Plant module for collecting and removing rejects

Abstract

A system comprising a first and a second tank, the openings of which point in different directions, and a rotating mechanism suitable for rotating the first and second tanks about a common axis of rotation; a wet chemical production plant comprising such a system; and a method for removing objects from a transport handling system by means of such a system.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a system module for collecting and removing rejects. In particular, the invention relates to a system module for collecting and removing objects that are to be sent to the reject pile, disposed of, and / or recycled. The invention preferably relates to a system module that is suitable for removing objects transported by suction lances through an inline system, collecting them, and / or disposing of them.

[0002] In wet chemical production plants, particularly inline plants and especially in plants used for the production of contact lenses, objects, preferably contact lenses, are frequently transported through the plant using suction lances. For example, the objects are moved between trays and cuvettes, or transported back and forth between different plant modules, as described, for example, in DE 10 2023 108 649 A1. Suction lances can preferably be provided for this purpose, which can draw in the contact lenses by means of a vacuum prevailing in the lance and thus pick them up individually. In other words, suction lances can preferably be used as a transport handling device to move contact lenses within the plant.

[0003] For the smooth operation of inline systems, it is essential that objects attached to suction lances or removal handles, such as contact lenses, are transported through the system according to a specific or predefined process cycle. If a malfunction occurs in a system module, preventing contact lenses from being transported further in the intended process and instead requiring rejection, it is advantageous to include a module in such inline systems where these objects can be safely discharged from the suction lances and sent for rejection. Similarly, such a module can be beneficial in the event of a fault in a downstream system module, necessitating the disposal of objects before this module to prevent, for example, a build-up of material within the system.

[0004] Various modules are known in the prior art that could provide such a function. For example, it is known to incorporate modules into systems equipped with spray nozzles that use a spray mist to detach objects, such as contact lenses, from the suction lances. These known modules typically also include a collection container into which the objects detached from the suction lances should fall for collection and subsequent disposal. However, modules with such technologies have disadvantages. In particular, the stringent requirements now placed on process reliability, efficiency, and system cycle times, among other things, are often not fully met by these known modules. For instance, it cannot always be guaranteed that the contact lenses will be reliably removed from the lances by the spray nozzles.Furthermore, such spray nozzles have a relatively high consumption of purified water (AP water). In addition, properly adjusting the spray nozzles is difficult and requires regular readjustment, as the optimal setting range allows for very small variations. It must be ensured that, on the one hand, the spray nozzle pressure is sufficient to reliably remove the objects from the suction lances, and on the other hand, that excessive pressure does not cause the objects, especially contact lenses, to be unpredictably scattered throughout the system and fall into defined positions, such as a collection container. Ideally, the spray nozzles should also deliver enough water not only to detach the lenses from the lances but also to flush them into the collection container, preventing them from sticking to the sides.However, the operation of such reject modules with spray nozzles shows that objects such as contact lenses often do not end up in the collection containers, but are instead distributed to undefined positions within the system, thereby contaminating the system or clogging drains. Adjusting such system modules is complex, and achieving a short cycle time with satisfactory process reliability is hardly feasible.

[0005] DE 602 06 576 T2 discloses a method for automatically transporting a large number of products for sequential processing at one or more processing stations and a system for automatically transporting a large number of ophthalmic lenses for sequential processing at one or more processing stations.

[0006] DE 27 31 245 A1 discloses a scooping and conveying device for liquids.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a reject module which at least partially overcomes the disadvantages described above.

[0008] This problem is solved by the present invention. The invention is defined in the following claims.

[0009] In particular, the invention relates to a system with a first and a second tub, the openings of which point in different directions, a rotary mechanism suitable for rotating the tubs about a common axis of rotation, and a control system configured to initiate an abrupt rotation of the tubs.

[0010] Preferably, the first and second tubs extend along a longitudinal direction parallel to the axis of rotation. More preferably, the rotation mechanism is suitable for rotating the first and second tubs together, preferably by an angle between 170° and 190°, more preferably between 150° and 210°, more preferably between 130° and 230°, and most preferably between 110° and 250°.

[0011] Preferably, the system can have one or more additional tubs besides the first and second tubs, wherein the rotation mechanism is preferably suitable for rotating the tubs in several angular steps, each angular step preferably representing a rotation by an angle of (360° / <Anzahl der Wannen> ) corresponds, preferably with a tolerance of ± 10°. Thus, it can preferably be achieved that the system can be optimally adapted to the cycle time of an inline system in which the system is intended.

