Fluid modules, fluid systems, and methods for cleaning fluid modules

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fluid module (12) having a valve node (14) having a base (22) defined by an outer surface (56), the base having a central fluid chamber (20) and at least four fluid channels spaced apart from each other in terms of flow, each fluid channel leading to the central fluid chamber, wherein at least two valve ports are provided on the outer surface (56), and a connection portion (30) is provided on the valve node, on which a connection module (28) is fastened, wherein a connection channel (34) is formed in the connection module, the connection channel being flow-connected to one of the fluid channels in the valve node, and the connection module including a connection valve (27) for selectively opening and closing the connection channel. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a fluid system having at least two fluid modules and a method for cleaning the fluid system or fluid module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid module having a valve node, a fluid system having at least two fluid modules, and a method for cleaning the fluid module or the fluid system. Background Technology

[0002] Fluid modules or systems are primarily used for connection and disconnection processes in hygiene applications. One possible application is providing a supply medium, such as liquid culture medium, to cell cultures in a container or discharging products cultured with cell cultures from the container. Such a process can last for weeks, during which the container containing the cell cultures must be repeatedly connected to the fluid system to supply the cell cultures.

[0003] Impurities may enter the fluid module during repeated container connection and disconnection, potentially causing waste if these impurities reach the cell culture or mix with the finished product. This contamination is particularly prevalent after connection or disconnection. This risk is especially high when the fluid module alternately supplies different feed media to multiple different containers. In this case, a small amount of the initial feed media may remain in the fluid module and mix with subsequent feed media flowing through it, rendering the cell culture unusable.

[0004] In addition, contamination may occur in the fluid module's delivery medium area during assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a fluid module or fluid system for connection and disconnection processes, which can be cleaned in a simple manner after each medium transfer.

[0006] According to the invention, this objective is achieved by a fluid module having a valve node having a base defined by an outer surface, the base having a central fluid chamber and at least four fluid channels spaced apart in flow, each fluid channel leading to the central fluid chamber. At least two valve ports are provided on the outer surface, and a connection portion is provided on the valve node, on which a connection module is securely fastened. A connection channel is formed in the connection module, which is flow-connected to one of the fluid channels in the valve node. Furthermore, the connection module includes a connection valve that selectively opens and closes the connection channel.

[0007] A valve node is an object having multiple inlets and outlets for liquids or gases, wherein all inlets and outlets are interconnected via a central fluid chamber.

[0008] The fluid module according to the invention has the advantage that potentially contaminated areas can be selectively cleaned after each connection or disconnection process before the medium is transferred through these areas again. The transferred medium can be, in particular, a supply medium for cell cultures or a manufactured product.

[0009] In particular, it can clean the areas of the valve node substrate that come into contact with the medium, thereby minimizing or eliminating the risk of contamination of the medium transmitted after the fluid module is connected or disconnected.

[0010] Furthermore, it is not necessary to clean the components of the fluid module before assembly. Therefore, the costly sterilization of the fluid module components before assembly can be omitted.

[0011] In particular, excellent cleaning capability is achieved by using four fluid channels that are mutually separated in terms of flow to form different flow paths through the valve node. One flow path is used to deliver the supply medium flow, another to deliver the product flow, and the third to deliver the cleaning medium flow. Since all fluid channels lead to the central fluid chamber, the central fluid chamber can be cleaned by the cleaning medium flow before a supply medium flow or a product flow passes through it.

[0012] For example, pure steam, water for spraying purposes, or chemical cleaning agents can be used as cleaning media.

[0013] The use of a coupling module, and especially a coupling channel, makes it particularly easy to transfer media into a container. For this purpose, the container or piping leading to it can be connected to the coupling module, and in particular to the coupling channel. The connection of the container or piping should be made while the coupling channel is closed by the coupling valve.

[0014] Fluid channels constructed within the substrate include supply medium delivery channels, cleaning medium delivery channels, transfer channels, and discharge channels. Transfer channels can be flow-connected to connection channels in the coupling module.

[0015] For cleaning purposes, the connecting channel and, consequently the transmission channel and other fluid channels in the fluid channels constructed in the matrix, especially the supply medium delivery channel, can be closed by means of a connecting valve, so that the central fluid chamber can be cleaned with a cleaning medium.

