dosing device under the influence of gravity, for example. Expensive pumps can thus be dispensed with.
Preferably, a first guiding element and a second guiding element are arranged between the container mounting area and the first dosing device mounting area, wherein the guiding elements extend from an open front to a rear wall and/or wherein the guiding elements extend away from the sidewalls of the device.
The guide elements can run essentially continuously from the front to the rear wall. They enable a particularly simple insertion of the first container and the first dosing device in the interconnected state into the first receiving area, so that the first container is arranged and/or received above the guide elements and the first dosing device is arranged and received below the guide elements. For proper insertion of the first container and the first dosing device, the peripheral wall may be inserted between the guide elements such that the bearing surfaces slide substantially along the guide elements. In other words, the first contact surface slides along the first guide element and the second contact surface slides along the second guide element until the first dosage device is fully received by the first dosage device receptacle. In the state inserted into the first dosing device receiving area of the first receiving area, the lateral contact surfaces of the peripheral wall of the first dosing device then rest against the two guide elements. This makes it particularly easy to receive the first container and/or the first dosing device and to arrange them stably in the first receiving region.
Preferably, the guiding elements are essentially aligned in a level parallel to an upper limit and/or to a lower limit of the device, wherein the guiding elements are preferably inclined towards the front out of the level towards the container mounting area.
As a result, the guide elements each comprise, adjoining or adjacent to the open front side, an insertion slope which allows an aid for the correct insertion of the first dosing device. In particular, during insertion, two of the ribs disposed on the outer wall of the screw conveyor housing can slide substantially along the underside of the guide elements, while the two lateral contact surfaces slide between the guide elements as previously described. In the condition inserted into the first dosing device receiving portion of the first receiving portion, the lateral contact surfaces of the peripheral wall of the first dosing device and two of the ribs then contact the two guide elements. In particular, the contact surfaces may contact the edges of the guide elements extending away from the side walls, and the two ribs may contact the undersides of the two guide elements facing the lower limitation.
When the screw conveyor or screw conveyor housing is inserted into the first dosing device receiving area, the screw conveyor can click into place, e.g. as soon as the end position has been reached. This way, the user knows that the auger has been installed correctly or that the (cylindrical) cavity has been correctly connected to the coupling element or the drive shaft. The insertion chamfers can help to bring the first container into the correct position and/or furthermore simplify the clicking in of the screw conveyor.
It is also conceivable that the actuation and/or drive device comprises a first motor or is designed as a first motor, which is configured to drive the at least one first dosing device. The at least one first container may thus comprise the first motor. The first motor may be configured to drive the screw conveyor at its drive end. The coupling device of the at least one first container may interact in a coupling manner with the first motor, in particular engage it, and thus be driven. In case the apparatus comprises a plurality of first containers, each of the first containers may comprise a respective motor configured to drive the first dosing device. The first motor may be a stepper motor or a DC motor. Preferably, the first motor is a stepper motor, which in particular can be controlled or regulated. The stepper motor can be designed as a synchronous motor, in which the rotor (a rotatable motor part with shaft) can be rotated by a small angle (step) or its multiple by a controlled, stepwise rotating, electromagnetic field of the stator coils (stator=non-rotatable motor part).
Preferably, the first dosing device comprises a closure or flap element, wherein the closure or flap element is configured to be opened automatically or manually, wherein preferably the closure or flap element is configured to close the first dosing device and/or the first container in an airtight manner. Thus, the at least one solid component in the at least one first container and in the at least one dosing device is advantageously protected from humidity.
Preferably, the screw conveyor is received in the device or in the dosing device receiving area in such a way that the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor runs in a plane which is aligned transversely to the plane of the upper limit and transversely to the plane of the lower limit of the device described above. The pitch of the screw conveyor, or the angle that the plane of the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor makes with the plane of the lower limitation or the upper limitation, may be dependent on the solid component. As coarser the solid component, as greater must be the pitch of the screw conveyor or as greater must be the angle that the plane of the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor makes with the plane of the lower limit or the upper limit. Preferably, the screw conveyors have a pitch of between 10 mm and 40 mm, and particularly preferably the screw conveyors have a pitch of 16 mm or of 33 mm. However, pitches outside the value range of 10 mm and 40 mm are also conceivable.
Another aspect of the invention relates to a container for holding at least one solid component comprising:
a housing with an interior space for holding at least one solid component; and an outlet in fluid connection with the interior space, wherein the outlet can be connected to an inlet of a dosing device, wherein the dosing device features an outlet so that the actuation of the dosing device dispenses a dosage of at least one solid component through the outlet, wherein the dosing device is connected to or can be connected to the container, and wherein the container and/or the dosing device are exchangeable and designed as disposable articles.
The container may be configured to be used as a first container in the previously described device for dispensing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. The first container may be configured to be inserted into the first receiving portion of the previously described device. Thus, all previously described features of the device described in connection with the first container and/or the first dosing device also apply to the container described below (hereinafter further referred to as the first container) for receiving at least one first component. Also, all previously described features of the first container also apply to the container described below (hereinafter further referred to as the first container). Accordingly, the dosing device (hereinafter further referred to as first dosing device) may have all features and advantages thereof of the first dosing device described hereinbefore.
Due to the fact that the first container and/or the first dosing device are replaceable and designed as disposable items, cleaning of the respective components can be dispensed with. The components can simply be thrown away after a certain time and replaced by new components. This simplifies the manufacturing process of the medium or buffer. The buffer can be produced fresh and under optimal sterile conditions at any time. In addition, the buffer can be manufactured in the desired quantity so that no leftovers remain. This enables an efficient manufacturing or manufacturing process.
The first container may be configured to hold at least one first component. This means that the container can hold one first component or several different first components.
Preferably, the first container is available pre-filled with a solid component.
The first container can be delivered filled with a solid component ex works, i.e., the first container can be filled with a solid component at the factory so that the container is already available to the consumer filled with a solid component.
Preferably, the first dosing device comprises a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing, wherein the screw conveyor, preferably in its full length, can be inserted into the screw conveyor housing and arranged within it as rotatable so that the screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing extend around a shared screw conveyor longitudinal axis, and wherein the inlet of the dosing device is arranged in or on the screw conveyor housing.
This first dosing device of the first container has all the features and their advantages of the first dosing device described previously in connection with the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances.
Preferably, the outlet of the first container is firmly connected to the inlet in the screw conveyor housing, preferably screwed or glued.
The first container can be connected to the screw conveyor housing so that the solid component can be introduced from the first container into the screw conveyor housing and/or discharged from it, in the correct dosage. The outlet of the first container may be firmly connected (e.g., glued) to the inlet of the screw conveyor housing. To this end, for example, the outlet of the first container may have a peripheral wall similar to the peripheral wall of the flange disposed on the screw conveyor housing. In particular, the peripheral wall of the container outlet may have a cross-sectional profile similar to the cross-sectional profile of the peripheral wall of the flange, but with the circumference of the peripheral wall of the container outlet being slightly larger or slightly smaller than the circumference of the peripheral wall of the flange. Thus, the peripheral walls can be brought into an overlap and/or firmly joined together (e.g., glued and/or welded).
However, it is also conceivable that the outlet of the first container is bolted to the inlet in the screw conveyor housing. Thus, the peripheral wall of the flange on the screw conveyor housing may comprise a first drive profile and the peripheral wall of the container outlet may comprise a second drive profile. Preferably, the first container and the first dosing device can be positively connected to each other in a rotationally fixed manner via the two drive profiles. For example, the outer contour of the peripheral wall of the flange on the screw conveyor housing can have a drive profile and the inner contour of the peripheral wall of the container outlet can have a corresponding drive profile, so that the peripheral walls can be connected to one another in a form-fitting, rotationally fixed manner, in particular. Any structure that enables a connection between the first container and the first dosing device can serve as a drive profile. The drive profile can be correspondingly polygonal, star-shaped, slot-shaped, etc.
Preferably, the screw conveyor housing is integrated into the first container.
By integrating the screw conveyor housing into the first container, the first container and the screw conveyor housing can be integrally or one-piece connected to each other, so that the first container and the first dosing device are in particular firmly and non-detachably connected to each other. It is conceivable that in particular the peripheral wall of the container outlet and the peripheral wall of the flange on the screw conveyor housing are integrally formed with one another.
Preferably, the first container has at least partially a tapered portion, wherein the circumference of the first container preferably decreases substantially conically in the tapered portion toward the outlet.
The first container may have a cross-section in a plane through the longitudinal axis of the auger housing as viewed in the state connected to the first container, the tapered portion being laterally limited by a first side edge and a second side edge. When “connected to the first container” means that the dosing device or auger housing is connected to the auger and the first container. The first side edge may extend substantially transversely, preferably at an angle less than 90°, more preferably at an angle of about 45°, with respect to the longitudinal axis of the auger housing (as viewed in the connected condition). The second lateral edge may extend substantially transversely, preferably at an angle less than about 90°, particularly preferably at an angle of about 45°, to the longitudinal conveying screw axis of the conveying screw housing. It is also conceivable that both side edges extend substantially transversely, preferably at an angle less than about 90°, particularly preferably at an angle of about 45°, to the conveyor screw longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing. This arrangement of the side edges relative to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing (as seen in the connected state) makes it particularly easy to empty the solid component from the first container.
Preferably, the second side edge forms an angle of about 45° with the first side edge. By this embodiment, the circumference of the first container decreases successively in the tapering section towards the outlet. This enables a particularly efficient discharge of the first component received in the first container from the outlet and the subsequent introduction into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing.