[0012] Preferably, the tubs can be rigidly connected to each other, forming a multi-tub. More preferably, the axis of rotation can be located in the center of the multi-tub and / or the tubs can be arranged symmetrically to each other, with the axis of rotation lying on the axis of symmetry. More preferably, the tubs can be watertight and / or each tub can have a watertight bottom opposite the opening. In other words, the multi-tub can preferably be formed from two opposing tubs, the bottoms of which preferably face each other, and the axis of rotation is preferably located in a space between the two bottoms. More preferably, this multi-tub formed from two tubs can rotate in 180° increments, so that one opening of one tub always faces upwards and the other opening always faces downwards.Such a multi-tub design can have a particularly positive effect on the shortest possible cycle times of an associated inline system and, furthermore, on the highest possible process reliability.

[0013] Preferably, the system can further comprise a subsystem by means of which a liquid, preferably purified water (AP water), can be introduced into one of the tanks, wherein the subsystem comprises one or more of the following components: a supply line, a pressure reducer, a pressure gauge, and a fluid valve. Purified water (AP water) can be understood to mean purified water, which can preferably be used for the production of pharmaceutical preparations that do not require sterility. Preferably, purified water contains fewer than 100 microorganisms per ml of water and, in particular, no fecal microbes.

[0014] Preferably, in at least one first operating state of the system, the opening of the first tub can point upwards, and the first tub can preferably be at least partially filled with liquid, preferably AP water. In contrast, the opening of the second tub can preferably point downwards in this first operating state. Furthermore, preferably in a second operating state of the system, the opening of the second tub can point upwards, and the second tub can preferably be at least partially filled with liquid, preferably AP water. The opening of the first tub can preferably point downwards in this second operating state. Preferably, a minimal cycle time can be achieved by means of such an arrangement and, more preferably, a suitable control system for the system, whereby the rotation and filling of the tub can take place within 5, preferably within 3 seconds.Preferably, rotating the multi-tank by at least 170°, and even more preferably by at least 180°, can increase process reliability, as it ensures that the AP water contained in the tank is rinsed or tipped out as completely as possible by the rotation. As will be evident, in the case of a double tank (multi-tank with a first and a second tank), the preferred rotation is performed in a single step. In the case of a multi-tank with three, four, or more tanks arranged at angles to each other, the preferred rotation can also be performed in two or more steps.

[0015] The system may further preferably include a collection container, which preferably has a funnel and, more preferably, an interface to a wastewater pipe. The first and second trays and / or the axis of rotation may preferably be arranged in or above the collection container. Preferably, the multiple trays or the first and / or second trays may be arranged in or above the collection container such that, when the axis of rotation or the multiple trays or the first and / or second trays are rotated, the contents of the trays can preferably be emptied as completely as possible into the collection container.

[0016] The system can preferably also be suitable for monitoring the fill level of the first or second tank or the fill level of the collection container, preferably comprising a level sensor. This can be particularly advantageous for detecting a malfunction of the system in a timely manner or for preventing the tanks and / or the collection container from overflowing. Preferably, information about the fill level, preferably an output from the level sensor, can be used by a system controller to start a subsequent process step or sequence.

[0017] The system may further preferably include an AP water valve by means of which AP water can be directed into the first and / or second tank. The pressure at the AP water valve may preferably be at least 0.1 bar, more preferably at least 0.2 bar, and more preferably at least 0.3 bar, and / or preferably a maximum of 1 bar, more preferably a maximum of 0.9 bar, and particularly preferably a maximum of 0.8 bar. These pressure specifications preferably refer to a differential pressure of approximately 1 bar relative to atmospheric pressure. These pressures at the AP water valve preferably enable, on the one hand, advantageously rapid filling (preferably within 3 seconds, more preferably within 2 seconds, and particularly preferably within 1 second) of the tanks, and on the other hand, prevent water from splashing over the edge of the tanks during filling.

[0018] The system may preferably further include a transport handling system with suction lances, wherein the transport handling system may preferably be suitable for picking up objects, preferably contact lenses, by means of a negative pressure applied to the suction lances and for repelling them from the suction lances by means of a compressed air pulse. Preferably, the transport handling system may be of the type disclosed in DE 10 2023 108 649 A1. The disclosure content of that application is hereby incorporated into the present application by reference. The pressure for the compressed air pulse may preferably be at least 0.1 bar, more preferably at least 0.2 bar, more preferably at least 0.4 bar, more preferably at least 0.6 bar, and particularly preferably at least 0.8 bar and / or preferably at most 1.6 bar, more preferably at most 1.4 bar, more preferably at most 1.2 bar, and particularly preferably at most 1 bar.The specified pressures preferably refer to a pressure difference relative to atmospheric pressure or a pressure of 1 bar. Preferably, the compressed air pulse can have a pulse duration, which preferably limits the period over which the compressed air pulse can be emitted. The pulse duration of the compressed air pulse can preferably be a maximum of 0.4 seconds, and more preferably 0.05 to 0.3 seconds.