[0016] For example, one of the fluid channels formed in the matrix merges at the joint and connects with the connecting channel formed in the connecting module in terms of flow.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the coupling module can be loosely and securely fastened to the valve node without damage. This allows for the selective fastening of coupling modules with different configurations to the valve node as needed.

[0018] The connection module may have a connection valve housing including a valve seat, a closure body that interacts with the valve seat, and a valve actuation device for the closure body. Therefore, it is particularly easy to close or open the connection channel.

[0019] The valve seat, which is formed in the connecting valve body, is specifically constructed in the connecting channel and divides the connecting channel into two sections.

[0020] At the connection point, a seal is preferably disposed between the valve node and the connection module, and this seal surrounds the outlet of the fluid passage leading to the connection point. This ensures a reliable seal is achieved easily during the installation of the connection module and that no fluid leaks out at the interface.

[0021] The connection can be formed by a connecting flange, which is formed by a protrusion on the base, specifically an L-shaped base, with the connection located on the inner side of one of the legs of the L. This simplifies the fastening of the connection module to the base of the valve node. In particular, the connection module can be placed on the connecting flange and then fastened to it.

[0022] The connection point, for example, has a connection surface on which the connection module, particularly the connection valve housing, rests. This connection surface extends at least partially obliquely relative to the flow direction of the fluid in the connection area. In other words, the inner sides of the legs of L extend at least partially at an obtuse angle to each other. Therefore, the connection module can be assembled particularly easily from both the top and front sides. This is especially advantageous when the connection module must be replaced later.

[0023] Preferably, the mating surface extends obliquely in the area where the seal is located. In this way, the oblique surface prevents damage to the seal during assembly of the mating module.

[0024] In another embodiment, the substrate is substantially rectangular hexahedral in shape, and the connecting portion is located on the side of the rectangular hexahedron. Therefore, the fluid module is constructed to be particularly compact.

[0025] Preferably, a valve actuation device is provided on each valve port of the substrate. This allows for the selective closure or opening of all fluid channels constructed within the substrate. More specifically, different flow paths can be switched via the valve nodes in such a way that two fluid channels can be closed and two other fluid channels can be opened.

[0026] Positioning elements and / or fasteners may be provided on the valve node and / or on the coupling module, particularly on the coupling valve body, to secure the coupling module in a defined position to the valve node. The positioning elements ensure that the coupling module is positioned on the valve node in a defined location. Furthermore, the positioning elements can be used to hold the coupling module in a set position until it is properly secured by the fasteners.

[0027] The central fluid chamber is unobstructed access from at least one side of the substrate, and in a top view of said side, a bridge can be formed on each side of the central fluid chamber within the substrate, wherein each of the two bridges constitutes a valve seat and separates the central fluid chamber from a corresponding fluid channel in the fluid channel adjacent to it. Due to the accessibility of the central fluid chamber, a primary advantage is that the central fluid chamber can be fabricated in the substrate of the valve node in a simple manner. For example, the substrate can be manufactured as a single casting or milled part. By forming bridges constituting valve seats on both sides of the central fluid chamber in a top view of one side, a so-called multi-port valve actuator can be used, thereby making the fluid module particularly compact. In particular, both valve seats can be operated by a single valve actuator.

[0028] The two bridges can be configured with a common enclosure, which is a diaphragm. This diaphragm can be selectively and tightly pressed against each bridge via a valve actuation device. This also contributes to the compact structure of the fluid module. Furthermore, the number of components can be kept low, which also has a positive impact on manufacturing costs.

[0029] The stated objective is further achieved according to the invention by a fluid system having at least two fluid modules constructed as described above, wherein the fluid modules are interconnected such that the output fluid channel of one fluid module is fluidly connected to the input fluid channel of at least one other fluid module. In this way, any number of fluid modules can be connected to each other.

[0030] Such a fluid system allows for the simultaneous supply of a feed medium to multiple containers, or the simultaneous discharge of a product stream from multiple containers. The fluid system is therefore particularly suitable for use in conjunction with so-called Wannenbeckensstapels, which have multiple independent containment cavities in which cell cultures can be contained.

[0031] By connecting multiple fluid modules to each other, the product streams discharged from various containers can be aggregated into a total product stream, which can then be collected in a single product container.

[0032] The various fluid modules of a fluid system can operate independently and in parallel. That is, a fluid system can be used to provide different supply media to multiple containers in parallel without the media mixing.

