Method and device for realizing aseptic connection between a valve device and a tank container

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for achieving a sterile connection between a valve device and a tank container including an inner tank, wherein a disinfection device including the valve device is located around a nozzle of the tank container. Then, when the valve of the valve device is in an open position, the valve device is disinfected by exposing it to a disinfectant solution and / or electromagnetic radiation. After closing the valve, an end portion of the valve device is pressed against a closing element, which blocks the nozzle of the inner tank, thereby achieving fluid communication between the internal environment of the inner tank and the interior of the valve device. Then, the disinfection device is removed, and the valve device is fastened to the tank container to ensure a sterile connection between the valve device and the tank container.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for achieving a sterile connection between a valve device and a tank container including an inner liner by means of a disinfection device, to components of the valve device and the disinfection device, and to a tank container including such components. Background Art

[0002] For the transportation and storage of liquid products, tank containers for temporarily storing such liquids are generally used, the size of which allows them to be transported by public (rail) roads and (container) ships. The volume of the tank container is generally between 5,000 dm 3 and 50,000 dm 3 and its shape is generally cylindrical. Such tank containers are usually filled and emptied through nozzles located at or near their bottoms.

[0003] To avoid contact between the filled liquid and the interior of the tank container, the liquid can be completely contained in a so-called inner liner. After discharging the liquid, the inner liner is removed from the tank container. Since no liquid traces are left inside the container, there is no need to clean the container - a laborious and expensive process that is also environmentally unfriendly. Another important function of such an inner liner is to protect the liquid in the container from contamination, decay, and spoilage. In addition, since a new inner liner is essentially sterile and free of contaminants, and a new inner liner can be used for each new filling of the container, a higher level of cleanliness can be achieved when using an inner liner.

[0004] During the filling and discharging processes of the tank container, there is a risk of introducing contaminants and / or microorganisms into the liquid. This is particularly likely to occur when the hoses used for supply or discharge must be connected to the nozzles. Although the inner liner present in the container does not affect the contamination risk in principle, the impact of contamination on the inner liner is more obvious than on an unprotected container because the inner liner itself has a higher level of cleanliness, while the container without an inner liner has a higher contamination background. In other words, when an inner liner is used in a tank container, the relative impact of contamination is greater.

[0005] Due to the use of an inner liner, higher cleanliness standards need to be implemented, and thus there is an increasing need to create a sterile environment during the filling and discharging processes of the tank container. However, there is currently no suitable disinfection method. In particular, there is no device that can ensure that all components through which the liquid charge passes remain sterile, and that the interior of the inner liner is always isolated from the external environment. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a method and a device for solving one or more of the above problems.

[0007] Accordingly, the present invention relates to a method for achieving a sterile connection between a valve device and a tank container including an inner liner, the method comprising providing:

[0008] 1) A tank container and an inner liner present inside the tank container, wherein,

[0009] The tank container and the inner liner include nozzles for supplying and discharging liquid;

[0010] The nozzle of the inner liner is placed inside the nozzle of the tank container;

[0011] The nozzle of the inner liner is closed by a closing element (44), the closing element (44) separating the internal environment of the inner liner from the external environment, the closing element being capable of being perforated and / or displaced from the nozzle to allow the supply and discharge of liquid through the nozzle;

[0012] 2) A valve device, which includes a pipe (23), the pipe (23) including:

[0013] A first end portion, the first end portion including a valve configured to open and close the pipe at the first end portion;

[0014] A second end portion capable of displacing the closing element from the nozzle and / or capable of piercing the closing element;

[0015] An interior extending from the valve to the second end portion;

[0016] Wherein, the valve device is equipped with fastening means for fastening the valve device to the nozzle of the tank container (or the tank container itself) to ensure a sterile connection between the valve device and the tank container (in particular between the pipe of the valve device and the nozzle of the inner liner);

[0017] 3) A disinfection device, which includes a wall defining an internal space, wherein,

[0018] The wall includes an opening for accessing the valve device to be disinfected into the internal space, the opening being adapted to abut and / or enclose the nozzle of the tank container;

[0019] The disinfection device includes means for exposing the interior of the pipe of the valve device to a disinfectant solution and / or electromagnetic radiation;

[0020] When 1) the valve device is contained in the internal space of the disinfection device; and when 2) the opening of the disinfection device is placed closely against and / or around the nozzle of the tank container, the disinfection device is provided with means for changing the position of the valve device in the disinfection device and for pressing the second end portion of the pipe of the valve device against the closing element of the inner liner;

[0021] Then, the following steps are performed:

[0022] a) Place the valve device inside the internal space of the disinfection device, and place the opening of the disinfection device against or around the nozzle of the tank container; then,