[0019] Preferably, this ensures the safe release of objects from the transport handling system, while furthermore preferably preventing splashing of AP water contained in the trays by the compressed air pulse, as the compressed air pulse is preferably not strong enough for this purpose. Releasing the contact lenses from the suction lances by means of a compressed air pulse emitted from the suction lances preferably ensures that the detached objects fall in a defined direction, preferably downwards, and in particular preferably do not disperse in undefined directions within the system. Thus, process reliability can preferably be increased, and contamination of the system and / or cross-contamination of the products and system components can preferably be avoided.

[0020] Preferably, the first and / or second tray, preferably the multiple tray, can extend longitudinally by at least 100 mm, preferably at least 500 mm, and / or by a maximum of 1,000 mm, preferably by a maximum of 800 mm. More preferably, the first and / or second tray can have a volume of at least 0.5 liters, preferably at least 1 liter, more preferably at least 2 liters, and / or a maximum of 4 liters, more preferably a maximum of 3 liters. This preferably ensures reliable collection of the lenses after detachment from the suction lances and simultaneously minimizes AP water consumption. More preferably, the first and / or second tray can include filler pieces by means of which the volume of the trays can be reduced, preferably to a maximum of 1 liter, more preferably to a maximum of 0.5 liters. This preferably further reduces water consumption, preferably to 0.5 liters per process.The use of filler pieces simultaneously increases the flexibility of the system module. In other words, depending on the system in which the module is used, an optimal tank volume can be achieved by selecting the appropriate filler pieces. This volume strikes a favorable balance between sufficient water volume to collect the lenses and not too much water volume to keep water consumption low. Additionally, the use of filler pieces allows a tank to be preferably subdivided, creating several parallel tank sections within a single tank, each section preferably having the shape of a tank.

[0021] It can often be advantageous to incorporate an integrated CIP (cleaning in process) process into such a plant or system. According to current technology, this is frequently carried out using hydrogen peroxide. It is therefore preferred that the tanks be designed to allow rinsing with hydrogen peroxide. By using suitable tank sizes or filling elements, hydrogen peroxide consumption can also be minimized, preferably to less than 0.5 liters.

[0022] The system can further preferably include at least one first sensor suitable for registering a first position of the rotary mechanism, and a second sensor suitable for registering a second position of the rotary mechanism, wherein the first and / or second sensor are preferably proximity switches. Information registered by these sensors can preferably be transmitted to a plant control system, thus enabling the timely detection of a malfunction in the plant or plant module. Furthermore, information registered by these sensors and preferably transmitted to a plant control system can preferably be used to initiate a subsequent process step or sequence.

[0023] Preferably, the system, and more preferably the first and / or second tank, can be made of a material with at least one of the following properties: Certificate 3.1 for metals and FDA approval, BSE / TSE-free according to GMP regulations. More preferably, the system, or more preferably the first and / or second tank, can be made of at least one or a combination of the following materials: stainless steel, particularly preferably 1.4404, plastic, composite material, glass, ceramic. The system module can preferably be used in various industries, especially in electrical engineering, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and medical technology. A preferred material selection can further facilitate its use in different industries.

[0024] The invention further relates to a wet-chemical production plant with a system according to one of the features described above, wherein the production plant may preferably be suitable for use in the production of contact lenses. It is evident to those skilled in the art that the various features and advantages described above apply equally to the wet-chemical production plant.

[0025] The invention further relates to a method for removing objects from a transport handling system by means of a system or a wet chemical production plant according to one of the preceding features, comprising the following sequences: a. Immersion of the objects being transported into the first tray, wherein the opening of the first tray points upwards and wherein the first tray is at least partially filled with liquid; b. Releasing the objects from the transport handling while the objects are immersed in the liquid of the first tub.

[0026] Preferably, step b. comprises the introduction of a compressed air pulse into the first trough, preferably via a suction lance. The described method can preferably be carried out within 5 seconds, more preferably within 3 seconds.

[0027] The method may also preferably comprise at least one of the following sequences: c. Lifting a part of the transport handling out of the first tub, so that preferably a part of the transport handling, which is suitable to be immersed in the first tub in sequence a., is no longer in the first tub. d. Rotation of the first tub by at least 110°, preferably by at least 130°, more preferably by at least 150° and particularly preferably by at least 170°; e. Rotation of the second tub so that the opening of the second tub points upwards; f. Filling the second tub at least partially with liquid.

