Application device and method for preparing and introducing / applying a multi-component mixture in or on a subject and application system comprising an application device

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, and a second end for discharging a mixture of the plurality of components from the mixing tube, in which the mixing tube includes a mixing space, a plurality of injection units each configured to inject one of the plurality of components into the mixing space at a respective position, and a mixer provided in the mixing space, the mixer configured to mix the injected components with each other. Furthermore, an application system comprising an application device and methods for mixing a plurality of components to prepare a multi-component mixture and for introducing a multi-component mixture into and / or applying to a subject are disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] For example, during the foam production process, one or more components are mixed with air. In this process, the precise, reproducible, and uniform mixing of the components themselves and the components with air is very important. This includes precisely setting the mass or volume ratio of each component in the foam to each other, especially to the optimal value with air, and this optimal value must be continuously maintained throughout the foam production process. In addition, the mixture must be uniform throughout the entire foam volume. The foam must be reproducibly produced in multiple production batches.

[0003] Non-flammable foams are often used for fire protection (such as batteries) and 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, especially lithium-ion batteries, are used in electric vehicles. Such lithium-ion batteries are often used to store the energy generated by photovoltaic systems. However, especially due to the good durability of lithium-ion batteries, they are also used in many other fields to store energy. However, there are also some problems with lithium-ion batteries.

[0005] For lithium-ion batteries, fire protection plays an extremely important role because lithium-ion batteries have devastating fire characteristics and are difficult to extinguish once they catch fire. For the preventive fire protection of lithium-ion batteries, there are currently few viable solutions and / or only ineffective solutions. The solutions include applying fireproof materials to the battery cover or housing, setting a honeycomb structure in the battery, or completely discharging the battery or the battery cells of the battery.

[0006] A new fire protection method 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 PU foam. If a defective battery cell catches fire or its heat generation becomes uncontrollable, the PU foam will absorb the heat generated during the process and prevent adjacent battery cells from overheating or starting to burn due to the melting of the PU foam. This can prevent a fire from occurring or spreading quickly. Therefore, the PU foam can prevent the entire electric vehicle or the entire house from being burned down due to a defective battery cell.

[0007] PU foam is produced (polymerized) using two monomers (such as polyols and polyisocyanates). It can be foamed chemically and / or physically.

[0008] A disadvantage of conventional solutions for preparing and applying foams, especially PU foams, is that it is impossible to continuously convey the components or continuously prepare the foam. So far, in each case, the components have been pre-treated or prepared in a tank, and, where appropriate, the components have been mixed with the air in the tank. Then, multiple components are fed into a mixer and / or an applicator. The component tanks must be replaced regularly or new materials must be loaded. In addition, since the components have been fed into the mixer or applicator in an air-displaced state, the mixing ratio of the components in the foam cannot be precisely set. 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 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 foams has not been solved. In particular, the problem of how to prepare and apply foams 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 introducing it onto an object / applying 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 introducing it onto an object / applying 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 continuously 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 PU foams.

[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] This object is configured, for example, by 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 present invention also only rationally illustrates the use of foams in batteries. The multi-component mixtures and foams are used in different industries, 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, "for a certain object" shall be regarded as a synonym of "for the object". Embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the application of a multi-component mixture on 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 of "accumulator battery". The "application device" may also be abbreviated as "applicator", which constitutes a device for coating or applying a mixture. In the context of the present invention, "mixture" shall be understood as a synonym of "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, "component" refers to a material. Different materials are distinguished by using specifications of different components. In the context of the present invention, a polymeric polyurethane may also be referred to as a multi-component mixture.

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

[0018] The invention defines a mixing section along a mixing tube, which has a closed end and an open end. The mixing section specifies an order according to which a plurality of components for preparing a multi-component mixture are mixed spatially and with each other. In this case, it is first possible to ensure compliance with the mixing order of the components.

[0019] Furthermore, by changing one or more positions at which one or more components are injected into the mixing space, this order can be made flexible. Furthermore, the type of the injected component can be changed in a simple manner, and the component injected at the corresponding position can be replaced. Therefore, different multi-component mixtures can be produced in a simple manner. Furthermore, by setting the material flow of the injected component, the mass or volume ratio of the injected or mixed components 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.

[0020] Furthermore, the preparation or agitation material of the first or third component can be supplied by a material processing device connected upstream according to the mixer. Therefore, before being injected into the mixing chamber, the material always has the same material properties. In particular, the uniformity of the injected component can be improved. As a result, the material quality and mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can also be improved. Furthermore, effects such as so-called "sacking" are also prevented.

[0021] Through embodiments of the present invention, it is also achieved that the second open end of the mixing tube can be closed in a quick and simple manner by moving the mixer along the mixing tube. As a result, the multi-component mixture can be effectively prevented from escaping from 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.

[0022] Through embodiments of the present invention, it is also achieved that the first component and the third component are only mixed with the gas in the mixing space of the application device. As a result, the component can be metered and injected into the mixing space 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 precisely set and adjusted. As a result, the material quality and mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can be improved.

[0023] Through embodiments of the present invention, mixing tubes with different inner diameters are also specified. Due to the different inner diameters, during the process of mixing the components in the mixing space using the mixer, the rotational speeds of the component materials along the mixing tube are also different. Therefore, the mixing of the components is more flexible, and the mixing effect, especially the uniformity of mixing, is improved.