[0023] b) When the valve is in the open position, disinfect the valve device by exposing the interior of the pipe of the valve device to the disinfectant liquid and / or electromagnetic radiation; then,

[0024] c) Close the valve of the valve device; then,

[0025] d) Press the second end portion of the pipe of the valve device against the closing element present in the nozzle of the inner tank, displace or pierce the closing element, and create a fluid connection between the second end portion of the pipe and the nozzle, so as to set the internal environment of the inner tank to be in fluid communication with the interior of the pipe; then,

[0026] e) Remove the disinfection device from the valve device and fix the valve device to the nozzle of the tank container to ensure a sterile connection between the valve device and the tank container (especially between the pipe of the valve device and the nozzle of the inner tank); then,

[0027] f) Optionally cover the first end portion of the pipe with a cap.

[0028] The present invention also relates to components suitable for this method and tank containers including such components. Description of the Drawings

[0029] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the disinfection device (10) in the method of the present invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the valve device (20) in the method of the present invention is shown.

[0031] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the assembly (30) of the valve device and the disinfection device of the present invention is shown.

[0032] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the tank container (40) in the method of the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the tank container (40) including the assembly (30) of the present invention is shown.

[0034] Figure 6 It is a representation of different steps of the method of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0035] The elements in the drawings are shown for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve the understanding of the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In addition, terms such as "first", "second", etc. (if any) herein are generally used to distinguish similar elements and not necessarily to describe an order or a time sequence.

[0036] In the context of the present invention, the term "sterile" means "free from or exempt from bacteria and any other harmful microorganisms". A sterile connection means an airtight and liquid-tight connection, and thus does not allow any bacteria and any other harmful microorganisms to pass through (e.g., from the external environment to the internal environment). Therefore, a sterile connection does not allow other contaminants such as sand, dust, liquids, and gases, especially gases such as oxygen, to pass through.

[0037] The method of the present invention and the tank container in the assembly can in principle be any type of tank container, as long as the tank container has an interior in which an inner bladder can be placed and the nozzle of the inner bladder is adapted to the nozzle of the tank container. Generally, when the two nozzles are designed to be combined, the outer circumference of the nozzle of the inner bladder abuts against the inner circumference of the nozzle of the tank container, preferably in a close-fitting manner.

[0038] The tank container is preferably cylindrical or quasi-cylindrical because the inner bladder is subjected to less stress in such a container than in a container having, for example, flat walls and corners.

[0039] The tank container generally includes a manhole, which is an opening in the wall of the container and can be closed with a lid. Such an opening is usually circular and has a diameter in the range of 25 - 50 cm and can be used to introduce the inner bladder into the tank container. Preferably, the opening is located near the nozzle, for example, at a distance of 0.5 - 3 times the diameter of the opening. Generally, the tank container also includes a vent hole, which is used to release air during the filling of the container.

[0040] The method of the present invention and the tank container in the assembly have an interior in which an inner bladder is present. The inner bladder is configured as a bag and defines an interior space for storing liquid. The inner bladder includes an opening for supplying and discharging the liquid charge, and the opening is incorporated into the nozzle. The tank container also includes an opening with a nozzle to allow the supply and discharge of the liquid charge. The nozzle is generally a tubular structure extending from the container at a specific angle. The two nozzles are designed such that the nozzle of the inner bladder can be inserted into the nozzle of the container. When the method of the present invention is carried out, the nozzle of the inner bladder is present in the nozzle of the container. Thereafter, when the inner bladder is actually filled or emptied of liquid, the nozzle of the inner bladder remains in the nozzle of the container. Therefore, also for the tank container including the assembly of the present invention, the nozzle of the inner bladder is present in the nozzle of the container.

[0041] In the method of the present invention, the inner container has an internal environment which is initially isolated from the external environment by a closing element. The closing element is typically placed within or at the nozzle to block the nozzle and separate the interior of the inner container from the environment outside the inner container. The closing element is capable of being moved from its position (e.g., by pushing it into the interior of the inner container) or being broken / pierced, so that liquid can be supplied and discharged through the nozzle of the inner container. In the method of the present invention, when the second end portion of the pipe of the valve device is pressed against the closing element, the closing element is displaced or pierced.

[0042] In a preferred method, the closing element of the nozzle is a plug whose shape is complementary to the shape of the nozzle. The plug is initially present in the nozzle and thus blocks the nozzle. Due to the tight fit of the plug in the nozzle, it is fixed by the circumferential wall of the nozzle and held in place by friction with the inner wall of the nozzle. When the second end portion of the pipe of the valve device is pressed against the closing element, the closing element is displaced, released from the nozzle, and finally located at a certain position within the inner container.

