Application device and method for producing and introducing / applying a multi-component mixture into / to an object, and application system comprising such application device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an application device for mixing a plurality of components, for producing a multi-component mixture, in particular a polyurethane foam, and for introducing and / or applying a multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object, in particular a lithium ion battery, comprising: a mixing tube having a first closed end and a second end, the second end is used for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing pipe, and the mixing pipe comprises a mixing chamber; a plurality of injection units arranged on the mixing tube and configured to inject a respective one of the plurality of components into the mixing chamber, respectively; and a mixer arranged in the mixing space and configured to mix the injected components with each other along the mixing tube. Furthermore, an application system comprising an application device and a method for mixing a plurality of components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object is disclosed.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an application device for producing multi-component mixtures, in particular polyurethane foams, and for introducing / applying the multi-component mixtures into / onto an object, especially during the production of batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries, and to a method for producing multi-component mixtures. The invention also relates to an application system comprising the application device. Background Art

[0002] For example, when producing foams, one or more components are mixed with air. In this case, precise, reproducible, and uniform mixing between the components themselves and between the components and air is very important. This includes that the mass or volume ratio between the components in the foam, especially with air, can be precisely set to an optimal value and must be continuously maintained throughout the foam production process. In addition, the mixture must be uniform throughout the foam volume. The foam must be able to be reproduced in multiple production batches.

[0003] Foams with poor flammability can be used for fire protection (e.g., batteries) and thermal insulation in the construction industry. Fire protection also plays an important role in thermal insulation. In this regard, specific specifications for foam production are particularly important.

[0004] Lithium batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, can be used in electric vehicles, etc. Such lithium-ion batteries are particularly often used for storing the energy generated by photovoltaic systems. However, lithium-ion batteries can also be used for energy storage in many other fields, especially because of their very long durability. However, the use of lithium-ion batteries is not without risks.

[0005] Since lithium-ion batteries are extremely destructive in fires and difficult to extinguish, fire protection plays an extremely important role in lithium-ion batteries. For the fire protection of lithium-ion batteries, there are currently few practical and / or solutions with only imperfect functions. These solutions include applying fireproof materials on the battery cover or casing, setting up a honeycomb structure in the battery, or completely pouring out the battery or battery cells.

[0006] A new fire protection method is to use polyurethane (abbreviation "PU") foam. For this purpose, the battery is provided with polyurethane foam. In this case, the battery cells are surrounded by polyurethane foam. If a defective battery cell catches fire or undergoes thermal runaway, the polyurethane foam absorbs the heat generated during the combustion process and also prevents adjacent battery cells from overheating or starting to burn due to the melting of the polyurethane foam. This prevents the occurrence or rapid spread of fire. Therefore, polyurethane foam can prevent the entire electric vehicle or the entire house from being burned due to a battery cell failure.

[0007] The production (polymerization) of polyurethane foam uses two monomers (e.g., polyols and polyisocyanates). Foaming can be carried out chemically and / or physically.

[0008] The disadvantages of conventional solutions for producing and applying foam, especially polyurethane foam, are that it is impossible to continuously conduct the components or continuously produce the foam. To date, the components in each case are pre-treated or pre-prepared in tanks and, if appropriate, already mixed with air in the tanks. Then, multiple components are fed into a mixer and / or an applicator. The component tanks must be replaced regularly or filled with new materials. In addition, the mixing ratio of the components in the foam cannot be precisely set because the components have been fed into the mixer or applicator in an air-displaced state. Therefore, the metering of the components is inaccurate, and the ratio between the components, especially the ratio between air and other components, cannot be set or is difficult to set. In addition, after stopping the production of foam, the mixer or applicator drips water.

[0009] Therefore, the problem to be urgently solved is how to improve the material quality and mixing quality of the foam. In particular, how to produce and apply the foam in a clean, precise, repeatable, uniform, and efficient manner. Summary of the Invention

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

[0011] The object of the present invention is to improve the production and introduction / application efficiency of polyurethane foam. In particular, the object of the present invention is to be able to continuously produce and introduce / apply polyurethane foam.

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

[0013] The object of the present invention is to improve the cleanliness of the introduction / application of polyurethane foam. In addition, the object of the present invention is also to improve the flexibility in the use of different components when producing polyurethane foam.

[0014] The object of the present invention is illustrated by taking polyurethane foam and its application in batteries as an example. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and can generally be used for the production and application of multi-component mixtures and / or foams composed of one or more components mixed with air. Only the application in batteries is exemplified here. Such multi-component mixtures and foams can be used in different fields, such as the production of building materials.

[0015] At least one object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. The subject matter of the dependent claims gives advantageous embodiments and developments.

[0016] In the context of the present disclosure, "applied to an object" is synonymous with "applied to an object". Embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to applying a multi-component mixture to an object. This also applies to the case of introducing a multi-component mixture into an object. In the context of the present disclosure, "battery" is synonymous with "accumulator". The "applying device" may also be abbreviated as "applicator", which is a device for applying or dispensing a mixture. In the context of the present disclosure, "mixture" should be understood as a synonym for "mixture". A multi-component mixture refers to a mixture of a first component and at least one other component, particularly 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 gas mixture (especially air) as the second component, and may also be composed of other components. Unless otherwise specified, "component" refers to a material. The description of different components is for distinguishing different materials. In this specification, polymeric polyurethane may also be referred to as a multi-component mixture.

[0017] By the present invention, all components, if appropriate, including gases or gas mixtures, are only mixed in the applying device with a mixer.

[0018] By the present invention, the first component and the third component are only mixed with a gas in the mixing chamber of the applying device. Thus, these components can be metered and injected into the mixing chamber in a gas-free or air-free state. Therefore, the metering is no longer dependent on the quantity or volume of the gas contained in the components. In particular, the gas volume depends to a large extent on the pressure in the pipeline conducting the components. Therefore, the accuracy in the metering process is greatly improved. Thus, conversely, the ratio between the first component or the third component and the gas (especially air) can be precisely set and adjusted. Therefore, both the material quality and the mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can be improved.

[0019] Furthermore, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, a mixing section is defined along the mixing tube, through a closed end and an open end. The mixing section defines an order on the basis of which multiple components for producing a multi-component mixture are injected into the mixing space and mixed with each other. In this case, it can first be ensured that the mixing order of the components is observed.

[0020] Furthermore, the sequence can be made flexible by changing one or more positions at which one or more components are injected into the mixing space. Furthermore, the type of the injected component can be simply changed, and the component injected at the corresponding position can be replaced. Thus, different multi-component mixtures can be simply produced. Furthermore, by setting the material flow rate of the injected component, the mass or volume ratio of the injected or mixed components can also be simply set. In particular, the ratio of the first component / third component to the gas or air can be precisely set, thereby improving the material quality and / or the mixing quality of the multi-component mixture.

[0021] In addition, the materials for preparing or stirring the first component or the third component can be provided by a material processing device connected upstream of the mixer. Therefore, the materials always have the same material properties before being injected into the mixing chamber. In particular, the uniformity of the injected components can be improved. Thus, the material quality and mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can also be improved. In addition, so-called "sacking" can be prevented.

[0022] In addition, through the embodiments of the present disclosure, the second open end of the mixing tube can also be closed in a quick and simple manner by the movement of the mixer along the mixing tube. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the multi-component mixture from overflowing from the mixing tube. This is particularly advantageous when the process of applying the multi-component mixture to an object is about to end. In addition, it is also possible to prevent the multi-component mixture from dripping from the application device. Therefore, a clean application of the multi-component mixture can be ensured.

[0023] In addition, through the embodiments of the present disclosure, mixing tubes with different inner diameters are also provided. Different inner diameters cause the components to have different rotational speeds along the mixing tube when the mixer mixes the components in the mixing space. This makes the mixing of the components more flexible and the mixing effect better, especially with a higher degree of mixing uniformity.

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

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

[0026] The application device includes a plurality of injection units, each injection unit being configured to inject a corresponding component of the multi-components into the mixing space. The plurality of injection units may be arranged on the mixing tube. The plurality of injection units may be arranged on the tube wall of the mixing tube, especially on the outer side of the tube wall.

[0027] According to an embodiment, the injection unit may include at least one first injection unit configured to inject a first component, and / or at least one second injection unit configured to inject a second component, preferably a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, and / or at least one third injection unit configured to inject a third component.

[0028] The application device further includes a mixer that is at least partially disposed within the mixing space and is configured to mix the injected components with each other. The mixer is particularly configured to mix the injected components with each other within the mixing space, preferably along the mixing space and / or along the mixing tube.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an application system is specifically described for mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object, wherein the application system includes an application device according to aspects and / or embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] The application system may further include at least one first metering device configured to receive a material flow of a first component, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the first component, and provide the material flow to at least one first injection unit. The application system further includes a second metering device configured to receive a material flow of a second component, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the second component, and provide the material flow to at least one second injection unit. The material flow of the second component may be an air flow or a flow of a gas mixture, preferably an air flow.

[0031] The application system may further include at least one third metering device configured to receive a material flow of a third component, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the third component, and provide the material flow to at least one third injection unit.

[0032] The injection unit may be configured to receive the material flow of the corresponding component.

[0033] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a method for mixing multiple components is specifically described, which is used to produce a multi-component mixture and introduce and / or apply the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object. The method includes the following steps:

[0034] Set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the material flow of the first component, and provide the material flow to the first injection unit of the application device, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the material flow of the second component, provide the material flow of the second component to the second injection unit of the application device, inject the first component into the mixing chamber of the mixing tube of the application device, and inject the second component, preferably a gas or a gas mixture, especially air, into the mixing chamber, and mix the first component and the second component in the mixing chamber along the mixing section by rotating a mixer provided in the mixing chamber to produce a mixture of the first component and the second component to produce a multi-component mixture, and inject the third component into the mixing chamber.

[0035] The method may further include: setting the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the material flow of the third component, providing the material flow to the third injection unit of the application device, and mixing the third component and the mixture of the first component and the second component by rotating the mixer to produce a multi-component mixture containing the third component.

[0036] The method may include at least one of the following steps: providing a material stream of a first component to a first metering device, providing a material stream of a second component to a second metering device, and providing a material stream of a third component to a third metering device.

