Applicator for preparing and introducing and / or applying a multi-component mixture in and on a subject and applicator system comprising an applicator

Abstract

The invention relates to an applicator for mixing a plurality of components for preparing a multi-component mixture, in particular a polyurethane foam, and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto a subject, in particular a lithium ion battery, comprising: a mixing tube having a first closed end and a second end, the discharging device is used for discharging a multi-component mixture from a mixing pipe, and the mixing pipe is provided with a mixing space; the injection units are located on the mixing pipe, and each injection unit is used for injecting one of the multiple components into the mixing space; the mixer is located in the mixing space and used for mixing the injected components with one another, and the moving device is used for moving the mixer between the first end and the second end. Further, an application system is disclosed, including an application device and method for mixing a plurality of components to prepare a multi-component mixture and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto a subject.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an application device for producing a multi-component mixture, in particular a polyurethane foam, and for introducing / applying the multi-component mixture to an object, in particular a battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, during the production process. The present invention also relates to an application system comprising the application device. Background Art

[0002] For example, during the production of foam, one or more components are mixed with air. In this process, the precise, reproducible, and uniform mixing of the components themselves and of the components with air is very important. This includes the fact that the mass or volume ratio of the components to each other, in particular to air, in the foam can be precisely set to an optimum value and must be continuously maintained at this optimum value throughout the foam production process. In addition, the mixture must be homogeneous throughout the foam volume. The foam must be reproducibly producible in multiple production batches.

[0003] Non-flammable foams are often used for fire protection, for example in batteries, as well as for thermal insulation in the construction industry. Fire protection also plays an important role in thermal insulation. In this regard, the specific requirements for foam production are particularly important.

[0004] For example, lithium-based batteries, in particular lithium-ion batteries, are used in electric vehicles. It is particularly common for such lithium-ion batteries to be used for storing energy generated using a photovoltaic system. However, in particular, due to the good durability of lithium-ion batteries, they are also used for storing energy in many other fields. However, there are also some problems with the use of lithium-ion batteries.

[0005] For lithium-ion batteries, fire protection plays an extremely important role because lithium-ion batteries have devastating fire-starting characteristics and are very difficult to extinguish once they catch fire. For the preventive fire protection of lithium-ion batteries, there are currently hardly any viable solutions and / or only solutions with poor effectiveness. These solutions include applying fireproof materials to the lid or housing of the battery, providing a honeycomb structure in the battery, or completely discharging the battery or the battery cells of the battery.

[0006] A new method of fire protection is to use polyurethane (abbreviation "PU") foam. For this purpose, the battery is foamed with PU foam. In this case, the battery cells are surrounded by the PU foam. If a defective battery cell catches fire or its heat generation becomes uncontrollable, the PU foam absorbs the heat generated during the process and prevents adjacent battery cells from overheating or starting to burn due to the melting of the PU foam as well. This can prevent a fire from occurring or spreading rapidly. The PU foam can also prevent the entire electric vehicle or the entire house from burning down due to a defective battery cell.

[0007] PU foams are produced (polymerized) using two monomers, such as polyols and polyisocyanates. Foaming can be carried out chemically and / or physically.

[0008] The disadvantages of traditional solutions for preparing and applying foams, especially PU foams, are that it is impossible to deliver the components without interruption or to prepare the foam without interruption. So far, in each case, the components have been pre-treated or prepared in tanks and, where appropriate, the components have been mixed with the air in the tanks. Then the various components are fed into a mixer and / or an applicator. The component tanks must be replaced regularly or new material must be loaded. In addition, since the components have been fed into the mixer or applicator in an air-displaced state, it is impossible to precisely set the mixing ratio of the components in the foam. Therefore, the metering of the components is inaccurate and it is impossible or difficult to set the ratio between the components, especially the ratio of air to the other components. In addition, the mixer or applicator drops after the foam production stops.

[0009] Therefore, the problem of how to improve the material quality and mixing quality of the foam has not been solved. In particular, the problem of how to prepare and apply the foam in a clean, precise, repeatable, uniform and efficient manner has not been solved. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The object of the present invention is to improve an application device and an application system for preparing a multi-component mixture, especially a PU foam, and to introduce / apply it to an object, especially a lithium-ion battery. Another object of the present invention is to improve a method for preparing a multi-component mixture, especially a PU foam, and to introduce / apply it to an object, especially a lithium-ion battery.

[0011] The object of the present invention is to improve the efficiency of the preparation and introduction / application of PU foams. In particular, the object of the present invention is to be able to prepare and introduce / apply PU foams without interruption.

[0012] The object of the present invention is to improve the uniformity, controllability and precision in the preparation and introduction / application of PU foams. In particular, the object of the present invention is to improve the precision of the mixing ratio of the components (including air) of the PU foam.

[0013] The object of the present invention is to improve the cleanliness when introducing / applying PU foams. In addition, the object of the present invention is to increase the flexibility in preparing PU foams using different components.

[0014] These objects are formulated through, for example, PU foams and their applications in batteries. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and is generally used for preparing and applying multi-component mixtures and / or foams composed of one or more components mixed with air. The use in batteries is only mentioned here by way of example. The multi-component mixtures and foams are used in different sectors, such as the preparation of building materials.

[0015] The subject matter of the independent claim achieves at least one objective. Advantageous embodiments and developments are described in the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0016] In the context of the present invention, "suitable for an object" shall be regarded as a synonym for "suitable for that object". Embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the application of a multi-component mixture to an object. This is also intended to cover the case of introducing a multi-component mixture into an object. In the context of the present invention, "battery" shall be regarded as a synonym for "accumulator". The "application device" may also be abbreviated as "applicator" and constitutes a device for coating or applying a mixture. In the context of the present invention, "mixture" shall be understood as a synonym for "mixture". A multi-component mixture refers to a mixture of a first component and at least one other component, especially a gas or a gas mixture, such as air. A foam refers to a multi-component mixture composed of a first component and a gas or a gas mixture (especially air) as the second component, and optionally composed of other components. Unless otherwise specified, a "component" refers to a material. The specifications of different components are used to distinguish different materials. In the context of the present invention, polyurethane may also be referred to as a multi-component mixture.

[0017] As a result of the invention, all components, including a suitable gas or gas mixture, are only mixed in the application device with a mixer.

[0018] As a result of the invention, by moving the mixer along the mixing tube, the second open end of the mixing tube can be closed in a quick and simple manner. As a result, the multi-component mixture can be effectively prevented from coming out of the mixing tube. This is particularly advantageous when it is intended to end the application of the multi-component mixture to an object. In addition, the multi-component mixture can be prevented from dripping from the application device. Therefore, a clean application of the multi-component mixture can be ensured.

[0019] By means of an embodiment of the present invention, the invention further defines a mixing section along the mixing tube, which has a closed end and an open end. By means of the mixing section, an order is predefined according to which the various components for preparing the multi-component mixture are injected into the mixing space and mixed with each other. In this case, on the one hand, compliance with the mixing order of the components can be ensured.

[0020] In addition, by changing one or more positions at which one or more components are injected into the mixing space, this sequence can be made flexible. In addition, the type of the injected components can be changed in a simple manner, and the components injected at the corresponding positions can be replaced. Therefore, different multi-component mixtures can be produced in a simple manner. In addition, by setting the material flow of the injected components, the mass or volume ratio of the components to be injected or mixed can be set in a simple manner. In particular, the ratio between the first component / third component and the gas or air can be set precisely, so that the material quality and / or mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can be improved.

[0021] In addition, the preparation or agitation material of the first or third component can be supplied by a material processing device connected upstream of the mixer accordingly. Therefore, before the material is injected into the mixing chamber, the material always has the same characteristics. In particular, the uniformity of the injected components can be improved. As a result, the material quality and mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can also be improved. In addition, effects such as so-called "sacking" are prevented.

[0022] Through the embodiments of the present invention, it is also achieved that the first component and the third component are mixed with the gas only in the mixing chamber of the application device. As a result, the component can be metered and injected into the mixing chamber in a gas-free or air-free state. Therefore, the metering no longer depends on the amount or volume of the gas contained in the component. In particular, the gas volume will highly depend on the pressure in the pipeline of the conducting component. Therefore, the accuracy in the metering process is significantly improved, and thus the ratio between the first component or the third component and the gas, especially air, can be set and adjusted precisely. As a result, the material quality and mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can be improved.

[0023] Through the embodiments of the present invention, mixing tubes with different inner diameters are also specified. Different inner diameters result in: during the process of mixing components in the mixing space through the mixer, the rotational speeds of the component materials along the mixing tube are also different. This makes the mixing of the components more flexible, the mixing effect is improved, and in particular, the mixing uniformity is enhanced.

[0024] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an application device for mixing multiple components, for preparing a multi-component mixture, and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture to and / or onto an object is provided.

[0025] The application device includes a mixing tube having a first end and a second end for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube, and the mixing tube includes a mixing space between the first end and the second end.

[0026] The application device further includes a plurality of injection units, each injection unit being configured to inject a respective one of the plurality of components into the mixing space. The plurality of injection units may be located on the mixing tube. The plurality of injection units may be located on the tube wall of the mixing tube, particularly on the outer side of the tube wall.

[0027] The application device includes a mixer that is at least partially located in the mixing space. The mixer may be completely located in the mixing space. Preferably, the central member and the mixing elements of the mixer may be located in the mixing space. The mixer is configured to mix the injected components with each other. The mixer is for the mixing space or the mixing tube, preferably for mixing the injected components along the mixing tube from the first end to the second end.

[0028] The application device further includes a moving device configured to move the mixer along the central axis of the mixing tube and / or between the first end and the second end. The central axis may also be referred to as the longitudinal axis.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an application system for mixing a plurality of components to prepare a multi-component mixture and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object.

[0030] The application system includes the application device according to the aspects and embodiments of the present invention.

[0031] In addition, the application system may include at least one first device for material handling, which is configured to provide a material flow of a first component and / or at least one second device for material handling, which is configured to provide a material flow of a third component.

[0032] In addition, the application system may include at least one first metering device for receiving a material flow of a first component, setting the mass flow and / or volume flow of the component, and providing the material flow to at least one first injection unit of the application device.

[0033] In addition, the application system may include a second metering device for receiving a material flow of a second component, setting the mass flow and / or volume flow of the second component, and providing the material flow to at least one first injection unit of the application device. According to a preferred embodiment, the second component is a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, and the material flow of the second component is a flow of gas or a mixed gas, preferably an air flow.

[0034] In addition, the application system may include at least one third metering device for receiving a material flow of a third component, setting the mass flow and / or volume flow of these components, and providing the material flow to at least one third injection unit of the application device.

[0035] The application device or application system of an aspect or embodiment of the present invention is used to implement the method of the aspect or embodiment of the present invention. The method of an aspect or an embodiment of the present invention can be realized by the application device or application system of the aspect or embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present invention, the use of the application device or application system of the embodiment of the present invention in the method of the present invention is provided.

[0037] According to still another aspect of the present invention, the methods of the various embodiments of the present invention using the application device or application system of the embodiment of the present invention are provided.

[0038] The aspects of the present invention may have one or more of the following features.