[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, wherein the mixing tube includes a mixing space between the first end and the second end. Through the mixing space, a mixing section can be defined from the first end to the second end.

[0026] The application device further includes a plurality of injection units, each injection unit for injecting a corresponding one of the multiple components into the mixing space at a corresponding position along the mixing section.

[0027] The injection unit includes at least one first injection unit for injecting a first component at a first position along the mixing section. The injection unit includes at least one second injection unit for injecting a second component at a second position, which is located at or after the first position along the mixing section. The second component can be or include a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air.

[0028] The application device further includes a mixer disposed at least partially in the mixing space. The mixer is used to mix the injected components with each other. The mixer is used to mix the injected components with each other based on the order in which they have been injected or are being injected at corresponding positions along or relative to the mixing section or in the mixing space. Thus, the injected components can be mixed with each other according to this order. A multi-component mixture can be prepared by mixing the injected components. 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.

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

[0030] The method includes the following steps: injecting a first component into a mixing space in a mixing tube having a first end and a second end through a first injection unit, wherein the mixing space defines a mixing section at a first position along the mixing section; injecting a second component, in particular a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, into the mixing space at a second position along the mixing section through a second injection unit. Here, the second position is located downstream of the first position along the mixing section. The method further includes mixing the first component with the second component through a mixer disposed in the mixing space to produce a multi-component mixture. Preferably, the method includes discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube through the second end and applying the multi-component mixture to an object.

[0031] According to a third aspect of the present invention, an application system is provided for mixing multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture to and / or onto an object. The application system includes the application device according to the aspects and embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] In addition, the application system may include at least one first device for material handling for supplying a material stream of a first component, and at least one second device for material handling configured to supply a material stream of a third component.

[0033] In addition, the application system may include at least one first metering device for receiving a material stream of a first component, setting the mass flow and / or volume flow of the component, and supplying the material stream to at least one first injection unit of the application device.

[0034] In addition, the application system may include at least one second metering device for receiving a material stream of a second component, setting the mass flow and / or volume flow of the second component, and supplying the material stream 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 stream of the second component is a gas stream or a mixed gas stream, preferably an air stream.

[0035] An application device or an application system according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present invention is used to perform the method according to the aspect or the embodiment of the present invention. The method according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present invention can be implemented by the application device or the application system according to the aspect or the embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present invention, the use of the application device or the application system according to 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 according to the embodiments of the present invention using the application device or the application system according to 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] The closed first end can be sealed relative to the components injected into the mixing space. The non-closed second end is used to discharge the multi-component mixture generated in the mixing tube. The mixing section can be defined as the route of the central axis of the mixing tube starting from the first end towards 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.

[0040] The injection unit can also be referred to as an injection unit. The injection unit can have a nozzle in each case, which is used to inject the corresponding component into the mixing space. The injection unit is used to receive the corresponding part of the material flow from the corresponding metering device. A plurality of injection units can be provided on the mixing tube. A plurality of injection units can be provided on the tube wall of the mixing tube, especially on the outer side of the tube wall.

[0041] The plurality of injection units can further include at least one third injection unit for injecting a third component at a third position. The third position can be provided at or after the second position along the mixing section. The application system can further include at least one third metering device for receiving the material flow of the third component, setting the mass flow and / or volume flow of the component, and supplying the material flow to at least one third injection unit of the application device.

[0042] 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 subsequently mix the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component. Therefore, the method can further include mixing the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component by the mixer to prepare a multi-component mixture containing the third component.

[0043] 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.

[0044] The injection unit may include at least one fourth injection unit for injecting a fourth component at a fourth position which is upstream of the third position along the mixing section, particularly between the second position and the third position.

[0045] The injection unit may include at least one fifth injection unit for injecting a fifth component at a fifth position which is upstream of the third position along the mixing section, particularly between the second position and the third position, and particularly downstream of the fourth position.

[0046] The mixer is used to first mix the first component and the second component along the mixing section, and then mix the mixture of the first component and the second component with the fourth component or the fifth component, or subsequently mix the mixture of the first component and the second component and the fourth component, and then mix it with the fifth component. The mixer is used to mix the mixture of the first component, the second component, the fourth component and / or the fifth component with the third component.

[0047] Each injection unit may be provided on the mixing tube, particularly on the tube wall of the mixing tube. For example, the injection unit is provided on the outer side of the tube wall of the mixing tube.

[0048] The mixing tube may have a plurality of injection points for injecting a corresponding component. The injection points may be formed as holes or drillings passing through the tube wall. Each injection unit may be provided on the corresponding injection point. Each injection unit is used to be attached to a corresponding injection point. Each injection point may correspond to a specific position along the mixing section defined by the mixing space.

[0049] At least one of the plurality of injection units may be formed to be detachable from the mixing tube, particularly from the tube wall of the mixing tube, and / or may be formed to have a structure that can be moved away along the mixing tube. Thus, the injection units may be provided at different injection points on the mixing tube. Thus, the corresponding 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 order of the components may be more flexible.