[0037] The first component may be injected into a first position along a mixing section defined by a mixing chamber, the second component may be injected into a second position, the second position being located at or after the first position along the mixing section, and the third component may be injected into a third position, the third position being located at or after the second position along the mixing section. The first component may be injected by a first injection unit of an application device, the second component may be injected by a second injection unit of the application device, and the third component may be injected by a third injection unit of the application device.

[0038] An application device or an application system according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to perform a method according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present disclosure. A method according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present disclosure may be performed by an application device or an application system according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the use of an application device or an application system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is specified.

[0040] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure using an application device or an application system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is specified.

[0041] Various aspects of the present disclosure may have one or more of the following features.

[0042] The application device may include a rotation device configured to rotate a mixer.

[0043] 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 degrees Celsius and 1 bar). In particular, the first component and / or the third component may be a liquid. The components may have a dynamic viscosity, especially measured at 20 degrees Celsius according to the DIN EN ISO 2884 standard, between 0.5 mPa·s and 100,000 mPa·s.

[0044] Each of at least the first, third, fourth, and fifth components can be one or at least include one of the following components: water, a starter, an inhibitor, an accelerator, a booster, a monomer, a polyurethane polymerization monomer, a polyol, a diol, a polyisocyanate, an isocyanate, a diisocyanate, moist air. Preferably, each component contains at most one polyurethane polymerization monomer. At least the second component can be one of the following gases or at least include one of the following: an industrial gas, N2, CO2, NO, a mixture of at least two of the above gases.

[0045] The multi-component mixture can be produced by mixing multiple components. In particular, a foam can be produced by mixing a gas or a gas mixture with at least one other component. This can also be referred to as foaming, especially physical foaming. In particular, a foam can be produced by mixing the first component and / or the third component with a gas or a gas mixture.

[0046] The first component can include a first monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The third component can include a second monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The 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, it can be polymerized inside and / or outside the mixing space. The polyurethane can be foamed by a gas or a gas mixture, especially physical foaming.

[0047] 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 especially be or include an accelerator or a booster for the third component and / or the first component. The fifth component can especially be or include water. The injected water can be used to flush the mixer and / or the mixing pipe.

[0048] The first component and / or the third component can be injected into the mixing chamber in a state without air and / or without gas.

[0049] The mixing section can be defined by a mixing chamber that moves from the first end to the second end. A plurality of injection units can be respectively configured to inject the corresponding components into the mixing chamber at corresponding positions along the mixing section.

[0050] The first injection unit can be configured to inject the first component at a first position. The second injection unit can be configured to inject the second component at a second position, and the second position is set at or after the first position along the mixing section. The third injection unit can be configured to inject the third component at a third position, and the third position is set at or after the second position along the mixing section.

[0051] The mixer is configured to mix the injected components with each other according to the injection sequence of the injected components at corresponding positions in the mixing section or mixing space. Thus, the injected components can be mixed with each other according to this sequence. A multi-component mixture can be produced 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 the multi-component mixture can be applied to an object.

[0052] The application device can have at least one pressure sensor. Preferably, at least one pressure sensor is provided for at least one of a plurality of sections of the mixing tube. The pressure sensor is configured to measure the pressure in the region of the mixing space adjacent to the corresponding section.

[0053] The application device can include a first pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the mixing space at a position within the first position region or along the mixing section between the first position and the second position. The application device can further include a second pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the mixing space at a position in the second position region or along the mixing section between the second position and the third position. The application arrangement can further include a third pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the mixing space at a position within the third position region or after the third position and / or between the third position and the second end along the mixing section.

[0054] The application system can be configured to mix the first component and / or the third component with a gas or gas mixture in the mixing chamber of the application device, in particular specifically in the mixing chamber.

[0055] The application system can be configured to mix the first component with a gas or gas mixture in a material flow direction of the first component or relative to the material flow direction of the first component, rather than upstream of the first metering device or upstream of the application device. The application system can be configured to mix the third component with a gas or gas mixture in a material flow direction of the third component or relative to the material flow direction of the third component, rather than upstream of the third metering device or upstream of the application device.

[0056] 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 may be configured to receive a flow of gas or a gas mixture from the gas supply device of the application system, measure the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate, and provide the flow rate to the actuator. The actuator may be configured to receive the flow rate, set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the flow of the gas or the gas mixture, and provide the flow rate to the second injection device. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator is also configured to set the pressure in the gas or gas mixture conduction line (preferably the second line). Additionally, the measuring unit may also be configured to set the quantity and / or the volume flow rate and / or the mass flow rate of the flow of the gas or the gas mixture. For air, the measuring unit may be an air mass sensor or an air quantity sensor, the gas valve may be an air valve, the gas supply device may be an air supply device, and may also be configured as an air pump or include an air pump. The gas quantity sensor may also be referred to as a flow meter.

[0057] The application system may further include a first line between the gas supply device and the second metering device, preferably a passage, a hose or a pipe. The application system may include a second line between the second metering device and the application device, preferably a passage, a hose or a pipe, for conducting the flow of the gas or the gas mixture. The line may be referred to as a fluid conducting element.

[0058] The application system may further include a first line pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in the first line, in particular the air pressure or the gas pressure. The application system may further include a second line pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the second line, in particular the air pressure or the gas pressure.

[0059] The application system may further 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 may be configured to perform the control step. The control may be carried out by the control unit.

[0060] 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 may be configured to actuate the rotating device, the first metering device, the second metering device, the third metering device and / or the gas supply device accordingly.

[0061] Actuation of the rotation device can be used to set the rotational speed of the mixer. Actuation of the first metering device can be used to set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the first component. Actuation of the second metering device can be used to set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the second component. Actuation of the second metering device can include actuation of an actuator and / or a measuring unit, which can be used to set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the second component and / or the pressure in a pipeline for conducting a gas or a gas mixture. Actuation of the third metering device can set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the third component. Actuation of the gas supply device can be used to set the pressure of the flow of the gas or the gas mixture and / or the pressure in a pipeline for conducting a gas or a gas mixture (such as the first or second pipeline).

[0062] The control can be carried out according to a 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 a 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, in particular the ratio of the respective mass flow rates injected into the mixing chamber. Additionally, the control can also be carried out according to the ratio between the corresponding volume flow rates.

[0063] Additionally, the control can also be carried out according to the mass flow rate value of the second component and / or the mass flow rate value of the first component and / or the mass flow rate value of the third component and / or the rotational speed value of the mixer and / or the pressure value of the mixing chamber and / or the pressure value of the first pipeline and / or the pressure value of the first or second pipeline. The specified value can be a set value or a measured value of the corresponding specified variable. Additionally, the control can also be carried out according to the corresponding volume flow rate values.

[0064] The control can include controlling the mixing ratio of multiple components in a multi-component mixture. The control can include controlling the ratio between the mass and / or volume of the second component and the mass 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 and / or volume flow rate of at least one other component. The control can include controlling the ratio between the mass and / or volume of the second component and the mass and / or volume of at least one other component in the multi-component mixture. This can also be correspondingly applicable to other components. The mass flow rate or the volume flow rate can be the flow rate of the material flow of each component injected into the mixing chamber.

[0065] The control may include controlling the ratio of the mass flow rate of the second component to the mass flow rate of the first component, and / or controlling the ratio of the mass flow rate of the second component to the mass flow rate of the third component, and / or controlling the ratio of the mass flow rate of the first component to the mass flow rate of the third component. Additionally, the control may also be performed by controlling the volume flow rate ratio of the corresponding components. In particular, the control may be performed by actuating the second metering device and / or actuating the first metering device and / or actuating the third metering device and / or actuating the gas supply device and / or actuating the rotating device. The setpoint of the ratio may be predefined in advance by the control unit or an external system or the user of the application device. The setpoint may be preset by a mathematical function.

[0066] The control may include controlling the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the second component, in particular making it proportional to the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the first component, and / or proportional to the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the third component, and / or proportional to the rotational speed of the mixer. In particular, the control may be performed by actuating the second metering device and / or actuating the first metering device and / or actuating the third metering device and / or actuating the gas supply device and / or actuating the rotating device.

[0067] The control may include controlling the pressure of the second component, especially in the pipeline conducting the material flow of the second component, such as the first pipeline or the second pipeline, and / or at the second injection point of the second component, such that the pressure is greater than the pressure in the mixing space, preferably greater than 1 bar, preferably at a position in the region of the first position along the mixing section. This control can be achieved especially by actuating the gas supply device and / or the second metering device.

[0068] The control may include controlling the pressure of the second component, especially in the pipeline conducting 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 pressure difference may be 1 bar or more.

[0069] The control may include controlling the rotational speed of the mixer, especially making the rotational speed proportional to the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the first component, and / or proportional to the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the third component. The control can be achieved by actuating the rotating device.

[0070] The first component and / or the third component may be injected into the mixing chamber 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.

[0071] The application system may include a first material handling device configured to provide a material stream of a first component. The application system may include a second material handling device configured to provide a material stream of a third component. A first metering device may be configured to receive the material stream of the first component from the first material handling device. A third metering device may be configured to receive the material stream of the third component from the second material handling device.

[0072] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a method of mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object is specifically described. The method includes the following steps: injecting a first component into a mixing chamber in a mixing tube having a first end and a second end through a first injection unit, wherein the mixing chamber defines a mixing section; injecting a second component, particularly a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, into the mixing chamber at a second position along the mixing section through a second injection unit. Here, the second position is arranged along the mixing section after the first position. The method further includes mixing the first component and the second component through a mixer in the mixing chamber 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 onto an object.

[0073] The closed first end can seal the components injected into the mixing chamber. The open second end is used to discharge the produced multi-component mixture from the mixing tube. The mixing section may be defined as the profile of the central axis of the mixing tube extending from the first end to the second end. Each position along the mixing section may be defined as the projection of each injection point on the center line of the mixing tube.

[0074] The injection unit may also be referred to as an injection unit. Each injection unit has a nozzle for injecting the corresponding component into the mixing chamber. The injection unit may be configured to receive the material stream of the corresponding component from the corresponding metering device.

[0075] The mixer may be configured to first mix the first component and the second component with each other along the mixing section. Next, the mixture of the first component and the second component is mixed with a third component. Therefore, the method may further include mixing the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component through the mixer to produce a multi-component mixture containing the third component.