[0043] In an alternative method, the closing element of the nozzle of the inner container is a diaphragm that separates the interior of the inner container from the environment outside the inner container. The diaphragm can be broken and / or pierced when the second end portion of the pipe is pressed against the diaphragm.

[0044] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a tank container (40) including a nozzle (41) is shown. An inner container (42) is present inside the container (40). The inner container (42) includes a nozzle (43) and a closing element (44).

[0045] The method of the present invention and the valve device in the assembly provide a device for opening and closing the nozzle of a tank container, so that the flow of liquid through the nozzle can be controlled. The device can close the nozzle so that no liquid can enter or leave the tank container; or it can open the nozzle so that liquid can pass through, thus enabling the tank container to be filled or emptied.

[0046] A permanent connection between the valve (or a device including the valve) and the tank container is not preferred because this would come at the expense of the volume of the tank container, as the dimensions of the tank container must be within certain standard dimensions, which are usually legally regulated. In addition, for the proper and sterile installation of the inner container in the tank container, it is inconvenient when the nozzle of the container is always covered with a valve. Therefore, it is preferred that the valve is only temporarily connected to the tank container when it is necessary to fill or empty the tank container. The method of the present invention provides such a temporary sterile connection.

[0047] The valve for opening and closing the nozzle is part of a valve device. Such a device includes a pipe equipped with a valve at one end portion (i.e., the first end portion), wherein the valve is designed to open or close the interior of the pipe at the first end portion. The other end portion (i.e., the second end portion) is permanently open and serves as a means for displacing a closure element from the nozzle of the inner container. When the valve device is placed in position, it presses against the closure element, thereby displacing the closure element. This also means that in the case where the closure element is to be pierced or ruptured by the pressure of a protruding object (such as the first end portion) breaking the diaphragm. After displacing or rupturing the closure element, the second end portion is further pressed into the nozzle until the two components are coupled and in a sealed fit. Then, a fluid connection is created between the two components, putting the internal environment of the inner container in fluid communication with the interior of the pipe. A fluid connection refers to the arrangement (such as coupling) of two components that allows fluid to flow from one component to the other. Then the spaces within each component are in fluid communication. In the present invention, one such component is the pipe of the valve device and the other is the nozzle of the inner container.

[0048] When the valve device is in the proper position, it needs to be fixed to the nozzle of the tank container (or the tank container itself) to ensure a sustainable and sterile connection between the pipe of the valve device and the nozzle of the tank container (e.g., a connection that can withstand the pressures common during filling and emptying of the tank container when liquid passes through the connection). Therefore, the valve device is equipped with fastening means for fastening the valve device to the nozzle of the tank container (or the tank container itself).

[0049] To improve the airtightness and / or liquid tightness of the connection, the nozzle of the inner container and the second end portion of the pipe of the valve device are preferably correspondingly conical.

[0050] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the valve device (20) is shown. The valve device (20) includes a pipe (23) having a first end portion (21) and a second end portion (22). A valve (24) is located at the second end portion (22), wherein the valve (24) is shown in the open position.

[0051] To keep the internal environment of the inner container sterile, the displacement of the closure element should not occur under normal atmosphere, because contaminants, bacteria, or other harmful microorganisms will enter the internal environment of the inner container. Therefore, the valve device is temporarily protected by a disinfection device. Inside this device, a sterile environment is created through a disinfection process that is implemented before the closure element is displaced. During this process, the valve of the valve device must be open so that the entire interior of the pipe from the first end portion to the second end portion is also disinfected. The disinfection also includes the side of the closure element facing the external environment of the inner container.

[0052] Accordingly, the disinfection device includes a wall defining an internal space, the wall including an opening for introducing a valve device into the internal space. The opening is also adapted to abut and / or enclose the nozzle of a tank container. The disinfection device does not need to be tightly connected to the tank container and / or its nozzle (liquid-tight and / or air-tight). For example, the disinfection device slides loosely over the nozzle (e.g., as a kind of slip sleeve). The disinfection device can also surround the nozzle without contacting it. Since during disinfection (and possibly also after disinfection), gas and / or liquid are released into the pipeline and / or the internal space of the disinfection device, overpressure usually occurs in the internal space of the disinfection device, so there is no chance for harmful pollution and bacteria in the external environment to enter the internal space of the disinfection device through accidental cracks or gaps. A non-liquid-tight or non-air-tight connection does not affect the sterility inside the pipeline.