[0028] Sequences a. and b. preferably occur before sequence c. Sequences a. to c. preferably occur within 5 seconds, and more preferably within 3 seconds.

[0029] Preferably, the method can be a method for removing objects from suction lances of a transport handling system. In sequence a., a portion of the suction lances can preferably be immersed in the first tray. In sequence c., the portion of the suction lances that is immersed in the first tray in sequence a. (or is at least suitable or designed to be immersed in it) can preferably be lifted.

[0030] The rotation of the first and second tanks can preferably occur simultaneously, and more preferably by the same angle of rotation. Sequences d. to f. can preferably be completed within 5 seconds, and more preferably within 3 seconds. Sequences a. to f. can more preferably be completed within 8 seconds, and particularly preferably within 6 seconds. The short cycle times can be achieved particularly because the system has the at least two tanks according to the invention, and the AP water and the compressed air are discharged through the suction lances at the preferred pressures.

[0031] The method is preferably suitable for removing contact lenses from transport handling and preferably disposing of them between two production steps of a production process (preferably within a cycle of the system), preferably an inline process, in order to further preferably ensure the smooth operation of upstream systems even in the event of a malfunction of a downstream system. Alternatively, the system is suitable for disposing of contact lenses from a faulty upstream system, preferably within a cycle of the system, so that downstream systems are not affected.

[0032] The invention further relates to the following aspects. 1. System comprising a first and a second tub, the openings of which point in different directions, and a rotating mechanism suitable for rotating the first and second tubs about a common axis of rotation. 2. System according to aspect 1, wherein the first and second tubs extend along a longitudinal direction parallel to the axis of rotation. 3. System according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the rotating mechanism is suitable for rotating the first and second tubs together, preferably by an angle between 170° and 190°, more preferably between 150° and 210°, more preferably between 130° and 230° and particularly preferably between 110° and 250°. 4. System according to one of the foregoing aspects, comprising, in addition to the first and second tubs, one or more further tubs, wherein the rotation mechanism is suitable for rotating the tubs in several angular steps, each angular step preferably being a rotation by an angle of (360° / <Anzahl der Wannen> ) corresponds, preferably with a tolerance of ± 10°. 5. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the tubs are rigidly connected to each other, forming a multiple tub. 6. System according to aspect 5, wherein the axis of rotation is located in the center of the multiple tubs and / or wherein the tubs are arranged symmetrically to each other and the axis of rotation lies in the plane of symmetry. 7. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the tubs are watertight and / or wherein the tubs each have a watertight tub bottom opposite the opening. 8. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the system further comprises a subsystem by means of which a liquid, preferably AP water, can be directed into one of the troughs, wherein the subsystem preferably comprises one or more of the following components: a supply line, a pressure reducer, a manometer, a fluid valve. 9. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein in at least one first operating state of the system the opening of the first tub points upwards and the first tub is preferably at least partially filled with liquid, preferably with AP water, wherein the opening of the second tub in this first operating state preferably points downwards. 10. System according to aspect 9, wherein furthermore in a second operating state of the system the opening of the second tub points upwards and the second tub is preferably at least partially filled with liquid, preferably with AP water, wherein the opening of the first tub in this second operating state preferably points downwards. 11. System according to one of the foregoing aspects, wherein the system further comprises a collection container, the collection container preferably having a funnel and more preferably an interface to a wastewater pipe; wherein the first and second trays and / or the axis of rotation are arranged in or above the collection container. 12. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the system is further suitable for controlling a fill level of the first and / or second tub or a fill level of the collection container, preferably wherein the system has a fill level sensor. 13. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the system further comprises an AP water valve by means of which AP water can be directed into the first and / or second tub. 14. System according to aspect 13, wherein the pressure at the AP water valve is at least 0.1 bar, preferably a maximum of 1 bar. 15. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the system further comprises a transport handling system with suction lances, wherein the transport handling system is suitable for picking up objects, preferably contact lenses, by means of a negative pressure applied to the suction lances and for repelling them from the suction lances by means of a compressed air pulse. 16. System according to aspect 15, wherein the pressure for the compressed air pulse is at least 0.1 bar, preferably a maximum of 1 bar, wherein preferably a pulse time of the compressed air pulse is a maximum of 0.4 seconds, further preferably 0.05 to 0.3 seconds. 17. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the first and / or second tub, preferably the multiple tub, extends in the longitudinal direction by at least 100 mm, preferably at least 500 mm and / or by a maximum of 1,000 mm, preferably by a maximum of 800 mm. 18. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the first and / or second tub has a volume of at least 0.5 liters, preferably at least 2 liters and / or a maximum of 4 liters, preferably a maximum of 3 liters. 19. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the first and / or second tub has filling pieces by means of which the volume is preferably reduced to a maximum of 1 liter, more preferably to a maximum of 0.5 liters. 20. System according to any of the above aspects, wherein the system has at least one first sensor suitable for registering a first position of the rotary mechanism, preferably wherein the system has a second sensor suitable for registering a second position of the rotary mechanism, more preferably wherein the first and / or second sensor are proximity switches. 21. System according to one of the above aspects, wherein the system, preferably the first and / or second tank, comprises a material with at least one of the following properties: Certificate 3.1 for metals and FDA, BSE / TSE-free according to GMP rules, further preferably wherein the system, preferably the multi-tank, comprises at least one or a combination of the following materials: stainless steel, particularly preferably 1.4404, plastic, composite material, glass, ceramic. 22. Wet chemical production plant with a system according to one of the above aspects, wherein the production plant is preferably suitable for use in the production of contact lenses. 23. Method for removing objects from a transport handling system by means of a system according to one of the above aspects, comprising the following sequences: a. Immersion of the objects being transported into the first tray, wherein the opening of the first tray points upwards and wherein the first tray is at least partially filled with liquid; b. Releasing the objects from the transport handling while the objects are immersed in the liquid of the first tub. 24. Method according to aspect 23, wherein step b. includes: introducing a compressed air pulse into the first tub. 25. Procedure according to aspect 23 or 24, furthermore with at least one of the following sequences: c. Lifting a part of the transport handling out of the first tub, so that preferably a part of the transport handling, which is suitable to be immersed in the first tub in sequence a., is no longer in the first tub. d. Rotation of the first tub by at least 110°, preferably by at least 130°, more preferably by at least 150° and particularly preferably by at least 170°; e. Rotation of the second tub so that the opening of the second tub points upwards; f. Filling the second tub at least partially with liquid. 26. Method according to aspect 25, wherein the rotation of the first and the second tub takes place simultaneously, preferably by the same angle of rotation. 27. Method according to one of aspects 23 to 26, wherein sequences a. and b. occur temporally prior to sequence c., and / or wherein sequences a. to f. occur within 8 seconds, preferably within 6 seconds. 28. Method according to one of aspects 23 to 27, wherein the method is suitable for removing contact lenses from transport handling between two production steps of a production process and preferably disposing of them, in order to further preferably ensure the smooth functioning of upstream systems even in the event of a malfunction of a downstream system.