[0050] The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of first injection units, such as two or three. In each case, the plurality of first injection units are used to inject a respective one of the 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. In each case, the plurality of second injection units are used to inject a respective one of the plurality of third components at a respective one of a plurality of second positions along the mixing section. In particular, each second position may be provided downstream of 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. In each case, the plurality of third injection units are used to inject a respective one of the plurality of third components at a respective one of a plurality of third positions along the mixing section. In particular, each third position may be provided downstream of each second position along the mixing section. This also applies to the fourth and fifth injection units. At least one of the first to fifth components may also be injected multiple times.

[0051] 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 used 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 third injection units is used to inject a third component at a respective one of a plurality of third positions. This also applies to the second, fourth, and / or fifth components. On the one hand, the respective components may be injected multiple times. On the other hand, it may vary depending on the specific position of the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth component or the specific unit used for injection into the mixing space. This is advantageous if an injection unit has to be repaired. Then, for the same component, it is possible to deviate to another injection unit.

[0052] 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 this component, in particular measured at 20 °C according to DIN EN ISO 2884, is between 0.5 mPa·s and 100,000 mPa·s.

[0053] 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.

[0054] Multicomponent mixtures can be prepared by mixing multiple components. In particular, foams can be produced by mixing a gas or gas mixture with at least one other component. This can also be referred to as foaming, especially physical foaming. In particular, foams can be produced by mixing a first component and / or a third component with a gas or gas mixture.

[0055] The first component can include a first monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The third component can include a second monomer for polyurethane polymerization. Polyurethane can be polymerized by the chemical reaction of the first monomer and the second monomer. After the polyurethane is discharged from the mixing space, the polymerization can be carried out in and / or outside the mixing space. Polyurethane can be foamed by a gas or gas mixture, especially physical foaming.

[0056] The first component can be or include a polyol, especially a diol, and / or the third component can be or include a polyisocyanate, especially 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 especially be water or include water. It is injected for flushing the mixer and / or the mixing tube.

[0057] The application device can include a flushing injection unit. This 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, especially water. With respect 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.

[0058] The prepared multicomponent mixture can be discharged independently from the mixing tube and the application device at the second end, especially in the case where the mixing tube is vertically arranged. Then, the material of the multicomponent mixture has been discharged under the action of gravity. Since the first end of the mixing tube is closed and the components are injected into the mixing space, the material of the inflowing injected components will also extrude the material of the multicomponent mixture out of the mixing tube. Alternatively or additionally, the design of the mixer can cause the rotation of the mixer to discharge the material of the multicomponent mixture out of the mixing tube.

[0059] The prepared multicomponent mixture can be a foam, especially a PU foam. The discharged multicomponent 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.

[0060] The object can be a lithium-based battery or a battery cell, or it can be a lithium-ion battery or a battery cell. The multicomponent mixture can be or include a polyurethane foam.

[0061] 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 carried out in a simple manner.

[0062] According to a preferred embodiment, the application system includes at least two first devices for the material handling of the first component and / or at least two second devices for the material handling of the third component. Here, each first device can supply a material flow to the first metering device. The first metering device is used to receive the material flow from one of the two first metering devices, or simultaneously receive the material flows from the two 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 supplying two material handling devices for each component, it can be ensured that the corresponding metering device continuously receives a material flow. Therefore, the continuous operation of the application system can be ensured.

[0063] The mixer can be entirely located in the mixing chamber. Preferably, the central part and the mixing elements of the mixer are located in the mixing chamber. The mixer is used to mix the injected components in the mixing chamber or mixing tube, preferably along the mixing tube from the first end to the second end.

[0064] The application device can also include a moving device, which is used 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 can also be referred to as the longitudinal axis. The movement of the mixer can be carried out along the rotation axis of the mixer.

[0065] This movement can be carried out in such a way that the mixing tube is sealed with respect to the material flow of the injected components and / or the multi-component mixture flowing out from the second end and / or towards the second end.

[0066] 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.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, the mixer can move from the second position in the direction of the first end to the first position. This movement can also have the effect that the mixing tube is sealed with respect to the material flow of the injected components and / or the multi-component mixture flowing out from the second end and / or towards the second end.

[0068] The mixing tube can have at least one sealing element. The mixing tube can have a plurality of sealing elements. The sealing element can be provided 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.

[0069] 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 have the effect that the mixer, in particular the mixing element of the mixer, contacts the sealing element, thereby sealing the mixing tube.

[0070] 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 for the conical seat of the end of the mixer.

[0071] 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 and thereby seals the mixing tube.

[0072] The sealing element and the first end of the mixer can form a needle valve.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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 around a rotation axis 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.

[0075] 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 different outer diameters from each other.

[0076] 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 provided above the second part in the vertical direction.

[0077] 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 a different outer diameter from 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.

[0078] The mixing tube may have multiple sections along its central axis. The tube wall of the mixing tube may have a substantially constant inner diameter within each section. The tube wall of the mixing tube may have different inner diameters within at least two of the multiple sections or between them. Among them, the inner diameter of the tube wall in one section may be greater than the inner diameter of the wall in at least one other section of the multiple sections. The inner diameter of the mixing tube may be defined as the inner diameter of the tube wall, where any mixing elements of the mixing tube are not considered.

[0079] The multiple sections may have a first section and a second section. The first section may be provided at or near the first end. The second section may be provided along the central axis between the first section and the second end. The tube wall in the first section may have a larger inner diameter than that in the second section, and vice versa. The first section may be closer to the first end of the mixing tube than the second section. The first section may be provided above the second section relative to the vertical direction. The first section may also be referred to as the upper material chamber.