[0076] The mixer may rotate around a rotation axis. The rotation axis may be substantially parallel to the central axis or the center line of the mixing tube.

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

[0078] The injection unit may include at least one fifth injection unit for injecting a fifth component at a fifth position arranged along the mixing section, in front of the third position, particularly between the second and third positions, especially behind the fourth position.

[0079] The mixer may be configured to first mix the first and second components along the mixing section, and then mix the mixture of the first and second components with the fourth component or the fifth component, or next mix the mixture of the first and second components with the fourth component, and then mix the mixture of the first, second, and fourth components with the fifth component. The mixer may be configured to mix the mixture of the first, second, fourth, and / or fifth components with the third component.

[0080] The mixing tube may have a plurality of injection points for injecting a respective one of the components. The injection points may be holes or apertures through the wall of the mixing tube. Each injection unit may be arranged on a respective one of the injection points. Each injection unit may be configured to be attached to a respective one of the injection points. Each injection point may correspond to a specific position on the mixing section defined by the mixing chamber.

[0081] At least one of the plurality of injection units may be removable from the mixing tube, particularly from the wall of the mixing tube, and / or may be replaceable along the mixing tube. Thus, the injection units may be arranged at different injection points of the mixing tube. Thus, the respective components may be injected into the mixing chamber at at least two different positions along the mixing section. Thus, the injection and mixing order of the components may be more flexible.

[0082] The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of first injection units, such as two or three. The plurality of first injection units may be respectively configured to inject a respective component of a plurality of first components at respective positions among a plurality of first positions along the mixing section. The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of second injection units, such as two or three. The plurality of second injection units may be respectively configured to inject a respective component of a plurality of second components at respective positions among a plurality of second positions along the mixing section. Particularly, each of the second positions may be arranged behind each of the first positions along the mixing section. The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of third injection units, such as two or three. The plurality of third injection units may be respectively configured to inject a respective component of a plurality of third components at respective positions among a plurality of third positions along the mixing section. Particularly, each of the third positions may be arranged behind each of the second positions along the mixing section. Similarly, the fourth and fifth injection units may also be used for injection. Each of at least one of the first to fifth components may also be injected multiple times.

[0083] Optionally or additionally, the plurality of injection units may have a plurality of first injection units, where each of the plurality of first injection units is configured to inject a first component at a corresponding position among a plurality of first positions. The plurality of injection units may have a plurality of third injection units, where each of the plurality of third injection units is configured to inject a third component at a corresponding position among a plurality of third positions. The same applies to the second, fourth, and / or fifth components. On the one hand, the components can thus be injected multiple times. On the other hand, which position the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth component is injected into the mixing chamber with which injection unit can also vary accordingly. This is very advantageous when an injection unit needs to be repaired. In this way, the same component can be injected using another injection device.

[0084] Foam can be produced by mixing the first component and / or the third component with a gas or a gas mixture.

[0085] The application device may include a flushing injection device. The flushing injection device may be configured to inject a flushing medium into the mixing chamber to flush the mixing chamber. The flushing medium may be or include a fluid, especially water. The flushing injection unit may inject the flushing medium into the mixing chamber at any position along the mixing section relative to the first to fifth injection units. In addition, one of the first to fifth injection units may also be used to inject the flushing medium.

[0086] The produced multi-component mixture can flow out independently from the mixing tube and the second end of the application device. Especially when the mixing tube is vertically arranged. At this time, the material of the multi-component mixture has floated out 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 multi-component mixture will be further pressed out of the mixing tube by the inflowing component materials. Additionally, the mixer can also be designed such that the rotating mixer presses out the material of the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube.

[0087] The produced multi-component mixture can be foam, especially polyurethane foam. The produced multi-component mixture can be applied to an object or introduced into an object. In particular, polyurethane foam can be applied to or introduced into a lithium-ion battery.

[0088] The object can be a lithium battery or a battery cell, or a lithium-ion battery or a battery cell. The multi-component mixture can be or include polyurethane foam.

[0089] Each metering device can also be configured to set the volume flow rate of the corresponding component. The first metering device can be configured to measure the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the first component. The third metering device can be configured to measure the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the third component. A simple conversion can be made between the volume or volume flow rate and the mass or mass flow rate of the corresponding component according to pressure, temperature, and / or molar volume.

[0090] According to a preferred embodiment, the application system includes at least two first material processing devices for the first component and / or at least two second material processing devices for the third component. Here, each first material processing device can supply a material flow to the first metering device. The first metering device can be configured to receive a material flow from one of the two first metering devices or simultaneously receive material flows from the two first material processing devices. This also applies to the second material processing device and the third metering device for the third component. Having two material processing devices for each component can ensure that the respective metering device continuously receives a material flow. Thus, continuous operation of the application system can be ensured.

[0091] Preferably, the central part and the mixing elements of the mixer are arranged in the mixing chamber.

[0092] The application device further includes a moving device configured to move the mixer along the central axis of the mixing tube and / or between the first end and the second end. The central axis can also be referred to as the longitudinal axis.

[0093] The mixer can move along the mixing tube between a first position and a second position. The second position can be closer to the second end along the mixing tube, especially along the central axis, than the first position. On the other hand, the first position can be closer to the first end along the mixing tube than the second position. The mixer can move from the first position in the direction of the second end to the second position. This movement can seal the mixing tube to prevent the injected components and / or the multi-component mixture from flowing out of and / or flowing towards the second end of the mixing tube.

[0094] Alternatively, the mixer can also be moved from the second position in the direction of the first end to the first position. The effect of this method is also that the mixing tube is sealed to prevent the injected components and / or the multi-component mixture from flowing out of and / or flowing towards the second end.

[0095] The mixing tube can have at least one sealing element. The mixing tube can have multiple sealing elements. The sealing element can be arranged at or in the region of the second end of the mixing tube, or the sealing element can be formed by the second end of the mixing tube.

[0096] The sealing element can be configured as a ring or substantially annular. When the agitator moves towards or away from the second end, the agitator, especially the mixing elements of the agitator, will contact the sealing element, thereby sealing the mixing tube.

[0097] The sealing element can also be configured as a cone or substantially conical. This means that the surface of the sealing element facing the direction of the central axis of the mixing tube is conical. In particular, the sealing element can be configured as a conical seat at the end of the mixer.

[0098] The mixer can have a conical, frustoconical, conical, needle-shaped or pointed end opposite the second end of the mixing tube. The effect of moving the mixer towards the second end is that the end of the mixer contacts the sealing element, thereby sealing the mixing tube.

[0099] The sealing element and the first end of the mixer can form a needle valve.

[0100] The mixer can be moved so 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 so that the first end of the mixer contacts the sealing element of the mixing tube.

[0101] Preferably, the rotating device is or includes an electric motor, and particularly preferably a servo motor. The rotating device can be configured to rotate the mixer about a rotation axis that is substantially parallel to the central axis of the mixing tube. The central axis of the mixing tube and the rotation axis of the mixer can be substantially coincident or overlapping.

[0102] The mixer can have multiple sections along the rotation axis and / or along the central axis of the mixing tube, where the outer diameters of at least two of the multiple sections are different from each other.

[0103] The mixer can have a first section and a second section. The outer diameter of the first section can be greater than that of the second section, and vice versa. Relative to the central axis of the mixing tube, the first section can be closer to the first end than the second section. In the vertical direction, the first section can be arranged above the second section.

[0104] The mixer can have a third section that is closer to the second end of the mixing tube than the first section and / or the second section of the mixer relative to the central axis of the mixing tube. The outer diameter of the third section can be different from that of the first section and / or the second section. The outer diameter of the third section can be greater than that of the first section and / or the second section. The outer diameter of the third section can be less than that of the first section and / or the second section.

[0105] The mixing tube can have multiple sections along the central axis. The inner diameter of the mixing tube wall is substantially constant within each section. The inner diameters of the mixing tube wall can be different from each other within at least two of the multiple sections or between two sections. The inner diameter of one section of the wall can be different from that of at least another section of the walls of the multiple sections. The inner diameter of the mixing tube can be defined as the inner diameter of the wall, where any mixing elements of the mixing tube are not considered.

[0106] There can be multiple sections, including a first section and a second section. The first section can be arranged at or near the first end. The second section can be arranged between the first section and the second end along the central axis. The inner diameter of the tube wall of the first section can be greater than that of the second section, and vice versa. The first section can be closer to the first end of the mixing tube than the second section. The first section can be arranged above the second section with respect to the vertical direction. The first section can also be referred to as the upper material chamber.

[0107] There can be a third section among the multiple sections. The third section can be arranged between the second section and the second end along the central axis. The inner diameter of the tube wall of the third section of the mixing tube can be different from that of the second section and / or the first section. The third section can be closer to the second end of the mixing tube than the second section. The inner diameter of the tube wall of the third section can be smaller than that of the first section and / or the second section. The inner diameter of the tube wall of the third section can be larger than that of the first section and / or the second section.

[0108] At least one first injection unit can be arranged on the tube wall of the first section of the mixing tube. At least one first injection unit can be configured to inject a first component into the region adjacent to the first section of the mixing tube in the mixing space.

[0109] At least one second injection unit can be arranged on the mixing tube wall of the second section of the mixing tube. At least one second injection unit can be configured to inject a second component into the region of the mixing space adjacent to the second section of the mixing tube.

[0110] At least one third injection unit can be arranged on the tube wall of the third section of the mixing tube. At least one third injection unit can be configured to inject a third component into the region of the mixing space adjacent to the third section of the mixing tube.

[0111] The first pressure sensor can be configured to measure the pressure at the first end of the mixing tube and / or in the region of the mixing space near the first section of the mixing tube. The second pressure sensor can be configured to measure the pressure in the region of the mixing space adjacent to the second section of the mixing tube. The third pressure sensor can be configured to measure the pressure in the region of the mixing space adjacent to the second end and / or the third section of the mixing tube.

[0112] The central axis of the mixer can extend generally along the mixing tube, particularly along the central axis. The mixer can be generally rod-shaped or have a rod. The mixer can have a central member, which is configured to be substantially rotationally symmetric and / or substantially rod-shaped or bar-shaped. The central member can extend generally along the central axis of the mixing tube. The axis of symmetry or the central axis of the central member can be substantially coincident with the central axis of the mixing tube.