Preferably, the first container at least partially comprises a first substantially symmetrical portion, wherein the circumference of the first container remains the same within the first substantially symmetrical portion, and wherein preferably the first substantially symmetrical portion is spaced further from the outlet than the tapered portion.
The first container may have a cross-section in a plane through the conveyor screw longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw housing as viewed in the connected condition with the first container, wherein the first substantially symmetrical section is laterally limited by a first side edge and a second side edge oriented substantially parallel to each other and thus substantially transverse, preferably at an angle of about 90°, to the conveyor screw longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw housing (as viewed in the connected condition). The first side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section may be coplanar with the first side edge of the tapering section, and/or the second side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section may be oriented transversely to the second side edge of the tapering section. However, it is also conceivable that the second side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section extends in the same plane as the second side edge of the tapering section, such that another tapering section is formed instead of the symmetrical section.
Preferably, the distance between the first and second side edges of the symmetrical section is at most about 140 mm and/or the length of the two side edges is at most about 155 mm. It is also conceivable that the length of the first side edge is longer than the length of the second side edge. Thus, the length of the first side edge can be a maximum of about 155 mm and/or the length of the second side edge can be a maximum of about 125 mm.
This embodiment further enables a particularly efficient discharge of the first component received in the first container from the outlet and subsequent introduction into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing. At the same time, the symmetrical section enables alternative embodiments of an inlet for receiving a solid component into the first container.
Preferably, the first container has a second substantially symmetrical portion adjoining or adjacent to the outlet, wherein the perimeter of the first container remains the same within the second substantially symmetrical portion and substantially corresponds to the perimeter of the outlet and/or an outlet opening in the outlet.
The first container may have a cross-section in a plane through the conveyor screw longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw housing as viewed in the connected condition with the first container, the second substantially symmetrical section being laterally limited by a first side edge and a second side edge oriented substantially parallel to each other and thus substantially transverse, preferably at an angle of about 90°, to the conveyor screw longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw housing (as viewed in the connected condition). The first side edge of the second substantially symmetrical section may be coplanar with the first side edge of the tapered section and with the first side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section, and/or the second side edge of the second substantially symmetrical section may be oriented transversely to the second side edge of the tapered section and parallel to the second side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section.
Preferably, the distance between the first and second side edges of the second symmetrical section is in the range of about 20 mm to 60 mm (e.g., about 50 mm) and/or the length of each of the two side edges is in the range of about 10 mm to 110 mm (e.g., about 15 mm or 90 mm each).
Preferably, the second substantially symmetrical section is connected to the outlet such that further preferably the diameter of the outlet or the passage of the outlet opening corresponds to the distance between the first and second side edges of the second symmetrical section.
This embodiment further enables a particularly efficient discharge of the first component received in the first container from the outlet and subsequent introduction into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing.
However, it is also conceivable for the first container to have another substantially symmetrical section in place of the tapered section. In this case, the first side edges of the three sections may extend in a plane and the second side edges may extend in a plane, the two planes being substantially parallel to each other.
Preferably, the first container has an inlet opening, the inlet opening is preferably and essentially arranged opposite the outlet and/or an outlet opening in the outlet.
Preferably, the inlet opening may be disposed in the first substantially symmetrical section. Further preferably, the inlet opening may be disposed adjoining or adjacent to a side edge extending between the first and second side edges of the first substantially symmetrical portion. Preferably, the inlet opening is disposed at a first free end of the first container opposite a second free end of the first container, the outlet and the outlet opening being disposed at the second free end. The tapered portion may be disposed between the inlet or inlet opening and the outlet or outlet opening.
At least one solid component can be received in the first container through the inlet opening. By arranging the inlet opening opposite to the outlet, the solid component can be guided in the direction of the outlet and the outlet opening and can be guided from the first container into the first dosing device. This allows for proper dosing of the solid component.
Preferably, the inlet opening can be closed by means of a closure element, further preferably by means of a fastener or zipper.
However, it is also conceivable that the first container has no inlet opening and is integrally or firmly connected to the first dosing device. The first container and the first dosing device can be integrally connected to each other as a unit and filled with a solid component.
Preferably, the inlet opening extends adjoining or adjacent the first free end between the first and second side edges of the first substantially symmetrical portion. Preferably, the inlet opening is closable by a closure element. In this way, the first container is advantageously reusable and/or at least one solid component can be refilled after complete emptying and/or the first container can be closed again after decanting of the solid component. However, it is also conceivable that the first container is not reusable and does not have a closure element, since the inlet or the inlet opening is welded after the solid component has been received. It is also conceivable that the first container does not have an inlet or inlet opening, but that the at least one solid component is first received into the first container through the outlet or outlet opening, and the outlet is then connected to the first dosing device. In particular, after receiving the solid component, the outlet may be connected to the inlet of the dosing device by means of a connecting element, for example an adhesive element in the form of an adhesive strip, or a clip. In this case, one and the same opening serves to receive the solid component into the first container and to remove the solid component from the first container.
Thus, the first container can be supplied with a solid component already connected to the first dosing device and is designed as a disposable article. In this context, it is also conceivable that the first dosing device, which is connectable to the first container, is designed as a reusable article. In particular, if the first dosing device and the first container are integrally formed with each other or are bonded or screwed to each other, the first dosing device may be configured as a disposable article or disposable article.
Preferably, the inlet opening can be closed by means of a closure element, preferably by means of a zipper.
The closure element can be designed as a zipper that is easy to open and close. However, it is also conceivable that instead of the zipper or in addition to the zipper, a rail is arranged at the first free end of the first container. This rail can be used to connect the first container to an upper region of the first receiving region. It is also conceivable that the first container can be connectable to the upper region of the first receiving region by means of one or more magnetic holders, one or more Velcro fasteners, one or more buttons, and/or one or more adhesive strips or other types of fasteners. It is further conceivable that the first container comprises a first screw element and the upper region of the first receiving region comprises a second screw element, such that the first container is connectable to the upper region of the first receiving region by means of the screw elements.
A tab may be disposed adjoining or adjacent to the closure element. The tab may have an inner opening. The inner opening may be configured as a carrying handle, so that the first container can be carried or held from one location to another location in a simplified manner. However, the inner opening may also serve to be hooked or hooked into a hook, for example, thereby providing additional stability, particularly when filling the first container. Preferably, the closure element, preferably the zipper, is configured to be inserted into a groove in a first receiving area of a device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances.
The closure element or zipper may be configured to be (at least partially) inserted into a groove. Preferably, the closure element or zipper is configured to be inserted into a groove arranged in the first receptacle area, in particular on the inner side of the upper limitation facing the lower limitation. The groove may extend in substantially the same plane as the drive shaft in the first dosing device receiving area, and as the screw conveyor longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing when inserted into the device. Preferably, the groove extends at least partially in the upper limitation. Further preferably, the groove extends from a region adjoining or adjacent the open front to a region adjoining or adjacent the rear wall. This allows easy insertion of the first container and/or the first dosing device into the first receiving area of the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, the dosing device being received by the receiving device in the lower limitation and the cylindrical cavity of the dosing device being able to engage with the drive shaft in the drive device. At the same time, the closure element or zipper can be inserted into the groove, providing additional support for the first container, in addition to the lateral ribs.
Preferably, the housing of the first container at least partially comprises a flexible material or is formed from a flexible material, wherein, preferably, the housing of the first container comprises an aluminium composite foil or is formed from an aluminium composite foil.
The use of an aluminium composite film provides an impermeable barrier to air and light, thus ensuring reliable protection of the first component inside the containers from external influences, such as moisture.
Preferably, the housing of the first container is comprised of at least partially a shape-retaining material or is formed from a shape-retaining material.
Instead of the flexible material, the housing of the first container can also comprise a non-flexible material. Thus, the first container may be configured as a shape-retaining container or container. It is also conceivable that the first container comprises a combination of a flexible and non-flexible material. The shape-retaining material reliably protects the interior of the first container from external influences, for example, the first component cannot be influenced by deformation of the container.
The first container may be formed of various materials and may include, for example, paper, plastic, or other flexible materials for holding a solid component. Further, the first container may be formed as a bag or a pouch. However, it is also conceivable that the first container is formed of a non-flexible material and is thus shape-retaining, and may comprise, for example, a metal such as aluminium or a plastic. For example, the first container may also be configured as a carton, such as a Tetra Pak.
The first container can have a holding volume of about 1.5 dm3. This capacity allows a solid component of up to 500 g to be accommodated, where 500 g of a solid component corresponds3 approximately to a volume of 1.1 dm3. Thus, the holding volume of 1.5 dm3 allows convenient filling and/or decanting of a solid component. However, it is also conceivable that the first container has a capacity that differs from approximately 1.5 dm3, so that the first container can be larger or smaller.
Another aspect of the invention relates to a container comprising a housing with an interior space for holding at least one fluid, the container is designed to be connected or can be connected to a dosing device for dosing the fluid, wherein the container and/or the dosing device are exchangeable and designed as disposable articles.
The container may be adapted to be used as a second container in the previously described device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances.
The second container may be configured to be inserted into the second receiving area of the previously described device. Thus, all previously described features of the device described in connection with the second container and/or the second dosing device also apply to the container described below (hereinafter further referred to as second container) for holding at least one fluid. Also, all previously described features of the second container also apply to the container described below (hereinafter further referred to as the second container). Accordingly, the dosing device (hereinafter further referred to as second dosing device) may have all features and advantages thereof of the second dosing device described hereinbefore.
Due to the fact that the second container and/or the second dosing device are replaceable and designed as disposable items, cleaning of the respective components can be dispensed with. The components can simply be thrown away after a certain time and replaced by new components. This simplifies the manufacturing process of the medium or buffer. The buffer can be produced fresh and under optimal sterile conditions at any time. In addition, the buffer can be manufactured in the desired quantity, leaving no leftovers that need to be refrigerated in a refrigerator. This enables an efficient production or manufacturing process.