[0033] Preferably, the discharge channel of one fluid module is connected to the cleaning medium delivery channel of another fluid module. Therefore, a cleaning medium flow can be guided through all the fluid modules of a fluid system to clean the central fluid chamber of each fluid module individually. The cleaning medium flow can be collected in a cleaning container after passing through the fluid system.

[0034] Both fluid modules and fluid systems with multiple fluid modules are constructed such that they are automatically emptied in at least one orientation within the chamber. For example, a fluid module or fluid system is automatically emptied in an installation location such that there is a continuous slope from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. Automatic emptying means that no medium remains in the fluid system as the fluid flows away, let alone any backflow.

[0035] In addition, the fluid module or fluid system has no pits where fluid can adhere. In other words, the fluid system has no dead zones.

[0036] The objective is further stated by the present invention through a method for cleaning fluid modules or fluid systems configured as described above, comprising the following steps:

[0037] - Close two of the four fluid channels of a fluid module and open the remaining fluid channel.

[0038] - The cleaning medium is delivered through one of two open fluid channels, wherein the cleaning medium flows through a central fluid chamber, and

[0039] - The cleaning medium is discharged through an additional open fluid channel.

[0040] The cleaning medium is cleaned by flowing through the central fluid chamber (to which all fluid channels lead) and thus prevents contamination of the corresponding medium flow during subsequent supply processes or product discharge.

[0041] In cleaning, the cleaning medium preferably flows through the fluid system at a defined flow rate.

[0042] During cleaning, at least one of the two open fluid channels can be repeatedly closed and reopened in a pulsed manner. In other words, at least one valve is switched on a beat-like basis. This generates backflow in the fluid, especially in the cleaning medium, and improves cleaning. The effect produced in this way is similar to that of sound waves. This achieves sufficiently high flow energy in the chamber to be cleaned. Therefore, it is also possible to reliably clean process-critical areas such as branches.

[0043] It is preferable to pulsately close valves located in the outlet area of ​​the fluid system, especially the last valve in the arrangement, to generate backflow. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0045] Figure 1 A fluid system according to the invention is schematically illustrated, the fluid system having a plurality of fluid modules according to the invention;

[0046] Figure 2 It is a fluid system according to the invention having multiple fluid modules according to the invention, wherein the fluid modules are shown in different assembly stages;

[0047] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The side view of the fluid system shown;

[0048] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 and 3 A cross-sectional view of the fluid system shown;

[0049] Figure 5 It is a fluid module according to the present invention;

[0050] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the valve node and its connecting module;

[0051] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the valve node and the connecting module;

[0052] Figure 8 It is the base of the valve node;

[0053] Figure 9 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of a part of the fluid module;

[0054] Figure 10 It is the base of the valve node;

[0055] Figure 11 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of a part of the fluid module;

[0056] Figure 12 This is an exploded view of a portion of a fluid module according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The fluid module shown is a perspective cross-sectional view. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Figure 1 A fluid system 10 according to the invention is schematically shown, having a plurality of fluid modules 12 according to the invention. The fluid modules 12 are interconnected in terms of flow.

[0059] Each fluid module 12 includes a valve node 14 having four fluid channels 16, 17, 18, and 19 that are spaced apart from each other in terms of flow, which lead to a central fluid chamber 20.

[0060] Fluid channels 16, 17, 18, 19 and a central fluid chamber 20 are constructed within a substrate 22, which is located within... Figure 2 As you can see.

[0061] The fluid module 12 also includes four single valves 24, 25, 26, and 27, which are used to block or release fluid flow through the configured fluid channels 16, 17, 18, and 19, respectively.

[0062] One of the single valves 24, 25, 26, and 27 is a component of the connecting module 28, which is fastened to the connecting portion 30 on the valve node 14. The corresponding single valve 27 thus constitutes a connecting valve. The isolation between the valve node 14 and the connecting module 28 is... Figure 1 The connection module 28 is shown in the figure through dashed lines. Here, the connection module 28 is shown slightly spaced from the valve node 14. However, in the assembled state, the connection module 28 is directly attached to the valve node 14, and in particular to the connection portion 30.

[0063] Each fluid module 12 is used to supply a feed medium to a container 32 connected to the fluid module 12 or to discharge a product from the container. The container 32 is, for example, a so-called tank stack, which has multiple independent receiving cavities.