[0113] The mixer has at least one mixing element. The function of the mixing element is to effectively mix the injected components through the mixer. The mixing element can extend radially along the mixer. The mixing element can be arranged 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 component. According to a preferred embodiment, the mixer has a plurality of mixing elements. The plurality of mixing elements can be distributed along the central member and / or relative to the central axis. In addition, the plurality of mixing elements can also be distributed along the circumferential direction of the central member. Particularly preferably, the design and / or arrangement of the mixing element should ensure that no imbalance is formed when the mixer rotates around the rotation axis. The rotation axis of the mixer can coincide with the symmetry axis.

[0114] At least one stirring element can be configured as a sheet, tooth, hook or rod. At least one mixing element can be configured as a ring surrounding the central member. At least one mixing element can be configured as a thread or spiral, or include the latter.

[0115] The application device can have at least one mixing element. The mixing element can be arranged on the pipe wall, especially on the inner side of the pipe wall of the mixing pipe, and extend in each section of the mixing chamber. The mixing element can extend towards the central axis of the mixing pipe. The mixing element can be configured as a ring. The mixing element can be configured as a sheet, tooth, hook or rod, or at least one of the mixing elements is configured as a regular or irregular structure.

[0116] The mixing pipe can be configured substantially in a straight line. This may mean that the center line of the mixing pipe or the mixing space is straight. The direction of the mixing pipe can be substantially vertical. The first end can be arranged above the second end. The length of the mixing pipe can be greater than the inner diameter of the pipe wall of the mixing pipe. The inner side of the pipe wall of the mixing pipe can be rotationally symmetric around the central axis.

[0117] The moving device can be configured as a lifting cylinder, especially an electric lifting cylinder or an electro-hydraulic lifting cylinder, or include the latter.

[0118] According to an embodiment, the application device includes a plurality of first injection units and / or a plurality of second injection units and / or a plurality of third injection units. Correspondingly, the application system can include a plurality of first metering devices, a plurality of first material handling devices, a plurality of second metering devices, a plurality of second material handling devices and a plurality of third metering devices.

[0119] A transition section can also be provided between two sections of the mixing pipe in each of the plurality of sections. The inner diameter of the pipe wall of each transition section along the central axis can be variable, preferably linearly variable.

[0120] The mixer can provide a corresponding section for each section of the mixing pipe, where each section of the mixing pipe overlaps with the corresponding section of the mixer in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the mixing pipe. This plane can include the radial direction of the mixing pipe.

[0121] Along the central axis of the mixing tube between the first end and the second end, the inner diameter of the mixing tube can be greater than the outer diameter of the mixer. The inner diameter of the mixing tube can be defined as the inner diameter of the mixing tube wall, without considering any mixing elements of the mixing tube. The extent of the mixer in a plane including the radial direction of the mixing tube can be defined as the outer diameter of the mixer, where any mixing elements of the mixer are taken into account for the extent of the mixer.

[0122] A device for material handling (also simply referred to as a material handling device), in particular a first material handling device and / or a third material handling device, can include a material container and a pump device. The material container can be configured to handle corresponding components. The pump device can have an inlet and an outlet. The inlet of the pump device can be connected to the material container in a fluidly communicating manner such that the components can be introduced from the material container into the pump device. The pump device can be configured to provide the components at a pressure of at least 15 bar to the outlet of the pump device.

[0123] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a material handling method is provided. The method can include the following steps: handling components, in particular a first component or a third component, in a material container; introducing the components from the material container into the inlet of the pump device; increasing the pressure of the components by the pump device; and discharging the components from the outlet of the pump device. At the outlet of the pump device, the pressure of the components is at least 15 bar.

[0124] Any material handling device disclosed herein can be used in a material handling method.

[0125] Furthermore, a use of a material handling device is disclosed herein for handling components for polyurethane polymerization. The component can be a monomer for polyurethane polymerization.

[0126] An application device, in particular a first injection device, can be connected to the outlet of the first material handling device in a fluidly communicating manner. An application device, in particular a third injection device, can be connected to the outlet of the second material handling device in a fluidly communicating manner. In this way, the first component and the third component can enter the application device, in particular a mixing space. The application device can be configured 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 battery or a storage battery.

[0127] The pressure values disclosed herein are absolute pressure values. Therefore, the pressure values are based on absolute vacuum. The ambient pressure is approximately 1 bar.

[0128] By processing the corresponding components, the components can be brought to a constant state before subjecting them to a relatively high pressure for further processing, thereby achieving high dosing accuracy at high volume flow rates. Components, such as components including polyurethane polymerization monomers, are typically stored in barrels. If the components are agitated to ensure a uniform distribution of the substances in the components, air needs to be introduced into the components. The amount of air introduced may vary, making it more difficult to accurately meter the components.

[0129] At the inlet of the pump device, the pressure of the component can be less than 1.0 bar. Preferably, at the inlet of the pump device, the pressure of the component is less than 0.9 bar, more preferably less than 0.8 bar, more preferably less than 0.7 bar, more preferably less than 0.6 bar. The pressure of the component at the inlet of the pump device can be lower than the ambient air pressure. A vacuum can occur at the inlet of the pump device.

[0130] The pump device can include a high-pressure pump or can also be a high-pressure pump. The pump device can include a piston pump or can also be a piston pump. Preferably, the pump device includes a high-pressure piston pump or is a high-pressure piston pump.

[0131] The pump device can not include a diaphragm pump. In other words, a diaphragm pump cannot be included in the pump device.

[0132] The pump device can be configured to supply the component to the pump device at a pressure of at least 60 bar. Preferably, the pump device is configured to supply the component at the outlet of the pump device at a pressure of at least 60 bar, more preferably at least 100 bar, more preferably at least 200 bar, more preferably at least 300 bar.

[0133] The pump device can be configured to supply the component at the outlet of the pump device at a pressure between 15 bar and 350 bar, especially between 20 bar and 350 bar.

[0134] The pump device can be configured 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, more preferably at least 200 bar, more preferably at least 300 bar.

[0135] The pump device can be configured to control or regulate or set the volume flow rate or mass flow rate of the component at the outlet of the pump device.

[0136] The pump device can include a drive. The drive can be a hydraulic drive, especially a servo-hydraulic drive.

[0137] The material container can include at least one processing unit. The processing unit can be configured to process the corresponding components in the material container. In particular, the processing unit is configured to heat, degas, place under vacuum, agitate, and / or mix the components in the material container.

[0138] The material container can be heatable. Preferably, the material container includes at least one heating element. The heating element can be an electric heating element. The heating element can be configured to heat the temperature of the corresponding components in the material container to at least 30 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 40 degrees Celsius, more preferably at least 50 degrees Celsius, more preferably at least 60 degrees Celsius, more preferably at least 70 degrees Celsius, more preferably at least 80 degrees Celsius, more preferably at least 100 degrees Celsius.

[0139] The interior of the material container can be in a vacuum state. The pressure in the material container can be lower than the ambient air pressure. The pressure in the material container can be lower than 1.0 bar, preferably lower than 0.8 bar, more preferably lower than 0.6 bar, more preferably lower than 0.5 bar, more preferably lower than 0.4 bar.

[0140] The material container can include a vacuum unit. The vacuum unit can be configured to provide a vacuum in the material container. The vacuum device cannot be part of the material container and, in particular, cannot be connected to the material container.

[0141] The material container can be configured to stir the components in the material container. Preferably, the material container includes a stirrer, preferably a movable stirrer. The stirrer can be driven by a drive.

[0142] The components can include monomers for polyurethane polymerization. The component can be mixed with another monomer for polyurethane polymerization downstream of the pump device. Polyurethane can be polymerized by the chemical reaction of the monomers.

[0143] Preferably, the component contains at most one monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The component can include a polyol. In particular, a diol. The component can include a polyisocyanate. In particular, a diisocyanate. The component can be liquid (at 20 degrees Celsius and 1 bar).

[0144] The component can have a dynamic viscosity, especially measured at 20 degrees Celsius according to the DIN EN ISO 2884 standard, between 0.5 mPa s and 100000 mPa s.

[0145] Generally, 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. Polyurethane can be foamed by a gas, especially physical foaming.

[0146] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an application device is provided for mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object.

[0147] The application device includes a mixing tube having a closed first end and a second end for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube, wherein the mixing tube includes a mixing chamber. The mixing chamber can be arranged between the first end and the second end.

[0148] The application device includes a plurality of injection units, each injection unit being configured to inject a corresponding component of the multi-component into the mixing chamber. The injection unit can include at least one first injection unit for injecting a first component; at least one second injection unit for injecting a second component, in particular a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air; and at least one third injection unit for injecting a third component. The plurality of injection units can be arranged on the mixer.

[0149] The application device further includes a mixer that is at least partially disposed within the mixing space and is configured to mix the injected components with each other. In particular, the mixer can be configured to mix the injected components with each other within the mixing space, preferably along the mixing space and / or along the mixing tube. The mixer can be entirely disposed within the mixing space.

[0150] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture is provided. The method includes the following steps: injecting a first component into a mixing chamber in a mixing tube of an application device through a first injection unit of the application device; injecting a second component, in particular a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, into the mixing chamber through a second injection unit of the application device; and mixing the first component with the second component by a mixer in the mixing chamber to produce a multi-component mixture.

[0151] The method can further include injecting a third component into the mixing chamber through a third injection unit of the application device and include mixing the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component to produce a multi-component mixture containing the third component. The method further includes discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube, in particular the second open end of the mixer. The method can further include applying the multi-component mixture to an object or introducing the multi-component mixture into an object. Mixing can include rotating the mixer.

[0152] The first component can be injected into a first position along a mixing section defined by the mixing chamber, the second component can be injected into a second position, wherein the second position is located along the mixing section at or after the first position, and the third component can be injected into a third position, wherein the third position is located along the mixing section at or after the second position.

[0153] The method may further include at least one of the following steps: setting a mass flow rate and / or a volume flow rate of a material stream of a first component, and supplying the material stream to at least one first injection unit of an application device; setting a mass flow rate and / or a volume flow rate of a material stream of a second component, and supplying the material stream of the second component to at least one second injection unit of the application device; setting a mass flow rate and / or a volume flow rate of a material stream of a third component, and supplying the material stream to at least one third injection unit of the application device.