[0053] On the other hand, it is also possible that the disinfection device is firmly connected to the tank container and / or its nozzle, for example, in a liquid-tight and / or air-tight manner. Then, a pressure relief valve can be provided in the disinfection device to accommodate the pressure build-up during disinfection. A (firm) connection allowing the passage of liquid or gas can also be designed so that any disinfection liquid or purification gas can "naturally" escape from the internal space of the disinfection device.

[0054] Optionally, the disinfection device is provided with fastening means for fixing the disinfection device to the tank container. In this method, the actual connection of the disinfection device to the tank container is carried out before step d), but it can also be carried out before step c) or before step b), especially before step a). This is to ensure that the disinfection device does not fall off from the valve device and the tank container during disinfection, during valve closure, or during the displacement / piercing of the closing element. This is particularly important when driving the pressing against the closing element from inside the disinfection device (e.g., electrically, mechanically, hydraulically, or pneumatically), because the connection of the disinfection device to the tank container provides the required reaction force that prevents the disinfection device itself from being pushed away from the nozzle.

[0055] The opening of the disinfection device is adapted to abut and / or enclose the nozzle of the tank container. For example, the opening has a circular, oval, square, or other polygonal shape, where the size of the shape is such that it can receive the nozzle of the tank container as well as the valve device. For example, the longest dimension of the cross-section of the opening is 40 cm or less, 35 cm or less, 25 cm or less, 20 cm or less, or 15 cm or less. In particular, the opening has a circular cross-section with a diameter of 30 cm or less, 20 cm or less, or 15 cm or less.

[0056] The sterilizing device is provided with a device for changing the position of the valve device in the sterilizing device. Such a device then also has the function of pressing the second end portion of the conduit of the valve device against the closing element of the liner. Such a device is necessary since the process of the invention relies on the sealing of the valve device in the inner space of the sterilizing device. Furthermore, in the process of the invention, the opening of the sterilizing device is placed close to and / or around the nozzle of the tank container. As a result, the valve device is protected from direct contact and manipulation.

[0057] For example, the valve device in the method of the present invention has a handle for handling the valve device, and the sterilizing device has a design that allows the operator to hold the handle (e.g., a slit through which the handle is moved and penetrated). In this way, the operator can move the valve device toward the closing element of the liner.

[0058] Alternatively, the disinfection device or the valve device may be equipped with an electric motor. In this way, the valve device can be electrically driven to move towards the closing element of the container. This does not require an opening (e.g. a slit) to be provided in the wall of the disinfection device, as would be the case if the valve device included a handle (in particular allowing a translational movement of the handle through the slit).

[0059] In another alternative, pneumatic or hydraulic force is used to move the valve means.

[0060] In yet another alternative, the movement can be initiated mechanically, for example by a rotating shaft passing through the wall of the sterilizing device, wherein an optional packing seal prevents any contaminants or bacteria from passing through the wall along the shaft. The sterilizing device then typically includes a mechanical element that converts the rotational movement of the shaft into a translational movement of the valve device.

[0061] In yet another alternative, the sterilizing device is provided with a glove, i.e. the glove forms a means for changing the position of the valve means in the sterilizing device. Such gloves (usually two) are built into the sterilizing device in such a way that an operator can put his / her hand into the glove and thereby perform tasks inside the sterilizing device without unwanted gases entering the internal space of the sterilizing device from the external atmosphere. These tasks are usually manipulating the valve means, such as fixing the valve means, pressing its second end portion against a closing element in a nozzle, fastening its second end portion to a nozzle of a tank container. The sterilizing device provided with the glove may be similar to a glove box used in a research environment where people perform work with inert gases.

[0062] Figure 1A cross-sectional view of a disinfection device (10) is shown. It comprises a wall (11) defining an interior space (12). The wall (11) comprises an opening (13) for receiving a valve device (20). The disinfection device (10) comprises means (14) for introducing a disinfecting liquid into the interior space (12).

[0063] The design of the disinfection device and the valve device both makes the valve device suitable for the inner space of the disinfection device. When combined together in this way, they constitute an assembly of the present invention. This assembly is suitable for the method according to the present invention.

[0064] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of an assembly (30) of a disinfection device (10) and a valve device (20) is shown, wherein the valve device (20) is located in the interior space (12) of the disinfection device (10).

[0065] In the method of the present invention, the valve device is placed in the inner space of the sterilizing device, and then the opening of the sterilizing device is placed close to or around the nozzle of the can container, so that the opening of the sterilizing device abuts and / or closes the nozzle of the can container. Then, the second end portion of the conduit of the valve device is located near the closing element, but it has not yet pierced or displaced the closing element.