[0080] The multiple sections may further have a third section. The third section may be provided along the central axis between the second section and the second end. The tube wall in the third section may have an inner diameter different from that of the second section and / or the first section. The third section may be closer to the second end of the mixing tube than the second section. The tube wall in the third section may have a smaller inner diameter than that of the first section and / or the second section. The tube wall in the third section may have a larger inner diameter than that of the first section and / or the second section.

[0081] At least one first injection unit may be provided on the tube wall of the mixing tube in the first section of the mixing tube. The at least one first injection unit is used to inject a first component into the region adjacent to the first section of the mixing tube in the mixing space.

[0082] The at least one second injection unit may be provided on the tube wall of the mixing tube in the second section of the mixing tube. The at least one second injection unit is used to inject a second component into the region adjacent to the second section of the mixing tube in the mixing space.

[0083] At least one third injection unit may be provided on the tube wall of the mixing tube in the third section of the mixing tube. The at least one third injection unit is used to inject a third component into the region adjacent to the third section of the mixing tube in the mixing space.

[0084] The application device may have at least one pressure sensor. Preferably, at least one pressure sensor is provided for at least one of the multiple sections of the mixing tube, and the pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure in the region adjacent to the corresponding section in the mixing space.

[0085] The application device may include a first pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in a region adjacent to the first end of the mixing tube and / or adjacent to a first portion of the mixing tube in the mixing space. The application device may include a second pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in a region adjacent to a second portion of the mixing tube in the mixing space. The application device may include a third pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in a region adjacent to the second end of the mixing tube and / or adjacent to a third portion in the mixing space.

[0086] The central axis of the mixer may extend substantially along the mixing tube, particularly along the central axis. The mixer may be generally rod-shaped or have a rod. The mixer may have a central member that is substantially rotationally symmetric and / or substantially rod-shaped or is a rod. The central member may extend substantially along the central axis of the mixing tube. The axis of symmetry or the central axis of the central member may coincide substantially with the central axis of the mixing tube.

[0087] The mixer may have at least one mixing element. The mixing element is for effectively mixing the injected components by the mixer. The mixing element may extend in the radial direction of the mixer. The mixing element may be provided on the outer side of 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 includes a plurality of mixing elements. The plurality of mixing elements may be distributed along the central member and / or relative to the central axis. In addition, the plurality of mixing elements may be distributed circumferentially along the central member. Particularly preferably, the mixing element is designed and / or arranged such that no imbalance is formed when the mixer rotates about the axis of rotation. The axis of rotation of the mixer may coincide with the axis of symmetry.

[0088] The at least one mixing element is for a thin plate, a pointed tooth, 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.

[0089] The application device may have at least one mixing element. The mixing element may be provided on the tube wall of the mixing tube, particularly on the inner side of the wall, and extend into the mixing chamber. The mixing element may extend towards the central axis of the mixing tube. The mixing element is for a ring. The mixing element may be provided as a thin plate, a pointed tooth, a hook or a rod, or among them, at least one mixing element is configured as a regular or irregular structure.

[0090] The mixing tube may be substantially straight. This may mean that the center line of the mixing tube or the mixing space is also straight. The mixing tube may be arranged in a substantially vertical manner. The first end may be provided above the second end. The length of the mixing tube may be greater than the inner diameter of the tube wall. The inner side of the tube wall may be rotationally symmetric about the central axis.

[0091] The moving device may be used on a lifting cylinder, particularly an electric lifting cylinder or an electro-hydraulic lifting cylinder, or includes the latter.

[0092] 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. Accordingly, the application system may 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.

[0093] The mixer can be particularly used to mix the injected components with each other in a mixing space, preferably along the mixing space and / or along the mixing tube.

[0094] The method may further include at least one of the following steps: setting the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the material flow of the first component and supplying the material flow to at least one first injection unit of the application device, setting the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the material flow of the second component and supplying the material flow of the second component to the second injection unit of the application device, setting the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the material flow of the third component and supplying the material flow to the first injection unit of the application device.

[0095] The method may further include supplying the material flow of the first component to the first metering device, supplying the material flow of the second component to the second metering device, and supplying the material flow of the third component to the third metering device.

[0096] The first component and / or the third component may be injected into the mixing space in a air-free state and / or a gas-free state.

[0097] The first pressure sensor is used 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 used 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 used 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 used to mix the first component and / or the third component with a gas or a gas mixture in the mixing space of the application device, particularly only in the mixing space.

[0099] The application system is used 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 is 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 of gas or gas mixture from the gas supply device of the application system, measure the mass flow and / or volume flow, and supply the flow to the actuator. The actuator is used to receive the flow, set the mass flow and / or volume flow of the gas or gas mixture, and supply the flow to the second injection unit. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator is used to set the pressure in the pipeline guiding the flow of gas or gas mixture material, preferably the second pipeline. Alternatively or additionally, the measuring unit is used to set the quantity and / or volume flow and / or mass flow of the flow of gas or 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 also 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 gas or gas mixture. The pipeline may also be referred to as a fluid conducting element.

[0102] The application system may also 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 also include a control unit. The control unit may include a computing unit, such as a microprocessor. The method may include a control step. The control unit is used to perform the control step. Control may be carried out using the control 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 control 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 actuation of 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 flow material.