The second container may be configured to hold at least one fluid. This means that the second container can hold one fluid or several different fluids.
Preferably, the second container is available pre-filled with a fluid.
The second container can be supplied filled with a fluid ex works, i.e., the second container can be filled with a fluid at the factory so that the second container is already available to the consumer filled with a fluid, for example ultrapure water.
Preferably, the second container is receivable in a second dosing device receiving area of a second receiving area of the previously described device.
Preferably, the second receiving area has a rear wall, two spaced side walls oriented at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular substantially transverse to the rear wall, a lower limitation oriented at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular transverse to the side walls, and an open top opposite the lower limitation, the second receiving area for receiving the second container being formed between the side walls.
The second receiving area may include an open top. In other words, the top surface may be completely open. This allows the second container to be inserted into the second receiving area by a substantially perpendicular movement to the lower limitation, so that the second container can be received by the second receiving area. However, it is also conceivable that the second receiving area has an upper limitation in which a through hole or opening is arranged through which the second container can be inserted into the second receiving area by a substantially perpendicular movement to the lower limitation.
The second receiving area can have a front side opposite the rear wall, which can preferably comprise a window element, for example a window element made of glass or plastic, or a flap or closure flap. This allows an easy control of the filling level of the second container through the front side. However, it is also conceivable that the front side is formed as a front wall which, like the rear wall, is closed and has no opening. The open front side of the first receiving area can also be closed by means of a flap or closure flap, preferably in a manner analogous to the closure flap of the second receiving area. In this way, the first receiving area can be protected from dust or dirt after the first container has been inserted and received by closing the closure flap.
Preferably, the second dosing device has at least one stroke system, the stroke system comprising a piston pump with a piston, the piston can be deflected so that a fluid can be dosed from the second container through the deflection of the piston.
The embodiment of the second dosing device as a stroke system has all the features previously described in the context of the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances and the advantages thereof.
Preferably, the second container includes at least one opening in fluid connection to the interior space, wherein the stroke system is connected or can be connected to at least one opening of the second container.
Thus, by actuating the stroke system, the fluid can be pumped from the second container and precisely dosed. Thus, the correctly dosed fluid from the second container or fluid line can be filled directly into the mixing chamber.
Preferably, the second dosing device has a first stroke system and a second stroke system, each of the stroke systems comprises a piston pump with a piston, and wherein the pistons can be deflected so that a fluid can be dosed from the second container by through deflection of the pistons.
The embodiment of the second dosing device comprising a first stroke system and a second stroke system has all the features described previously in the context of the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances and the advantages thereof.
Preferably, the second container includes an first opening and a second opening in fluid communication with the interior, wherein the first stroke system is connected or connectable to the first container opening, and wherein the second stroke system is connected or connectable to the second container opening.
The embodiment of the second container with the first opening and the second opening, which are connectable or connected to the two stroke systems, have all the features described previously in the context of the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances and the advantages thereof.
Preferably, the second container is designed in such a way that the second container can be coupled with a temperature control.
The second container may be connectable or connected to the temperature control or to the heating plate and/or the cooling plate, as previously described. This enables reliable temperature control of the fluid inside the second container.
Preferably, the housing of the second container features a contact surface designed in such a way that the second container is at least partially in contact with the temperature control, wherein, preferably, the temperature control at least partially adjoins or closely aligns the contact surface.
The contact surface may be an external surface of the housing and may extend longitudinally of the second container between a lower region or lower end of the second container and an upper region or upper end of the second container (as viewed in the direction of gravity) along at least a portion of the longitudinal axis of the container. Preferably, the contact surface extends between the lower region or lower end of the second container and the upper region or upper end of the second container along the entire longitudinal container axis. The contact surface may extend in a region adjoining or adjacent to the longitudinal axis of the second container and may be spaced apart at opposite ends of the second container, as viewed in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the container. In other words, the container may contact the temperature control such that opposite ends of the second container are not in at least partial contact with the temperature control but are spaced from the temperature control.
The temperature control can comprise a heating plate, which can be designed as a heating mat or as a metal plate and can comprise integrated or adjacent heating elements. The heating plate should be arranged relative to the second container in such a way that the contact surface of the second container is as close as possible to the heating plate. This enables heat to be transferred from the heating plate to the second container, in particular to one of the outer sides or to the housing of the second container in the area of the contact surface, so that the fluid inside the second container can be reliably heated. However, it is also conceivable that the temperature control comprises a cooling plate, wherein the cooling plate is arranged at least partially in contact with the connected second container, wherein, preferably, the cooling plate at least partially adjoins or contacts a housing of the second container, preferably the contact surface. The cooling plate may be configured as a cooling mat or as a metal plate and comprise integrated or contacting cooling elements. This enables cooling of one of the outer sides or the housing of the second container in the region of the contact surface, so that the fluid inside the second container can be reliably cooled. Particularly preferably, the temperature control comprises both a heating plate and a cooling plate and two contact surfaces such that the heating plate and the cooling plate are each at least partially in contact with one of the contact surfaces. The contact surfaces are preferably arranged on opposite sides of the housing of the second container, for example on opposite sides as viewed in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the container.
Thus, it is possible that, depending on the type of use or field of application of the second container, the fluid inside the second container can first be heated and then cooled. Preferably, the heating plate is configured to heat the fluid to a temperature of at least 100° C. or to the boiling temperature. This enables germs and bacteria in the fluid to be reliably killed. By means of the cooling plate, the fluid can then be cooled to a temperature of 37° C. suitable for preparing a mixture of substances. The contents of the bag can be heated or thawed by means of the heating plate.
Preferably, the contact surface is in contact with the heating plate and/or the cooling plate at least in the lower region of the second container. This allows the fluid inside the second container to be heated in the lower region thereof, so that a circulation movement of the fluid inside the second container is initiated and the fluid inside the second container can be heated uniformly. By arranging the cooling plate, the lower area inside the second container can be cooled so that the circulation movement of the fluid inside the second container can be stopped and the fluid inside the second container can be cooled.
Preferably, the container is designed in such a way that the temperature control can be fixed or connected to the second container by means of a fixing element, wherein, preferably, the fixing element is a magnet.
The second container can be connected or joined to the temperature control by means of a fixing element. It is conceivable that the second container and the temperature control each have a fixing element. Thus, by means of the two fixing elements, the second container and the temperature control or the heating plate and/or the cooling plate can be connected to each other in a simple manner. It is conceivable that the fixing elements are each designed as magnets, so that the temperature control or the heating plate and/or the cooling plate can be connected to the second container by magnetic action. Alternatively, the fixing elements could also be designed as click elements or as clamping elements or as latching elements, so that the temperature control or the heating plate and/or the cooling plate can be clicked or clamped or latched together with the second container. Alternatively, the temperature control or the heating plate and/or the cooling plate can be connected to the second container by means of Velcro fastening elements or adhesive elements. These fixing elements enable the temperature control to be connected to the second container particularly easily and quickly, so that the second container can be replaced easily and quickly.
Preferably, the housing of the second container at least partially comprises a flexible material or the housing is formed at least in part from a flexible material, wherein, preferably, the housing of the second container comprises an aluminium composite foil or is formed from an aluminium composite foil.
Due to the flexible material, the second container or the housing of the second container can lie particularly close to the heating plate and/or cooling plate, preferably in the area of the contact surface, especially when it is inserted or arranged in one of the previously described devices. This enables particularly efficient heating and/or cooling. The use of an aluminium composite foil enables an impermeable barrier to air and light, thus ensuring reliable protection of the fluid inside the second container from external influences. The metal particles or the metal content also enables particularly good heat conduction between the heating plate and/or cooling plate and the fluid inside the second container.
Preferably, the housing of the second container is comprised of at least partially a shape-retaining material or is formed from a shape-retaining material.
Instead of the flexible material, the second container or the housing of the second container may also comprise a non-flexible material and be designed, for example, as a shape-retaining container or container. This may comprise a housing which is relatively thin or which has a thickness such that the transfer of heat between the heating plate and/or cooling plate and the interior of the second container is enabled. Also, the shape-retaining container may comprise metal particles such that improved thermal conductivity is enabled between the temperature control and/or heating plate and/or cooling plate and the interior of the second container. Also conceivable is an embodiment in which the second container comprises both a shape-retaining material and a flexible material, or in which the second container is formed from both a shape-retaining material and a flexible material. The second container can thus be formed from a combination of different materials.
Preferably, the second container comprises a third opening, wherein, preferably, the second container comprises a lid for covering the third opening.
The third opening may be arranged in the direction of the longitudinal container axis of the second container opposite the first opening and/or the second opening. For example, the first opening and/or the second opening may be arranged in the lower region or adjoining or adjacent to the lower end of the second container, and the third opening may be arranged in the upper region or adjoining or adjacent to the upper end of the second container. This arrangement of the third opening allows fluid to be replenished through the third opening into the interior of the second container in a particularly simple manner, even when connected to the stroke system. This is particularly advantageous when the second container is reused and not replaced. The second container may further comprise a closure element. The closure element can be a lid for covering the third opening, with which the third opening can be closed again after the fluid has been filled in, so that the fluid inside the second container is protected from external influences. It is also conceivable that the closure element is a zipper or a zipper with which the third opening can be closed again after the fluid has been filled in.
Preferably, the temperature control is arranged in a plane extending substantially transverse to the direction of gravity, with the second container at least partially contacting the temperature control.