[0154] According to a further aspect, an application system is specified, including an application device according to aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure. The application system may include at least one device for material handling according to aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0155] Aspects of the present disclosure will be described hereinafter with reference to the drawings. In the drawings:

[0156] Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0157] Figure 1B A schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0158] Figure 2 A partial schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to yet a further embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0159] Figure 3A , 3B Schematic cross-sectional views showing different positions of a second end of a mixing tube and a mixer in an application device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown;

[0160] Figure 4A , 4B Schematic cross-sectional views showing different positions of a second end of a mixing tube and a mixer in an application device according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure are shown;

[0161] Figure 5A , 5B Schematic cross-sectional views showing different positions of a second end of a mixing tube and a mixer in an application device according to yet a further embodiment of the present disclosure are shown;

[0162] Figure 6 A schematic view of a mixing section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0163] Figure 7 A device for material handling according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0164] Figure 8 An enlarged view of a material container of a device for material handling according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0165] Figure 9 Shows a schematic diagram of an application system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0166] Figure 10 Shows a flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0167] Figure 11 Shows a flowchart of a method according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0168] Figure 12 Shows a control step diagram of a method for mixing multiple components, the method being used to produce a multi-component mixture and introduce / apply the multi-component mixture into / onto an object according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0169] In the following, the same reference signs denote the same or corresponding elements.

[0170] Figure 1A Shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1B Shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 Shows a partial schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to yet a further embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0171] The application device 1 is configured to mix multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and introduce and / or apply the multi-component mixture into or onto an object G.

[0172] Polyurethane foam can be applied into or onto an object through the application device 1. For example, the object G is a lithium-ion battery or a battery cell. For example, the polyurethane foam can be introduced into the internal space of the battery and / or the intermediate space between battery cells. For example, the polyurethane foam can be used for fire protection.

[0173] The application device 1 includes a mixing tube 2 with a first end 3 and a second end 4. The first end 3 is closed, which means that this end is sealed for the components of the multi-component mixture injected into the mixing tube 2. The second end 4 is open for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2. Between the first end 3 and the second end 4, the mixing tube 2 includes a mixing space 5. The mixing space 5 defines a mixing section 6 extending from the first end 3 towards the second end 4. The mixing space 5 is located in the mixing tube 2. The mixing space 5 can also be referred to as a mixing chamber.

[0174] The mixing tube 2 is arranged substantially in a straight line. 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 has a tube wall 19. As shown, the inner side of the tube wall 19 can be substantially rotationally symmetric about the central axis 10. The inner side of the tube wall 19 adjoins the mixing space 5. The direction of the mixing tube 2 is substantially vertical. This means that the central axis 10 runs substantially along the vertical space direction z.

[0175] As shown, the mixing tube 2 has a plurality of sections along the central axis 10: 2a, 2b, 2c. In Figure 1A and Figure 1B embodiments, the mixing tube has two sections: 2a, 2b. In Figure 2 embodiments, the mixing tube has three sections: 2a, 2b, 2c. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first section 2a is arranged at or adjacent to the first end 3, and the second section 2b is arranged along the central axis 10 between the first section 2a and the second end 4. The third section 2c can be arranged at or adjacent to the second end 4. The third section 2c is arranged along the central axis 10, for example, between the second section 2c and the second end 4.

[0176] The inner diameter of the tube wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 is substantially constant within each of the sections 2a, 2b, 2c. However, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 is different between the sections 2a, 2b, 2c. Therefore, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in section 2a is different from that in section 2b. In addition, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in section 2b is different from that in section 2c. In addition, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in section 2a is different from that in section 2c. When considering the inner diameter, any mixing elements 16 are not taken into account, which will be described in detail later.

[0177] As Figure 1A and Figure 1B shown, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in the first section 2a is larger than that in the second section 2b. The first section 2a can also be referred to as the upper material chamber of the mixing tube 2, and the second section 2b can also be referred to as the lower material chamber.

[0178] As Figure 2 shown, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in the third section 2c is larger than that in the first section 2a and the second section 2b. According to a further embodiment, the inner diameter of the tube wall 19 in the third section 2c can also be smaller than that in the first section 2a and the second section 2b.

[0179] As shown, further, the transition sections 2d, 2e of the mixing tube 2 can be arranged between the sections 2a, 2b, 2c, where the tube wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 has a variable inner diameter. For example, the inner diameter can vary linearly along the central axis 10. This can form a transition between the different inner diameters of the sections 2a, 2b, 2c.

[0180] The wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 has injection points 20a, 20b, 20c corresponding to the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c, which will be described in detail below. As shown in the figure, the injection points are provided on the wall 19 of the mixing tube 2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The function of the injection point is only to provide a passage for the injection unit to enter the mixing chamber 5 so as to inject the components. The injection point may be a hole passing through the wall 19.

[0181] The application device 1 further includes a plurality of injection units 7a, 7b, 7c. They are respectively used to inject corresponding components into the mixing chamber 5. As shown in the figure, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c are arranged on the wall 19 of the mixing tube 2, more precisely, on the outer side of the wall 19, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Each of the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c is arranged at the corresponding injection point 20a, 20b, 20c for injecting the corresponding component into the mixing chamber 5 through the injection point. Therefore, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c inject the corresponding components at the predicted positions Pa, Pb, Pc of the component along the mixing section 6.

[0182] As Figure 1A shown in the example of the injection units 7b and 7c, each of the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c has a nozzle. In addition, each injection unit can also be used to stop injecting the components. For this purpose, each of the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c can have a corresponding intake valve, such as configured as a needle valve. The intake valves 7a, 7b, 7c can be configured as PWM valves. In this way, the injection of the corresponding components into the mixing chamber 5 can be completely stopped. For example, when enough polyurethane foam has been applied to the object G and the next object G' is to be replaced, the injection must be stopped. At this time, the material flow of each component can be briefly interrupted through the intake valve.

[0183] The first injection unit 7a is used to inject the first component through the first injection point 20a at the first position Pa along the mixing section 6. The second injection unit 7b is used to inject the second component through the second injection point 20b at the second position Pb along the mixing section 6. The third injection unit 7c is used to inject the third component through the third injection point 20c at the third position Pc along the mixing section 6. The second position Pb is arranged behind the first position Pa along the mixing section 6, and the third position Pc is arranged behind the second position Pb along the mixing section 6.

[0184] To clean and flush the application device 1, in particular the mixing tube 2, the mixer 8, and the mixing chamber 5, it is only necessary to inject air or the first component into the mixing chamber 5. According to an embodiment not shown, the application device 1 may further include a flushing injection unit. The flushing injection unit may be configured to inject a flushing medium into the mixing chamber 5 for flushing the first to third components in the mixing chamber 5. The flushing medium may be water. The flushing injection unit may inject the flushing medium into the mixing chamber 5 at any position along the mixing section 6. Additionally, a single injection unit may also be used to inject the flushing medium.

[0185] In Figure 1B the embodiment of, there is a fourth injection unit 7d for injecting a fourth component, which is arranged at an injection point 20d at the same height as the injection point 20c of the third injection unit 7c. Relative to the central axis 10, the injection point 20d may be located opposite the injection point 20c on the pipe wall 19. Thus, 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 arranged in front of the third position along the mixing section 6, particularly between the second and third positions.

[0186] The injection unit may include a fifth injection unit (not shown) for injecting a fifth component at a fifth position, which is arranged in front of the third position along the mixing section, particularly between the second and third positions, for example, behind the fourth position. In particular, the fourth component may be a synergist for the third component. In particular, the fifth component may be water. According to an embodiment, there may also be multiple first, second, third, fourth, and / or fifth injection units.

[0187] The first to third injection units 7a, 7b, 7c are respectively used to inject fluids. According to an embodiment, the second injection unit 7b injects a gas or a gas mixture (such as air) as one component into the mixing chamber 5. The first component 7a injects a polyol as the second component, and the third injection unit 7c injects a polyisocyanate as the component, and vice versa.

[0188] At least one of the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c can be detached from the pipe wall 19. The injection unit 7c is shown in Figure 1A as shown. Thus, it can be offset and attached to another injection point, such as the injection point 20c'. Thus, the third component can be flexibly injected at multiple positions Pc, Pc' along the mixing section 6.

[0189] The application device 1 also has a first pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring the pressure in the region of the mixing space 5, which pressure sensor is adjacent to the first section 2a of the mixing tube 2. Alternatively or additionally, the first pressure sensor may be configured to measure the pressure at a certain position along the mixing section 6 within the region of the first position Pa, or may be configured to measure the pressure at a certain position between the first position Pa and the second position Pb.

[0190] Furthermore, the application device 1 may also have a second pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring the pressure in the region of the mixing space 5, which pressure sensor is adjacent to the second section 2b of the mixing tube 2. Alternatively or additionally, the second pressure sensor may be configured to measure the pressure at a certain position along the mixing section 6 within the region of the second position Pb, or may be configured to measure the pressure at a certain position between the second position Pb and the third position Pc, and may also be configured to measure the pressure at a certain position between the second position Pb and the third position Pc. The application device 1 may also include a third pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring the pressure in the region of the mixing space 5 adjacent to the second end of the mixing tube 4 and / or the third section 2c. Alternatively or additionally, the third pressure sensor may also be configured to measure the pressure at a certain position along the mixing section 6 within the region of the third position Pc, or to measure the pressure at a certain position after the third position Pc and / or between the third position Pc and the second end 4.

[0191] The application device 1 also has a mixer 8, which is at least partially arranged in the mixing space 5. The mixer 8 may be completely arranged in the mixing space 5. Preferably, a central member 12 and mixing elements 13 of the mixer 8 may be provided in the mixing space 5. The mixer 8 may be configured as a rotor. The mixer 8 is configured to mix the injected components. For this purpose, the mixer 8 rotates in the mixing space 5. Preferably, the axis of rotation of the mixer 8 is parallel to or coincides with the central axis of the mixing tube 2. In order to rotate the mixer, the application device 1 has a rotating device 15, such as an electric motor. The mixer 8 and the mixing tube 2 may be produced by 3D printing.