[0066] Before, during or after placing the disinfection device, the valve of the valve device is opened. The valve device is disinfected while the valve is open. The main purpose of disinfection is to keep the pipes and nearby surfaces of the valve device (e.g. the surfaces of the closing element and the valve itself) free from bacteria and any other harmful microorganisms. Depending on the disinfection method, other contaminations such as sand, dust, liquids and gases, especially gases such as oxygen, can also be removed.

[0067] Disinfection usually involves releasing a disinfectant in a conduit, which is usually supplied from a source external to the disinfection device through an inlet in the disinfection device. The release of such a disinfectant creates a small overpressure in the interior space and can escape through discontinuities (holes, slits, vents) in the walls of the disinfection device or openings at the interface between the tank container and the disinfection device.

[0068] The sterilizing liquid may be selected from water, steam, ethanol, ozone, carbon dioxide gas and nitrogen. The application of the liquid may be carried out under ambient conditions or at elevated temperatures, for example at a temperature of at least 80° C., at least 100° C. or at least 120° C. It may be, for example, in the range of 95-115° C. The choice of liquid and temperature depends on the nature of the materials exposed during sterilization, in particular the nature of the materials of the liner and the closing element, since these materials are usually made of plastic, for example polyethylene. Other parts of the valve device and the sterilizing device, for example, are usually made of stainless steel.

[0069] Alternatively, disinfection is carried out by exposing the pipeline to electromagnetic radiation (such as ultraviolet radiation). In this case, the disinfection device is equipped with an electromagnetic radiation source.

[0070] Optionally, after the disinfection in step b), an air flow is released into the internal space, preferably a dry inert gas, which has the function of preventing harmful contamination from the external environment and bacteria from entering the internal space of the disinfection device. In addition, the air flow can evaporate the final liquid components (such as water and / or ethanol) of the disinfectant remaining inside the pipeline after disinfection. This air flow generates a small overpressure in the internal space and can escape through discontinuities (holes, slits, ventilation holes) in the wall of the disinfection device or openings at the interface between the tank container and the disinfection device, etc. In this way, the disinfectant and / or the internal space of the pipeline are continuously purified with this gas. This purification usually terminates before or during the closing of the valve in step c).

[0071] After treatment with the disinfectant or electromagnetic radiation, the valve is closed. If some traces of liquid remain in the fluid (for example, when using ethanol or water / steam), the pipeline can be purged with dry gas, such as dry nitrogen, in order to evaporate and remove the liquid before closing the valve. In principle, it is possible that the valve of the valve device has been closed during the disinfection of the valve device (i.e., during the treatment with the disinfectant).

[0072] After the valve is closed, the second end portion of the pipeline of the valve device is pressed against the closing element of the nozzle, causing the closing element to shift or be pierced, and creating a fluid connection between the pipeline and the nozzle. Then, the internal environment of the inner tank and the inside of the pipeline are in fluid communication. The second end portion of the pipeline is usually designed such that its shape is complementary to the shape of the nozzle of the inner tank, so that the valve device can be well installed on the nozzle after being pressed. The effect of this is that the valve device is more or less connected to the tank container after being pressed.

[0073] Figure 5 This situation is shown, showing a cross-sectional view of a tank container (40) including the components (30) of the present invention. The second end portion (22) of the pipeline (23) of the valve device (20) has passed through the nozzle (41) of the tank container (40) and the nozzle (43) of the inner tank (42). The closing element (44) has been displaced from the nozzle (43) by the second end portion (22) and is located inside the tank container (40). The disinfection device (10) still surrounds the valve device (20), but will be removed in the next step of the method.

[0074] Since the valve device itself is protected by the disinfection device and the nozzle of the tank container, the movement of the valve device towards the closing element and the displacement / puncturing of the closing element are typically carried out in an indirect manner. For example, the valve device includes a second end portion of the pipe of the valve device that presses against the handle of the closing element, and the handle can be operated from the outside, that is, when the valve device is enclosed by the disinfection device. In this way, the operator can press the second end portion of the pipe of the valve device against the closing element of the inner container. Alternatively, the disinfection device can include a handle that is then operatively connected to the valve device. In either case, the handle can move the valve device in the desired direction (i.e., generally towards the closing element). Typically, such a handle requires a discontinuity in the wall of the disinfection device (e.g., a slit for the translational movement of the handle) because the operator must be able to access the handle. One way to keep the inside of the pipe of the valve device sterile is to use an overpressure of the disinfectant solution, and then the fluid may escape through the discontinuity designed for the handle (and ultimately other discontinuities), thereby preventing the accidental inflow of gas (external atmosphere) into the internal space of the disinfection device. To further reduce the inflow, the disinfection device can be equipped with a flexible component (e.g., a rubber squeegee), which is locally pushed backward when the handle is operated.