[0033] The following describes, by way of example, a preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the following figures. The figures show: Fig. 1 a 3D view of the system in a preferred embodiment, wherein the system is preferably part of a wet chemical production plant; Fig. 2. a cut perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the system Fig. 1; and Fig. 3 the detail X out Fig. 2.

[0034] The figures show a preferred embodiment of the invention, without the invention being limited to this specific embodiment.

[0035] In the Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows the structure of the system according to the invention. A double tray (multiple tray) 2 is arranged in the collection container 3 and rotatably mounted with respect to the axis of rotation 6. The collection container 3 has a funnel in its lower region, so that the volume of the collection container tapers downwards towards a connection 4 for a wastewater pipe (not shown). The double tray 2 shown is connected at the bottom to Fig. 3 explained in more detail. Fig. Figure 1 shows that the double tub 2 has two upward-facing openings arranged parallel to each other and extending longitudinally along the axis of rotation 6. A suction lance removal system can be moved over the double tub 2 in the area above these openings, allowing the suction lances to penetrate the tub. In the illustrated embodiment, the suction lance removal system is not shown; in principle, any removal system can be used. Preferably, a removal system according to the disclosure of DE 10 2023 108 649 A1 can be used. This removal system consists of two parallel rows of suction lances, which is why the double tub in the illustrated embodiment also consists of two upward-facing openings or tub sections extending longitudinally. In principle, the system can be extended or modified as desired.The system can be minimized so that, for example, there is only one upward-facing opening or basin, or more than two, for example three, four or more openings or basins or basin sections. The system further comprises a supply line 7 by means of which the double basin 2 can be filled with AP water. The supply line 7 has a pressure reducer 71 and a pressure gauge 72, as well as a fluid valve 8 at its end. Preferably, a suitable pressure can be set at the fluid valve 8 by means of the pressure reducer 71, so that the double basin 2 can be filled with AP water within a short period of time, preferably within 3 seconds, more preferably within 2 seconds. In the left front area of... Fig. Figure 1 shows that the system has a control unit 9 by means of which the double tub 2 can be rotated. In this case, the control unit primarily consists of a rotary cylinder 91 and a pneumatic valve 92. A level sensor 5 is provided to register and monitor the fill level of the double tub 2 with AP water. The in Fig. Detail 2, marked with an X, is shown in an enlarged view in Fig. 3 shown.