[0192] The mixer 8 mixes the injected components along the mixing space 5 or along the mixing section 6. Depending on the order of injecting the components at the corresponding positions along the mixing section 6, the mixer 8 mixes the injected components. A multi-component mixture is produced by mixing the injected components. For example, polyurethane foam is produced by mixing polyisocyanates with polyols and air.

[0193] The resulting multi-component mixture then separates from the mixing tube 2 and the mixer at the second end 4. Especially when the mixing tube 2 is vertically arranged. At this time, the material of the multi-component mixture has floated out under the action of gravity. Since the upper first end 3 of the mixing tube 4 is closed, when the respective components are continuously injected into the mixing space 5, the material of the multi-component mixture will be further pressed out of the mixing tube 2 by the material of the inflowing respective components.

[0194] The mixer 8 first mixes the first component and air with each other along the mixing space 5 starting from the first end 3. Next, the mixer 8 mixes the mixture of the first component and air with the third component.

[0195] Since the injection point 20c of the third component is lower than the injection point 20b of air, in the upper part of the mixing tube 2, air has been added to or mixed with the first component, while the first component has not been mixed with the second component. Therefore, clogging of the mixer 8 can be prevented.

[0196] The first end 3 of the mixing tube 2 can be particularly closed and sealed by a part of the mixer 8. Additionally, a seal (not shown) can also be provided for closing the first end 3.

[0197] The mixer 8 has a central member 12. The central member is configured to be substantially rotationally symmetric and preferably has as small a radial extent as possible to minimize the centrifugal force. The central member 12 extends along the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. Preferably, the axis of symmetry of the central member 12 coincides with the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. In addition, the axis of symmetry of the central member 12 coincides with the rotation axis of the mixer. For example, the central member 12 is configured as a circular or cylindrical rod.

[0198] Furthermore, the mixer 8 has a plurality of mixing elements 13. The mixing elements 13 are used to effectively mix the injected components. The mixing elements 13 are arranged outside the central member 12, for example, on its side surface. The mixing elements 13 extend in the radial direction of the central member 12. The mixing elements 13 can be distributed along the central member 12 and / or with respect to the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. Additionally, the plurality of mixing elements can be distributed in the circumferential direction of the central member.

[0199] For example, as shown in the figure, each mixing element 13 is configured as a thin plate arranged on the side surface of the central member 12, where each mixing element 13 extends radially along 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 disclosure is not limited to this. Preferably, the mixing elements 13 are designed and / or arranged such that no imbalance occurs when the mixer 8 rotates.

[0200] In addition, a plurality of mixing elements 16 are provided, which are arranged on the inner side of the tube wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 and extend in the direction opposite to the radial direction towards the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 8 into the mixing space 5. As shown in the figure, the mixing elements 16 are also configured as thin plates. As shown in the figure, the mixing elements 16 are only arranged in the 2a section of the mixing tube 2, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0201] As Figure 1A and Figure 1BAs shown, the first injection unit 7a is arranged on the pipe wall 19 of the first section 2a of the mixing pipe 2. The first injection unit 7a is configured to inject a first component into the mixing space 5 in the region adjacent to the first section 2a of the mixing pipe 2. In addition, the second injection unit 7b is arranged on the pipe wall 19 of the first section 2a of the mixing pipe 2. The second injection unit 7b is used to inject a first component into the mixing space 5 in the region adjacent to the first section 2a of the mixing pipe 2. The third injection unit 7c is arranged on the pipe wall 19 of the second section 2b of the mixing pipe 2. The third injection unit 7c is configured to inject a third component into the mixing space 5 in the region adjacent to the second section 2b of the mixing pipe 2.

[0202] As Figure 2 shown, the first injection unit 7a is arranged on the pipe wall 19 of the first section 2a of the mixing pipe 2. The second injection unit 7b is arranged on the pipe wall 19 of the second section 2b of the mixing pipe 2. The second injection unit 7c is arranged on the pipe wall 19 of the third section 2c of the mixing pipe 2.

[0203] The application setting 1 further includes a moving device 9. The moving device 9 can move the mixer 8 along the central axis 10 of the mixing pipe 2 and / or parallel to the central axis 10 and / or between the first end 3 and the second end 4, which is indicated by the vertical double arrow in the figure. The moving device 9 is used to move the mixer 8 up and down. For example, the moving device 9 can be a lifting cylinder, especially an electric lifting cylinder or an electro-hydraulic lifting cylinder, or a linear device with a coil.

[0204] The mixer 8 has a plurality of sections 8a, 8b, 8c along the central axis 10 of the mixing pipe 2 or the symmetry axis of the central member 12, where at least two of the sections 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 pipe 2 can be regarded as the outer diameter of the mixer 8, where the mixing element 13 has taken into account the length of the mixer 8.

[0205] As Figure 1A and Figure 1B shown, the outer diameter of the first section 8a of the mixer 8 is greater than the outer diameter of the second section 8b. Along the central axis 10 of the mixing pipe 2, the first section 8a is closer to the first end 3 than the second section 8b.

[0206] As Figure 2 shown, the mixer further has a third section 8c, which is closer to the second end 4 of the mixing pipe 2 than the second section 8b of the mixer 8 along the central axis 10 of the mixing pipe 2. The outer diameter of the third section 8c is greater than that of the first section 8a and the second section 8b. The different outer diameters can be simply achieved by the different radial extension lengths of the mixing element 13.

[0207] See Figures 3A to 5B for a description of the movement of the mixer 8. Figures 3B to 5ASchematic cross-sectional views of the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 and the mixer 8 of the present disclosure at different locations of the application device of different embodiments are shown.

[0208] The mixer 8 can be moved between a first position and a second position along the mixing tube 2. The second position can be closer to the second end 4 along the mixing tube 2 than the first position. On the other hand, the first position can be closer to the first end 3 along the mixing tube 2 than the second position.

[0209] According to the first embodiment, the mixer 8 for producing 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 to 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 through the second end 4.

[0210] The mixer 8 can be moved from a first position in the direction of the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 to a second position. For example, Figure 3B and 4B The mixer 8 is shown in a first position. The effect of this approach 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.

[0211] The mixing tube 2 may have at least one sealing element 17. The sealing element 17 is located in the region of the second end 4. Likewise, the mixer 8 may also have a sealing element 18. The effect of moving the mixer 8 towards the second end 4 into the second position is that the sealing element 18 of the mixer 8 comes into contact with the sealing element 17 of the mixing tube 2, thereby sealing the mixing tube 2.

[0212] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the sealing element 17 is configured as a conical seat. Here, the sealing element 17 is formed by the second end 4 itself. One end 11 of the mixer 8 forms a sealing element 18, which has a conical or truncated cone on the outside. According to an embodiment not shown, the end 11 of the mixer 8 can be needle-shaped or pointed. In this way, the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 and the end 11 of the mixer 8 form a needle valve.

[0213] like Figure 4A and Figure 4BAs shown, the sealing element 17 is configured as a ring that extends radially inward from the inner side of the wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 towards the central axis 10. The sealing element 24 of the mixer 8 is likewise configured as a ring that extends radially in the mixer 8 from the side surface of the central member 12. Radially, the sealing element 18 overlaps the sealing element 17.

[0214] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The structure of the embodiment of the application device shown is similar to that in Figure 4A and Figure 4B but with the following differences: The positions of the sealing element 17 and the sealing element 18 relative to the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 are interchanged. Accordingly, the mixer 8 for producing the multi-component mixture and discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2 is located in the second position. To close the second end 4 to prevent accidental leakage of the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2, the mixer 8 is located in the first position. For example, Figure 5B shows the mixer 8 in the second position. In this position, the material flow 14 of the multi-component mixture can flow out of the mixing tube 2 through the second end 4.

[0215] 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 method is that the mixing tube 2 is sealed relative to the injection components and / or the material flow 14 of the multi-component mixture flowing out of the second end 4.

[0216] Figure 6 shows a schematic view of the mixing section of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0217] Referring to the above figure, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d inject the corresponding components into the mixing chamber 5 through the corresponding injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c’, 20d. Along the mixing chamber 5, the mixer 8 mixes the corresponding components in the order of injection into the mixing chamber 5, from the first end 3 of the mixing tube 2 towards the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2. The mixing chamber 5 thus defines a mixing section 6 that extends from the first end 3 of the mixing tube 2 towards the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2. Accordingly, the mixing section 6 is used for a logical or abstract description of the order in which the components are injected into the mixing chamber 5, independent of the specific geometry of the mixing tube 2 and / or the mixer 5.

[0218] 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 profile of the central axis 10 of the mixing tube traveling 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 corresponding positions of Pa, Pb, Pc, Pc′ along the mixing section 6 are as Figure 6 shown, forFigure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 embodiments.

[0219] If the injection point is located at different positions along the central axis 10 or at different heights of the wall 19 of the mixing tube, the position along the mixing section 6 is also different. For example, this is the case for the injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c' or the positions Pa, Pb, Pc, Pc'. Conversely, if the injection point is located at the same position along the central axis 10 or at the same height of the wall 19 of the mixing tube, the position along the mixing section 6 is also the same. 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 wall 19, but at different positions along the circumference of the wall 19.

[0220] Figure 7 An apparatus 200 for material handling (also referred to herein as a material handling apparatus) is shown. In FIG. 1, the material handling apparatus is denoted by reference signs 200a, 200b since there can be a first apparatus 200a and a second apparatus 200b. This also applies to all elements of the material handling apparatus. The material handling apparatus 200 will be described below, and the description can apply to the first material handling apparatus 200a and the second material handling apparatus 200b.

[0221] The material handling apparatus 200 includes a material container 210 and a pump device 220. The material container 210 is for handling a material M, which can be one of a first, third, fourth, and fifth component. To handle the material M, the material container 210 can be heatable. To this end, 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 degrees Celsius higher than the ambient temperature of the material container 210, preferably at least 30 degrees Celsius. Optionally, the pressure in the material container 210 can be less than 1.0 Pa. To provide a negative pressure, the material container 210 can include a negative pressure unit. Optionally, the material container 210 can also be configured to stir, move, or degas the material M. To this end, the material container 210 can also include a stirrer 11. The stirrer 11 can be moved or driven by a driver 215.