The temperature control can, for example, be arranged in the previously described device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, for example a medium or a buffer, in a plane that is oriented essentially transverse to the direction of gravity. The temperature control may thus be mounted at an angle, for example at an angle to an upper and lower limitation of the previously described device. The second container for a fluid may be arranged adjoining or adjacent, in particular adjacent, to a side of the temperature control. The second container may thus be arranged in a plane substantially parallel to the plane of the temperature control. Due to the inclined or inclined mounting of the second container, the fluid inside the second container can exit almost completely from its outlet and be introduced into the mixing chamber of the preparation device. At the same time, the fluid inside the second container can be tempered to the suitable or intended temperature due to the inclined or inclined bearing of the temperature control.
An inclined or sloped position of the temperature control, in particular the heating plate and/or cooling plate, is further advantageous for the design of a system in which the second container with stroke system and temperature control is to be used. For example, the height of a system is often limited, for example by the dimensions of the safety cabinet. With an inclined or sloped heating plate and/or cooling plate, a larger second container can be used, which also rests against the heating plate and/or cooling plate in an inclined or sloped manner, if the design of the safety workbench does not permit a vertical orientation of the container. Furthermore, an inclined heating plate and/or cooling plate and thus an inclined position of the second container allows filling into the mixing chamber through one of the openings of the cover plate, which has a limited or small diameter.
Preferably, the second container and/or the first stroke system comprises at least one sensor for determination or detection the level of the fluid in the interior of the second container.
The level of the fluid inside or in the interior of the second container can be determined or detected by means of the sensor. The sensor may be arranged adjoining or adjacent to the second container. For example, the sensor may be a scale arranged with the second container in such a way, for example below the second container (as seen in the direction of gravity), that the weight of the second container and/or the fluid inside the second container can be determined. Thus, the fill level of the second container can be determined and displayed at any time so that the fluid can be refilled or the empty container can be replaced or exchanged. The scale can also be used alternatively, for example for readjusting fluid, as described in connection with the second, further stroke system. Particularly preferably, the scale is placed for this purpose in the direction of gravity below the preparation device, preferably below the collection container. The sensor can be connected to an application software, for example a mobile app, in such a way that the filling level of the fluid can be indicated automatically, for example by a signal tone or a signal light, so that a new fluid or a new second container with fluid can be provided.
It is also conceivable that the level of the fluid is determined using the initial volume or weight of the fluid, which corresponds, for example, to the volume or weight of the commercial fluid container that has not yet been opened (and contains fluid). The data on the volume or weight of the commercial fluid container that has not yet been opened (and contains fluid) can, for example, be stored in and taken from a database or an app. By means of a processor, based on the initial volume or weight of the second container for a fluid and the number of doses, the consumption of the fluid can then be determined or calculated. The processor may be part of the previously described device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, for example a medium or a buffer. Based on these determined or calculated values, fluid can be reordered automatically, for example on the Internet. For this purpose, a memory unit can be provided in which the usage frequencies are stored. This enables an order to be triggered taking into account the delivery times and/or the consumption quantities and/or the safety stock of containers not yet used and/or the expiry date of the fluid inside the second container. Thus, the user no longer needs to pay attention to how much fluid is still available. A new second container with new fluid is automatically delivered without the user having to specifically place an order and without the user having to purchase the fluid from a retailer. In the process, the containers that arrive newly can first be scanned, whereby a stock of containers can be determined or registered. In this way, a safety stock or stock of containers can be automatically taken into account when new orders are placed. As an alternative to automated ordering, it is also conceivable that the user receives an indication, for example by means of a signal tone or by means of a message, for example on the screen of a computer or on the screen of a smart device or in an app, that the stock of containers with fluid has fallen below a certain minimum number or a certain safety stock, so that the user can place the reorder manually. By means of the previously described method, new containers with a solid component, which are previously described as first containers, can also be processed.
Preferably, the second container is connected or connectable to at least one further stroke system.
Thus, in addition to a first stroke system, the second container may include a further, second stroke system. The further, second stroke system may include all of the previously described features of the first stroke system and the advantages thereof. The second stroke system may be connected or connectable to the second opening of the second container in a manner analogous to the connection between the previously described first stroke system and the first opening. By allowing the second container to be connected to two stroke systems, for example, different dispensing volumes or stroke volumes can be enabled with the two stroke systems. For example, one stroke system can be used to dispense a larger amount of fluid and the other of the stroke systems can be used to dispense a smaller amount of fluid. Thus, the stroke system that can dispense a smaller amount of fluid can provide more accurate dispensing, whereas the stroke system that can dispense a larger amount of fluid can provide faster dispensing. The second container or bag may comprise a plurality of chambers. The chambers may each be connected or connectable to a stroke system. However, it is also conceivable that the second container or bag comprises a first chamber which is connected or connectable to two stroke systems, and comprises a further, second chamber which is connected or connectable to a further stroke system. Other combinations between the chambers and the stroke systems are conceivable.
Preferably, the second container and/or the at least one further stroke system has at least one sensor for determination or detection the level of the fluid in the interior of the container.
The second, further stroke system can comprise a sensor that can be designed similarly to the sensor of the (first) stroke system. Thus, the level of the fluid inside or in the interior of the second container can also be determined or ascertained by means of the sensor of the further stroke system. The sensor can therefore be arranged adjoining or adjacent to the second container. For example, the sensor may be a scale arranged adjoining or adjacent to the container, for example below the second container (as seen in the direction of gravity), so that the weight of the container and/or the fluid inside the second container can be determined. It is also conceivable to arrange the scale below the collection container. Thus, the fill level of the container can be determined and displayed at any time by means of the sensor or the scale of the second, further stroke system, so that the fluid can be refilled or the empty container can be replaced or exchanged. This is advantageous, because after the fluid has been dosed by means of the sensor or the scale of the first stroke system, the scale of the second, further stroke system can be used for readjustment. Compensation of the dosing inaccuracy of screws is also made possible. The sensor or the scale of the second or further stroke system can be connected to an application software, for example a mobile app, in such a way that the filling level of the fluid can be indicated automatically, for example by a signal tone or by a signal light, so that a new fluid or a new container with fluid can be provided.
Dosing accuracy plays a major role in various devices, especially in the previously described device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, for example a medium or a buffer, in which a fluid and a powder are mixed together. Here, dosing must be very precise. As a rule, the powder must be dosed with a deviation of 0.5%. If the powder is conveyed and dosed by means of a screw conveyor, it may not be possible to dose the powder so precisely. This is due to the fact that the powder usually empties immediately when a screw chamber or screw housing, in which the conveying screw is located, is opened. Furthermore, very small screw geometries in particular cannot convey the powder in a process-safe manner, so that clumping can occur. A total volume deviation of about 5 percent is usually acceptable to the user. Usually, fluid or water is first filled into a hopper, then powder, whose weight is determined by a sensor, for example a scale, and finally fluid or water again, in order to compensate for the inaccuracy in the powder dosing. Alternatively, however, a fine adjustment can also be made with the second, further stroke system, so that the inaccuracy in the powder dosing can be compensated. By having the container connected or connectable to a first stroke system for dosing a larger amount of fluid and a second stroke system for dosing a smaller amount of fluid, work can be done quickly and yet precisely. If the container were only connected or connectable to a stroke system for dosing a smaller quantity of fluid, readjustments could be made, but the entire dosing process would take a very long time.
The second, further stroke system can also be used to compensate for a dosing inaccuracy that occurs during the dosing of the fluid, for example if a clamp system is used instead of a first stroke system to dose the fluid. A clamp system comprising one or more clamp elements with which the fluid is to be dosed can also have dosing inaccuracies which can be compensated for by means of the second stroke system described above for dosing a smaller quantity of fluid.
Preferably, each of the stroke systems comprises an outlet with an outlet opening through which the fluid is able to escape from the inside of the second container, the outlet of at least one of the stroke systems features a cross-section transverse to its outlet longitudinal axis, which is tapered towards the outlet opening.
In other words, at least one of the stroke systems includes a pipette-like outlet. The outlet of either stroke system may extend along a longitudinal outlet axis between a first end and a second end. The outlet may extend in a substantially tubular manner along the longitudinal outlet axis. Further, the outlet may have a substantially equal cross-section (as viewed transverse to the longitudinal outlet axis) between the first end and the second end. Fluid may be pumped from within the second container to the outlet by the piston pump and may enter the outlet at the first end and exit the outlet opening at the second end and be filled into a collection container, for example. The outlet opening may thus be located at the second end.
In at least one of the stroke systems, for example in the second, further stroke system, the outlet may be pipette-shaped. In this case, the outlet may have a first outlet portion extending between the first end and the second end as previously described. Adjoining or adjacent to the second end, the outlet may have a second outlet section that also extends along the longitudinal outlet axis between the second end and a third end. The third end is spaced further from the first end than the second end. The outlet may have a cross-section in the second outlet portion that tapers toward the third end. The outlet opening may then be located at the third end, and may have a cross-sectional area (as viewed transversely to the longitudinal outlet axis) adjoining or adjacent to the third end that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the outlet at any location in the first outlet section. The first outlet portion and the second outlet portion may be integrally made or integrally joined together. However, it is also conceivable that the two outlet sections are manufactured as individual parts, and are connected to each other at the second end of the outlet, for example by fitting or gluing.