[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 value of 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] This 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 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 volumetric flow 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 volumetric flows of the components. In particular, the control may be carried out 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 a control 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 the volumetric flow of the second component. In particular, the control is proportional to the mass flow and / or the volumetric flow of the first component and / or is proportional to the mass flow and / or the volumetric flow of the third component and / or is proportional to the rotational speed of the mixer. In particular, the control may be carried out 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, in particular in the 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, resulting in the pressure being 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. In particular, the control may be carried out by activating the gas supply device and / or the second metering device.

[0112] The control may include controlling the pressure of the second component, in particular 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. In particular, the rotational speed is proportional to the mass flow and / or the volume of the first component and / or is proportional to the volumetric flow and the mass of the third component. In particular, the control may be carried out 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 application system may include a first device for material handling for supplying a material stream of a first component. The application system may include a second device for material handling for supplying a material stream of a third component. A first metering device is configured to receive the material stream of the first component from the first device for material handling. A third metering device is configured to receive the material stream of the third component from the second device for material handling.

[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 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 considered.

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

[0120] According to another aspect of the present invention, a material handling method is provided. The method may include the following steps: handling a component, in particular a first component or a third component, in a material container; introducing the component from the material container into an inlet of a pump device; increasing the pressure of the component by the pump device; and discharging the component from an 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 handling device disclosed herein is used for this material handling method.

[0122] In addition, the use of the material handling device disclosed herein for handling 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 a first device for material processing. The application device, in particular the third injection unit, can be connected in fluid communication to the outlet of a second device for material processing. As a result, the first component and the third component can be introduced into the application device, in particular into 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 accumulator.

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

[0125] By treating 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 volumetric flow rate. The components are usually supplied in barrels, such as components 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 the precise metering of the material more difficult.

[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, still 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 supply the component at a pressure of at least 60 bar at the outlet of the pump device. Preferably, the pump device is used to supply the component at a pressure of at least 60 bar at the outlet of the pump device, more preferably at least 100 bar, further preferably at least 200 bar, and most preferably at least 300 bar.

[0130] The pump device is used to supply the component at a pressure between 15 bar and 350 bar, in particular between 20 bar and 350 bar, at the outlet of the pump device.

[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 or 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 drive. The drive may be a hydraulic drive, especially a servo-hydraulic drive.

[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 may be heatable. 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 material 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 may be driven by a drive.

[0139] The component may include monomers for polyurethane polymerization. The component may be mixed with another monomer downstream of the pump device for polyurethane polymerization. Polyurethane may 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] Generally, 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 with a gas, particularly physically foamed.

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

[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 provided 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 corresponding one of the plurality of 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 arranged on the mixer.

[0146] The application device further includes a mixer at least partially provided in the mixing space, the mixer for mixing the injected components with each other. The mixer may be particularly used 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 completely provided in the mixing space.

[0147] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for mixing a plurality of components to prepare a multi-component mixture is provided. The method includes the following steps: injecting a first component into a mixing space in a mixing tube of the 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 and the second component by a mixer provided in the mixing space to produce a multi-component mixture.

[0148] The method may further 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 flow of the first component and supplying the material flow to at least one first injection unit of an application device, setting a mass flow and / or a volume flow of a feedstock flow of the second component and supplying the material flow 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 flow of the third component and supplying the material flow 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. Description of the Drawings

[0152] The following explains various aspects of the present invention 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 yet 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 yet 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 view 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 to an object according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description

[0166] Hereinafter, the same reference signs 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 for mixing multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture and introducing / applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object G. The multi-component mixture is, for example, a polyurethane foam.

[0169] The PU foam can be applied into or 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 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. The mixing tube 2 includes a mixing space 5 between the first end 3 and the second end 4. 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 provided in the mixing tube 2. The mixing space 5 can also be referred to as a mixing chamber.

[0171] The mixing tube 2 can be substantially straight. This means that the center line 10 of the mixing tube 2 is straight. The center line 10 can also be referred to as the central axis. The mixing tube 2 includes 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 oriented. This means that the central axis 10 extends substantially along the vertical spatial 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 In the embodiment of, the mixing tube has two parts 2a, 2b. In Figure 2 In the embodiment of, the mixing tube has three parts 2a, 2b, 2c. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first part 2a is provided at or near the first end 3, and the second part 2b is provided between the first part 2a and the second end 4 along the central axis 10. The third part 2c can be provided 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. Therefore, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in the part 2a is different from that in the part 2b. In addition, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in the part 2b is different from that in the part 2c. Furthermore, 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 greater 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, additional transition sections 2d and 2e of the mixing pipe 2 can be provided between the sections 2a, 2b, and 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, and 2c.

[0177] The pipe wall 19 of the mixing pipe 2 includes injection points 20a, 20b, and 20c for the respective injection units 7a, 7b, and 7c, which will be described in detail below. As shown in the figure, the injection points are provided 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 can be formed as holes or openings passing through the pipe wall 19.

[0178] The application device 1 further includes a plurality of injection units 7a, 7b, and 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, and 7c are provided 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, and 7c is provided at the corresponding injection points 20, 20b, and 20c and is used to inject the respective components into the mixing space 5 via the injection points. Therefore, the injection units 7a, 7b, and 7c inject the respective components at the predetermined positions Pa, Pb, and Pc of the components along the mixing section 6.