[0222] The material M can be a liquid (at 20 degrees Celsius and 1 bar). The material M can be a suspension. The material M can include monomers for polyurethane polymerization. Specifically, the material includes polyols or polyisocyanates.

[0223] 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 accurately and reproducibly metered.

[0224] The pump device 220 can be arranged downstream of the material container 210. The material M can flow into the inlet 221 of the pump device 220 directly or through additional elements, such as fluid conducting elements (e.g., pipes or channels). The pressure at the inlet 221 of the pump device 220 can be less than 1.0 bar. In other words, the material M can be in a vacuum state at the inlet 221 of the pump device 220.

[0225] The pressure of the material M can be increased by the pump device 220. In particular, the pressure from the inlet 221 of the pump device 220 to the outlet 222 of the pump device 220 can be increased, 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 emerge at the outlet 222 of the pump device 220 at a pressure of at least 20 bar, at least 60 bar, at least 200 bar or even at least 300 bar.

[0226] The pump device 220 can be a high-pressure pump. The pump device 220 can be a piston pump. Specifically, the pump device 220 is a high-pressure piston pump.

[0227] The volume flow rate (at the outlet 222 of the pump device 220) of the material can be adjusted or controlled by the pump device 220.

[0228] The material processing device 200 can include a driver 225 for the pump device 220. The driver 225 can be a servo-hydraulic driver. The volume flow rate and / or mass flow rate of the material M can be adjusted or controlled by the driver 225.

[0229] The pump device 220 can be electrically controlled or adjustable.

[0230] The material M can 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 can be increased in the pump device 220 such that the material can be discharged at the outlet 222 of the pump device 220 at a pressure of at least 15 bar.

[0231] The material processing device 200 can be coupled to a control unit 207 or include a control unit 207. The control unit 207 can be coupled to the device by wire or wirelessly. The control unit 207 can be configured to control or adjust the material container 210 and / or the pump device 220. In particular, the control unit 207 is configured to control or adjust the driver 215 of the stirrer 211 and / or the driver 225 of the pump device 220. The control unit can be Figure 7 the control unit 107 in

[0232] Figure 8A detailed view of a material container 210 is shown. A material M is contained or stored in the material container 210. The material M is processed in the material container 210. For example, the material container 210 can provide a vacuum or negative pressure for the material M. Optionally, the material M can also be heated in the material container 210. Further optionally, the material M can also be stirred or moved in the material container 210, in particular by means of a stirrer 211.

[0233] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of an application system for mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing or applying the multi-component mixture into or onto an object of an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0234] The application system 100 includes an application device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, for example Figure 1A The application device 1 in.

[0235] In addition, the application system 100 may include at least one first material processing device 200a. The material processing device 200a is configured to provide a material flow of a first component. In addition, the application system 100 may also include a second material processing device 200b. The second material processing device 200b is configured to provide a material flow of a third component.

[0236] The material processing device 200a may include a first material container 210a and a first pump device 220a. The first material container 210a may be configured to process a first component (corresponding to Figure 8 The first pump device 220a may have a first inlet 221a and a first outlet 222a. The first inlet 221a of the first pump device 220a may be connected to the first material container 210a in a fluid communication manner so that the first material Ma can enter the first pump device 220a from the first material container 210a. The first pump device 220a may be configured to provide the first material Ma at a first outlet 222a of the first pump device 220a at a pressure of at least 15 bar.

[0237] 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 may be configured to process a third component (corresponding to Figure 8 The second pump device 220b may have a second inlet 221b and a second outlet 222b. The second inlet 221b of the second pump device 220b may be connected to the second material container 210b in a fluid communication manner so that the second material Mb can be introduced into the second pump device 220b from the second material container 210b. The second pump device 220b may be configured to provide the second material Mb at a pressure of at least 15 bar at the second outlet 222b of the second pump device 220b.

[0238] The application device 1 can be connected in fluid communication to the first outlet 222a and the second outlet 222b such that the first component and the third component are introduced into the application device 1.

[0239] The application system 100 further includes a first metering device 101 configured to receive a material flow of the first component from the material handling device 200a, to set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the component, and to supply the material flow to the first injection unit 7a of the application device 1.

[0240] In addition, the application system 100 includes a second metering device 102 configured to receive a material flow of the second component, to set the mass flow and / or volume flow of the second component, and to supply the material flow to the second injection unit 7b of the application device 1. For example, the second component is a gas or a gas mixture, such as air, and the material flow is a gas flow or an air flow.

[0241] The application system further includes a third metering device 103 configured to receive a material flow of the third component from the second material handling device 200b, to set the volume flow rate of the component, and to supply the material flow to the third injection unit 7c of the application device 1.

[0242] Preferably, the first metering device 101 and the third metering device 103 can be included in or form the metering device 112. The first metering device 101 and the third metering device 103 can be constructed the same or have the same function. For example, the metering device 112 can be a series meter DPL 20012KT from Scheugenpflug.

[0243] Each metering device can also be configured to set the volume flow rate of the corresponding component. According to an embodiment not shown, the application system 100 can include further corresponding devices for material handling and metering devices for other components (such as fourth and / or fifth components).

[0244] The second metering device 102 includes a measuring unit 104, such as an air mass sensor or an air volume sensor. The second metering device 102 further includes an actuator 105, in particular an air valve, such as an air proportional valve. The measuring device 104 is configured to receive an air flow from the air supply device 106 of the application system 100 or an external air supply device 106, measure the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the air flow, and supply the air flow to the actuator 105. The actuator 105 is configured to receive the air flow from the measuring unit 104, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the air flow, and supply the air flow to the second injection device 7b. The variable volume flow rate and / or mass flow rate of the air flow can be provided by the air proportional valve.

[0245] For example, the air supply device 106 can be an air pump. The air supply device 106 is configured to provide an air flow at a pre-defined pressure.

[0246] In addition, the application system 100 further includes a first pipeline 110 located between the air supply device 106 and the second metering device 102, and a second pipeline 111 located 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 conduct 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 second metering device 102, and then to the injection unit 7b along the material flow direction.

[0247] The application system 100 further includes a measuring unit for measuring pressure. The application system 100 includes a first pipeline pressure sensor (not shown), which is configured to measure the air pressure in the first pipeline 110. The application system 100 further includes a second pipeline pressure sensor (not shown), which is configured to measure the air pressure in the second pipeline 111.

[0248] In addition, the application system 100 further includes corresponding fluid conducting elements or pipelines for conducting the first component from the first material processing device to the first metering device 101 and the first injection unit 7a, and also includes pipelines for conducting the second component from the second material processing device 200b to the third metering device 103 and the third injection unit 7c. Thus, the first component flows from the first material processing device 200a to the metering device 101, and then to the injection unit 7a in 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 in the material flow direction.

[0249] 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.

[0250] The pipelines and material flows of the first component, the second component, and the third component are Figure 9 shown by solid arrows in.

[0251] The application system 100 is configured to mix the first component and the third component with air only in the mixing chamber 5 of the application device 1. The application system 100 does not mix the first component or the third component with air in advance. Specifically, the application system does not mix the first component or the third component with the air that has already been in the corresponding material processing devices 200a, 200b or upstream of the corresponding metering devices 101, 103. Therefore, in the material flow direction from the first material processing device 200a to the metering device 101 to the injection unit 7a, the first component does not mix with the air upstream of the injection unit 7a or in the injection unit 7a. Correspondingly, in the material flow direction from the material processing device 200b to the metering device 103 to the injection unit 7b, the third component does not mix with the air upstream of the injection unit 7b. Therefore, the first component and the third component do not mix with the gas or air upstream of the application device 1, nor do they mix with the gas or air upstream of the corresponding injection units 7a, 7b.

[0252] Therefore, the application system is configured 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 configured 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 7c. Therefore, the first component and the third component are injected into the mixing chamber 5 in a state without air or gas.

[0253] 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 configured to control and / or regulate the operation of the application system 100. For this purpose, the control unit 107 is configured 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 of the mixing chamber 5, and the pipeline pressure sensor. In addition, the control unit 107 is configured 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 processing devices 200a, 200b. The reception of the measurement values and the actuation of the respective units are as shown by the dotted single and double arrows in Figure 9 as shown by the dotted single and double arrows in.

[0254] The system 100 can also be referred to as a system for applying a mixture, especially for polyurethane polymerization.

[0255] The control unit 107 is configured to execute the control steps of the method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0256] Figure 10A flowchart showing a method of mixing multiple components is presented. This method is used to produce a multi-component mixture and introduce or apply the multi-component mixture into or onto an object of an embodiment of the present disclosure. This method can be executed by an application device or an application system of an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as Figure 1A the application device of Figure 9 and the application system. This method includes the following steps. These steps are executed simultaneously.

[0257] S1: The first component is injected into the mixing space 5 of a mixing tube having a first end and a second end through a first injection unit. Here, the mixing space defines a mixing section. The first component is injected into the mixing space at a first injection point. Thus, the first component is injected into the mixing space at a first position corresponding to the first injection point along the mixing section.

[0258] S2: A second component, such as a gas or a gas mixture, especially air, is injected into the mixing space through a second injection unit. The second component is injected into the mixing space at a second injection point. The second component is injected into the mixing space at a corresponding second position along the mixing section. Here, the second position is arranged behind the first position along the mixing section.

[0259] S4: A third component is injected into the mixing space through a third injection unit. The third component is injected into the mixing space at a third injection point. The third component is injected into the mixing space at a corresponding third position along the mixing section. Here, the third position is arranged behind the second position P along the mixing section.

[0260] This method includes mixing the first to third components along the mixing tube according to the order of injecting the components along the mixing section. The mixing is performed by a mixer arranged in the mixing space. S3: Mix the first component with the second component. S5: Mix the mixture of the first and second components with the third component to produce a multi-component mixture including the first, second, and third components.

[0261] S6: Discharge the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube through the second end. This method further includes applying the multi-component mixture to an object.

[0262] Figure 11 A flowchart showing a method of mixing multiple components of a further embodiment of the present disclosure is presented. This method is used to produce a multi-component mixture and introduce or apply the multi-component mixture into or onto an object. This method can be carried out by an application system of an embodiment of the present disclosure (such as Figure 9 the application system of

[0263] S11: Provide the material flow of the first component to the first metering device through the first material processing device. S12: Set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the first component through the first metering device; S13: Provide the material flow to the first injection unit.