[0039] This movement can be carried out such that the mixing tube is sealed relative to the material flow of the injection component and / or the multi-component mixture flowing out of and / or towards the second end of the mixing tube.

[0040] The mixer can move along the mixing tube between a first position and a second position. Along the mixing tube, especially along the central axis, the second position can be closer to the second end than the first position. On the other hand, along the mixing tube, the first position can be closer to the first end than the second position. The mixer can move from the first position in the direction of the second end to the second position.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, the mixer can move from the second position in the direction of the first end to the first position. This method can also produce the effect that the mixing tube is sealed relative to the material flow of the multiple components and / or the multi-component mixture flowing out of and / or towards the second end.

[0042] The mixing tube can have at least one sealing element. The mixing tube can have multiple sealing elements. The sealing element can be located on or in the region of the second end of the mixing tube, or the sealing element can be formed by the other end of the mixing tube.

[0043] The sealing element can be annular or substantially annular. The movement of the mixer towards the second end or away from the second end can produce the effect that the mixer, especially the mixing element of the mixer, contacts the sealing element, thereby sealing the mixing tube.

[0044] The sealing element can also be conical or substantially conical. This may mean that the surface of the sealing element facing the central axis of the mixing tube is conical. In particular, the sealing element is used for the conical seat of the end of the mixer.

[0045] The mixer can have a conical, frustoconical, conical, needle-shaped or pointed tip, opposite the second end of the mixing tube. The movement of the mixer towards the second end can have the effect that the end of the mixer contacts the sealing element, thereby sealing the mixing tube.

[0046] The sealing element and the first end of the mixer can form a needle valve.

[0047] The mixer can be moved such that the end of the mixer and the sealing element of the mixing tube overlap in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the mixing tube and / or the first end of the mixer contacts the mixing tube sealing element.

[0048] The application device can also include a rotating device, preferably an electric motor, particularly preferably a servo motor. The rotating device is used to rotate the mixer, preferably about a rotation axis that is substantially parallel to the central axis of the mixing tube. The central axis of the mixing tube and the rotation axis of the mixer can be substantially coincident or overlapping. The movement of the mixer can be along the rotation axis of the mixer.

[0049] The mixer can have a plurality of parts along the rotation axis and / or along the central axis of the mixing tube, wherein at least two of the plurality of parts have mutually different outer diameters.

[0050] The mixer can have a first part and a second part. The first part can have a larger outer diameter than the second part, and vice versa. Relative to the central axis of the mixing tube, the first part can be closer to the first end than the second part. The first part can be located above the second part in the vertical direction.

[0051] The mixer can have a third part that is closer to the second end of the mixing tube relative to the central axis of the mixing tube than the first part and / or the second part of the mixer. The third part can have an outer diameter different from that of the first part and / or the second part. The third part can have a larger outer diameter than the first part and / or the second part. The third part can have a smaller outer diameter than the first part and / or the second part.

[0052] The mixing tube can have a plurality of parts along the central axis. The inner diameter of the wall of the mixing tube can be substantially constant within each part. The inner diameter of the wall of the mixing tube can be mutually different within at least two of the plurality of parts or between them. Among them, the inner diameter of the wall in one part can be different from the inner diameter of the wall in at least one other part among the plurality of parts. The inner diameter of the mixing tube can be defined as the inner diameter of the wall, where any mixing elements of the mixing tube are not considered.

[0053] The plurality of parts may have a first part and a second part. The first part may be located at or near the first end. The second part may be located between the first part and the second end along the central axis. The tube wall in the first part may have a larger inner diameter than that in the second part, and vice versa. The first part may be closer to the first end of the mixing tube than the second part. The first part may be located above the second part with respect to the vertical direction. The first part may also be referred to as the upper material chamber.

[0054] The plurality of parts may have a third part. The third part may be located between the second part and the second end along the central axis. The mixing tube wall in the third part may have an inner diameter different from that of the second part and / or the first part. The third part may be closer to the second end of the mixing tube than the second part. The tube wall in the third part may have a smaller inner diameter than that of the first part and / or the second part. The tube wall in the third part may have a larger inner diameter than that of the first part and / or the second part.

[0055] The plurality of injection units of the application device may include at least one first injection unit and / or at least one second injection unit and / or at least one third injection unit.

[0056] The at least one first injection unit may be located on the tube wall of the mixing tube in the second part of the mixing tube. The at least one second injection unit can be used to inject a second component into a region adjacent to the second part of the mixing tube in the mixing space.

[0057] The at least one second injection unit may be located on the tube wall of the mixing tube in the second part of the mixing tube. The at least one second injection unit is used to inject a second component into a region adjacent to the second part of the mixing tube in the mixing space.

[0058] The at least one third injection unit may be located on the tube wall of the mixing tube in the third part of the mixing tube. The at least one third injection unit can be used to inject a third component into a region adjacent to the third part of the mixing tube in the mixing space.

[0059] The application device may have at least one pressure sensor. Preferably, at least one pressure sensor is provided for at least one of the plurality of parts of the mixing tube, and the pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure in the region adjacent to the corresponding part in the mixing space.

[0060] The application device may include a first pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the region adjacent to the first end of the mixing tube and / or adjacent to the first part of the mixing tube in the mixing space. The application device may include a second pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the region adjacent to the second part of the mixing tube in the mixing space. The application device may include a third pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the region adjacent to the second end of the mixing tube and / or adjacent to the third part in the mixing space.

[0061] The central axis of the mixer can extend substantially along the mixing tube, particularly along the central axis. The mixer can be substantially rod-shaped or have a rod. The mixer can have a central member for substantially rotational symmetry and / or being substantially rod-shaped or a rod. The central member can extend substantially along the central axis of the mixing tube. The axis of symmetry or the central axis of the central member can substantially coincide with the central axis of the mixing tube.

[0062] The mixer can have at least one mixing element. The mixing element is used to effectively mix the injected components through the mixer. The mixing element can extend in the radial direction of the mixer. The mixing element can be located outside the central member and / or on the side surface of the central member, and / or extend radially along the central member. According to a preferred embodiment, the mixer has a plurality of mixing elements. The plurality of mixing elements can be distributed along the central member and / or relative to the central axis. In addition, the plurality of mixing elements can be distributed circumferentially along the central member. Particularly preferably, the configuration and / or arrangement of the mixing elements is such that no imbalance is formed when the mixer rotates about the axis of rotation. The axis of rotation of the mixer can coincide with the axis of symmetry.

[0063] The at least one mixing element is for a lamella, a spike, a hook or a rod. The at least one mixing element is for a ring around the central member. The at least one mixing element is for a thread or a helix, or includes the latter.

[0064] The application device can have at least one mixing element. The mixing element can be located on the wall, particularly on the inner side of the wall of the mixing tube, and extend into the mixing space. The mixing element can extend towards the central axis of the mixing tube. The mixing element is for a ring. The mixing element can be provided as a lamella, a spike, a hook or a rod, or wherein at least one mixing element is for a regular or irregular structure.

[0065] The mixing tube can be substantially straight. This may mean that the center line of the mixing tube or the mixing space is equally straight. The mixing tube can be arranged in a substantially vertical manner. The first end can be located above the second end. The length of the mixing tube can be greater than the inner diameter of the tube wall. The inner side of the tube wall can be rotationally symmetric about the central axis.

[0066] A moving device can be used on the lifting cylinder, particularly an electric lifting cylinder or an electro-hydraulic lifting cylinder, or includes the latter.

[0067] According to an embodiment, the application device includes a plurality of first injection units and / or a plurality of second injection units and / or a plurality of third injection units. Correspondingly, the application system can include a plurality of first metering devices, a plurality of first devices for material handling, a plurality of second metering devices, a plurality of second devices for material handling, and a plurality of third metering devices.

[0068] The injection unit is used to receive the material flow of the corresponding component from the corresponding metering device.

[0069] Through the mixing space, a mixing section can be defined from the first end to the second end. A plurality of injection units can each be used to inject a corresponding one of the plurality of components into the mixing space at corresponding positions along the mixing section.

[0070] The first injection unit is used to inject the first component at a first position along the mixing section. The second injection unit is used to inject the second component at a second position, which is at or behind the first position along the mixing section. The second component can be or include a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air. The third injection unit is used to inject the third component at a third position. The third position can be at or behind the second position along the mixing section.

[0071] The mixer is used to mix the injected components with each other according to the order in which they have been injected or are being injected at corresponding positions along or relative to the mixing section or along the mixing space. The injected components can also be mixed with each other according to this order. By mixing the injected components, a multi-component mixture can be prepared. Subsequently, the multi-component mixture can be discharged from the mixing tube and the application device through the second end of the mixing tube and can be applied to an object.

[0072] The closed first end can be sealed relative to the components injected into the mixing space. The unclosed second end is used to discharge the produced multi-component mixture from the mixing tube. The mixing section can be defined as the route along which the central axis of the mixing tube extends from the first end to the second end. The corresponding positions along the mixing section can be defined as the projections of the corresponding injection points on the tube center line.

[0073] The injection unit can also be referred to as an injection unit. Each injection unit can have a nozzle, which is used to inject the corresponding component into the mixing space.

[0074] The mixer is used to first mix the first component and the second component with each other along the mixing section. The mixer is used to then mix the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component with each other. Accordingly, the method of embodiments and aspects of the present invention can also include mixing the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component through the mixer to prepare a multi-component mixture containing the third component.

[0075] By rotating the mixer, the mixing of the components can be achieved. The mixer can rotate around a rotation axis. The rotation axis can be substantially parallel to the central axis or the center line of the mixing tube.

[0076] The injection unit can include at least one fourth injection unit, which is used to inject the fourth component at a fourth position, which is in front of the third position along the mixing section, especially between the second position and the third position.

[0077] The injection unit may include at least one fifth injection unit for injecting a fifth component at a fifth position that is in front of the third position along the mixing section, particularly between the second and third positions, and particularly behind the fourth position.

[0078] The mixer is configured to first mix a first component and a second component along the mixing section, and then mix the mixture of the first and second components with a fourth component or a fifth component, or subsequently mix the mixture of the first and second components and the fourth component, and then mix the mixture of the first, second, and fourth components with the fifth component. The mixer is configured to mix the mixture of the first, second, fourth, and / or fifth components with a third component.

[0079] Each injection unit may be located on the mixing tube, particularly on the tube wall of the mixing tube. For example, the injection unit is located on the outer side of the tube wall.

[0080] The mixing tube may have a plurality of injection points for injecting a respective one of the components. The injection points are holes or drillings that penetrate the tube wall. Each injection unit may be located on a respective injection point. Each injection unit is configured to be attached to a respective one of the injection points. Each injection point may correspond to a specific position along the mixing section defined by the mixing space.

[0081] At least one of the plurality of injection units is configured to be detachable from the mixing tube, particularly from the tube wall of the mixing tube, and / or is configured to be movable along the mixing tube. Thus, the injection units may be located at different injection points on the mixing tube. Accordingly, the respective components may be injected into the mixing space at at least two different positions along the mixing section. As a result, the injection and mixing sequence of the components can be made more flexible.