[0036] In Fig. Figure 3 clearly shows the two tubs of the double tub 2. The double tub 2 has a first tub 21 and a second tub 22. Fig.Figure 3 shows an initial operating state in which the opening of the first tray 21 faces upwards and the opening of the second tray 22 faces downwards. In the example shown, both the first tray 21 and the second tray 22 each have a filler piece or filler pieces 23. This allows the volume of the trays to be reduced. Thus, the double tray 2 shown is optimized for use in combination with a dispensing handling system that has two parallel rows of suction lances. Two areas 211 and 212 can therefore be characterized in the first tray 21. Similarly, two areas 221 and 222 can be characterized in the second tray 22. As shown, the first tray 21, whose opening faces upwards, is filled with AP water. In this case, the first tray 21, i.e., both areas 221 and 222 together, contains approximately 0.5 liters of AP water. The fill level of the first tub 21 is controlled by the fill level sensor 5.The second tub 22 points vertically downwards and is therefore empty. Both tubs are arranged such that their bottoms face each other and the tubs are symmetrical. The axis of rotation 6 lies in the plane of symmetry between the two tubs 21 and 22. Although the axis of rotation 6 is located centrally in the axis of symmetry of the two tubs in the illustrated embodiment, alternative embodiments are conceivable in which the axis of rotation can be located, for example, above, below, to the left, or to the right of tubs 21 and 22. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the embodiment represents a multi-tub, which is therefore designated as a double tub 2, since only two tub sections are provided, the openings of which point in different directions. In other words, all openings of tubs or tub sections point in only two directions.Naturally, according to this understanding, a double tub can also have more than two tubs or four sections, as long as these are arranged parallel to the existing tubs. Only when tubs are arranged in such a way with respect to the axis of rotation that openings point in, for example, three or four directions, does a multi-tub system emerge, which can be described as a triple tub or quadruple tub. These designations are preferably independent of the actual number of tubs or tub sections; thus, several parallel tubs can preferably be provided, whose openings point in the same directions.

[0037] The following describes, with reference to the figures, how objects, in this case contact lenses, can be removed and disposed of by a removal handling device and by means of the system in the preferred embodiment. The removal handling device preferably serves as the handling device disclosed in DE 10 2023 108 649 A1. First, the removal handling device is positioned in an area above the double tray 2. Then, the removal handling device moves downwards until the contact lenses attached to the suction lances are immersed in the AP water contained in the first tray 21. Only then is a pulse of compressed air applied via the suction lances, causing the contact lenses to detach from the suction lances and float freely in the AP water or in the first tray 21. Subsequently, the suction lances or the removal handling device with the suction lances or...The part of the extraction handling system that was immersed in the AP water is moved upwards again, so that the suction lances are once more positioned in an area above the double tank 2. The process described so far can preferably take place within 5 seconds, more preferably within 3 seconds.

[0038] The double tray 2 is then rotated 180° around the axis of rotation 6. The rotation is initiated by the control unit 9, which controls the pneumatic valve 92 so that the 180° rotation can be executed by the rotary cylinder 91. After the rotation, the second tray 22 is in the position where the first tray 21 was previously located. This means that the opening of the second tray 22 points upwards, while the opening of the first tray 21 points downwards. In other words, the first tray 21 is now in the position where the second tray 22 was previously located. This tipping of the first tray causes the liquid, along with the contact lenses it contains, to be emptied into the collection container 3 and, through the funnel shape of the collection container 3, directed into the wastewater line 4. The arrangement of the double tray 2 in the collection container ensures that the surge of liquid along with the contact lenses also lands completely in the collection container 3.The abrupt rotation of the double tray 2 causes the contact lenses from the first tray 21 to be preferably completely rinsed out with the surge of liquid and not remain stuck in the tray. Preferably, at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, and particularly preferably at least 95% of all objects or contact lenses from the first tray are rinsed out after the rotation. The second tray 22, whose opening now points upwards, is refilled with AP liquid via the supply line 7. The entire process of rotating the double tray by 180° and refilling the second tray with AP water, preferably with a volume of approximately 0.5 liters, can preferably take place within 5 seconds, more preferably within 3 seconds.