The pipette-like outlet or the pipette-like outlet opening allows the fluid inside the second container to be readjusted in a particularly simple manner. For example, by means of the first stroke system, a larger amount of fluid can be dosed and a larger amount of fluid can be pumped out of the second container first. By means of the second stroke system with the pipette-like outlet or the pipette-like outlet opening, a small amount of fluid can then be subsequently dosed so that a predetermined, exact amount of fluid can be dosed from the second container. This is particularly advantageous as particularly small amounts of fluid can be dosed. This plays a major role when dosing accuracy is particularly relevant, for example when preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, where a dosing inaccuracy may occur caused by the dosing of a powder necessary for the medium or the buffer. In other words, the second stroke system with the pipette-like outlet can also compensate for a dosing inaccuracy of the first dosing device, in particular the screw conveyor. When dosing the solid component or powder, a deviation or inaccuracy of 0.5% must generally be expected. In particular, with the design as a screw conveyor, the powder cannot be dosed precisely under certain circumstances, so that dosing inaccuracies occur. The reason for this is that the powder usually empties completely when the screw conveyor housing is opened. By means of the second stroke system with pipette-type outlet, the fluid can therefore be readjusted to compensate for the dosing inaccuracy caused by the first dosing device. In this case, the total volume of the solid component can deviate by +/−5%. Alternatively, a peristaltic pump could also be used for readjustment instead of the second stroke system with pipette-type outlet.
It is also conceivable that several containers, for example two containers, are connected or connectable with one stroke system. In this context, it is conceivable that more than one container is designed with two stroke systems, whereby a first of the stroke systems can be used for coarse dosing and a second of the stroke systems can be used for fine dosing. For example, the more than one container can be used to dose ultrapure water and sodium bicarbonate. Other components are conceivable. Preferably, at least one of the containers comprises a temperature control having all of the previously described features, for example, being configured as a heating plate, and the advantages thereof. Further preferably, each of the containers comprises its own temperature control having all the features described above. This allows the fluids inside the plurality of containers to be tempered differently. Preferably, the stroke system is connected or connectable to the outlet of each of the plurality of containers. This is advantageous, as a fluid inside each of the containers can thus be dosed by means of one and the same stroke system. Therefore, several containers with the same fluid may be provided, or several containers with a different fluid may be provided, which are connectable or connected to one and the same stroke system. Two or more containers are thus advantageous if two or more mixtures of substances have to be produced and thus two or more substances, for example powder with water and/or sodium bicarbonate, have to be mixed together.
All the containers described above can be supplied by the manufacturer already filled with a solid component or fluid. Thus, a new container can easily be ordered after an existing container has been emptied by means of the stroke system and the solid component or fluid has been applied. Thus, the second container is interchangeable and can be easily separated from the stroke system. By replaceable is meant that the container can be designed as a disposable article or single-use article. A container that has already been emptied can thus simply be replaced by the new container together with the solid component or fluid. The fact that the containers described above can be prefilled or prefilled and/or can be designed as disposable or single-use articles and can thus be replaceable is particularly advantageous if a “single batch” process is used, i.e. after the fluid in the container is used up, the entire container is replaced or discarded. This eliminates the need for cleaning and descaling with chemicals, which is particularly advantageous when preparing a mixture of substances. Furthermore, in the case of the preparation of media and buffers, downtimes due to additional cleaning of the components are avoided. This makes it possible to work particularly efficiently. However, it is also conceivable that the previously described containers are designed as reusable containers, so that the fluid can be easily refilled after emptying or consumption. Furthermore, a combination of reusable components and disposable or single-use components is conceivable. For example, the first container for a solid component or powder could be designed as a disposable item or component and could preferably be supplied pre-filled. However, the first dosing device, preferably the first dosing device and the grinding mechanism, could be designed as a reusable component.
Preferably, the vacuum connection is connected to the hopper element. Preferably, the vacuum connection is arranged below the filter element. It is conceivable that the vacuum connection is integrally connected to the hopper element. However, the vacuum connection can also be a separate element and connected to the hopper element, for example by bonding or screwing.
Preferably, the preparation device receiving device has a further connection or vacuum connection. The additional vacuum connection may be arranged adjoining or adjacent to the protrusion of the preparation device receiving device. The protrusion may extend in a plane transverse to the plane of the recess of the preparation device receiving device. The protrusion may include a through bore. The through bore may extend in a plane parallel to the plane of the recess of the preparation device receiving device. The through bore may be configured to insert and receive the additional vacuum connection. This enables easy insertion and reception of the additional vacuum connection. However, it is also conceivable that the protrusion and the further connection are not manufactured as separate components, but are integrally connected to each other.
Preferably, the additional vacuum connection is formed as an elongated element extending along a longitudinal vacuum axis between a first end and an opposite second end. The peripheral wall of the additional vacuum connection is adapted to the inner wall of the passage opening. In particular, the peripheral wall has a diameter transverse to the longitudinal vacuum axis that is smaller than the diameter of the inner wall transverse to the longitudinal through-hole axis along which the through-hole extends. This enables the additional vacuum connection to be inserted and received in the through-hole easily and with a precise fit.
Preferably, the additional vacuum connection is designed as a coupling element between the first vacuum connection and the line to the vacuum generator. The first end of the additional vacuum connection can be designed to be connected to the line to the vacuum generator, in particular in a sealed or fluid-tight manner. The second end of the additional vacuum connection can be designed to be connected to the first vacuum connection, in particular tightly or fluid-tightly, which in turn is connected or connectable to the hopper element. Between the first end and the second end, the vacuum connection may have a channel extending along the vacuum connection longitudinal axis. Thus, by means of the vacuum generator, a vacuum can be generated in the line adjacent the first end of the additional vacuum connection so that air can be exhausted from the hopper element and/or the mixing chamber connected to the hopper element and/or the collection container connected to the hopper element through the second opening and the channel and into the line and toward the vacuum generator.
Preferably, the channel has a channel section adjacent to the second end of the additional vacuum connection, which is configured for inserting and receiving the first vacuum connection. In particular, the channel section may have a diameter transverse to the longitudinal vacuum connection axis that is larger than the diameter transverse to the longitudinal vacuum connection axis in the region of the channel between the first end of the additional vacuum connection and the channel section. Further, the diameter of the channel section transverse to the longitudinal vacuum connection axis is greater than the diameter of the first vacuum connection as viewed transverse to the longitudinal axis of the first vacuum connection. Thus, the first vacuum connection can be easily connected or coupled to the additional vacuum connection by inserting the first vacuum connection through the second end of the additional vacuum connection into the channel section.
Preferably, the inner wall of the channel section has a first groove and the outer wall of the first vacuum connection has a second groove. The two grooves may be formed as elongated recesses. The first groove may extend along the inner wall of the channel section and around the longitudinal axis of the additional vacuum connection. The second groove may extend along the outer wall and around the longitudinal axis of the first vacuum connection. The two grooves may each have a rectangular cross-section. However, other cross-sectional shapes are also conceivable, for example a trapezoidal shape with an outwardly sloping wall or a dovetail shape. The removal of material in the two grooves creates space which can accommodate further means which enable the two vacuum connections to be positively connected or coupled to one another.
Preferably, the two grooves form a closed space when the vacuum connections are connected to each other. The space can be designed to accommodate one or more balls. Preferably, two, preferably more balls are provided. The balls can be arranged in the second groove, for example. Further, the space may be configured to receive at least one spring element, preferably two or more spring elements. The at least one spring element may be a spiral spring. The at least one spring element may be arranged in the first groove and connected to the wall of the first groove. In particular, the at least one spring element may be connected to the wall of the first groove facing the longitudinal axis of the additional vacuum connection. Thus, the at least one spring element can be used to exert a spring force in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the vacuum connection on at least one ball, so that the two vacuum connections are fixed or clicked together and a positive connection is enabled.
Preferably, the first vacuum connection comprises a sealing element. The sealing element can be designed as an O-ring. The O-ring can surround the outer wall of the first vacuum connection. This sealing element enables a particularly tight seal of the two vacuum connections when they are connected to each other as previously described. In the interconnected state of the two vacuum connections, the O-ring is arranged between the outer wall of the first vacuum connection and the inner wall of the additional vacuum connection. Further, the O-ring may be disposed adjoining or adjacent to the second groove and, in the interconnected condition, may be disposed adjoining or adjacent to the closed space formed by the grooves.
Preferably, the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances comprises a preparation device receiving portion. The preparation device receiving area may be configured to receive the preparation device receiving apparatus and a preparation device inserted into the preparation device receiving apparatus. Further, the preparation device receiving portion may be configured to receive the lifting device and/or the lifting platform. In particular, the preparation device receiving region may include a rear wall from which two opposing side walls extend away.
When inserted into the preparation device receiving region, the preparation device receiving region may contact, be adjacent to, or be connectable to the back wall and/or the side walls.
An opening may be provided in the rear wall. This opening may be a through hole arranged in relation to the through hole in the protrusion of the preparation device receiving portion so that the line between the additional vacuum connection and the vacuum generator can be passed through the opening in the back wall. Thus, the preparation device inserted into the preparation device receiving portion by means of the preparation device receiving portion may be arranged in the preparation device receiving portion and the vacuum generator may be arranged outside the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances.
The line or hose connecting the preparation device to the vacuum pump can be flexible or designed as a flexible channel. This allows the lifting platform to be raised and lowered even when the preparation device is connected to the vacuum pump. Furthermore, an air filter may be provided between the line and the vacuum pump, preferably in the line or connected to the line. This prevents liquid from being drawn into the vacuum pump. A pressure sensor can be arranged adjacent to or downstream of the air filter. Based on the detected pressure, the system can use the pressure sensor to detect whether filtration has been completed or whether the hopper has been emptied or whether there is a blockage of the membrane. As soon as the hopper is emptied, the wetted filter remains. This is impermeable to air until a bubble pressure or bubble point is reached (e.g. 3.2 bar for a 0.2 μm PES filter, at which point the first pore of the filter would be blown free). In other words the system registers the pressure increase and switches off automatically. Alternatively, a sensor is attached to the receiver bottle, which detects whether the entire volume has been filtered. In this way, it can be detected when a preparation of media or buffer is complete and the preparation unit can decouple and move down for removal by means of the lifting device.