[0082] The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of first injection units, such as two or three. The plurality of first injection units may each be configured to inject a respective one of a plurality of first components at a respective one of a plurality of first positions along the mixing section. The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of second injection units, such as two or three. The plurality of second injection units may each be configured to inject a respective one of the plurality of first components at a respective one of a plurality of second positions along the mixing section. In particular, each second position may be behind each first position along the mixing section. The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of third injection units, such as two or three. The plurality of third injection units may each be configured to inject a respective one of a plurality of fourth components at a respective one of a plurality of second positions along the mixing section. In particular, each third position may be behind each second position along the mixing section. This also applies to the fourth and fifth injection units. It is also possible to inject at least one of each of the first to fifth components multiple times.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, the plurality of injection units may have a plurality of first injection units, wherein each of the plurality of first injection units is configured to inject a first component at a respective one of a plurality of first positions. The plurality of injection units may have a plurality of third injection units, wherein each of the plurality of second injection units is configured to inject a third component at a respective one of a plurality of third positions. As a result, it may vary depending on the specific positions of the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth components or the specific units used for injection into the mixing space. This is advantageous if one of the injection units has to be repaired. Then, for the same component, it is possible to deviate to another injection unit.

[0084] At least one of the first, third, fourth, and fifth components may be or include a fluid, and / or may be a liquid (at 20 °C and 1 bar). In particular, the first component and / or the third component may be a liquid. The dynamic viscosity of the component, in particular determined at 20 °C according to DIN EN ISO 2884, is between 0.5 mPa·s and 100,000 mPa·s.

[0085] Each of the at least first, third, fourth, and fifth components may be one of the following or include at least one of the following: water, initiator, inhibitor, accelerator, promoter, monomer, monomer for polyurethane polymerization, polyol, diol, polyisocyanate, isocyanate, diisocyanate, moist air. Preferably, each component contains at most one monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The at least second component may be one of the following or include at least one of the following: technical gas, N2, CO2, NO, a mixture of at least two of these gases.

[0086] By mixing a plurality of components, a multi-component mixture can be prepared. In particular, by mixing a gas or a gas mixture with at least one other component, a foam can be produced. This can also be referred to as foaming, in particular physical foaming. In particular, by mixing the first component and / or the third component with a gas or a gas mixture, a foam can be produced.

[0087] The first component may include a first monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The third component may include a second monomer for polyurethane polymerization. Polyurethane can be polymerized by a chemical reaction of the first monomer with the second monomer. After the polyurethane is discharged from the mixing space, the polymerization can take place in the mixing space and / or outside the mixing space. Polyurethane can be foamed by a gas or a gas mixture, in particular physical foaming.

[0088] The first component can be or include a polyol, in particular a diol, and / or the third component can be or include a polyisocyanate, in particular a diisocyanate. Alternatively, the first component can be or include a polyisocyanate, and / or the third component can be or include a polyol. The fourth component can in particular be or include an accelerator or booster for the third component and / or the first component. The fifth component can particularly be water or include water. Water injection is used to flush the mixer and / or the mixing tube.

[0089] The application device can include a flushing injection unit. The flushing injection unit is used to inject a flushing medium into the mixing space to flush the mixing space. The flushing medium can be or include a fluid, in particular water. Relative to the first to fifth injection units, the flushing injection unit can inject the flushing medium into the mixing space at any position along the mixing section. Additionally or alternatively, one of the first to fifth injection units is used to inject the flushing medium.

[0090] The prepared multi-component mixture can emerge independently from the mixing tube and the application device at the second end. This can particularly occur when the mixing tube is vertically arranged. Then, the material of the multi-component mixture has emerged due to gravity. Since the first end of the mixing tube is closed and the components are injected into the mixing space, the material of the multi-component mixture will also be extruded from the mixing tube by the material of the inflowing injected components. Alternatively or additionally, the mixer can be configured such that the rotation of the mixer forces the material of the multi-component mixture to leave the mixing tube.

[0091] The prepared multi-component mixture can be a foam, in particular a PU foam. The resulting multi-component mixture can be applied to or introduced into an object. In particular, the PU foam can be applied to or introduced into a lithium-ion battery.

[0092] The object can be a lithium-based battery or cell, or can be a lithium-ion battery or cell. The multi-component mixture can be or include a polyurethane foam.

[0093] Each metering device is also used to set the volume flow of the corresponding component. The first metering device is used to measure the mass flow and / or volume flow of the first component. The third metering device is used to measure the mass flow and / or volume flow of the third component. Based on pressure, temperature, and / or molar volume, the conversion between the volume or volume flow and the mass or mass flow of each component can be performed in a simple manner.

[0094] According to a preferred embodiment, the application system includes at least two first devices for material handling of the first component and / or at least two second devices for material handling of the third component. Here, each first device can supply a material stream to the first metering device. The first metering device is configured to receive a material stream from one of the two first metering devices, or simultaneously receive material streams from both first devices for material handling. This also applies to the second devices for material handling and the third metering device for the third component. By providing two material handling devices for each component, it is ensured that the corresponding metering device continuously receives a material stream. Thus, continuous operation of the application system can be ensured.

[0095] The first component and / or the third component can be injected into the mixing space in a air-free state and / or a gas-free state.

[0096] The mixer is configured to mix the injected components with each other according to the order of injection at corresponding positions along the mixing section.

[0097] The first pressure sensor is configured to measure the pressure in the mixing space at a first position or at a position along the mixing section in a region between the first position and the second position. The second pressure sensor is configured to measure the pressure in the mixing space at a second position or at a position along the mixing section in a region between the second position and the third position. The third pressure sensor is configured to measure the pressure in the region of the third position in the mixing space, or the pressure at a position along the mixing section after the third position, and / or the pressure between the third position and the second end.

[0098] The application system is configured to mix the first component and / or the third component with a gas or a gas mixture in the mixing chamber of the application device, in particular only in the mixing chamber.

[0099] The application system is configured to mix the first component with a gas or a gas mixture in the direction of the material flow of the first component or relative to this direction, rather than upstream of the first metering device or upstream of the application device. The application system can be used to mix the third component with a gas or a gas mixture in the direction of the material flow of the third component or relative to this direction, rather than upstream of the third metering device or upstream of the application device.

[0100] The second metering device may include a measuring unit and an actuator. The measuring unit may be a gas mass sensor or a gas quantity sensor. The actuator may be a controlled or regulated gas valve, in particular a proportional gas valve. The measuring unit is used to receive the flow rate of a gas or a gas mixture from the gas supply device of the application system, measure the mass flow and / or the volume flow, and supply the flow rate to the actuator. The actuator is used to receive the flow rate, set the mass flow and / or the volume flow of the gas or the gas mixture, and supply the flow rate to the second injection unit. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator is used to set the pressure in the pipeline guiding the flow of the gas or the gas mixture material, preferably the second pipeline. Alternatively or additionally, the measuring unit is used to set the quantity and / or the volume flow and / or the mass flow of the flow rate of the gas or the gas mixture. For air, the measuring unit may be an air quality sensor or an air quantity sensor, the gas valve may be an air valve, the gas supply device may be an air supply device for an air pump or including an air pump. The quantity sensor may also be referred to as a flow meter.

[0101] The application system may further include a first pipeline located between the gas supply device and the second metering device, preferably a passage, a hose or a conduit. The application system may include a second pipeline, preferably a passage, a hose or a conduit, located between the second metering device and the application device for guiding the flow of the gas or the gas mixture. The pipeline may also be referred to as a fluid conducting element.

[0102] The application system may further include a first pipeline pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the first pipeline, in particular the gas pressure or the air pressure. The application system may include a second pipeline pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the second pipeline, in particular the gas pressure or the air pressure.

[0103] The application system may further include a regulating unit. The regulating unit may include a computing unit, such as a microprocessor. The methods of the embodiments and aspects of the present invention may include control steps. The regulating unit is used to perform the control steps. Control may be performed using the regulating unit.

[0104] The control may include actuating the rotating device of the mixer and / or the first metering device and / or the second metering device and (or) the third metering device and / or the gas supply device. The regulating unit is used to actuate the rotating device, the first metering device, the second metering device, the third metering device and / or the gas supply device accordingly.

[0105] Actuation of the rotation device is used to set the rotational speed of the mixer. Actuation of the first metering device is used to set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the first component. Actuation of the second metering device is used to set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the second component. Actuation of the second metering device may include actuating an actuator and / or a measuring unit, which is used to set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the second component and / or the pressure in the pipeline for guiding the gas or gas mixture. Actuation of the third metering device is used to set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the third component. Actuation of the gas supply device is used to set the flow pressure of the gas or gas mixture and / or the pressure in the pipeline (such as the first or second pipeline) for guiding the gas or gas mixture material flow.

[0106] This control can be carried out based on the set value of the ratio between the mass flow rate of the second component and the mass flow rate of the first component, and / or the set value of the ratio between the mass flow rate of the second component and the mass flow rate of the third component and / or the ratio between the mass flow rate of the first component and the mass flow rate of the third component, especially the ratio of the respective mass flow rates injected into the mixing chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the control can also be carried out based on the ratio between the corresponding volume flow rates.

[0107] Alternatively or additionally, the control can be executed based on the value of the mass flow rate of the second component and / or the mass flow rate of the first component and / or the value of the volume flow rate of the third component and / or the value of the rotational speed of the mixer and / or the pressure value in the mixing chamber and / or the pressure value in the first pipeline and / or the pressure value in the first or second pipeline. This value can be the set value or measured value of the corresponding specified variable. Alternatively or additionally, the control can also be carried out based on the value of the corresponding volume flow rate.

[0108] The control can include controlling the mixing ratio of multiple components in the multi-component mixture. The control can include controlling the ratio between the mass and / or volume of the second component and the weight and / or volume of at least one other component in the multi-component mixture. The control can include controlling the ratio between the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the second component and the mass flow rate or volume flow rate of at least one of the other components. The control can include controlling the ratio between the mass and / or volume of the second component and the weight and / or volume of at least one other component in the multi-component mixture. This control can also be correspondingly applied to each other component. The mass flow rate or volume flow rate can be the flow rate of the material flow of the component injected into the mixing chamber.

[0109] The control may include controlling the ratio between the mass flow of the second component and the mass flow rate of the first component and / or controlling the ratio of the mass flow of the second component to the mass flow of the third component, and / or the ratio between the amount flow rate of the first component and the mass flow of the third component. Alternatively or additionally, the control may also be performed by controlling the ratio between the respective volume flows of the components. In particular, the control may be performed by actuating the second metering device and / or actuating the first metering device and / or actuating the third metering device and (or) actuating the gas supply device and / or actuating the rotating device. The setpoint value of the ratio may be predefined by an adjustment unit or an external system or the user of the application device. The setpoint value may be predefined by a mathematical function.

[0110] The control may include controlling the mass flow and / or volume flow of the second component. In particular, the control is proportional to the mass flow and / or volume flow of the first component and / or is proportional to the mass flow and / or volume flow of the third component and / or is proportional to the rotational speed of the mixer. In particular, the control may be performed by actuating the second metering device and / or actuating the first metering device and / or actuating the third metering device and (or) actuating the gas supply device and / or actuating the rotating device.