[0039] Preferably, the described system ensures that all contact lenses in the removal handling system are safely removed from the suction lances and placed into the AP water in the first tray, since spray nozzles that rinse the lenses with a spray mist or a strong jet are preferably not used. Instead, a pulse of compressed air emitted by the suction lances themselves is preferably employed. This preferably occurs while the suction lance tips, with the objects attached to them, are immersed in the AP water, i.e., underwater. This preferably prevents objects from being detached from the suction lances but not absorbed by the tray or the AP water.In other words, after being detached by the compressed air pulse, the lenses float in the existing AP water, thus preferably preventing contact lenses from being sprayed into areas of the system where they are unwanted. The rotation of the double tray, preferably by 180°, preferably within 3 seconds, more preferably within 2 seconds, and particularly preferably within 1 second, ensures that as many contact lenses as possible in the tray are emptied into the collection container with a surge of AP water and do not adhere to the sides of the tray. The inventive design of the double tray 2 means that the inverted first tray does not need to be turned right-side up again to be filled and able to receive objects again. Instead, a second tray can be filled directly.This allows the system to be used in inline systems with significantly shorter cycle times, preferably with cycle times of up to 8 seconds (one cycle being up to 8 seconds long), and more preferably with cycle times of up to 6 seconds (one cycle being up to 6 seconds long). It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to a double tank 2 as shown in the exemplary embodiment. It is also conceivable that a triple or quadruple tank could be used instead of a double tank, with three or four tanks respectively, whose tank bottoms are aligned with each other and whose openings face outwards. If contact lenses have been dispensed into the AP water in a triple or quadruple tank and the tank is to be rotated further to align a new tank upwards, it is sufficient to perform the rotation not by 180° in one step, but only by 120° or 90° in a first step.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the double trough 2 is constructed such that a first trough 21 and a second trough 22 are each divided by a filler piece 23, resulting in a first section 211 and a second section 212 of the first trough and a first section 221 and a second section 222 of the second trough, respectively. Alternatively, the first trough 21 can have two sub-troughs 211 and 212 (i.e., be formed from two separate troughs), and the second trough 22 can have two sub-troughs 221 and 222 (i.e., be formed from two separate troughs). Accordingly, depending on the number of rows of suction lances in the dispensing system, several sub-troughs (or sections or troughs) can be provided in the first or second trough 21 or 22, respectively.

[0041] In the system depicted in the figures, the tubs, filling pieces, and collection container are made of PVDF and / or 1.4404. This ensures the durability of the components, both for use in wet environments and when an automated disinfection process, a so-called CIP process, is used, for example, with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Preferably, all materials used have 3.1 certificates for metals and FDA approval and / or are BSE / TSE-free according to GMP regulations. Therefore, the system can be used preferably in the food processing industry as well as in the chemical, medical, pharmaceutical, and electrical engineering sectors.

[0042] To improve monitoring of the system shown, a proximity switch can be used in addition to the level sensor 5, allowing the orientation or positioning of the double tray 2 to be registered alongside its fill level. This enables the system control 9 to monitor at all times whether a tray 21, 22 is in a suitable position to receive objects and whether it is filled with AP water. To monitor the fill level of the trays using the level sensor 5, it is advantageous for the filling elements 23 to be water-permeable. This means that it is sufficient to visually check the fill level at one point, as the water-permeable filling element 23 regulates the fill level within the tray to a constant level.

[0043] Preferably, the system shown is part of a wet chemical production plant, more specifically a wet chemical production plant for the production of contact lenses. The system shown is preferably used when such a wet chemical production plant is part of an inline plant. The system is preferably located at a position within the inline plant between the extraction module and a downstream process in which the contact lenses undergo final processing. This allows the system shown to be accessed from the unloading handling system at any time when contact lenses located at the unloading handling system are declared as rejects.