[0179] As Figure 1A As shown in the example of the injection units 7b and 7c, each injection unit 7a, 7b, and 7c can have a nozzle. Each injection unit is also used to stop the injection of the components. For this purpose, each injection unit 7a, 7b, and 7c can have a corresponding inlet valve, which is, for example, set as a needle valve. The inlet valves 7a, 7b, and 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 components 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 provided downstream of the first position Pa along the mixing section 6, and the third position Pc is provided downstream of the second position Pb along the mixing section 6.

[0181] To clean and flush 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, one 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 provided 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 pipe wall 19 with respect to the central axis 10. Therefore, the fourth component is injected at the same position 20c as the third component along the mixing section 6. According to an embodiment not shown, the fourth injection unit 7d may be provided upstream of the third position along the mixing section 6, particularly between the second position and the third position.

[0183] The injection unit may include a fifth injection unit (not shown) for injecting a fifth component at a fifth position, which is provided upstream of the third position along the mixing section 6, particularly between the second position and the third position, 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 a plurality of first, second, third, fourth, and / or fifth injection units.

[0184] The first to third injection units 7a, 7b, 7c are all used to inject 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 may be formed to be detachable from the pipe wall 19, such 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 can 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 to measure the pressure at a position between the second position Pb and the third position Pc. The application device 1 can 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 at least partially disposed in the mixing space 5. The mixer 8 can be completely disposed in the mixing space 5. Preferably, the central member 12 and the mixing elements 13 of the mixer 8 can be disposed in the mixing space 5. The mixer 8 is for the rotor. The mixer 8 is used for mixing 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. The multi-component mixture is made by mixing the injected components. For example, polyurethane foam is made by mixing polyisocyanate with polyol and air.

[0190] The resulting multi-component mixture then escapes automatically 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 squeezes out the material of the multi-component mixture from 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.

[0192] Since the injection point 20c of the third component is set to be lower than the injection point 20b of the air, the 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, thereby preventing 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 sealing element (not shown) can be provided to close the first end 3.

[0194] The mixer 8 includes a central member 12. The central member is arranged to be substantially rotationally symmetric 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 arranged as a circular or cylindrical rod.

[0195] In addition, the mixer 8 includes a plurality of mixing elements 13. The mixing elements 13 are used to effectively mix the injected components. The mixing elements 13 are provided on the outer side of 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 each configured as flakes provided 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 designed and / or arranged in such a way that no imbalance is formed when the mixer 8 rotates.

[0197] In addition, a plurality of mixing elements 16 are provided, which are arranged 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 arranged as thin sheets. As shown in the figure, the mixing elements 16 are only arranged 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 arranged 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 arranged 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 arranged 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 arranged on the tube wall 19 in the first part 2a of the mixing tube 2. The second injection unit 7b is arranged on the tube wall 19 in the second part 2b of the mixing tube 2. The second injection unit 7c is arranged 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 drive the mixer 8 to move 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, as 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 of 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 in the radial direction with different lengths.

[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 movement is that the mixing tube 2 is sealed with respect to the material flow 14 of the injection component and / or multi-component mixture flowing out of the second end 4.

[0208] The mixing tube 2 may have at least one sealing element 17. The sealing element 17 is arranged in the region of the second end 4. The mixer 8 may also have a sealing element 18. After the mixer 8 has been moved to the second position towards the second end 4, 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 provided as 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 may 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 form a needle valve.

[0210] As Figure 4A and Figure 4B shown, the sealing element 17 is for a ring that extends radially towards the central axis 10 from the inner side of the tube wall 19 of the mixing tube 2. The sealing element 24 of the mixer 8 is likewise provided as 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 with the sealing element 17.

[0211] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The embodiment of the application device shown in Figure 4A and Figure 4B is similarly constructed to the embodiment shown, 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. The mixer 8 is in the first position to close the second end 4 and thus prevent the accidental leakage of the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2. 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 from the second end 4.

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

[0214] As explained with reference to the foregoing drawings, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d inject the respective components into the mixing space 5 through the respective injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c′, 20d. Along the mixing space 5, the mixer 8 mixes the respective components in the order in which the respective 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 the 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 respective injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c′, 20d are projected onto the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2, then the respective positions Pa, Pb, Pc, Pc′ occur along the mixing section 6, as Figure 6 shown for Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 the embodiments 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 along the mixing section 6 result therefrom. For example, this is the case for the injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c′ or the positions Pa, Pb, Pc, Pc′. In contrast, 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 along the mixing section 6 result therefrom. 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 device). In Fig. 1, the material processing device is denoted by reference numerals 200a, 200b because there can be a first device 200a and a second device 200b. This applies equally to all elements of the material processing device. The material processing device 200 is described below, where this description applies to the first material processing device 200a and the second material processing device 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 a heating device (not shown in FIG. 1). The temperature in the material container 210 can be at least 10 °C, preferably at least 30 °C, higher than the ambient temperature of the material container 210. 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 set to a defined physical and / or chemical state. Thus, the material can be metered precisely and reproducibly.

[0221] The pump device 220 can be provided downstream of the material container 210. The material M can flow directly or via additional elements (such as fluid conducting elements like 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, by at least 20 bar, at least 60 bar, at least 200 bar, or even at least 300 bar. 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 at the outlet 222 of the pump device 220.