[0111] The control may include controlling the pressure of the second component, particularly in a pipeline for guiding the material flow of the second component, such as the first pipeline or the second pipeline, and / or at the second injection point of the second component, such that the pressure is greater than the pressure in the mixing space, preferably greater than 1 bar, preferably at a position in the first position region along the mixing section. This control can be achieved in particular by activating the gas supply device and / or the second metering device.

[0112] The control may include controlling the pressure of the second component, particularly the pressure in the pipeline for guiding the material flow of the second component and / or at the second injection point of the second component, such that the second component is injected into the mixing space at a greater pressure than the first component and / or the third component. Preferably, the difference may be 1 bar or greater.

[0113] The control may include controlling the rotational speed of the mixer, particularly in such a way that the rotational speed is proportional to the mass flow and / or volume of the first component and / or is proportional to the volume flow and mass of the third component. This control can be performed in particular by actuating the rotating device.

[0114] The first component and / or the third component may be injected into the mixing space in a state without air and / or without gas. The first component may pass through the first metering device in a state without air or without gas. The third component may pass through the third metering device in a state without air or without gas. The application system may be configured such that the first component and / or the third component are injected and / or pass through the corresponding metering devices in a state without air or without gas.

[0115] The first metering device is used to receive a material stream of a first component from a first device for material processing. The third metering device is used to receive a material stream of a third component from a second device for material processing.

[0116] In each case, the mixing tube may also have another transition section between two of the plurality of sections. The tube wall in each transition section may have a variable inner diameter along the central axis, preferably a linearly variable inner diameter.

[0117] The mixer may have a corresponding section for each section of the mixing tube, wherein each section of the mixing tube overlaps with the corresponding section of the mixer in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the mixing tube. This plane may include the radial direction of the mixing tube.

[0118] The inner diameter of the mixing tube may be greater than the outer diameter of the mixer along the central axis of the mixing tube between the first end and the second end. The inner diameter of the mixing tube may be defined as the inner diameter of the tube wall, wherein any mixing elements of the mixing tube are not considered. The extent of the mixer in a plane including the radial direction of the mixing tube may be defined as the outer diameter of the mixer, wherein any mixing elements of the mixer are taken into account.

[0119] The material processing device (hereinafter also referred to as the material processing device), in particular the first material processing device and / or the third material processing device, may include a material container and a pump device. The material container is used to process the corresponding components. The pump device may have an inlet and an outlet. The inlet of the pump device may be connected in fluid communication to the material container such that the components can be introduced into the pump device from the material container. The pump device is used to supply the components at a pressure of at least 15 bar at the outlet of the pump device.

[0120] According to another aspect of the present invention, a material processing method is provided. The method may include the following steps: processing a component, in particular the first component or the third component, in a material container; introducing the component from the material container into the inlet of the pump device; increasing the pressure of the component by the pump device; and discharging the component from the outlet of the pump device. The component may have a pressure of at least 15 bar at the outlet of the pump device.

[0121] Any material processing device disclosed herein is used for this material processing method.

[0122] In addition, the use of the material processing device disclosed herein for processing components for polyurethane polymerization is also disclosed. The component may be a monomer for polyurethane polymerization.

[0123] The application device, in particular the first injection unit, can be connected in fluid communication to the outlet of the first device for material processing. The application device, in particular the third injection unit, can be connected in fluid communication to the outlet of the second device for material processing. As a result, the first component and the third component can be introduced into the application device, in particular the mixing space. The application device is used to mix the first component and the third component to form a mixture or a multi-component mixture and apply the mixture to an object, in particular a common battery or a storage battery.

[0124] The pressure values disclosed herein also relate to absolute pressure values. Therefore, the pressure values are related to absolute vacuum. The ambient pressure is about 1 bar.

[0125] By processing each component, a constant state of the component can be achieved before supplying a relatively high pressure to the component for further processing, so as to achieve high metering accuracy at a high volume flow rate. For example, components are usually supplied in a bucket, such as a component containing monomers for polyurethane polymerization. If the components are stirred to ensure a uniform distribution of substances in the components, air is introduced into the components. The amount of introduced air can vary, making it more difficult to accurately meter the material.

[0126] At the inlet of the pump device, the pressure of this component can be less than 1.0 bar. Preferably, this component has a pressure less than 0.9 bar at the inlet of the pump device, more preferably less than 0.8 bar, more preferably less than 0.7 bar, and most preferably less than 0.6 bar. The pressure of this component at the inlet of the pump device may be lower than the ambient air pressure. There may be a vacuum at the inlet of the pump device.

[0127] The pump device can include or be a high-pressure pump. The pump device can include or be a piston pump. Preferably, the pump device includes or is a high-pressure piston pump.

[0128] The pump device may not include a diaphragm pump. That is, a diaphragm pump cannot be included in the pump device.

[0129] The pump device is used to provide a component at the outlet of the pump device at a pressure of at least 60 bar. Preferably, the pump device is used to provide a component at the outlet of the pump device at a pressure of at least 60 bar, more preferably at least 100 bar, more preferably at least 200 bar, and more preferably at least 300 bar.

[0130] The pump device can be configured to supply a component at the outlet of the pump device at a pressure between 15 bar and 350 bar, especially between 20 bar and 350 bar.

[0131] The pump device is used to increase the pressure of the material from the inlet to the outlet by at least 15 bar, preferably at least 60 bar, more preferably at least 100 bar, further preferably at least 200 bar, and most preferably at least 300 bar.

[0132] The pump device is used to control, regulate or set the volumetric flow or mass flow of the components at the outlet of the pump device.

[0133] The pump device may include a driver. The driver may be a hydraulic driver, especially a servo-hydraulic driver.

[0134] The material container may include at least one processing unit. The processing unit is used to process the corresponding components in the material container. In particular, the processing unit is used to heat, degas, place under vacuum, stir and / or mix the components in the material container.

[0135] The material container can be heated. Preferably, the material container includes at least one heating element. The heating element may be an electric heating element. The heating element is used to heat the temperature of the corresponding component in the material container to at least 30 °C, preferably at least 40 °C, more preferably at least 50 °C, more preferably at least 60 °C, more preferably at least 70 °C, more preferably at least 80 °C, and even most preferably at least 100 °C.

[0136] There may be a vacuum in the material container. The pressure in the material container may be lower than the ambient air pressure. The pressure in the material container may be less than 1.0 bar, preferably less than 0.8 bar, more preferably less than 0.6 bar, even more preferably less than 0.5 bar, and most preferably less than 0.4 bar.

[0137] The material container may include a vacuum unit. The vacuum unit is used to supply a vacuum in the material container. The vacuum unit cannot be a part of the material container, especially cannot be connected to the material container.

[0138] The material container is used to stir the components in the material container. Preferably, the material container includes a stirrer, more preferably a movable stirrer. The stirrer can be driven by a driver.

[0139] The component may include monomers for polyurethane polymerization. The component can be mixed with another monomer downstream of the pump device for polyurethane polymerization. Polyurethane can be polymerized by the chemical reaction of the monomers.

[0140] Preferably, the component contains at most one monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The component may include polyols. In particular, the component includes diols. The component may include polyisocyanates. In particular, the component includes diisocyanates. The component may be a liquid (at 20 °C and 1 bar).

[0141] The dynamic viscosity of the component, especially measured at 20 °C according to DIN EN ISO 2884, is between 0.5 mPa·s and 100000 mPa·s.

[0142] Typically, the first component may include a first monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The third component may include a second monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The polyurethane may be polymerized by a chemical reaction of the first monomer and the second monomer. The polyurethane may be foamed by a gas, particularly a physical foam.

[0143] According to another aspect of the present invention, an application device is provided for mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture to an object.

[0144] The application device may include a mixing tube having a first end and a second end for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube, wherein the mixing tube includes a mixing space. The mixing space may be located between the first end and the second end.

[0145] The application device may further include a plurality of injection units, each injection unit for injecting a respective one of the multiple components into the mixing space. The injection unit may include at least one first injection unit for injecting the first component, at least one second injection unit for injecting the second component, particularly a gas or a gas mixture, and a third injection unit for injecting the third component, preferably air. A plurality of injection units may be provided on the mixer.

[0146] The application device further includes a mixer at least partially located in the mixing space for mixing the injected components with each other. The mixer may be particularly adapted to mix the injected components with each other in the mixing space, preferably along the mixing space and / or along the mixing tube. The mixer may be fully disposed in the mixing space.

[0147] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of mixing multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture is provided. The method includes the steps of injecting a first component into a mixing space in a mixing tube of an application device through a first injection unit of the application device, injecting a second component, particularly a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, into the mixing space through a second injection unit of the application device, and mixing the first component with the second component by a mixer located in the mixing space to produce a multi-component mixture.

[0148] The method may include injecting a third component into the mixing space through a third injection unit of the application device and mixing the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component to prepare a multi-component mixture containing the third component. The method may further include discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube, particularly the second open end of the mixer. The method may further include applying the multi-component mixture to an object or introducing the multi-component mixture into an object. Mixing may include rotating the mixer.

[0149] The first component can be injected at a first position along a mixing section defined by a mixing space, the second component can be injected at a second position along the mixing section that is at or after the first position, and the third component can be injected at a third position along the mixing section that is at or after the second position.

[0150] The method may further include at least one of the following steps: setting a mass flow and / or a volume flow of a material stream of the first component and supplying the material stream to at least one first injection unit of an application device, setting a mass flow and / or a volume flow of a feed stream of the second component and supplying the material stream of the second component to the at least one second injection unit of the application device, setting a mass flow and / or a volume flow of a material stream of the third component and supplying the material stream to a third injection unit of the application device.

[0151] According to another aspect, an application system is specified, which includes an application device according to aspects and embodiments of the present invention. The application system may include at least one device for material handling according to aspects and embodiments of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0152] Aspects of the present invention are explained below based on the drawings. In the figures:

[0153] Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0154] Figure 1B A schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to a further embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0155] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a part of an application device according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0156] Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B A schematic cross-sectional view showing different positions of a mixing tube and a second end of a mixer of an application device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0157] Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B A schematic cross-sectional view showing different positions of a mixing tube and a second end of a mixer of an application device according to a further embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0158] Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B A schematic cross-sectional view showing different positions of a mixing tube and a second end of a mixer of an application device according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0159] Figure 6 A schematic view of a mixing section according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0160] Figure 7 Shows an apparatus for material handling according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0161] Figure 8 Shows an enlarged view of a material container of an apparatus for material handling according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0162] Figure 9 Shows a schematic diagram of an application system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0163] Figure 10 Shows a flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0164] Figure 11 Shows a flowchart of a method according to a further embodiment of the present invention; and

[0165] Figure 12 Shows a diagram for illustrating control steps of a method of mixing multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture and introducing / applying the multi-component mixture into / onto an object according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0166] Hereinafter, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding elements.

[0167] Figure 1A Shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1B Shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 Shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a part of an application device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] An application device 1 is used to mix multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture and introduce / apply the multi-component mixture into / onto an object G. The multi-component mixture is, for example, a polyurethane foam.

[0169] The PU foam can be applied into / onto an object by the application device 1. For example, the object G is a lithium-ion battery or a battery cell. For example, the PU foam can be introduced into the internal space of the battery and / or the intermediate space between the battery cells of the battery. For example, polyurethane foam is used for fire protection.