Claims

[1] System comprising a first and a second trough (21, 22) whose openings point in different directions; a rotation mechanism adapted to rotate the troughs (21, 22) about a common axis of rotation (6); and a control (9) adapted to initiate an abrupt rotation of the troughs (21, 22). [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the first and second troughs (21, 22) extend along a longitudinal direction parallel to the axis of rotation (6). [3] System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotating mechanism is suitable for rotating the first and the second tray (21, 22) together, preferably by an angle between 170° and 190°, more preferably between 150° and 210°, more preferably between 130° and 230° and particularly preferably between 110° and 250°. [4] System according to one of the preceding claims, which comprises, in addition to the first and second troughs (21, 22), one or more further troughs, wherein the rotation mechanism is suitable for rotating the troughs in a plurality of angular steps, each angular step corresponding to a rotation through an angle of 360° divided by the number of troughs, preferably with a tolerance of ± 10°. [5] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the trays (21, 22) are rigidly connected to one another so that a multiple tray is formed. [6] System according to claim 5, wherein the axis of rotation (6) is located in the center of the multiple tray and / or wherein the trays (21, 22) are arranged symmetrically to one another and the axis of rotation (6) lies in the plane of symmetry. [7] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the trays (21, 22) are watertight and / or wherein the trays (21, 22) each have a watertight tray bottom opposite the opening. [8] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises a subsystem by means of which a liquid, preferably AP water, can be fed into one of the trays (21, 22), wherein the subsystem comprises one or more of the following components: a supply line (7), a pressure reducer (71), a pressure gauge (72), a fluid valve (8). [9] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in at least a first operating state of the system the opening of the first tub (21) points upwards and the first tub (21) is preferably at least partially filled with liquid, preferably with AP water, wherein the opening of the second tub (22) in this first operating state preferably points downwards. [10] System according to claim 9, wherein further in a second operating state of the system the opening of the second tub (22) points upwards and the second tub (22) is preferably at least partially filled with liquid, preferably with AP water, wherein the opening of the first tub (21) in this second operating state preferably points downwards. [11] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises a collecting container (3), wherein the collecting container (3) preferably has a funnel and more preferably an interface (4) to a wastewater line; wherein the first and second troughs (21, 22) and / or the rotation axis (6) are arranged in or above the collecting container (3). [12] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is further suitable for controlling a fill level of the first and / or second tub (21, 22) or a fill level of the collecting container (3), preferably wherein the system comprises a fill level sensor (5). [13] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises an AP water valve (8) by means of which AP water can be directed into the first and / or second tub (21, 22). [14] System according to claim 13, wherein the pressure at the AP water valve (8) is at least 0.1 bar, preferably a maximum of 1 bar. [15] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises a transport handling device with suction lances, wherein the transport handling device is suitable for picking up objects, preferably contact lenses, by means of negative pressure applied to the suction lances and for repelling them from the suction lances by means of a compressed air pulse. [16] System according to claim 15, wherein the pressure for the compressed air pulse is at least 0.1 bar, preferably a maximum of 1 bar. [17] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and / or second trough (21, 22), preferably the multiple trough, extends in the longitudinal direction by at least 100 mm, preferably at least 500 mm and / or by a maximum of 1000 mm, preferably by a maximum of 800 mm. [18] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and / or second tub (21, 22) has a volume of at least 0.5 litres, preferably at least 2 litres and / or a maximum of 4 litres, preferably a maximum of 3 litres. [19] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and / or second tub (21, 22) has filler pieces (23) by means of which the volume is preferably reduced to a maximum of 1 litre, more preferably to a maximum of 0.5 litres. [20] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises at least a first sensor which is suitable for registering a first position of the rotary mechanism, preferably wherein the system comprises a second sensor which is suitable for registering a second position of the rotary mechanism, further preferably wherein the first and / or second sensor are proximity switches. [21] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system, preferably the multiple tank, comprises at least one or a combination of the following materials: stainless steel, particularly preferably 1.4404, plastic, composite material, glass, ceramic. [22] Wet chemical production plant with a system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the production plant is preferably suitable for use in the production of contact lenses. [23] Method for removing objects from a transport handling device by means of a system according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the following sequences: a. immersing the objects being transported into the first trough (21), the opening of the first trough (21) facing upwards and the first trough (21) being at least partially filled with liquid; b. Releasing the objects from the transport handling while the objects are immersed in the liquid of the first tank (21). [24] The method of claim 23, wherein step b. comprises: introducing a pulse of compressed air into the first tub (21). [25] The method of claim 23 or 24, further comprising at least one of the following sequences: c. Lifting a part of the transport handling out of the first tub (21) so that preferably a part of the transport handling which is suitable for being immersed in the first tub (21) in sequence a. is no longer in the first tub (21). d. rotating the first trough (21) by at least 110°, preferably by at least 130°, more preferably by at least 150° and particularly preferably by at least 170°; e. rotating the second tray (22) so that the opening of the second tray (22) points upwards; f. Filling the second tub (22) at least partially with liquid. [26] Method according to claim 25, wherein the rotation of the first and second troughs (21, 22) takes place simultaneously, preferably by the same angle of rotation. [27] Method according to one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the sequences a. and b. run before the sequence c., and / or wherein the sequences a. to f. run within 8 seconds, preferably within 6 seconds. [28] Method according to one of claims 23 to 27, wherein the method is suitable for removing contact lenses from the transport handling between two production steps of a production process and preferably for disposing of them, in order to further preferably ensure a smooth function of upstream systems even in the event of a malfunction of a downstream system.

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