[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 volumetric 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 the material container 210 in the material processing device 200 and introduced into the pump device 220. The pressure of the material M may be increased in the pump device 220 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 a control unit 207. The control unit 207 may be connected to the device by wire or wirelessly. The control unit 207 is used to control or adjust the material container 210 and / or the pump device 220. In particular, the control 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 control unit may be Figure 7 the control unit 107 in

[0229] Figure 8 A detailed view of the material container 210 is shown. The material M is accommodated 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 diagram 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] The application system 100 includes an application device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 1A the application device of

[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 stream 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 stream 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 in fluid communication to the first material container 210a such that the first material Ma can be introduced from the first material container 201a into the first pump device 20a. 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 220b.

[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 in fluid communication to the second material container 210b 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 in fluid communication to the first outlet 222a and the second outlet 222b 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 for receiving a material flow of the first component from the material processing device 200a, setting the mass flow and / or volume flow of the component, and supplying 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 for receiving a material flow of the second component, setting the mass flow and / or volume flow of the second component, and supplying 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 for receiving a material flow of the third component from the second material processing device 200b, setting the volume flow of the component, and supplying 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 can 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 can have the same configuration or the same function. The metering device 112 can be, for example, the series metering device 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 can 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 can 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 can 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 and then to the injection unit 7b in the material flow direction.

[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) for measuring the air pressure in the first pipeline 110. The application system 100 further includes a second pipeline pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring 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 only the first component and the third component with air in the mixing space 5 of the application device 1. The application system 100 does not pre-mix either the first component or the third component with air. 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. Therefore, 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 during 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 a control unit 107. The control unit 107 includes, for example, a computing unit, in particular a microprocessor. The control unit 107 is used to control and / or regulate the operation of the application system 100. For this purpose, the control 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 control 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 in Figure 9 by the dashed single arrows and double arrows in

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

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

[0253] Figure 10 The flowchart of the method according to an embodiment of the present invention for mixing multiple components to prepare a multi-component mixture and introducing or applying the multi-component mixture into or onto an object is shown. The method can be implemented by the application device or 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 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 located downstream of 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 located downstream of the second position P along the mixing section.

[0257] The method includes mixing first to third components along a mixing tube based on the order of injecting the components along a mixing section. The mixing is carried out by a mixer provided 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 of an embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 9 an application system. The method includes the following steps. The steps are carried out simultaneously.

[0260] A material flow of the first component is supplied to a first metering device through a first material processing device, S11. Through 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 through an air supply device S21. Through 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 the third component is supplied to a third metering device through a second material processing device, S31. Through 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 under the control of a control unit.

[0265] The control may include: actuating a rotating device 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 control may include controlling the air pressure, particularly 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 may be 1 bar or greater. For example, the air pressure can be generated by actuators of the air supply device and / or the second metering device to adjust the air pressure.

[0267] This control may also include controlling the ratio of the mass flow of the air flow to the mass flow of the first component and / or controlling or setting the ratio of the mass flow of the air flow to the mass flow of the third component. Here, this may preferably be the mass flow of the material flow of the components injected into the mixing chamber.

[0268] The setpoint value of the ratio can be predefined by the control 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 materials of the first component and the third component. That is, it is ensured that the same predetermined amount of air is always added to the PU foam. For example, this ratio can be achieved by: setting the mass flow of the first component through the first metering device and / or setting the volume flow of the third component through the third metering device and / or setting the mass flow or volume flow of the air through the second metering device, and / or setting the rotational speed of the mixer through the rotational device of the mixer and / or setting the air pressure by means of the air supply device.

[0269] Figure 12 A schematic diagram showing the control 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 for illustrating an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[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, for example, signal processing is performed by the control unit. Based on the signal processing, the actual value of the "air-to-material ratio", the actual value of the position controller of the first metering device of the first component and / or the positioning controller of the third metering device of the third component, the actual value of the mixer rotational speed, 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, the setpoint value of the proportional valve of the second metering device for the air flow rate is predetermined based on the signal processing. The example valve can adopt a similar design.

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

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

[0273] The position of the first or third metering device is adjusted based on the setpoint and actual value of the "air-to-material ratio". 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 based on the setpoint and actual value of the speed. For example, the speed is adjusted proportionally to the difference between the setpoint and the actual value.

[0275] Furthermore, the intake valve is actuated based on the setpoint and actual value of the intake valve PWM control.

[0276] Furthermore, 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 air amount is determined by the proportional valve. The 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 the latter. According to the embodiment, the air amount is adjusted by the air flow meter. The air pressure is adjusted using the 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 Stirring part

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

[0288] 8 Stirrer

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

[0290] 9 Moving device

[0291] Center axis of the mixing tube

[0292] End of the agitator

[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] Sealing element 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] Control unit

[0310] First pipeline

[0311] Second pipeline

[0312] Metering device

[0313] Material handling device 200a, b

[0314] Control device

[0315] Material containers 210a, b

[0316] Agitators 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), the mixing tube (2) having a first closed end (3) and a second end (4), the second end 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), the mixing space defining a mixing section (6) starting from the first end; - a plurality of injection units (7a, 7b, 7c), each injection unit being used to inject a respective one of the plurality of components into the mixing space (5) at a respective position (Pa, Pb, Pc) along the mixing section (6); The plurality of injection units (7a, 7b, 7c) include: - at least one first injection unit (7a) for injecting a first component at a first position (Pa) along the mixing section (6); as well as at least one second injection unit (7b) for injecting a second component, in particular a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, at a second position (Pb), which is arranged along the mixing section (6) at the first position (Pa) or downstream of the first position (Pa); The application device further comprises a mixer (8) arranged in the mixing space (5) for mixing the injected components with each other according to the order in which the components are injected at the corresponding positions (Pa, Pb, Pc) along the mixing section (6).