[0170] The application device 1 includes a mixing tube 2 having a first end 3 and a second end 4. The first end 3 is closed. This means that this end is sealed with respect to the components of the multi-component mixture injected into the mixing tube 2. The second end 4 is open for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2. Between the first end 3 and the second end 4, the mixing tube 2 includes a mixing space 5. The mixing space 5 defines a mixing section 6 starting from the first end 3 towards the second end 4. The mixing space 5 is located in the mixing tube 2. The mixing space 5 can also be referred to as a mixing chamber.

[0171] The mixing tube 2 is substantially linear. This means that the center line 10 of the mixing tube 2 is also straight. The center line 10 can also be referred to as the central axis. The mixing tube 2 has a tube wall 19. As shown, the inner side of the tube wall 19 can be substantially rotationally symmetric about the central axis 10. The inner side of the tube wall 19 is adjacent to the mixing space 5. The mixing tube 2 is substantially vertically arranged. This means that the central axis 10 extends substantially along the vertical space direction z.

[0172] As shown, the mixing tube 2 has a plurality of parts 2a, 2b, 2c along the central axis 10. In Figure 1A and Figure 1B the embodiment, the mixing tube has two parts 2a, 2b. In Figure 2 the embodiment, the mixing tube has three parts 2a, 2b, 2c. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first part 2a is located at or near the first end 3, and the second part 2b is located between the first part 2a and the second end 4 along the central axis 10. The third part 2c can be located at or near the second end 4. For example, the third part 2c is located between the second part 2c and the second end 4 along the central axis 10.

[0173] The tube wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 has a substantially constant inner diameter within each part 2a, 2b, 2c. However, the tube wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 has different inner diameters between the parts 2a, 2b, 2c. In addition, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in the part 2a is different from that in the part 2b. Additionally, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in the part 2b is different from that in the part 2c. Moreover, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in the part 2a is different from that in the part 2c. When considering the inner diameter, any mixing elements 16 as will be described in detail later can be not considered.

[0174] As Figure 1A and Figure 1B shown, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in the first part 2a is larger than that in the second part 2b. The first part 2a can also be referred to as the upper material chamber of the mixing tube 2, and the second part 2b can also be referred to as the lower material chamber.

[0175] As Figure 2As shown, the inner diameter of the pipe wall 19 in the third part 2a is larger than that in the parts 2a and 2b. According to a further embodiment, the inner diameter in the third part 2c can also be smaller than that in the parts 2a and 2b.

[0176] As shown in the figure, further transition sections 2d, 2e of the mixing pipe 2 can be located between the sections 2a, 2b, 2c. In the transition sections 2d and 2e, the pipe wall 19 of the mixing pipe has a varying inner diameter. For example, the inner diameter can vary linearly along the central axis 10. Thus, a transition can be created between the different inner diameters of the respective parts 2a, 2b, 2c.

[0177] The pipe wall 19 of the mixing pipe 2 has injection points 20a, 20b, 20c for the respective injection units 7a, 7b, 7c, which will be described in detail below. As shown in the figure, the injection points are located on the pipe wall 19 of the mixing pipe 2. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The injection points are only used to supply a passage for the injection units to enter the mixing chamber 5 for injecting components. The injection points are holes or openings passing through the pipe wall 19.

[0178] The application device 1 further includes a plurality of injection units 7a, 7b, 7c. The application device is all used to inject the respective components into the mixing space 5. As shown in the figure, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c are located on the pipe wall 19 of the mixing pipe 2, more precisely, on the outer side of the pipe wall 19, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Each injection unit 7a, 7b, 7c is located at the respective injection points 20, 20b, 20c and is used to inject the respective components into the mixing chamber 5 via the injection points. Thus, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c inject the respective components at the predetermined positions Pa, Pb, Pc of the component along the mixing section 6.

[0179] As Figure 1A shown in the example of the injection units 7b and 7c, each injection unit 7a, 7b, 7c can have a nozzle. Each injection unit is also used to stop the injection of the component. For this purpose, each injection unit 7a, 7b, 7c can have a corresponding inlet valve, which is used for a needle valve, for example. The inlet valves 7a, 7b, 7c are used for PWM valves. Thus, the injection of each component into the mixing chamber 5 can be completely stopped. For example, this is necessary when enough PU foam has been applied to the object G and a change is made to the next object G'. Then, the material flow of the respective component can be briefly interrupted by the inlet valve.

[0180] A first injection unit 7a is provided for injecting a first component at a first position Pa along the mixing section 6 via a first injection point 20a. A second injection unit 7b is provided for injecting a second component at a second position Pb along the mixing section 6 via a second injection point 20b. A third injection unit 7c is provided for injecting a third component at a third position Pc along the mixing section 6 via a third injection point 20c. The second position Pb is behind the first position Pa along the mixing section 6, and the third position Pc is behind the second position Pb along the mixing section 6.

[0181] For cleaning and flushing the application device 1, in particular the mixing tube 2, the mixer 8 and the mixing space 5, only air or the first component is injected into the mixing space 5. According to an embodiment not shown, the application device 1 may further include a flushing injection unit. The flushing injection unit is used to inject a flushing medium into the mixing space 5 to flush the mixing space 5 from the first to the third components. The flushing medium may be water. The flushing injection unit may inject the flushing medium into the mixing space 5 at any position along the mixing section 6. Additionally or alternatively, the injection unit is used to inject the flushing medium.

[0182] In Figure 1B the embodiment of, there is a fourth injection unit 7d for injecting a fourth component. The fourth injection unit 7d is located at an injection point 20d, and the injection point 20d is at the same height as the injection point 20c of the third injection unit 7c. The injection point 20d may be opposite to the injection point 20c on the tube wall 19 with respect to the central axis 10. Therefore, the fourth component is injected at the same position 20c along the mixing section 6 as the third component. According to an embodiment not shown, the fourth injection unit 7d may be in front of the third position along the mixing section 6, particularly between the second and the third positions.

[0183] The injection unit may include a fifth injection unit (not shown) for injecting a fifth component at a fifth position that is in front of the third position along the mixing section 6, particularly between the second and the third positions, for example, after the fourth position. The fourth component may particularly be a booster for the third component. The fifth component may particularly be water. According to an embodiment, there may also be multiple first, second, third, fourth, and / or fifth injection units.

[0184] The first to third injection units 7a, 7b, 7c are all used for injecting fluids. According to an embodiment, the second injection unit 7b injects a gas or a gas mixture (such as air) as a component into the mixing space 5. The first component 7a injects a polyol as the second component, and the third injection unit 7b injects a polyisocyanate as a component, and vice versa.

[0185] At least one of the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c is detachable from the tube wall 19, as Figure 1AAs shown for the injection unit 7c. Thus, it can be offset and attached to another injection point, such as injection point 20c'. As a result, the third component can be flexibly injected at multiple positions Pc, Pc' along the mixing section 6.

[0186] The application device 1 further includes a first pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring the pressure in the region of the mixing space 5 adjacent to the first part 2a of the mixing tube 2. Alternatively or additionally, the first pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure at a position along the mixing section 6 in the region of the first position Pa, or the pressure at a position between the first position Pa and the second position Pb.

[0187] Furthermore, the application device 1 may have a second pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring the pressure in the region of the mixing space 5 adjacent to the second part 2b of the mixing tube 2. Alternatively or additionally, the second pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure at a position along the mixing section 6 in the region of the second position Pb, or the pressure at a position between the second position Pb and the third position Pc. The application device 1 may also include a third pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring the pressure in the region of the mixing space 5 adjacent to the second end of the mixing tube 4 and / or adjacent to the third part 2c. Alternatively or additionally, the third pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure at a position along the mixing section 6 in the region of the third position Pc, or the pressure at a position after the third position Pc and / or the pressure between the third position Pc and the second end 4.

[0188] The application device 1 further includes a mixer 8 that is at least partially located in the mixing space 5. The mixer 8 can be completely located in the mixing space 5. Preferably, the central member 12 and the mixing elements 13 of the mixer 8 can be located in the mixing space 5. The mixer 8 is for the rotor. The mixer 8 is used to mix the injected components. For this purpose, the mixer 8 rotates in the mixing space 5. The rotation axis of the mixer 8 is preferably parallel to or coincides with the central axis of the mixing tube 2. For the purpose of rotating the mixer, the application device 1 can have a rotating device 15, such as an electric motor. The mixer 8 and the mixing tube 2 can be produced by 3D printing.

[0189] The mixer 8 mixes the injected components along the mixing space 5 or along the mixing section 6. The mixer 8 mixes the injected components according to the order of injection at the corresponding positions along the mixing section 6. By mixing the injected components, a multi-component mixture is prepared. For example, polyurethane foam is made by mixing polyisocyanate with polyol and air.

[0190] The subsequently prepared multi-component mixture automatically escapes from the mixing tube 2 and the mixer at the second end 4. This occurs when the mixing tube 2 is arranged vertically and the material of the multi-component mixture escapes due to gravity. Since the upper first end 3 of the mixing tube 4 is closed, and when the components are continuously injected into the mixing space 5, the material of the inflowing injected components extrudes the material of the multi-component mixture out of the mixing tube 5.

[0191] The mixer 8 first mixes the first component and air with each other along the mixing space 5 starting from the first end 3. Subsequently, the mixer 8 mixes the mixture of the first component and air with the third component with each other.

[0192] Since the injection point 20c of the third component is set to be lower than the injection point 20b of air, air has been added to or mixed with the first component in the upper part of the mixing tube 2, and the first component has not been mixed with the second component yet. This prevents clogging of the mixer 8.

[0193] The first end 3 of the mixing tube 2 can be particularly closed and sealed by a part of the mixer 8. Alternatively or additionally, a seal (not shown) can be supplied to close the first end 3.

[0194] The mixer 8 has a central member 12. The central member is used for substantially rotational symmetry and preferably has as small a range as possible in the radial direction to minimize the centrifugal force. The central member 12 extends along the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. The symmetry axis of the central member 12 preferably coincides with the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. In addition, the symmetry axis of the central member 12 coincides with the rotation axis of the mixer. For example, the central member 12 is used for a circular or cylindrical rod.

[0195] In addition, the mixer 8 has a plurality of mixing elements 13. The mixing elements 13 are used for effectively mixing the injected components. The mixing elements 13 are located outside the central member 12, for example, on its side surface. The mixing elements 13 extend in the radial direction of the central member 12. The mixing elements 13 can be distributed along the central member 12 and / or relative to the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. In addition, a plurality of mixing elements can be distributed along the circumferential direction of the central member.

[0196] For example, as shown in the figure, the mixing elements 13 are all used for thin sheets located on the side surface of the central member 12, wherein the mixing elements 13 each extend in the radial direction of the central member 12. The mixing elements 13 can be arranged in a star shape and / or regularly around the central member 12. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The mixing elements 13 are preferably configured and / or arranged in such a way that no imbalance occurs when the mixer 8 rotates.