[0064] For example, each fluid module 12 can supply another cavity of container 32. Figure 1 The container 32 shown separately in this case represents the individual cavities of a common stack of pots and pans.

[0065] The fluid passages 16, 17, 18, and 19 constructed in valve node 14 are a cleaning medium delivery passage (fluid passage 16), a supply medium delivery passage (fluid passage 17), a discharge passage (fluid passage 18), and a transmission passage (fluid passage 19).

[0066] The transmission channel 19 leads to the connection part 30 and is in circulation with the connection channel 34 constructed in the connection module 28.

[0067] The connection channel 34 has an interface 36 at its end away from the valve node 14, which is adapted to be connected to a flexible fluid conduit for connecting the fluid module 12 to the container 32.

[0068] Each fluid module in the fluid module 12 has a supply medium input 38, a medium output 40, a cleaning medium input 42, and an interface 36.

[0069] exist Figure 1 In the schematically illustrated fluid system 10, the various fluid modules 12 are interconnected in such a way that the output fluid channel of the fluid passages 16, 17, 18, 19 of one fluid module 12, more specifically the discharge channel 18, is connected in flow to the input fluid channels 16, 17, 18, 19 of the connected fluid module 12, more precisely to the cleaning medium delivery channel 16.

[0070] Specifically, the media output terminal 40 of one fluid module 12 is connected to the cleaning media input terminal 42 of a subsequent fluid module 12.

[0071] The valves 24 and 26 configured for the clean medium delivery channel 16 and the discharge channel 18 are used here as intermediate bulkhead valves, that is, the valves 24 and 26 can be used to isolate the various fluid modules 12 from each other in terms of flow.

[0072] By opening or closing valves 24, 25, 26, and 27 in a suitable manner, different media flows can be directed through fluid system 10. For this purpose, two fluid passages of one fluid module 12 can be selectively closed while two other fluid passages of another fluid module 12 can be opened.

[0073] More precisely, it is able to achieve three different states of the fluid system 10.

[0074] In the first state (supply state), a supply medium is provided to container 32. For this purpose, valves 25 and 27 configured for supply medium delivery channel 17 and transmission channel 19 are opened, while the remaining valves 24 and 26 are closed, allowing the supply medium to flow from supply medium inlet 38 to interface 36.

[0075] In another state of the fluid system 10 (the removal state), the product can be discharged from the container 32. For this purpose, valves 24 and 25, configured for the cleaning medium delivery channel 16 and the supply medium delivery channel 17, are closed, while the remaining valves 26 and 27 are opened. In this state, the product can flow from the container 32 to the medium output end 40.

[0076] If multiple fluid modules 12 are as follows Figure 1As shown in the diagram, with the components connected in series, valve 24 closes the cleaning medium delivery channel 16 only in the first flow module 12, viewed along the flow direction, when the product is discharged. In subsequent fluid modules 12, only valve 25, configured for the supply medium delivery channel 17, is closed. This allows the product to flow through the entire fluid system 10.

[0077] In addition, it can bring the fluid system 10 into a clean state.

[0078] For cleaning, two fluid passages 16, 18 or valves 24 and 26 of one fluid module are opened, while two other fluid passages 17, 19 or valves 25 and 27 are closed. Cleaning media can then be delivered through one of the two opened fluid passages, specifically cleaning media delivery passage 16, and allowed to flow from the cleaning media inlet 42 of one fluid module 12 to the media outlet 40, wherein the area of ​​the fluid module 12 in contact with the media is cleaned. In particular, the central fluid chamber is traversed.

[0079] The cleaning medium is then discharged through another, open fluid channel, particularly the discharge channel 18.

[0080] Depending on the needs, different cleaning media such as pure steam, water for spraying purposes, or chemical cleaning agents can be used sequentially or alternately.

[0081] By connecting the medium outlet 40 in the fluid system 10 to the cleaning medium inlet 42 of the subsequent fluid module 12, the cleaning medium can flow through all fluid modules 12 of the fluid system 10 with corresponding valve switching. Figure 4 The flow of this cleaning medium is indicated by an arrow.

[0082] To improve cleaning effectiveness, at least one of the two open fluid channels 16, 18 can be repeatedly closed and reopened in a pulsed manner during cleaning. In other words, one or more valves 24, 26 can be switched in a rhythmic manner.

[0083] In addition to the fluid module 12, the fluid system 10 also includes an output module 44, which is disposed on the output side 46 of the fluid system 10.