A further aspect of the invention relates to a computer-implemented method for controlling or regulating the previously described device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, the method comprising the following steps: Dosing the at least one solid component from the at least one first container by means of at least a first dosing device; Dosing at least one fluid from at least one second container or a fluid line by means of at least one second dosing device; Mixing of dosed solid components and the dosed fluid and preparation of a mixture of substances by means of the preparation device, and Collection of the prepared mixture of substances in the collection container.
Preferably, the computer-implemented method comprises the steps of: detection of the level in the at least one first container which is designed to hold at least one solid component; and detection of the level in the at least one second container configured to hold at least one fluid.
Preferably, the computer-implemented method comprises the following steps: Identifying the at least one solid component and/or the at least one fluid and reordering at least one solid component and/or at least one fluid based on the determined fill level.
Preferably, the computer-implemented method comprises the following steps: Dosing a first amount of fluid by means of a first dosing device of a first stroke system, and dosing a second amount of fluid by means of a second dosing device of a second stroke system, wherein, preferably, the first amount of fluid is greater than the second amount of fluid.
Preferably, the computer-implemented method comprises the following steps: Determination or detection the level of the fluid in the interior of the second container or in the preparation device by means of a sensor, and control or regulation the first amount of fluid and/or the second amount of fluid based on the determined or detected level of the fluid.
The computer-implemented method may further comprise the step of determining the number of first containers and second containers in the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. The determination may be performed by means of a scanning element or scanner, for example by means of a barcode reader for optically scanning a barcode or barcodes on the individual containers. However, a laser scanner is also conceivable, so that the surface or shape of the container can be detected by means of laser beams and the container used can be inferred. The scan can also be used to determine the output quantity in the individual containers. It is conceivable that the number of strokes performed and/or the positions of the individual clamping elements or clamps performed and/or the rotations of the screw conveyors performed are registered, so that together with the values determined by the sensor or the scales, it is possible to conclude the consumption of the individual components from the first and second containers. Thus, the consumption of the at least one first component and/or the at least one fluid can be concluded. In this case, an order for new material can be placed on the Internet in an automated manner. All of these processes or operations and the subsequent process or operations may be implemented in the computer method.
It is conceivable that the expiration date of the at least one component in the at least one first container or the at least one fluid in the at least one second container can be concluded by means of the scan. Furthermore, data can be determined from which laboratory the substances come.
Preferably, information about the type of solid component or powder or fluid is transmitted via the scan. In this way, it can be inferred which first or second container with which solid component or fluid is arranged in which first or second holding area in the device.
It is also conceivable that the at least one solid component or the fluid can be scanned not by a scanner as part of the device, but by a scanner on a smart device, for example a tablet or a smartphone, and the scanned information is added to an inventory management system. If a user or researcher now wishes to conduct an experiment or prepare a mixture of substances, the system can determine whether sufficient inventory is on hand by indicating the required amount of at least one solid component and at least one fluid. It is conceivable that the user or researcher can reserve stock.
Now, if another researcher wishes to use a solid component and a fluid to prepare a mixture of substances, he or she inserts the corresponding first and second containers into the corresponding receiving areas of the device. If this falls below a certain safety stock or reservation stock of the desired solid component and/or the desired fluid, the preparation can be automatically refused. This can be signaled to the user by a beep or the corresponding information can be displayed on the screen of a computer or tablet or smartphone. A corresponding information on the screen could be: “The stock of the desired component or fluid has been used up.” and/or “Please contact researcher X he has reserved a certain amount of the desired solid component or fluid.” Researcher X, who has reserved, can optionally release the stock.
Taking into account all existing and reserved stocks, the software can provide the user with information on reordering. Furthermore, the system takes into account expiration dates of the substances and the ordering time as well as the average consumption. In this way, it can be ensured that there is always sufficient medium available, that users do not place unnecessary orders, and that as little medium or buffer as possible has to be discarded due to expiration dates. Very often, ingredients are ordered twice or only for one experiment, although ingredients are available in the neighboring laboratory.
It is also conceivable that the inventory management can also include current delivery dates in the calculation, so that an automatic order and order confirmation can be carried out electronically. A shipment history, i.e., the monitoring of goods in transit, can also be taken into account in inventory management.
Preferably, the computer-implemented method comprises the step of selecting media and buffers by means of a media and buffer selector. This allows the user to select the appropriate medium or buffer via a selection field on a screen, for example on a tablet or computer. For medium selection, for example, the cell line would be a criterion. For buffers, the criterion could be the application, for example, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), etc., or the instrument to be used.
According to a further aspect of the invention, a system is provided, the system comprising a device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, at least one first container for holding at least one solid component, and/or at least one second container for holding at least one fluid.
The individual components of the system, i.e., the device, the at least one first container, and/or the at least one second container, may have any of the previously described features and advantages thereof.
The present invention is explained below with reference only to preferred embodiment drawings, wherein
First, with reference to
The apparatus 100 comprises at least one first container 102 which is designed to hold at least one solid component, and at least one first dosing device 104 for dosing the at least one solid component, wherein the first dosing device 104 is connected to or can be connected to the first container 102. The apparatus 100 comprises at least one second container 103, 103′ configured to receive at least one fluid. In the embodiment example shown in
With reference to
The stroke system 1 further comprises a motor 11, wherein the turntable 9 is connected or connectable to the motor 11. The motor 11 is used to drive the turntable 9, so that pressure can be exerted on the piston 7 by means of the turntable 9. The turntable 9 is connected or connectable to the piston pump 5 by means of a connecting element, for example a lever or a lever arm. The piston 7 can thus be deflected or moved by the turntable 9, and through this deflection or movement, the fluid can be pumped from the container 103 and properly dosed. The piston pump 5 and the turntable 9 may be replaceable or disposable.
The stroke system 1 further comprises a sensor 13, by means of which the level of the fluid in the at least one second container can be determined. 103
The stroke system 1 is connected or connectable to a container or beaker 21, for example via a pipe or hose system 23. The container or beaker 21 can, for example, be a mixing chamber 112 of a preparation device 114 of the device 100 shown in
It should be noted that the tube or hose system 23 is optional. It is also conceivable that the fluid is filled gravimetrically into the container or beaker 21. The container or beaker 21 is arranged in the direction of gravity 15 below the stroke system 1 connected to the second container or fluid container 103. Thereby, the stroke system 1 is arranged or positioned between the container or beaker 21 and the second container or fluid container 103 in the direction of gravity 15. Thus, the fluid can be easily guided from the second container 103 in the direction of the stroke system 1 by gravity and pumped from the second container 103 into the container or beaker 21. The stroke system 1 has a piston pump 5 with a piston 7 (not shown in
The second container 103 comprises a flexible material and is formed from an aluminium composite foil. However, it is also conceivable that the second container 103 comprises is comprised of at least partially a shape-retaining material or is formed from a shape-retaining material. The second container 103 may be made of a bioplastic or bioplastic or a bio-based plastic. The second container 103 includes a housing 31 having an interior for receiving a fluid, wherein the first opening 17 is in fluid communication with the interior of the second container 103. The second container 103 may be supplied pre-filled with a fluid by the manufacturer. The second container 103 may also be configured such that the consumer cannot open the second container 103, or such that the consumer cannot remove the stroke system 1. The second container 103 extends along a longitudinal container axis 33 between a first end 35 and a second end 37, wherein as viewed in the direction of gravity 15, the first end 35 corresponds to a lower end 35 and the second end 37 corresponds to an upper end 37. Adjoining or adjacent to the lower end 35, the container 103 has a lower region 39. Adjoining or adjacent to the upper end 37, the container 103 has an upper region 41.
The first opening 17 is arranged at the lower end 35 of the second container 103, with the longitudinal container axis 33 extending through the first opening 17. The lower portion 39 of the second container, as viewed transversely to the longitudinal container axis 33, has a cross-section whose cross-sectional area decreases toward the lower end 35. That is, the cross-section tapers or tapers towards the lower end. The container 103 has a first side edge 43 and a second side edge 45 on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis 33 of the container, each connecting a front side 47 and a rear side 49 of the container 103. The first opening 17 is substantially the same distance from the first side edge 43 as it is from the second side edge 45.
The first opening 17 of the second container 103 is connected to the stroke system 1. The second container 103 may also include a third opening (not shown in
The stroke system 1 connected to the container 103 further comprises the temperature control 29, which is configured to control the temperature of the fluid to be dispensed by means of the stroke system 1. Like the motor 11 and the turntable 9, the temperature control 29 can be designed as a reusable article. However, it is also conceivable that the motor 11, the turntable 9, and the temperature control 29, like the container 103 and the piston pump 5, are designed as disposable articles and are thus interchangeable. The temperature control 29 comprises a heating plate 51, wherein the heating plate 51 is arranged at least partially in contact with the connected container 103, and wherein the heating plate 51 at least partially adjoins or contacts the housing 31 of the container 103. The heater plate 51 includes at least one substantially planar external surface or contact surface 53 configured to contact the housing 31 of the container 103. In the embodiment shown in
The housing 31 of the container 103 features a contact surface 55 that is designed in such a way that the container 103 is at least partially in contact with the temperature control 29 of the stroke system 1. The temperature control 29 at least partially adjoins or closely aligns the contact surface 55. In particular, the temperature control 29 is arranged with the container 103 and the stroke system 1 in such a way that the contact surface 53 of the heating plate 51 at least partially adjoins or closely aligns the contact surface 55, which is arranged on the rear side 49 of the container 103.