[0197] In addition, a plurality of mixing elements 16 are provided, which are located inside the tube wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 and extend radially against the center axis 10 of the mixing tube 8 into the mixing space 5. As shown in the figure, the mixing elements 16 are also used for the thin flakes. As shown in the figure, the mixing elements 16 are only located in the part 2a of the mixing tube 2, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0198] As Figure 1A and Figure 1B shown, the first injection unit 7a is located on the tube wall 19 in the first part 2a of the mixing tube 2. The first injection unit 7a is used to inject the first component into the region of the mixing space 5 adjacent to the first part 2a of the mixing tube 2. In addition, the second injection unit 7b is located on the tube wall 19 in the first part 2a of the mixing tube 2. The second injection unit 7a is used to inject the second component into the region of the mixing space 5 adjacent to the first part 2a of the mixing tube 2. The third injection unit 7c is located on the tube wall 19 in the second part 2b of the mixing tube 2. The third injection unit 7c is used to inject the third component into the region of the mixing space 5 adjacent to the second part 2b of the mixing tube 2.

[0199] As Figure 2 shown, the first injection unit 7a is located on the tube wall 19 in the first part 2a of the mixing tube 2. The second injection unit 7b is located on the tube wall 19 in the second part 2b of the mixing tube 2. The second injection unit 7c is located on the tube wall 19 in the third part 2c of the mixing tube 2.

[0200] The application device 1 further includes a moving device 9. The moving device 9 can move the mixer 8 along and / or parallel to the center axis 10 of the mixing tube 2 and / or between the first end 3 and the second end 4, which is shown by the vertical double arrow in the figure. The moving device 9 is used to move the mixer 8 up and down. The moving device 9 can be, for example, a lifting cylinder, especially an electric lifting cylinder or an electro-hydraulic lifting cylinder, or a linear unit with a coil.

[0201] The mixer 8 has a plurality of parts 8a, 8b, 8c along the center axis 10 of the mixing tube 8 or along the symmetry axis of the central member 12, wherein at least two of the parts 8a, 8b, 8c have different outer diameters from each other. The (maximum) range of the mixer 8 in the plane including the radial direction of the mixing tube 2 can be regarded as the outer diameter of the mixer 8, wherein the range considering the use of the mixing element 13 for the mixer 8 is taken into account.

[0202] As Figure 1A and Figure 1B shown, the outer diameter of the mixer 8 in the first part 8a is larger than the outer diameter in the second part 8b. Along the center axis 10 of the mixing tube 2, the first part 8a is closer to the first end 3 than the second part 8b.

[0203] As Figure 2As shown, the mixer further comprises a third portion 8c, which is closer to the second end 4 of the mixing tube than the second portion 8b of the mixer along the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. The outer diameter of the third portion 8c is greater than the outer diameters of the first portion 8a and the second portion 8b. Different outer diameters can be achieved in a simple manner by extending the mixing element 13 to different lengths in the radial direction.

[0204] Reference Figures 3A to 5B The movement of the mixer 8 is described. Figures 3B to 5A Schematic cross-sectional views of the mixer 8 and the second end 3 of the mixing tube 2 of the application device at different positions are shown according to different embodiments of the present invention.

[0205] The mixer 8 can be moved between a first position and a second position along the mixing tube 2. Along the mixing tube 2, the second position can be closer to the second end 3 than the first position. On the other hand, along the mixing tube 2, the first position can be closer to the first end 3 than the second position.

[0206] According to the first embodiment, the mixer 8 for preparing the multi-component mixture and discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2 can be located in the first position. In order to close the second end 4 and prevent the multi-component mixture from accidentally leaking or dripping from the mixing tube 2, the mixer 8 can be located in the second position. For example, Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 as well as Figure 3A and Figure 4A The mixer 8 is shown in a first position. In this position, a material flow 14 of the multi-component mixture can flow out of the mixing tube 2 via the second end 4.

[0207] The mixer 8 can be moved from a first position to a second position in the direction of the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2. For example, Figure 3B and Figure 4B The mixer 8 is shown in a first position. The effect of this method is that the mixing tube 2 is sealed with respect to the material flow 14 of the injection component and / or multi-component mixture out of the second end 4.

[0208] The mixing tube 2 may have at least one sealing element 17. The sealing element 17 is located in the region of the second end 4. The mixer 8 may likewise have a sealing element 18. The effect of the movement of the mixer 8 towards the second end 4 into the second position is that the sealing element 18 of the mixer 8 comes into contact with the sealing element 17 of the mixing tube 2, thereby sealing the mixing tube 2.

[0209] like Figure 3A and Figure 3BAs shown, the sealing element 17 is for a conical seat. Here, the sealing element 17 is formed by the second end 4 itself. The end 11 of the mixer 8 forms a sealing element 18 which is configured conically or frustoconically on its outer side. According to an embodiment not shown, the mixer 8 can have a needle-like or pointed tip 11. Thus, the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 and the end 11 of the mixer 8 also form a needle valve.

[0210] As Figure 4A and Figure 4B shown, the sealing element 17 is for a ring that extends radially inward from the inner side of the tube wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 towards the central axis 10. The sealing element 24 of the mixer 8 is also for a ring that extends radially of the mixer 8 from the side surface of the central member 12. In the radial direction, the sealing element 18 overlaps the sealing element 17.

[0211] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The illustrated embodiment of the application device is similar in construction to Figure 4A and Figure 4B the illustrated embodiment, but with the following difference: The positions of the sealing element 17 and the sealing element 18 relative to the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 are reversed. Thus, the mixer 8 for preparing the multi-component mixture and discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2 is in the second position. To close the second end 4 to prevent accidental leakage of the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2, the mixer 8 is in the first position. For example, Figure 5B shows the mixer 8 in the second position. In this position, the multi-component mixture Chengdu material flow 14 can flow from the mixing tube 2 via the second end 4.

[0212] The mixer 8 can be moved from the second position to the first position. For example, Figure 5A shows the mixer 8 in the first position. The effect of this movement is that the mixing tube 2 can be sealed relative to the injection component and / or the material flow 14 of the multi-component mixture flowing out of the second end 4.

[0213] Figure 6 Shows a schematic view of a mixing section according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0214] As explained with reference to the foregoing figures, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d inject corresponding components into the mixing space 5 through corresponding injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c′, 20d. Along the mixing space 5, the mixer 8 mixes the corresponding components in the order in which the corresponding components are injected into the mixing space 5, from the first end 3 of the mixing tube 2 towards the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2. Accordingly, the mixing space 5 defines a mixing section 6 that starts from the first end 3 of the mixing tube 2 towards the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2. Thus, the mixing section 6 is used to provide a logical or abstract description of the order in which components are injected into the mixing space 5, independent of the detailed geometry of the mixing tube 2 and / or the mixer 5.

[0215] The mixing section 6 can be regarded as an arrow or vector with the first end 3 as the origin and the second end 4 as the tip. The mixing section 6 can be regarded as the path of the central axis 10 of the mixing tube from the first end 3 towards the second end 4. If the corresponding injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c′, 20d are projected onto the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2, then corresponding positions Pa, Pb, Pc, Pc′ occur along the mixing section 6, as Figure 6 shown for Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 the embodiment of.

[0216] If the injection points are located at different positions along the central axis 10 or at different heights on the tube wall 19, then different positions are thereby produced along the mixing section 6. For example, this is the case for the injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c′ or the positions Pa, Pb, Pc, Pc′. On the other hand, if the injection points are located at the same position along the central axis 10 or at the same height on the tube wall 19, then the same positions are thereby produced along the mixing section 6. For example, this is the case for the injection points 20c, 20d and the position Pc. As Figure 1A shown, the injection points can be located at the same height along the tube wall 19 but at different positions along the circumference of the tube wall 19.

[0217] Figure 7 Fig. 1 shows a device 200 for material processing (also referred to herein as a material processing apparatus device). In Fig. 1, the material processing apparatus device is denoted by reference signs 200a, 200b since there can be a first device 200a and a second device 200b. The same applies to all elements of the material processing apparatus. The material processing apparatus device 200 is described below, where this description applies to the first material processing apparatus device 200a and the second material processing apparatus 200b.

[0218] The material processing device 200 includes a material container 210 and a pump device 220. The material container 210 is used to process the material M. The material M can be one of the first, third, fourth, and fifth components. In order to process the material M, the material container 210 can be heated. For this purpose, the material container 210 can include heating equipment (not shown in FIG. 1). The temperature in the material container 210 can be at least 10 °C higher than the ambient temperature of the material container 210, preferably at least 30 °C. Alternatively or additionally, there can be a pressure of less than 1.0 bar in the material container 210. In order to supply a negative pressure, the material container 210 can include a negative pressure unit. Alternatively or additionally, the material container 210 is used to stir or move the material M or degas the material M. For this purpose, the material container 210 can include a stirrer 11. The stirrer 11 can be moved or driven by a driver 215.

[0219] The material M can be a liquid (at 20 °C and 1 bar). The material M can be a suspension. The material M can include monomers for polyurethane polymerization. In particular, the material includes polyols or polyisocyanates.

[0220] The material M can be stored in the material container 210 and pre-treated in the material container 210. For example, the material M can be degassed in the material container 210 or adjusted to a defined physical and / or chemical state. Thus, the material can be metered precisely and reproducibly.

[0221] The pump device 220 can be located downstream of the material container 210. The material M can flow directly or via additional elements, such as fluid guiding elements of pipes or channels, into the inlet 221 of the pump device 220. There can be a pressure of less than 1.0 bar at the inlet 221 of the pump device 220. That is, there can be a vacuum for the material M at the inlet 221 of the pump device 220.

[0222] The pressure of the material M can be increased by the pump device 220. In particular, the pressure can be increased from the inlet 221 of the pump device 220 to the outlet 222 of the pump device 220, for example, increased by at least 20 bar, at least 60 bar, at least 200 bar, or even at least 300 bar. At the outlet 222 of the pump device 220, the material M can be at a pressure of at least 20 bar, at least 60 bar, at least 200 bar, or even at least 300 bar.

[0223] The pump device 220 can be a high-pressure pump. The pump device 220 can be a piston pump. In particular, the pump device 220 is a high-pressure piston pump.

[0224] The volume flow of the material (at the outlet 222 of the pump device 220) can be adjusted or controlled by the pump device 220.

[0225] The material processing device 200 may include a driver 225 for the pump device 220. The driver 225 may be a servo-hydraulic driver. The volume flow and / or mass flow of the material M may be adjusted or controlled by the driver 225.

[0226] The pump device 220 may be electrically controlled or adjustable.

[0227] The material M may be processed in a material container 210 in the material processing device 200 and introduced into the pump device 220. In the pump device 220, the pressure of the material M may be increased such that the material can be discharged from the outlet 222 of the pump device 220 at a pressure of at least 15 bar.

[0228] The material processing device 200 may be connected to or include an adjustment unit 207. The adjustment unit 207 may be connected to the device in a wired or wireless manner. The adjustment unit 207 is used to control or adjust the material container 210 and / or the pump device 220. In particular, the adjustment unit 207 is used to control or adjust the driver 215 of the stirrer 211 and / or the driver 225 of the pump device 220. The adjustment unit may be Figure 7 the adjustment unit 107.

[0229] Figure 8 A detailed view of the material container 210 is shown. The material M is contained or stored in the material container 210. The material M is processed in the material container 210. For example, the material container 210 may supply a vacuum or negative pressure to the material M. Alternatively or additionally, the material M may be heated in the material container 210. Alternatively or additionally, the material M may be stirred or moved in the material container 210, in particular by the stirrer 211.