[0075] The disinfection device can also include an electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic drive mechanism designed to move the valve device in the desired direction, especially to press the second end portion of the pipe of the valve device against the closing element of the inner container. For example, there are electric actuators, pneumatic actuators, or hydraulic actuators. There may also be an electric motor capable of moving the valve device within the internal space of the disinfection device.

[0076] The movement of the valve device towards the closing element and the movement / puncturing of the closing element can also be carried out in a more direct manner. For example, this is possible when the operator can directly operate the valve device through gloves built into the disinfection device.

[0077] After piercing or moving the closing element, the disinfection device is removed from the nozzle of the tank container and also from the valve device.

[0078] During or shortly after the removal, the valve device is fixed to the nozzle of the tank container (or the container itself) to ensure a sealed (i.e., sterile) connection between the valve device and the tank container. When tightening is carried out after removal, it is preferably to completely enclose the second end portion of the pipe within the nozzle so that the inside of the pipe remains sterile.

[0079] The fastening can also be carried out before removing the disinfection device, although its feasibility depends on the type of fastening device and the design of the disinfection device. For example, when the fastening device is completely contained within the internal space of the disinfection device, it may be difficult to access the fastening device. This can be overcome by installing additional operating devices that facilitate the fastening. As described above, by using gloves built into the disinfection device, a better solution to the accessibility problem is provided.

[0080] At this stage (i.e., after fastening), the tank container is ready to be filled with liquid. This is typically achieved by connecting the first end portion of a pipe to a hose or piping that is connected to a liquid storage or processing facility (e.g., at a factory, brewery, filling facility, or where liquid consumption occurs). This connection is also carried out under aseptic conditions; the required procedures are known in the art. When the valve of the valve device is opened, the liquid contents of the storage or processing equipment can flow into or out of the sterile tank container.

[0081] The method of the present invention as described above is as Figure 6 shown. In step a), two actions are performed. This involves 1) placing the valve device (20) into the disinfection device (10) to form an assembly (30); and 2) placing the opening of the disinfection device around the nozzle of the tank container (40). Then, in step b) of the method, the interior of the valve device (20) is disinfected with a disinfectant liquid (15), and visualization is carried out through the shadow in the internal space of the disinfection device (10) and the interior of the pipe of the valve device (20). During disinfection, the valve is in the open position so that the interior of the pipe as well as the valve are disinfected (i.e., made sterile). Then in step c), the valve (24) of the valve device (20) is closed. Then, in step d), the second end portion (22) of the pipe (23) of the valve device (20) is pressed against the closing element (44) to form a fluid connection between the second end portion (22) of the pipe (23) and the nozzle (43). Finally, in step e), the disinfection device (10) is removed from the valve device (20). Then the valve device (20) is fixed to the nozzle of the tank container (40) (the fixing is not shown for clarity). Optionally, a cap (16) is placed on the first end portion (21) of the valve device (20).

[0082] The present invention also relates to an assembly of a valve device and a disinfection device for the above method ( Figure 3 ), wherein,

[0083] - the disinfection device includes

[0084] a wall defining an internal space, the wall including an opening for accessing the valve device to the internal space, the opening being adapted to abut and / or enclose the nozzle of the tank container;

[0085] means for exposing the interior of the conduit of the valve device to a disinfecting fluid and / or electromagnetic radiation;

[0086] - valve devices,

[0087] It exists in the internal space of the disinfection device.

[0088] It includes a pipeline, the pipeline includes

[0089] a first end portion, the first end portion comprising a valve configured to open and close the conduit at the first end portion;

[0090] a second terminal portion;

[0091] an inner portion extending from the valve to the second end portion;

[0092] It is equipped with a fastening device for fastening the valve device to the nozzle of the tank container to ensure that the valve device is

[0093] Aseptic connection between the device and the tank container;

[0094] - The sterilization device and / or the valve device is provided with a device for changing the position of the valve device in the sterilization device, in particular a device for pressing the second end portion of the conduit of the valve device against the closing element when the assembly is used in the above-mentioned method (i.e. a method for achieving a sterile connection between the valve device and a can container including an inner liner of such a closing element).

[0095] In order to be able to manipulate the valve device in the disinfection device, the valve device preferably comprises a handle that passes through the wall defining the inner space. Therefore, the device for changing the position of the valve device in the disinfection device may include such a handle. The handle can be operated by a person performing the method of the present invention. Alternatively, the device for changing the position may include an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator or a hydraulic actuator. In particular, the valve device or the disinfection device may be equipped with an electric motor, by which the valve device can be guided towards the closing element and the closing element can be displaced or pierced.