[0084] The output module 44 has a media input terminal 48, a media output terminal 49, and a clean media output terminal 50. In addition, the output module 44 includes three single valves 51, 52, and 53, specifically an input valve 51, an output valve 52, and a clean media output valve 53.

[0085] A cleaning medium collection container 54 is provided on the cleaning medium output end 50 and is fluidly connected to the cleaning medium output end 50. The cleaning medium can be collected in this cleaning medium collection container after the cleaning fluid system 10.

[0086] A product container 55 is provided on the medium output end 49. The product container is fluidly connected to the medium output end 49, and the product taken out from the container 32 can be collected in the product container.

[0087] The container 32 contains, for example, cell cultures that are repeatedly supplied with one or different supply media over a longer period of time, such as several weeks, during the growth phase.

[0088] To ensure uninterrupted operation of the fluid system 10, container 32 is typically disconnected from the fluid system 10 after the supply medium has been provided or after the product has been removed from container 32. During this period, another container 32 may be connected to the fluid system 10.

[0089] The product is usually removed at the end of the growth phase of the cell culture.

[0090] By being able to clean the fluid system 10 as described above, the risk of container 32 being contaminated by residues of the wrong supply medium is minimized.

[0091] For example, cleaning can be performed whenever container 32 is disconnected from fluid system 10 and / or whenever container 32 is connected to fluid system 10.

[0092] Before being assembled onto valve node 14, the coupling module 28 can be cleaned in the pressure heat exchanger.

[0093] Figures 2 to 4 A fluid system 10 according to the invention is shown, which has a plurality of, particularly four, fluid modules 12, wherein, Figure 4 A cross-section of the fluid system 10 is shown. For simplicity, details are not shown. Figure 1 The output module 44 is shown schematically in the diagram.

[0094] exist Figures 2 to 4 In order to better illustrate, the various fluid modules 12 are shown at different assembly stages, wherein... Figure 2 The fully assembled fluid module 12 is shown on the left.

[0095] Each fluid module in fluid module 12 includes a valve node 14 having a base 22 defined by an outer surface 56. A plurality of interfaces 57 are provided on the base 22, which are configured to fluid channels 16, 17, and 18 within the base 22.

[0096] Two valve ports 58 and 60 are provided on the outer side 56, wherein... Figure 2 and 3Only valve port 58 is visible in the image, while the other valve port 60 (see [link]) is not shown. Figure 8 (Then it is covered.)

[0097] With the fluid module 12 fully assembled, valve actuators 62 and 64 are provided on each valve port 58 and 60 of the base 22. In the illustrated embodiment, valve actuators 62 and 64 are flanged to valve nodes 14.

[0098] The valve actuation device 62 configured for the supply medium delivery channel 17 is, for example, a bidirectional diaphragm valve actuation device. Figure 2 and 3 The valve actuator 62 is shown in two different embodiments, which can be selectively used in the fluid system 10.

[0099] The valve actuator 64 configured for the cleaning medium delivery channel 16 or the discharge channel 18 is a so-called multi-port valve actuator.

[0100] As in Figure 2 As can be seen, a valve seat 66 is provided in the area of ​​valve interface 58. The closure body can work together with the valve seat 66, and the closure body can be moved by the valve drive device 62.

[0101] exist Figure 2 and 3 The fastening of the connecting module 28 to the connecting portion 30 is also shown in the diagram. Furthermore, in... Figure 2 As can be seen, transmission channels 19 converge at the connection point 30.

[0102] Each connection module 28 includes a connection valve housing 68 having a valve seat 69. Furthermore, the connection module 28 also includes a closure not shown in the figures and a valve actuation device 70 for the closure. For example, the closure of the connection module 28 is a diaphragm.

[0103] The enclosure works in conjunction with the valve seat 69 in the connecting valve housing 68. The valve actuator 70 shown is manually operable. However, hydraulically, pneumatically, or electrically actuated valve actuators are also possible.

[0104] A seal 72, particularly an FDA-type seal, is provided between the base 22 and the connecting module 28. This seal surrounds the outlet 21 of the transmission channel 19.

[0105] Figure 3The fluid system 10 is shown in a possible installation position. In this position, the fluid system 10 is inclined, creating a slope between the clean medium inlet 42 of the first fluid module 12 and the medium outlet 40 of the last fluid module 12. The fluid system 10 automatically empties due to this slope. Furthermore, this installation position enables media transport without auxiliary power. However, a pump for auxiliary media transport could also be considered.