The contact surface 55 extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis 33 of the container between the lower region 39 or lower end 35 of the container 103 and the upper region 41 or upper end 37 of the container 103 as viewed in the direction of gravity 15 when the container 103, the stroke system 1 and the temperature control 29 are connected or coupled together.
The contact surface 55 extends in a region of the rear side 49 of the container 103 adjoining or adjacent to the longitudinal axis 33 of the container and is spaced from the opposing first and second side edges 43 and 45. The second container 103 is thus in contact with the temperature control 29 and the contact surface 53 of the heating plate 51, respectively, such that the first side edge 43 and second side edge 45 are not in contact with the temperature control 29 and the heating plate 51, respectively, but are spaced from the temperature control 29. contact surface 53 of the heating plate 51 such that the first side edge 43 and second side edge 45 are not in contact with the temperature control 29 and the heating plate 51, respectively, but are spaced from the temperature control 29 and the heating plate 51, respectively, when the container 103 is coupled to the temperature control 29 of the stroke system 1. This embodiment is particularly advantageous for a container 103 welded at the first side edge 43 and second side edge 45. For reasons of thermal engineering, contact of the container 103 at these points is disadvantageous and should be avoided, since due to the lack of fluid as a heat-conducting medium there is a risk that the welded side edges 43, 45 will be melted and thus irreversibly damaged, so that fluid can escape from the interior of the second container 103. However, it would also be conceivable that the second container 103 is configured such that the entire rear side 49 of the second container 103 is formed as a contact surface 55 and the heating plate 51 contacts the contact surface 55 with the entire contact surface 53, wherein the first side edge 43 and second side edge 45 are in contact with the temperature control 29 and with the heating plate 51, respectively (not shown in
However, it is also conceivable that the temperature control 29 comprises a cooling plate or a temperature control plate which can both heat and cool (not shown in
The temperature control 29 can have a fixing element with which the second container 103 can be fixed or connected to the temperature control, the fixing element having at least one magnet (not shown in
In addition to the first opening 17, the second container 103′ comprises a second opening 57 to which the second stroke system 1′ is connected or connectable, for example glued or welded. The first opening 17 and the second opening 57 are arranged on opposite sides of the longitudinal container axis 33. Thus, the longitudinal container axis 33 does not extend through any of the openings 17, 57.
The at least one further, second stroke system 1′ is configured substantially like the first stroke system 1 and thus has at least one sensor for determination or detection of the level of the fluid in the interior of the second container 103′ (not shown in
The outlet 59 of the first stroke system 1 extends along the longitudinal outlet axis 63 between a first end 65 and a second end 67. The outlet 59 extends in a substantially tubular manner along the longitudinal outlet axis 63. The outlet opening 61 of the first stroke system 1 is thus arranged or adjacent to the second end 67.
In the second, further stroke system 1′, the outlet 59 has a pipette-like configuration. The outlet 59 has a first outlet portion 69 extending between the first end 65 and the second end 67 as previously described in connection with the first stroke system 1. Adjoining or adjacent to the second end 67, the outlet 59 has a second outlet section 71 that also extends along the longitudinal outlet axis 63 between the second end 67 and a third end 73.
The outlet 59 of the second stroke system 1′ has a cross-section in the second outlet section 71 that tapers toward the third end 73. The outlet opening 61 is located at the third end 73 and has a cross-sectional area (as viewed transversely to the longitudinal outlet axis) adjoining or adjacent to the third end 73 that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the outlet 59 at any location of the first outlet section 69. At least one of the stroke systems 1, 1′ of the second dosing device 108′, preferably the stroke system 1′ having the pipette-like outlet, is designed to balance a dosing inaccuracy of another second dosing device 108 for dosing the at least one fluid from the second container 103.
Both of the previously described containers 103, 103′ may be available pre-filled with a fluid and/or may be disposable.
The stroke system 1 described above for dosing a fluid can be used in the biochemical field in the preparation of a liquid medium or a buffer. In particular, the stroke system 1 may be as part of the second dosing device 108, 108′ of the device 100 for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. The previously described stroke system 1 for dosing a fluid from a second container 103, 103′ can be coupled to the second container 103, 103′ in such a way that a fluid can be correctly dosed from the container 103, 103′ by means of the stroke system 1. Because the stroke system 1 has a temperature control 29, the fluid dosed by means of the stroke system 1 can be temperature controlled simultaneously or immediately before or after dosing. The stroke system 1 thus enables simplified and correct dosing of fluid. Due to the additional temperature control option by means of the temperature control 29, the stroke system 1 enables particularly efficient and time-saving work. Particularly in the field of biochemistry, for example in the preparation of media and buffers, longer downtimes are thus avoided and efficient work is made possible.
It is conceivable that at least one of the at least one second dosing device 108, 108′ comprises, instead of the stroke system 1, 1′, at least one clamping element which is designed for dosing the fluid from the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the second dosing device 108, 108′ has at least a plurality of clamping elements which are designed for dosing the fluid from the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line (not shown in the figures). The second dosing device 108, 108′ comprises up to six clamping elements, wherein two of the six clamping elements are arranged in one level and on opposite sides of the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line, respectively. The clamping elements may be configured as clamps, wherein preferably one of the clamping elements is replaced by the temperature control 29 for tempering the fluid to be dosed by means of the clamping elements. The temperature control 29 may comprise a heating device, in particular a heating plate, wherein the heating device is arranged at least partially in contact with the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the heating device at least partially adjoins or contacts the housing 31 of the second container 103, 103′.
The first dosing device 104 comprises a screw conveyor housing 116 and a screw conveyor, wherein the screw conveyor is inserted, preferably in its full length, into the screw conveyor housing 116 and is arranged within it as rotatable so that the screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing 116 extend around a shared screw conveyor longitudinal axis. The screw conveyor is thus disposed inside the screw conveyor housing so that it is not visible in
A coupling device 118 extends in the longitudinal axis direction from a drive end of the screw conveyor or the screw conveyor housing 116, wherein the coupling device 118 is designed to interact, in particular to intervene in a coupling manner with the actuation and/or drive unit 120. The actuation and/or drive device 120 comprises a motor 122, wherein the motor 122 is configured to drive the first dosing device 104. The motor 122 comprises a first gear 124 arranged relative to a second gear 126 of the coupling device 118 such that the gear 124 of the motor 122 comes into contact with the gear 126 of the coupling device 118 of the auger and the auger is driven.
The screw conveyor housing 116 features an outer wall 130 with a plurality of ribs 128, the ribs 128 preferably extend at least partially in an axial direction between a first end and a second end opposite the first end in a longitudinal axis direction of the screw conveyor housing 116. The ribs 128 essentially extend in a radial direction away from the outer wall 130 of the screw conveyor housing 116. Two of the ribs 128 limit the outlet opening of the screw conveyor housing 116 on opposite sides in a circumferential direction to the outer wall 130 (not shown), and two more of the ribs 128 limit the outlet opening on opposite sides in an axial direction to the outer wall 130. The apparatus 100 may include a container receiving region for receiving the first container 103, wherein the container receiving region may preferably be disposed over a dosing device receiving region for receiving the first dosing device 104 and/or wherein one or more side walls of the container receiving region include a plurality of ribs extending away from the one or more side walls (not shown). A first guiding element and a second guiding element may be arranged between the container mounting area and the dosing device mounting area, wherein the guiding elements may extend from an open front to a rear wall of the device 100 and/or wherein the guiding elements extend away from the sidewalls of the device 100 (not shown). The guide elements may be oriented substantially in a plane parallel to an upper limitation and/or to a lower limitation of the device 100, and the guide elements may preferably be inclined toward the front out of the plane toward the container receiving region (not shown).
The container 103 for holding at least one solid component comprises a housing 132 with an interior space for holding at least one solid component, and an outlet 134 in fluid connection with the interior space (see
The first container 103 is deliverable pre-filled with a solid component. The first container 103 is designed for insertion into a device 100 for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, as a first container and to be held by this.
The first container 103 may include an inlet opening (not shown), the inlet opening is preferably and essentially arranged opposite the outlet 134 and/or an outlet opening in the outlet 134. The inlet opening can be closed by means of a closing element, preferably by means of a zipper.
The housing 132 of the first container 103 may at least partially comprise a flexible material or be formed from a flexible material. The housing 132 of the first container 103 may comprise an aluminium composite foil or may be formed from an aluminium composite foil. The housing 132 of the first container 103 may at least partially comprise a shape-retaining material or be formed from a shape-retaining material.
With reference to
The preparation device 114 is configured to receive a solid component dosed from the first container 103 by means of the first dosing device 104 and a fluid dosed from the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line by means of the second dosing device 108, 108′ and to prepare a mixture of substances therefrom.
In addition to the mixing chamber 112, the preparation device 114 includes a lid 138, a hopper element 142, and a collection container 144. The lid 138 may be connected or connectable to the hopper and/or hopper element 142 such that the lid 138 may be twisted open.
The mixing chamber 112 is configured to receive and mix the solid component dispensed from the first container 102 and the fluid dispensed from the at least one second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line. The mixing chamber 112 is connected or connectable to the collection container 144, such that the mixture of materials prepared by the mixing chamber 112 is collectable by the collection container 144. The collection container 144 is arranged below the mixing chamber 112 so that the mixture of substances can be fed gravimetrically or by gravity alone to the collection container, in particular fluid-tightly.
The preparation device 114 further comprises a stirrer element 146 for stirring or mixing the solid component and the fluid, and/or a vacuum connection 148 for creating a vacuum.