[0096] In another alternative, the means for changing the position of the valve means in the sterilization device may comprise gloves (usually two) built into the sterilization device, arranged in such a way that an operator can put his / her hand into the gloves and thereby perform tasks within the sterilization device without unwanted gases from the outside atmosphere entering the internal space of the sterilization device. These tasks are typically manipulating the valve means, such as fixing the valve means, pressing its second end portion against a closure element in a nozzle, fastening its second end portion to a nozzle of a tank container. The sterilization device provided with the gloves may be similar to the glove box used in a research environment where people perform work with inert gases.

[0097] The present invention also relates to a tank container comprising the above components ( Figure 5 ), wherein the tank container comprises

[0098] - a nozzle for supplying and discharging a liquid;

[0099] - an inner liner inside the tank container, wherein the inner liner comprises an internal environment and a nozzle for supplying and discharging a liquid, and the nozzle is present in the nozzle of the tank container;

[0100] Wherein,

[0101] - a second end portion of the pipe is present in the nozzle of the inner liner (and thus also in the nozzle of the tank container), so that there is a fluid connection between the second end portion of the pipe and the nozzle, such that the internal environment of the inner liner is in fluid communication with the inside of the pipe;

[0102] - a valve device is fastened to the nozzle of the tank container to ensure a sterile connection between the valve device and the tank container, in particular a sterile connection between the pipe of the valve device and the nozzle of the inner liner.

[0103] As described above, the disinfection device can be connected to the tank container or the nozzle of the tank container. However, this is not necessary, since the disinfection device is only present around the valve device for a relatively short period of time, during which the operator can fix it in place. For example, the disinfection device can also slide above the nozzle so that it is supported without being fixed. In this way, during this short period of time, the disinfection device does not fall off but remains in place.

[0104] When implementing the method of the present invention, the inner liner is in principle empty. Therefore, when the container (and thus the inner liner) is filled with liquid, the volume contained in the inner liner is different. The inner liner is usually folded and / or rolled up before filling, resulting in only a very small internal volume. Most of the internal volume is usually present at and near the nozzle of the inner liner. For example, the available volume inside the inner liner is less than 0.01% of the internal volume of the tank container, especially less than 0.005%.

[0105] The advantage of the method of the present invention is that the use of the disinfection device provides a simple and reliable device for establishing a sealed and sterile connection between the inner liner inside the tank container and an external device that provides or receives the liquid charge of the tank container. The method ensures that all components through which the liquid charge passes remain sterile, and the internal environment of the inner liner is always isolated from the external environment.

[0106] After filling and discharging a fluid-filled canister, the inner liner has completed its function and is typically disposed of. However, the valve assembly can be reused. It can easily be removed from the canister and can be cleaned. It can thus be reused for subsequent filling in the canister. The disinfection device can also be reused.

Claims

1. A method for achieving a sterile connection between a valve device (20) and a tank container (40) including an inner liner (42), comprising: 1) a tank container (40) and an inner liner (42) inside the tank container (40), wherein The tank container (40) and the liner (42) include nozzles for supplying and discharging liquid; The nozzle of the liner (42) is placed in the nozzle of the can container (40); The nozzle of the liner (42) is closed by a closure element (44), which separates the internal environment of the liner (42) from the external environment, and the closure element (44) can be pierced and / or displaced from the nozzle to allow the supply and discharge of liquid through the nozzle; 2) A valve device (20) comprising a pipeline (23), wherein the pipeline (23) comprises: a first end portion (21) comprising a valve (24) configured to open and close the conduit (23) at the first end portion (21); a second end portion (22) capable of displacing the closure element (44) from the nozzle and / or capable of piercing the closure element (44); an inner portion extending from the valve (24) to the second end portion (22); The valve device (20) is equipped with a fastening device, which is used to fasten the valve device (20) to the nozzle of the tank container (40) to ensure a sterile connection between the valve device (20) and the tank container (40); 3) A disinfection device (10) comprising a wall (11) defining an interior space (12), wherein The wall (11) comprises an opening (13) for receiving the valve device (20) into the interior space (12), the opening (13) being adapted to abut and / or close a nozzle of a can container (40); The disinfection device (10) comprises means for exposing the interior of the conduit (23) of the valve device (20) to a disinfection liquid (15) and / or electromagnetic radiation; The sterilizing device (10) is provided with means for changing the position of the valve device (20) in the sterilizing device (10) and for pressing the second end portion (22) of the conduit (23) of the valve device (20) against the closing element (44) of the liner (42), in the following cases, - when the valve device (20) is contained in the inner space (12) of the disinfection device (10), - when the opening (13) of the disinfection device (10) is placed close to and / or around the nozzle of the tank container (40); Then, follow these steps: a) placing the valve device (20) in the inner space (12) of the sterilizing device (10) and placing the opening (13) of the sterilizing device (10) close to or around the nozzle of the tank container (40); then b) sterilizing the valve device (20) by exposing the interior of the conduit (23) of the valve device (20) to a sterilizing liquid (15) and / or electromagnetic radiation when the valve (24) is in the open position; and then c) closing the valve (24) of the valve device (20); then d) Press the second end portion (22) of the pipe (23) of the valve device (20) against the closing element (44) present in the nozzle of the inner tank (42), causing the closing element (44) to shift or perforate, and creating a fluid connection between the second end portion (22) of the pipe (23) and the nozzle, so that the internal environment of the inner tank (42) is in fluid communication with the interior of the pipe (23); then e) Remove the disinfection device (10) from the valve device (20) and fasten the valve device (20) to the nozzle of the tank container (40) to ensure a sterile connection between the valve device (20) and the tank container (40).