[0106] The installation angle or slope required for automatic evacuation is related to the nominal width of the transmission channel 19 and the valve seat profile of the valve seat 69 of the connecting module 28. To indicate the installation angle, a mark may be present on the fluid module 12, which must be located at the top in the installed state of the fluid module 12.

[0107] The installation location also prevents media mixing in the event of damage or malfunction of the multi-port valve actuator and keeps the internal volume of the relative connection module 28 small.

[0108] exist Figure 4 The cross-sectional view shows three of the four fluid channels 16, 17, 18, and 19 that are fluid-separated from each other in terms of flow within the substrate 22, as well as the central fluid chamber 20. More specifically, the cleaning medium delivery channel (fluid channel 16), the discharge channel (fluid channel 18), and the transfer channel (fluid channel 19) are visible. Only the supply medium delivery channel (fluid channel 17) is visible. Figure 4 It cannot be seen in the middle. All fluid channels 16, 17, 18, and 19 lead to the central fluid chamber 20.

[0109] When the connecting module 28 is fastened to the connecting part 30, the transmission channel 19 is connected to the connecting channel 34 formed in the connecting module 28 in terms of flow. Therefore, the transmission channel 19 and the connecting channel 34 together form a connecting channel from the central fluid chamber 20 to the interface 36.

[0110] Figure 5 A single, fully assembled fluid module 12 is shown.

[0111] Figure 6 An exploded view of the fluid module 12 together with valve node 14 and connection module 28 is shown.

[0112] If already Figure 2 As can be seen, the connection portion 30 is formed by a connection flange 74, which is formed by a protrusion 76 on the base 22. In particular, the base 22 is L-shaped and the connection portion 30 is constructed on the inside of one of the legs of the L.

[0113] The connecting part 30 has a connecting surface 31, on which the connecting module 28 rests.

[0114] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting surface 31 extends partially at an angle relative to the flow direction of the fluid in the region of the connecting portion 30, for example, at an angle between 5° and 15°. Specifically, the connecting surface 31 forms an obtuse angle with the inner side of the other leg of L in the inclined region, for example, an angle between 95° and 110°. The purpose of this inclination is to prevent damage to the seal 72 when fastening the connecting module 28. Therefore, it is unnecessary for the entire connecting surface 31 to extend at an angle; rather, it is sufficient that the portion of the connecting surface 31 where the seal is located is inclined.

[0115] The connecting valve housing 68 has a correspondingly inclined surface, which is inclined as such that the connecting module 28 can be positioned in a substantially horizontal orientation.

[0116] In addition, as can be seen in the exploded view, a positioning element 78 and a fastener 80 are provided on the valve node 14.

[0117] The positioning member 78 is formed by a protrusion that can be force-fitted and / or form-fitted into a corresponding recess in the connecting valve housing 68. The positioning member 78 can be elastically supported so that it can be pressed into the base 22 under pressure and can lock into the connecting valve housing 68 when it reaches the end position of the connecting module 28.

[0118] Fasteners 80, particularly bolts, and fixing elements 82 can be tightened onto the bolts to secure the connecting module 28 to the valve node 14.

[0119] The fixing element may include a nut. Furthermore, the fixing element 82 has a wing-shaped portion that enables tool-free, one-handed operation.

[0120] The connecting valve housing 68 has corresponding notches 84 into which fasteners 80 can be engaged. Preferably, the notches 84 open in one direction to simplify assembly, thus enabling the connecting valve housing 68 to be easily pushed onto the valve node 14.

[0121] To avoid damage to the seal 72 when pushing the coupling module 28, the coupling module 28 is positioned at the edge 85 pointing towards the valve node 14 (see...). Figure 7 The top is rounded.

[0122] By loosening the fastener 80, the connection module 28 can be detached from the valve node 14 without damage when needed.

[0123] Figure 7 It shows Figure 6The valve node 14 shown is partially cross-sectional along with the connecting module 28 fastened thereto. Figure 7 The path of the connection channel formed by transmission channel 19 and connection channel 34 can be seen in the image.

[0124] Figure 8 A perspective view of valve node 14 is shown, in which valve interfaces 58 and 60 can be seen.