The stirrer element 146 extends along a stirrer element longitudinal axis 150 between a drive end 152 and a free end 154. At the drive end 152, a coupling device 156 extends in the stirrer element longitudinal axis direction towards the free end 154, the coupling device 156 being configured to interact in a coupling manner with an actuation and/or drive device 158. The actuation and/or drive unit may include a drive shaft 160 that is connected to, and thus driven by, a motor 162 or stirrer element motor 162.
At the free end 154, the agitating element 146 includes a stirrer 164 or propeller. The agitating element 146 and the mixing chamber 112 extend along the same longitudinal axis. Drive from the motor 162 causes the agitating element 146 to rotate so that the fluid and the solid component in the mixing chamber are mixed by the stirrer 164 to form a mixture of materials.
By means of the vacuum connection 148, a vacuum can be generated in the mixing chamber 112 and/or in the collection container 144. The vacuum connection 148 is connected or connectable to a vacuum generator 166 by means of a line 165. The vacuum connection 148 is arranged on the collection container 144, in particular on the upper region thereof, adjoining or adjacent to the mixing chamber 112. Conceivably, the vacuum connection 148 is disposed on the filter element 142 or below the filter. However, the vacuum connection 148 can also be arranged in the wall of the mixing chamber 112 or in the wall of the hopper element 142. Thus, a vacuum can be created in the receiving vessel 144 by means of the vacuum generator 166 so that the prepared mixture of substances can be supplied to the receiving vessel 144 under sterile conditions. The preparation device 114 extends along a preparation device longitudinal axis 168 between a first end 170 and a second end 172.
The lid 138 has a peripheral limitation area 214 or edge area 214 that faces away from the lid plate 192 at an angle of substantially 45° to the lid plate 192, and thus protrudes. When the lid 138 is placed on or closes the mixing chamber 112, the inside of the edge area 214 may contact or be adjacent to the outside of the mixing chamber 112. The rim portion 214 of the lid 138 surrounds the exterior of the mixing chamber 112 at one of the ends of the mixing chamber 112. The rim portion 214 serves to facilitate lifting or gripping of the lid 138 and/or the stirrer element 146 associated with the lid 138. Further, it allows the lid 138 to be spaced apart from or float above the hopper. Primarily, the edge is there to prevent contaminants or airborne microbes from entering the hopper when the lid is hovering above the unit during mixing.
The preparation device receiving device 176 is configured to receive the preparation device 114. The preparation device receiving device 176 is configured as a planar element having a first surface 178 and an opposing second surface 180.
The preparation device receiving device 176 includes a recess 182 extending from a side edge or edge of the sheet-like element to the interior of the sheet-like element. This recess 182 is configured to receive the hopper element 142. Thus, the hopper element 142 can be inserted into the recess 182 and held by the preparation device receiving device 176 by having bearing surfaces of two protrusions 184, 186 of the retention element 174 bear on the first surface 178 of the preparation device receiving device 176.
A recess 188 is disposed between the first protrusion 184 and the second protrusion 186 of the retention element 174 at a first end of the hopper element 142. This recess 188 is disposed relative to the first protrusion 184 and the second protrusion 186 at an angle of 45° about a longitudinal filter element axis. This recess 188 is configured to be received by a protrusion 190 on one of the first surfaces 178 of the preparation device receiving device 176. This protrusion 190 extends away from the first surface 178 of the preparation device receiving device 176. The protrusion 190 and the recess 182 may engage after the hopper element 142 has been inserted into the preparation device receiving device 176.
Referring to
The lid 138 can thus be placed on the first end of the mixing chamber 112 together with the stirrer element 146. Thus, the at least one solid component and the at least one fluid can be mixed together inside the mixing chamber 112 by means of the stirrer element 146. The cover plate 192 includes a first additional opening 196 and a second additional opening 198, which are arranged rotationally symmetrically with respect to the central opening 194. The first additional opening 196 and second additional opening 198 allow the at least one solid component and/or the at least one fluid to be introduced into the mixing chamber 112 without removing the lid 138 and/or the stirrer element 146 from the mixing chamber 112.
The stirrer element 146 is connected to or can be connected to a lock washer 200 so that the lock washer 200 surrounds the stirrer element shaft in a rotationally symmetric way and closes or opens the first additional opening 196 and the second additional opening 198 in the lid plate 192 by turning or rotating the stirrer element 146.
The hopper element 142 and/or the lid 138 and/or the stirrer element 146 and/or the retention element 174 and/or the collection container 144 and/or the filter are exchangeable and designed as disposable articles. The stirrer element 146 is made of plastic or glass. The filter (not shown) is formed of plastic or cellulose. Ideally, the stirrer element 146 is formed in one piece with the lid 138.
The preparation device 114, preferably the mixing chamber 112 and/or the collection vessel 144, comprise at least one sensor, wherein the sensor is configured to measure pH and/or conductivity (not shown).
The apparatus 100 for dispensing and/or preparing a mixture of substances furthermore comprises a lifting device 202, wherein the lifting device 202 is designed to change the position of the preparation device 114 in relation to the position of the stirrer element motor 162.
The lifting device 202 is arranged below the preparation device 114. The lifting device 202 comprises a lifting platform 204 on which the collection container 144 of the preparation device 114 is placed. Furthermore, the lifting device 202 comprises a first stroke element 206 and a second stroke element 208 by means of which the position of the lifting platform 204 and thus the position of the preparation device 114 on the lifting platform 204 can be changed. Each of the stroke elements 206, 208 comprises a stroke element motor 210, 212. By means of the lifting device 202, the position of the preparation device 114 described above can be changed relative to the stirrer element motor 162.
The lifting device 202 may include a lifting bracket or stroke clamp, wherein the lifting clamp or lifting bracket or stroke clamp is connected to or can be connected to a sensor or set of scales (not shown). The lifting platform 204 can be moved upward and downward, particularly relative to the stirrer element motor 162. Thus, by actuating the lifting platform 204, the vacuum connection 148 can also be moved up or down.
The protrusion 190 includes a through hole 218. The through bore 218 is configured to insert and receive the additional vacuum connection 216. The additional vacuum connection 216 extends along a longitudinal vacuum axis between a first end 220 and an opposite second end 222. The peripheral wall of the additional vacuum connection 216 is adapted to match the inner wall of the through hole 218. In particular, the peripheral wall of the additional vacuum connection 216 has a diameter transverse to the longitudinal vacuum axis that is smaller than the diameter of the inner wall transverse to the longitudinal through-hole axis along which the through-hole extends.
The first end 220 of the additional vacuum connection 216 is configured to be connected to the line 165 to the vacuum generator 166, in particular in a sealed or fluid-tight manner. The second end 222 of the additional vacuum connection 216 is configured to be connected to the first vacuum connection 148, in particular in a sealed or fluid-tight manner, which in turn is connected to the hopper element 142.
Between the first end 220 and the second end 222, the additional vacuum connection 216 has a channel 224 extending along the longitudinal vacuum connection axis (see
The inner wall of the channel section 228 includes a first groove 230 and the outer wall of the first vacuum connection 148 includes a second groove 232. The two grooves each have a rectangular cross-section and form a closed space 234 when the vacuum connections 148, 216 are connected together. The closed space 234 is configured to receive one or more balls 236. The balls 236 are disposed in the second groove 232. Further, the closed space 234 is configured to receive at least one spring element, preferably two or more spring elements 238. The spring elements 238 are arranged in the first groove 230 Thus, the at least one spring element 238 can be used to exert a spring force on at least one ball 236 so that the two vacuum connections 148, 216 are fixed or clicked together.
An opening is provided in the rear wall (not shown). This opening is arranged relative to the through hole 218 in the protrusion 190 of the preparation device receiving device 176, such that the line 165 or hose between the additional vacuum connection 216 and the vacuum generator 166 can pass through the opening in the rear wall. Thus, the preparation device 114 inserted into the preparation device mounting area 240 by means of the preparation device mounting area 176 may be disposed in the preparation device mounting area 240, and the vacuum generator 166 may be disposed outside the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances.
The device or system described above, comprising a device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or buffer, at least one first container for holding at least one solid component and/or at least one second container for holding at least one fluid, can be used for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer. The device or the system can be used for the preparation of a mixture of substances, which in particular is not a food, further in particular not baby food, coffee, or tea.
The system described above comprises a device 100 for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, at least one first container 102 for holding at least one solid component and at least one second container 103, 103′ for holding at least one fluid, so that the mixture of substances can be prepared by means of this system. For this purpose, the first container 102 is configured for receiving and dosing a solid component. The first container 102 may be configured for receiving and interacting with the device 100 for preparing a mixture of substances. The second container 103, 103′ is configured to receive and dispense fluid. The second container 103, 103′ may be configured to receive and interact with the device 100. By means of the first dosing device 104, the solid component can be dosed from the first container 102 and by means of the second dosing device 108, 108′, the fluid can be dosed from the second container 103, 103′, wherein the solid component and the fluid are introduced in the correct mixing ratio into the mixing chamber 112 of the preparation device 114 and are mixed there to form a mixture of substances, which can then be filled into a collecting container 144 through the hopper element or filter element 142. In that the second container 103, 103′ and/or the second dosing device 108, 108′ and/or the first container 102 and/or the first dosing device 104 and/or the fluid line and/or the lid 138 are exchangeable and developed as disposable articles, cleaning of the respective components can be dispensed with. The components can simply be discarded after a period of time and replaced with new components. This simplifies the manufacturing process of the medium or buffer. The device 100 thus enables a simplified and correct preparation of a mixture of substances.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 2019 004 089.7 | Oct 2019 | DE | national |
| 10 2020 001 721.5 | Mar 2020 | DE | national |
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/EP2020/077773 | 10/5/2020 | WO |