2. The application device (1) according to claim 1, wherein The plurality of injection units (7a, 7b, 7c) further include: - at least one third injection unit (7c) for injecting a third component at a third position (Pc), wherein the third position is arranged at or after the second position (Pb) along the mixing section (6).

3. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The mixer (8) is used to mix the following substances along the mixing section (6): - as the first component, the first component and the second component, and - As the second component, a mixture of the first component and the second component is mixed with the third component.

4. The application device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The plurality of injection units (7a, 7b, 7c) further include: a fourth injection unit for injecting a fourth component, in particular a booster of the third component, at a fourth position (Pd) along the mixing section (6), the fourth position being arranged upstream of the third position (Pc), in particular between the second position (Pb) and the third position, and / or - a fifth injection unit for injecting a fifth component, in particular water, at a fifth position (Pe) along the mixing section (6), the fifth position being located upstream of the third position (Pc), in particular between the second position (Pb) and the third position (Pc; Pc1, Pc2, Pc3).

5. The application device (1) according to claim 4, wherein The mixer (8) is used to mix the following substances along the mixing section (6): - as a first component, said first component and said second component; - as the second component, a mixture of the first component and the second component with the fourth component and / or the fifth component, and - As the third component, a mixture of the first component, the second component, the fourth component and / or the fifth component with the third component.

6. Applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of first injection units, each first injection unit being used to inject a corresponding one of a plurality of first components at a corresponding one of a plurality of first positions along the mixing section (6), and / or comprising a plurality of second injection units, each second injection device being used to inject a corresponding one of a plurality of second components at a corresponding one of a plurality of second positions along the mixing section (6), in particular, each second position being arranged after each first position along the mixing section (6), and / or It comprises a plurality of third injection units, each of which is used to inject a corresponding one of a plurality of third components at a corresponding one of a plurality of third positions along the mixing section (6), wherein: In particular, each said third position is arranged after said second position along said mixing section (6).

7. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: - a plurality of first injection units, wherein each of the plurality of first injection units is used to inject the first component at a corresponding one of a plurality of first positions, and / or - a plurality of third injection units, wherein each of the plurality of third injection units is used to inject the third component at a corresponding one of a plurality of third positions.

8. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The injection unit is arranged on the tube wall (19) of the mixing tube (2), and / or Wherein, the injection unit is detachably arranged on the tube wall (19) of the mixing tube (2), and / or At least one, preferably all, injection units (7a, 7b, 7c) are arranged to be movable along the mixing tube (2) so as to inject the corresponding components into the mixing space (5) at at least two different positions (Pc, Pc') along the mixing section (6).

9. Applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The first component is a polyol or comprises a polyol, and / or the third component is a polyisocyanate or comprises a polyisocyanate; or Wherein, the first component is or includes polyisocyanate, and / or the third component is or includes polyol.

10. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein At least one of the plurality of components is or comprises a fluid and / or a liquid.

11. The applicator (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - a flushing agent injection unit, used for injecting a flushing medium into the mixing space (5) to flush the mixing space (5).

12. A method for mixing a plurality of components to prepare a multi-component mixture and introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object (G), the method comprising the steps of: - S1: injecting a first component into a mixing space (5) in a mixing tube (2) having a first end (3) and a second end (4) by means of a first injection unit (7a), wherein the mixing space (5) defines the mixing section (6) at a first position (Pa) along the mixing section (6), - S2: injecting a second component, in particular a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, into the mixing space (5) at a second position (Pb) along the mixing section (6) via a second injection unit (7b), wherein the second position (Pb) is arranged along the mixing section (6) at or after the first position (Pa), - S3: mixing the first component with the second component by means of a mixer (8) provided in the mixing space (5) to prepare a multi-component mixture, - S6: Discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube (2) through the second end (4) and applying the multi-component mixture to the object (G) or introducing the multi-component mixture into the object (G).

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising the steps of: - S4: injecting a third component into the mixing space (5) at a third position (Pc) along the mixing section (6) by means of a third injection unit (7c), wherein the third position (Pc) is arranged at or after the first position (Pb) along the mixing section (6), - S5: mixing the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component by the mixer (8) to prepare the multi-component mixture containing the third component.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein: The mixing S3 performed by the mixer (8) comprises rotating the mixture (8) around a rotation axis parallel to the central axis (10) of the mixing tube (2).

15. 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 an object (G), comprising: - an application device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11; a first device (200a) for material processing and for supplying a material flow of a first component, - a second device (200b) for material processing and for supplying a material flow of a third component, a first metering device (101) for receiving the material flow of the first component, setting the mass flow and / or 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 a second component, in particular a gas flow, preferably an air flow, to set a mass flow and / or a volume flow of the second component and to supply 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 (1).

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