[0230] Figure 9 A schematic view of an application system for mixing multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture and introducing or applying the multi-component mixture to an object according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0231] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the application system 100 includes an application device 1, such as Figure 1A the application device.

[0232] In addition, the application system 100 may include at least one first material processing device 200a. The material processing device 200a is used to supply a material flow of the first component. In addition, the application system 100 may include a second material processing device 200b. The second material processing device 200b is used to supply a material flow of the third component.

[0233] The material processing device 200a may include a first material container 210a and a first pump device 220a. The first material container 210a is used to process the first component (corresponding to Figure 8the material Ma) in it. The first pump device 220a may have a first inlet 221a and a first outlet 222a. The first inlet 221a of the first pump device 220a may be connected to the first material container 210a in a fluid communication manner, such that the first material Ma can be introduced from the first material container 210a into the first pump device 220a. The first pump device 220a is used to supply the first material Ma at a pressure of at least 15 bar at the first outlet 222a of the first pump device 220a.

[0234] The application system 100 may include a second material processing device 200b. The second material processing device 200b may include a second material container 210b and a second pump device 220b. The second material container 210b is used to process the third component (corresponding to Figure 8 the material Mb) in it. The second pump device 220b may have a second inlet 221b and a second outlet 222b. The second inlet 221b of the second pump device 220b may be connected to the second material container 210b in a fluid communication manner, such that the second material Mb can be introduced from the second material container 210b into the second pump device 220b. The second pump device 220b is used to supply the second material Mb at a pressure of at least 15 bar at the second outlet 222b of the second pump device 220b.

[0235] The application device 1 may be connected to the first outlet 222a and the second outlet 222b in a fluid communication manner, so that the first component and the third component can be introduced into the application device 1.

[0236] In addition, the application system 100 includes a first metering device 101, which is used to receive the material flow of the first component from the material processing device 200a, set the mass flow and / or volume flow of the component, and supply the material flow to the first injection unit 7a of the application device 1.

[0237] In addition, the application system 100 includes a second metering device 102, which is used to receive the material flow of the second component, set the mass flow and / or volume flow of the second component, and supply the material flow to the second injection unit 7b of the application device 1. For example, the second component is a gas or a gas mixture, such as air, and the material flow is a gas flow or an air flow.

[0238] In addition, the application system includes a third metering device 103, which is used to receive the material flow of the third component from the second material processing device 200b, set the volume flow of the component, and supply the material flow to the third injection unit 7c of the application device 1.

[0239] The first metering device 101 and the third metering device 103 may preferably be included in the metering device 112 or form the metering device 112. The first metering device 101 and the third metering device 103 may have the same design or the same function. The metering device 112 may be, for example, a tandem meter DPL20012KT from Scheugenpflug.

[0240] Each metering device is also used to set the volume flow of the corresponding component. According to an embodiment not shown, the application system 100 may include other corresponding devices for material handling and metering devices for other components, such as a fourth component and / or a fifth component.

[0241] The second metering device 102 includes a measuring unit 104, such as an air quality sensor or an air volume sensor. The second metering device 102 further includes an actuator 105, in particular an air valve, such as a proportional air valve. The measuring unit 104 is used to receive an air flow from the air supply device 106 of the application system 100 or from an external air supply device, measure the mass flow and / or volume flow of the air flow, and supply the air flow to the actuator 105. The actuator 105 is used to receive the air flow from the measuring unit 104, set the mass flow and / or volume flow of the air flow, and supply the air flow to the second injection unit 7b. By means of the proportional air valve, an air flow with a variable volume flow and / or mass flow can be supplied.

[0242] The air supply device 106 may be, for example, an air pump. The air supply device 106 is used to supply an air flow at a predetermined pressure.

[0243] The application system 100 further includes a first pipeline 110 between the air supply device 106 and the second metering device 102 and a second pipeline 111 between the second metering device 102 and the second injection unit 7a. The pipelines 110, 111 may be, for example, hoses. The pipelines 110, 111 are used to guide the air flow between the air supply device 106, the second metering device 102 and the second injection unit 7a. Thus, the second component flows from the air supply device 106 to the metering device 102 along the material flow direction and then to the injection unit 7b.

[0244] The application system 100 further includes a measuring unit for measuring pressure. The application system 100 includes a first pipeline pressure sensor (not shown), which is used to measure the air pressure in the first pipeline 110. The application system 100 further includes a second pipeline pressure sensor (not shown), which is used to measure the air pressure in the second pipeline 111.

[0245] The application system 100 further includes corresponding fluid conducting elements or pipelines for transporting the first component from the first material processing device to the first metering device 101, and then to the first injection unit 7a, and pipelines for transporting the second component from the second material processing device 200b to the third metering device 103, and then to the third injection unit 7b. Thus, the first component flows from the first material processing device 200a to the metering device 101 and then to the injection unit 7a along the material flow direction. In addition, the third component flows from the second material processing device 200b to the metering device 103 and then to the injection unit 7b along the material flow direction.

[0246] The first material processing device 200a, the first metering device 101, and the first injection unit 7a are connected to each other in a fluid communication manner. The second material processing device 200b, the third metering device 103, and the third injection unit 7c are connected to each other in a fluid communication manner. The air supply device 106, the second metering device 102, and the second injection unit 7b are connected to each other in a fluid communication manner.

[0247] Figure 9 The pipelines and material flows of the first component, the second component, and the third component are shown by solid arrows in the figure.

[0248] The application system 100 is used to mix the first component and the third component with air only in the mixing space 5 of the application device 1. The application system 100 neither mixes the first component nor the third component with air in advance. In particular, the application system does not mix the first component or the third component with the air already in the corresponding material processing devices 200a, 200b or the air before the corresponding metering devices 101, 103. Thus, in the material flow direction from the first material processing device 200a to the metering device 101 and then to the injection unit 7a, the first component does not mix with air before or in the injection unit 7a. Correspondingly, in the material flow direction from the material processing device 200b to the metering device 103 and then to the injection unit 7b, the third component does not mix with air before the injection unit 7b. Therefore, the first component and the third component do not mix with gas or air upstream of the application device 1 and the corresponding injection units 7a, 7b.

[0249] Therefore, the application system is used to mix the first component with air in the material flow direction of the first component, rather than upstream of the first metering device 101 and upstream of the first injection unit 7a. The application system is used to mix the third component with air in the material flow direction of the third component, rather than upstream of the third metering device 103 and upstream of the third injection unit 7b. Therefore, the first component and the third component are injected into the mixing space 5 in a state without air or gas.

[0250] The application system further includes an adjustment unit 107. The adjustment unit 107 includes, for example, a calculation unit, in particular a microprocessor. The adjustment unit 107 is used to control and / or adjust the operation of the application system 100. For this purpose, the adjustment unit 107 is used to receive measurement values or measurement signals from the measurement units of the application system, such as the measurement unit 104, the first to third pressure sensors for the mixing space 5, and the pipeline pressure sensor. In addition, the adjustment unit 107 is used to actuate the metering devices 101, 102, 103, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c, the actuator 105, the air supply device 106, and the material handling devices 200a, 200b. The reception of the measurement values and the actuation of the respective units are shown by the dashed single arrows and double arrows in Figure 9 as follows.

[0251] The system 100 may also be referred to as a system for applying a mixture, in particular for the polymerization of polyurethane.

[0252] The adjustment unit 107 is used to perform the adjustment steps of the method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0253] Figure 10 The flowchart of a method for mixing multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture and introducing or applying the multi-component mixture into or onto an object according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. This method can be implemented by an application device or an application system according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 1A the application device of Figure 9 and the application system of

[0254] The first component is injected into the mixing space 5 of the mixing tube having a first end and a second end through the first injection unit, S1. Here, the mixing space defines a mixing section. The first component is injected into the mixing space at the first injection point. Therefore, the first component is injected into the mixing space at the first position corresponding to the first injection point along the mixing section.

[0255] The second component, such as a gas or a gas mixture, in particular air, is injected into the mixing space through the second injection unit, S2. The second component is injected into the mixing space at the second injection point. The second component is injected into the mixing space at the corresponding second position along the mixing section. Here, the second position is behind the first position along the mixing section.

[0256] The method includes injecting a third component into the mixing space by means of a third injection unit, S4. The third component is injected into the mixing space at the third injection point. The third component is injected into the mixing space at the corresponding third position along the mixing section. Here, the third position is behind the second position P along the mixing section.

[0257] The method includes mixing a first to a third component along a mixing tube based on the order of injecting the components along a mixing section. The mixing is performed by a mixer located in a mixing space. The mixing includes S3 of mixing the first component with the second component. The method includes S5 of mixing the mixture of the first and second components with the third component to prepare a multi-component mixture containing the first, second, and third components.

[0258] The method further includes S6 of discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube through a second end. In addition, the method includes applying the multi-component mixture to an object.

[0259] Figure 11 A flowchart of a method for mixing multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture and introducing or applying the multi-component mixture to an object according to a further embodiment of the present invention is shown. The method can be implemented by an application system according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 9 an application system. The method includes the following steps. These steps are performed simultaneously.

[0260] A material flow of a first component is supplied to a first metering device by a first material handling device, S11. By the first metering device, a mass flow and / or a volume flow of the first component is set, S12, and the material flow is supplied to a first injection unit, S13.

[0261] An air flow is supplied to a second metering device by an air supply device S21. By the second metering device, a mass flow and / or a volume flow of the air flow is set, S22, and the air flow is supplied to a second injection unit, S23.

[0262] A material flow of a third component is supplied to a third metering device by a second material handling device, S31. By the third metering device, a mass flow and / or a volume flow of the third component is set, S32, and the material flow is supplied to a third injection unit of an application device, S33.

[0263] Figure 11 The method further includes a method having Figure 10 steps S1 - S6.

[0264] The method further includes S7 of adjustment by means of an adjustment unit.

[0265] The adjustment may include: actuating rotating devices for the mixer and / or the first metering device and / or the second metering device, in particular a measuring unit and an actuator, and / or the third metering device and / or the air supply device.

[0266] This regulation can include regulating the air pressure, especially in the pipeline for guiding the air flow and / or at the second injection point of the air, such that the second component is injected into the mixing space at a greater pressure than the first component and / or the third component, or the air pressure is greater than the pressure in the mixing space. Preferably, the difference can be 1 bar or greater. The air pressure can be regulated, for example, by actuators of the air supply device and / or the second metering device.

[0267] This regulation can also include regulating the ratio of the mass flow of the air flow to the mass flow of the first component and / or regulating or adjusting the ratio of the mass flow of the air flow to the mass flow of the third component. Here, this can preferably be the mass flow of the material flow of the component injected into the mixing space.

[0268] The setpoint value of the ratio can be predefined by the regulating unit or an external system or the user of the application device. The setpoint value can be predefined by a mathematical function. Thus, it is ensured that the same amount of air is always added to the material of the first component and the material of the third component. That is, it is ensured that the same predetermined amount of air is always added to the PU foam. For example, the ratio can be regulated in the following ways: regulating the mass flow of the first component by the first metering device and / or regulating the volume flow of the third component by the third metering device and / or regulating the mass flow or volume flow of the air by the second metering device, and / or regulating the rotational speed of the mixer by the rotational device of the mixer and / or regulating the air pressure by the air supply device.