[0125] Figure 8 It is also shown that the central fluid chamber 20 is accessible from at least one side of the substrate 22 and, in a top view of said side, a bridge 86, 88 is formed in the substrate 22 on both sides of the central fluid chamber 20, wherein each of the two bridges 86, 88 constitutes a valve seat.

[0126] In addition, each of the two bridges 86 and 88 separates the central fluid chamber 20 from a corresponding fluid channel in the fluid channels 16 and 18 that it is connected to, particularly the clean medium delivery channel (fluid channel 16) and the discharge channel (fluid channel 18).

[0127] Since the bridges 86 and 88, which each form a valve seat, can be accessed from the same side, the previously mentioned multi-port valve actuator 64 can be used. This means that the two single valves, valve 24 configured for the cleaning medium delivery channel 16 and valve 26 configured for the discharge channel 18, are configured with a common valve actuator 64. Both valves 24 and 26 can be controlled simultaneously or independently of each other.

[0128] For this purpose, the two bridges 86 and 88 are configured with a common enclosure 90 (see...). Figure 4 The closure 90 is a diaphragm that can be selectively and tightly pressed against each of the bridges 86, 88 by the valve actuation device 64.

[0129] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 The valve node 14 shown is a perspective cross-sectional view together with the connecting module 28 fastened thereto. Figure 9 The valve actuator 70 is shown in a greatly simplified manner, with its internal structure not shown.

[0130] Figure 8 and 9 The supply medium flow is indicated by arrows. This supply medium flow specifically originates from the supply medium input end 38, flows through the valve seat 66 into the central fluid chamber 20, and from there flows through the transmission channel 19 into the connection channel 34 of the connection module 28.

[0131] Figure 10 and 11Similarly, a perspective view of valve node 14 or a cross-sectional view of valve node 14 together with the connecting module 28 fastened thereto is shown.

[0132] Figure 10 and 11 The arrows indicate that the product flow replaces the supply medium flow. This product flow originates from interface 36, flows through connection channel 34 and transmission channel in connection module 28 into central fluid chamber 20, and from there flows to medium output terminal 40.

[0133] As a supplement Figure 10 The flow of the cleaning medium is indicated by the dashed arrows.

[0134] Figure 12 and 13 An exploded view and a perspective sectional view of the valve node 14 together with the connecting module 28 according to another embodiment are shown.

[0135] The same reference numerals are used for the same structures with the same functions as those described in the foregoing embodiments, and in this regard, reference is made to the preceding description, in which the differences from the previous embodiments are discussed below to avoid repetition.

[0136] Figure 12 and 13 The embodiment shown here differs from the aforementioned embodiment in that the spatial orientation of the connecting portion 30 or the connecting surface 31 is different.

[0137] The base 22 is not constructed in an L-shape, but rather in a substantially rectangular hexahedral shape. More precisely, the base 22 has a rectangular hexahedral shape including ramps.

[0138] A connecting part 30 or a connecting surface 31 is provided on the side 92 of the rectangular hexahedron.

[0139] also, Figure 12 and 13 The fluid module 12 shown differs from the aforementioned embodiments in the orientation of the connecting module 28 relative to the valve node 14, which is primarily determined by the different orientations of the connecting surface 31. The connecting module 28 is oriented substantially vertically.

[0140] The connection channel 34 formed in the connection module 28 extends downward in the installation position, whereas in the aforementioned embodiment, the connection channel 34 extends substantially horizontally in the installation position.

[0141] Figure 12 and 13 The illustrated embodiment has the advantage that the fluid can flow particularly quickly through the connecting module 28 to the container 32 due to the orientation of the connecting channel 34.

[0142] The above-described embodiments are also well adapted to conveying fluid into and out of container 32.

Claims

1. Fluidic module (12) having a valve node (14) with a base body (22) defined by an outer side (56), the base body having a central fluid chamber (20) and at least four fluid channels, namely a first fluid channel (16), a second fluid channel (17), a third fluid channel (18) and a fourth fluid channel (19), which are mutually separated in terms of flow, which fluid channels open into the central fluid chamber (20), respectively, wherein, On the outer side (56) there are provided at least a first valve connection (58) and a second valve connection (60), and on the valve node (14) there is provided a coupling site (30) on which a coupling module (28) is fastened, in which a connection channel (34) is formed, which is connected in terms of flow in the valve node (14) with the first fluid channel (16), the second fluid channel (17), the third fluid channel (18) or the fourth fluid channel (19), the coupling module (28) comprises a coupling valve (27) which selectively opens and closes the connection channel (34), and the central fluid chamber (20) is freely accessible from at least one side of the base body (22), and on both sides of the central fluid chamber (20) in a plan view of the side a web (86, 88) is formed in the base body (22), wherein each of the two webs (86, 88) forms a valve seat and separates the central fluid chamber (20) from the first fluid channel (16) or the third fluid channel (18) which adjoins it.