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein a cap (16) is used to cover the first end portion (21) of the pipe (23).

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the closing element (44) of the nozzle of the inner tank (42) is a plug whose shape is complementary to the shape of the nozzle, - which is initially present in the nozzle, thus blocking the nozzle; - when it is pressed against by the second end portion (22) of the pipe (23), it is released from the nozzle after disinfection.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the closing element (44) of the nozzle of the inner tank (42) is a diaphragm that can be damaged and / or pierced when the second end portion (22) of the pipe (23) is pressed against the diaphragm.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the valve device (20) and / or the disinfection device (10) includes a handle for pressing the second end portion (22) of the pipe (23) of the valve device (20) against the closing element (44), and the handle can be operated when the valve device (20) is enclosed by the disinfection device (10).

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the second end portion (22) is pressed against the closing element (44) of the inner tank (42) with the help of an electric, mechanical, hydraulic or pneumatic drive mechanism.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the nozzle of the inner tank (42) and the second end portion (22) are in the shape of corresponding cones.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the disinfection device (10) is provided with fastening means for fastening the disinfection device (10) to the tank container (40), and the disinfection device (10) is connected to the tank container (40) before step d).

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the disinfectant liquid (15) is selected from water, steam, ethanol, ozone, carbon dioxide gas and nitrogen.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein after disinfection in step b), the internal space (12) of the disinfection device (10) and / or the interior of the pipe (23) is purged with gas.

11. An assembly (30) of a valve device (20) and a disinfection device (10) for implementing the method according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein - The disinfection device (10) comprises a wall (11) defining an internal space (12), the wall (11) comprising an opening (13) for receiving a valve device (20) into the internal space (12), the opening (13) being adapted to abut and / or enclose the nozzle of a tank container (40); a device for exposing the interior of a pipe (23) of the valve device (20) to a disinfectant liquid (15) and / or electromagnetic radiation; - A valve device (20), which is present in the internal space (12) of the disinfection device (10); which comprises a pipe (23), the pipe (23) comprising: a first end portion (21) which comprises a valve (24) configured to open and close the pipe (23) at the first end portion (21); a second end portion (22); an interior which extends from the valve (24) to the second end portion (22); which is equipped with fastening means for fastening the valve device (20) to the nozzle of the tank container (40) to ensure a sterile connection between the valve device (20) and the tank container (40); - The disinfection device (10) and / or the valve device (20) is provided with means for changing the position of the valve device (20) within the disinfection device (10).

12. The assembly (30) according to claim 11, wherein the valve device (20) comprises a handle passing through the wall (11) defining the internal space (12).

13. The assembly (30) according to claim 11, wherein the means for changing the position comprise an electric actuator, a pneumatic actuator or a hydraulic actuator.

14. A tank container (40) comprising the assembly (30) according to any one of claims 11 - 13, wherein the tank container (40) comprises - a nozzle for supplying and discharging liquid; - an inner liner (42) inside the tank container (40), wherein the inner liner (42) comprises an internal environment and a nozzle for supplying and discharging liquid, the nozzle being present in the nozzle of the tank container (40); wherein, - the second end portion (22) of the pipe (23) is present in the nozzle of the inner liner (42) such that there is a fluid connection between the second end portion (22) of the pipe (23) and the nozzle; - the valve device (20) is fixed to the nozzle of the tank container (40) to ensure a sterile connection between the valve device (20) and the tank container (40).

15. The tank container (40) according to claim 14, wherein the disinfection device (10) is connected to the tank container (40) or the nozzle of the tank container (40).

16. The tank container (40) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the inner liner (42) is folded and / or rolled up such that the available volume inside the inner liner (42) is less than 0.01% of the volume inside the tank container (40).

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