[0269] Figure 12 A schematic diagram is shown for illustrating the regulating steps of a method for mixing multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture and introducing or applying the multi-component mixture into or onto an object according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0270] An air flow meter as a measuring unit measures the amount or mass flow of the air injected into the mixer. In addition, the pressure in the mixing space is measured by a pressure sensor. Based on this, signal processing is performed, for example, by a regulating unit. Based on the signal processing, the actual value of the "air-to-material ratio", the actual value of the position regulator of the first metering device of the first component and / or the position regulator of the third metering device of the third component, the actual value of the rotational speed of the mixer, and the actual value of the PWM control of the inlet valve of the second injection unit for the air flow are predetermined. In addition, based on the signal processing, the setpoint value of the proportional valve of the second metering device for the air flow rate is predetermined. The proportional valves can be of a similar design.

[0271] The "air-to-material ratio" describes, for example, the injection amount of the air or the injection mass flow of the air and the injection amount of the first component ( Figure 12 A in it) or the ratio of the mass flow of the first component injected into the mixing space.

[0272] The setpoint of the position regulator of the first or third metering device is derived from the setpoint of the "air-to-material ratio". In addition, the setpoint of the mixer speed is derived from the setpoint of the "air-to-material ratio". The setpoint of the intake valve actuation is further derived from the setpoint of the "air-to-material ratio".

[0273] Based on the setpoint and the actual value of the "air-to-material ratio", the position of the first or third metering device can be adjusted. For example, this position can describe the opening angle of the metering unit of the metering device. However, this position can also be set according to the required amount of PU foam or the required material flow.

[0274] The speed of the mixer is adjusted according to the setpoint and the actual value of the speed. For example, the speed is adjusted proportionally to the difference between the setpoint and the actual value.

[0275] In addition, the intake valve is actuated according to the setpoint and the actual value of the intake valve PWM control.

[0276] In addition, the proportional valve is actuated.

[0277] The air supply is adjusted proportionally to the material flow and the mixer speed to ensure that the same amount of air is always added to the material. The amount of air is determined by the proportional valve. An air flow meter is used as a measuring instrument. The supplied air pressure should always be at least 1 bar greater than the pressure in the mixing chamber. Thus, it is possible to prevent the material of the first component or the material of the third component from flowing into the injection unit and / or the air flow pipeline and clogging or contaminating them. According to the embodiment, the amount of air is adjusted by an air flow meter. The air pressure is adjusted using a proportional valve.

[0278] List of reference numerals

[0279] 1 Application device

[0280] 2 Mixing tube

[0281] 2a, 2b, 2c Parts of the mixing tube

[0282] 2d, 2e Transition parts of the mixing tube

[0283] 3 First end of the mixing tube

[0284] 4 Second end of the mixing tube

[0285] 5 Mixing space

[0286] 6 Mixing section

[0287] 7a, 7b, 7c Injection unit

[0288] 8 Mixer

[0289] 8a, 8b, 8c Parts of the mixer

[0290] 9 Moving device

[0291] Center axis of the mixing tube

[0292] End of the stirrer

[0293] Central component of the mixer

[0294] Mixing element of the mixer

[0295] Material flow

[0296] Rotating device

[0297] Mixing element of the application device

[0298] Seal of the mixing tube

[0299] Sealing element of the mixer

[0300] Wall of the mixing tube

[0301] Injection points 20, 20b, 20c, 20c′, 20d

[0302] Application system

[0303] First metering device

[0304] Second metering device

[0305] Third metering device

[0306] Measuring unit

[0307] Actuator

[0308] Air supply device

[0309] Regulating unit

[0310] First pipeline

[0311] Second pipeline

[0312] Metering device

[0313] Material processing device 200a, b

[0314] Control device

[0315] Material containers 210a, b

[0316] Stirrers 211a, b

[0317] Drivers 215a, b

[0318] Pump devices 220a, b

[0319] 221a, b inlets

[0320] 222a, b outlets

[0321] 225a, b drivers

Claims

1. An application device (1) for mixing a plurality of components to produce a multi-component mixture, in particular a polyurethane foam, and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object (G), in particular a lithium-ion battery, the application device comprising: a mixing tube (2) having a first closed end (3) and a second end (4), the second end (4) being used to discharge the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube (2), the mixing tube (2) comprising a mixing space (5) between the first end (3) and the second end (4); - a plurality of injection units (7a, 7b, 7c), each injection unit being located on the mixing tube (2) and used for injecting a corresponding one of the plurality of components into the mixing space (5); a mixer (8), at least partially arranged in the mixing space (5), for mixing the components injected along the mixing pipe (2) with one another, and - a moving device (9) for driving the mixer (8) to move along the central axis (10) of the mixing tube (2) and / or between the first end (3) and the second end (4).

2. The application device (1) according to claim 1, wherein - the movement of the mixer (8) in the direction of the second end (4) causes the mixing tube (8) to seal in order to prevent a material flow (14) of the injected component and / or multi-component mixture from flowing out of the second end (4) and / or flowing towards the second end (4), and / or - Movement of the mixer (8) in a direction away from the second end (4) causes the mixing tube (8) to seal in order to prevent a material flow (14) of an injected component and / or a multi-component mixture from flowing out of and / or towards the second end (4).

3. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The mixing tube (2) has at least one sealing element (17), which is located in the region of or at the second end (4) of the mixing tube (2) and / or is formed by the second end (4) of the mixing tube (2).

4. The application device (1) according to claim 3, wherein Movement of the mixer towards the second end (4) or away from the second end (4) causes the mixer (8) to come into contact with the sealing element (17), thereby sealing the mixing tube (2).

5. The application device (1) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein The sealing element (17) may be formed into a ring or a cone, and / or The mixer (8) has a spherical, conical, conical, frustoconical, needle-shaped or pointed end (11) opposite the second end (4) of the mixing tube (2), and / or The sealing element (17) and the end (11) of the mixer (8) form a needle valve.

6. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein Further including: - A rotating device (18), preferably an electric motor, particularly preferably a servo motor, for rotating the mixer (8) around a rotation axis parallel to the central axis (10) of the mixing tube (2), the central axis (10) of the mixing tube 2 and the rotation axis of the mixer (8) preferably coinciding.

7. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The mixer (8) has a plurality of parts (8a, 8b, 8c) along a central axis (10) of the mixing tube (2), wherein at least two of the plurality of parts (8a, 8b, 8c) have outer diameters different from each other.

8. The application device (1) according to claim 7, wherein The plurality of portions include a first portion (8a) and a second portion (8b), wherein the first portion (8a) has a larger outer diameter than the second portion (8b), and wherein the first portion (8a) is closer to the first end (3) than the second portion (8b), and / or wherein the first portion (8a) is located above the second portion (8b).

9. The application device (1) according to claim 8, wherein The plurality of sections further include at least one third section (8c), the third section (8c) being located closer to the second end (4) of the mixing tube (8) than the second section (8b) of the mixer, and wherein the at least one third section (8c) has an outer diameter different from, and preferably a larger outer diameter than, the second section (8b).

10. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The mixing tube (2) has a plurality of parts (2a, 2b, 2c) along the central axis (10), wherein the tube walls (19) of the mixing tube (2) of at least two of the plurality of parts (2a, 2b, 2c) have mutually different inner diameters.

11. The applicator (1) according to claim 10, said plurality of parts comprising: a first portion (2a) and a second portion (2b), wherein the inner diameter of the tube wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) in the first portion (2a) is greater than in the second portion (2b), and wherein the first portion (2a) is closer to the first end (3) of the mixing tube (2) than the second portion (2b), and / or wherein the first portion (2a) is located above the second portion (2b), -Preferably, a third portion (2c), wherein the inner diameter of the tube wall of the mixing tube (2) in the third portion is different from the inner diameter in the second portion (2b), and wherein the third portion is closer to the second end (4) of the mixing tube (2) than the second portion (2b).

12. The application device (1) according to claim 11, in, at least one first injection unit (7a) is located on the tube wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) in the first part (2a) for injecting the first component into the region of the mixing space (5) adjacent to the first part of the mixing tube (2), and / or wherein at least one second injection unit (7b) is located on the tube wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) in the second part (2b) of the mixing tube (2) and is used to inject the second component into the area of ​​the mixing space (5) adjacent to the second part (2a) of the mixing tube (2), and / or Wherein, at least one third injection unit (7c) is located on the tube wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) in the third part (2c) of the mixing tube (2), and is used to inject the third component into the area of ​​the mixing space (5) adjacent to the third part (2c) of the mixing tube (2).

13. The applicator (1) according to claim 12, further comprising: - a first pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in a mixing space (5) adjacent to said first portion (2a) of said mixing tube (2), and / or - a second pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the mixing space (5) adjacent to the second portion (2b) of the mixing tube (2), and / or - a third pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in a mixing space (5) adjacent to the second end (4) of the mixing tube (2) and / or adjacent to the third portion (2c) of the mixing tube (2).

14. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The mixer (8) has a central piece (12) which is formed in a rod-like manner and / or in a rotationally symmetrical manner.

15. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The mixer (8) has at least one mixing element (13) which is located on a side surface of the center piece (12) and / or extends in a radial direction of the center piece (12).

16. The application device (1) according to claim 15, wherein The at least one mixing element (13) is formed as a sheet, a tine, a hook or a rod, and / or wherein the at least one mixing element (13) is formed as a ring around the central piece (12), and / or wherein the at least one mixing element (13) is formed as a wire or a spiral or comprises the latter.

17. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one mixing element (16) which is located on the wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) and extends into the mixing space (5), wherein The at least one mixing element (16) is formed as a ring, or wherein the at least one mixing element (16) is in the form of a sheet, a tine, a hook or a rod, or wherein the at least one mixing element (16) is in the form of a regular or irregular structure.

18. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The mixing tube (2) is formed in a straight line and / or wherein the mixing tube (2) is arranged vertically, wherein the first end (3) is located above the second end (4), and / or Wherein, the inner side of the tube wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) is rotationally symmetrical around the central axis (10).

19. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The moving device (9) is formed as a lifting cylinder, in particular an electric lifting cylinder or an electro-hydraulic lifting cylinder, or comprises the latter.

20. An application system (100) for mixing a plurality of components to prepare a multi-component mixture, and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto a subject (G), the application system comprising: - an application device (1) according to one of the preceding claims; a first device (200a) for material processing, for supplying a material flow of a first component, - a second device (200b) for material processing according to any one of the preceding claims, for supplying a material flow of a third component, a first metering device (101) for receiving a material flow of the first component, setting a mass flow and / or a volume flow of the first component, and supplying the material flow to a first injection unit (7a) of the application device (1); a second metering device (102) for receiving a material flow of the second component, setting a mass flow and / or a volume flow of the second component, and supplying the material flow to the second injection unit (7b) of the application device; - a third metering device (103) for receiving a material flow of the third component, setting a mass flow and / or a volume flow of the third component, and supplying the material flow to the third injection unit (7b) of the application device.

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