2. The fluidic module (12) of claim 1, characterized by: The coupling module (28) is releasably fastened on the valve node (14) without damage.

3. Fluidic module (12) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that: The coupling module (28) has a coupling valve housing (68) comprising a valve seat (69), a closure body which cooperates with the valve seat (69) and a coupling module-valve drive (70) for the closure body.

4. The fluidic module (12) of claim 1, characterized by: On the coupling site (30), between the valve node (14) and the coupling module (28), there is provided a seal (72) which surrounds the discharge opening (21) of the fourth fluid channel (19) into the coupling site (30).

5. The fluidic module (12) of claim 1, characterized by: The coupling site (30) is formed by a coupling flange (74) which is formed by a protrusion (76) of the base body (22).

6. The fluidic module (12) of claim 5, characterized by: The base body (22) is L-shaped and the coupling site (30) is present on the inner side of one of the legs of the L.

7. The fluidic module (12) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that: The coupling site (30) has a coupling face (31) on which the coupling module (28) rests, wherein the coupling face (31) extends obliquely to the flow direction of the fluid in the region of the coupling site (30).

8. The fluidic module (12) of claim 1, characterized by: The base body (22) is cuboid-shaped and the coupling site (30) is provided on a side face (92) of the cuboid.

9. The fluidic module (12) of claim 1, characterized by: The first valve connection (58) of the base body (22) is provided with a first valve drive (62) and the second valve connection (60) of the base body (22) is provided with a second valve drive (64).

10. The fluidic module (12) of claim 1, characterized by: On the valve node (14) and / or on the coupling module (28) there is provided a positioning element (78) and / or a fastening element (80) for fastening the coupling module (28) on the valve node (14) in a defined position.

11. The fluidic module (12) of claim 3, characterized by: On the coupling valve housing (68) there is provided a positioning element (78) and / or a fastening element (80) for fastening the coupling module (28) on the valve node (14) in a defined position.

12. The fluidic module (12) of claim 1, characterized by: The two bridges (86, 88) are provided with a common closure body (90), which is a membrane, which can be pressed against each of the bridges (86, 88) tightly selectively by means of second valve drive means (64).

13. Fluid system (10) having at least two fluid modules (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first fluid channel (16) is an input fluid channel and the third fluid channel (18) is an output fluid channel, and the fluid modules (12) are connected to one another in such a way that the third fluid channel (18) of a fluid module (12) is connected in terms of flow to the first fluid channel (16) of at least one further fluid module (12).

14. Method for cleaning a fluid module (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 or a fluid system (10) according to claim 13, the method comprising the steps of: - closing the second fluid channel (17) and the fourth fluid channel (19) and opening the first fluid channel (16) and the third fluid channel (18) of the fluid module (12), - conveying a cleaning medium through the first fluid channel (16) or the third fluid channel (18), wherein the central fluid chamber (20) is flowed through, and - discharging the cleaning medium from the first fluid channel (16) and the third fluid channel (18).

15. The method of claim 14, wherein: At least one of the two open first fluid channels (16) and third fluid channels (18) is repeatedly closed and reopened in pulses during the cleaning. The first fluid channel (16) is an input fluid channel and the third fluid channel (18) is an output fluid channel, and the fluid modules (12) are connected to one another in such a way that the third fluid channel (18) of a fluid module (12) is connected in terms of flow to the first fluid channel (16) of at least one further fluid module (12). - closing the second fluid channel (17) and the fourth fluid channel (19) and opening the first fluid channel (16) and the third fluid channel (18) of the fluid module (12), - conveying a cleaning medium through the first fluid channel (16) or the third fluid channel (18), wherein the central fluid chamber (20) is flowed through, and - discharging the cleaning medium from the first fluid channel (16) and the third fluid channel (18). At least one of the two open first fluid channels (16) and third fluid channels (18) is repeatedly closed and reopened in pulses during the cleaning.

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