[0264] S21: Provide an air flow to the second metering device through the air supply device. S22: Set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the air flow through the second metering device; S23: Provide the air flow to the second injection unit.

[0265] S31: Provide the material flow of the third component to the third metering device through the second material processing device. S32: Set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the third component through the third metering device; S33: Provide the material flow to the third injection unit of the application device.

[0266] Figure 11 The method further includes Figure 10 Steps S1 - S6.

[0267] The method further includes control S7 performed by a control unit.

[0268] The control may include actuating the rotating device of the mixer and / or the first metering device and / or the second metering device, in particular the measuring unit and the actuator, and / or the third metering device and / or the air supply device.

[0269] The control may include controlling the air pressure, in particular in the pipeline for conducting 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 such that the air pressure is greater than the pressure in the mixing space. Preferably, the difference may be 1 bar or more. The air pressure can be affected, for example, by adjusting the air pressure by means of the air supply device and / or by means of the actuator of the second metering device.

[0270] The control may further include controlling the ratio of the mass flow rate of the air flow to the mass flow rate of the first component and / or controlling or setting the ratio of the mass flow rate of the air flow to the mass flow rate of the third component. Here, preferably, these may be the mass flow rates of the material flows of the components injected into the mixing chamber.

[0271] The user of the control unit, external system or application device can predefine the set value of the ratio. The set value can be predefined by a mathematical function. Thus, it is ensured that the same amount of air is always added to the material of the first component and the material of the third component. In other words, it is ensured that the same pre-defined amount of air is always added to the polyurethane foam. For example, the ratio can be achieved in the following ways: by setting the mass flow rate of the first component through the first metering device and / or by setting the mass flow rate of the third component through the third metering device and / or by setting the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of air through the second metering device, and / or by setting the rotational speed of the mixer through the rotating device of the mixer, and / or by setting the air pressure through the air supply device.

[0272] Figure 12 A control step diagram is shown which illustrates a method of mixing multiple components for producing a multi-component mixture and introducing / applying the multi-component mixture into / onto an object of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0273] An air flow meter as a measuring unit measures the amount or mass flow rate of the air injected into the mixer. In addition, the pressure in the mixing space is measured by a pressure sensor. Based on this, signal processing is performed, for example, by 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 for the first component and / or the actual value of the position controller of the third metering device for the third component, the actual value of the rotational speed of the mixer, and the actual value of the PWM control of the intake valve of the second injection unit for the air flow are predefined. In addition, the set value of the proportional valve of the second metering device for the air flow is predefined based on the signal processing. The proportional valve can be similar.

[0274] The "air-to-material ratio" describes, for example, the ratio of the amount of air injected or the mass flow rate of the injected air to the amount of the first component ( Figure 12 A in) injected into the mixing space or the mass flow rate of the first component injected into the mixing space.

[0275] The set value of the position controller of the first or third metering device comes from the set value of the "air-to-material ratio". In addition, the set value of the rotational speed of the mixer comes from the set value of the "air-to-material ratio". In addition, the set value of the actuation of the intake valve comes from the set value of the "air-to-material ratio".

[0276] The position of the first or third metering device is adjusted according to the set value and the actual value of the "air-to-material ratio". This position can describe, for example, the opening angle of the metering unit of the metering device. However, this position can also be set as a function of the required amount of polyurethane foam or the required material flow of the polyurethane foam.

[0277] The rotational speed of the mixer is adjusted according to the set value and the actual value of the rotational speed. For example, the rotational speed is adjusted proportionally to the difference between the set value and the actual value.

[0278] In addition, the intake valve is actuated based on the set value and the actual value of the PWM control of the intake valve.

[0279] In addition, the proportional valve is actuated.

[0280] The air supply is adjusted proportionally to the material flow and the mixer speed, thereby ensuring that the same amount of air is always added to the material. The air quantity is determined by the proportional valve. An air flow meter is used as a measuring instrument. The supplied air pressure should always be at least 1 bar greater than the pressure in the mixing chamber. Thus, it is possible to prevent the material of the first component or the material of the third component from flowing into the injection unit and / or the pipeline for air flow and clogging or contaminating the latter. According to an embodiment, the air quantity is adjusted by the air flow meter. The proportional valve adjusts the air pressure.

[0281] List of reference numerals

[0282] 1 Application device

[0283] 2 Mixing tube

[0284] 2a, 2b, 2c Mixing tube sections

[0285] 2d, 2e Mixing tube transition sections

[0286] 3 First end of the mixing tube

[0287] 4 Second end of the mixing tube

[0288] 5 Mixing space

[0289] 6 Mixing section

[0290] 7a, 7b, 7c Injection units

[0291] 8 Mixer

[0292] 8a, 8b, 8c Mixer sections

[0293] 9 Moving device

[0294] 10 Central axis of the mixing tube

[0295] 11 Mixer end

[0296] 12 Central part of the mixer

[0297] 13 Mixing element of the mixer

[0298] 14 Material flow

[0299] 15 Rotating device

[0300] 16 Mixing element of the application device

[0301] 17 Sealing element of the mixing tube

[0302] 18 Sealing element of the mixer

[0303] 19 Mixing tube wall

[0304] 20, 20b, 20c, 20c’, 20d Injection points

[0305] 100 Application system

[0306] 101 First metering device

[0307] 102 Second metering device

[0308] 103 Third metering device

[0309] 104 Measuring unit

[0310] 105 Driver

[0311] 106 Air supply device

[0312] 107 Control unit

[0313] 110 First pipeline

[0314] 111 Second pipeline

[0315] 112 Metering device

[0316] 200a, 200b Material handling device

[0317] 207 Control device

[0318] 210a, 210b Material containers

[0319] 211a, 211b Agitators

[0320] 215a, 215b Drivers

[0321] 220a, 220b Pump devices

[0322] 221a, 221b Inlets

[0323] 222a, 222b Outlets

[0324] 225a, 225b 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, comprising: - a mixing tube (2) having a first closed end (3) and a second end (4) for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube (2), wherein the mixing tube (2) comprises a mixing chamber (5); - a plurality of injection units (7a, 7b, 7c) arranged on the mixing tube (2), each injection unit being configured to inject a corresponding one of the plurality of components into the mixing chamber (5), wherein the plurality of injection units comprises: - a first injection unit (7a) for injecting a first component, - a second injection unit (7b) for injecting a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, as a second component; and - a third injection unit (7c) for injecting a third component, - wherein the application device (1) further comprises a mixer (8), which is arranged in the mixing space (5) and is configured to mix the injected components with one another along the mixing tube (2).

2. Application device (1) according to the preceding claim, further comprising rotation means (15) configured to rotate the mixer (8).

3. Application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first component and / or the third component is a fluid or includes a fluid and / or a liquid, in particular: wherein the first component is or includes a polyol and / or the third component is or includes a polyisocyanate, or wherein the first component is or includes a polyisocyanate and / or the third component is or includes a polyol.

4. Application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first component and / or the third component are injected into the mixing chamber (5) in an air-free state and / or a gas-free state.

5. Application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The mixing chamber (5) defines a mixing section (6) from a first end, wherein the plurality of injection units (7a, 7b, 7c) are each configured to inject a corresponding component into the mixing chamber (5) at a corresponding position (Pa, Pb, Pc) along the mixing section (6), wherein the first injection unit (7a) is configured to inject the first component at a first position (Pa); wherein the second injection unit (7b) is configured to inject the second component at a second position (Pb), the second position being arranged at or behind the first position (Pa) along the mixing section (6); wherein the third injection unit (7c) is configured to inject the third component at a third position (Pc), and the third position is arranged at or behind the second position (Pb) along the mixing section (6); Wherein, the mixer (8) is configured to mix the injected components with each other based on the order in which the injected components are injected at corresponding positions along the mixing section (6).

6. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a first pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the mixing space (5) in the region of the first position (Pa) or at a position along the mixing section (6) between the first position (Pa) and the second position (Pb), and / or a second pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the mixing space (5) in the region of the second position (Pb) or at a position along the mixing section (6) between the second position (Pb) and a third position (Pc), and / or - a third pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in the mixing space (5) in the region of the third position (Pc) or after the third position (Pc) and / or at a position along the mixing section (6) between the third position (Pc) and the second end (4).

7. An application system (100) for mixing a plurality of components to produce 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 the preceding claims; a first metering device (101), which is configured to receive a material flow of the first component, set a mass flow rate and / or a volume flow rate of the first component, and provide the material flow to the first injection unit (7a); a second metering device (102), which is configured to receive a material flow of the second component, set a mass flow rate and / or a volume flow rate of the second component, and provide the material flow to the second injection unit (7b); - Preferably, it comprises a third metering device (103), which is configured to receive a material flow of the third component, set a mass flow rate and / or a volume flow rate of the third component, and provide the material flow to the third injection unit (7c).

8. The application system (100) according to claim 7, being configured to separately mix the first component and / or the third component in the mixing chamber (5) of the application device (1) with a gas or a gas mixture, and / or in, The application system (100) is configured not to mix the first component upstream of the first metering device (101) or upstream of the application device (1) with the gas or the gas mixture, and / or wherein the application system (100) is configured not to mix the third component upstream of the third metering device (103) or upstream of the application device (1) with the gas or the gas mixture.

9. An application system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein: The second metering device (102) comprises: a measuring unit (104), in particular an air quality sensor or an air volume sensor, and The actuator (105) is preferably an air valve, and particularly preferably an air proportional valve. The measuring unit (104) is configured to receive an air flow from an air supply device (106) to measure a mass flow rate and / or a volume flow rate of the air flow. Wherein, the actuator (105) is configured to set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the airflow, and provide the airflow to the second injection unit (7b).

10. The application system (100) according to claim 9, wherein: The air supply device (106) is configured as or includes an air pump.

11. The application system (100) according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising a first line, preferably a hose or a pipe, between the air supply device (106) and the second metering device (102), and / or a second line, preferably a hose or a pipe, between the second metering device (102) and the application device (1) for conducting an air flow; Preferably, it further comprises a first line pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in the first line, and / or preferably comprises a second line pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in the second line.

12. The application system (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further comprising a control unit (107), which is configured to actuate the rotating device (15) and / or the first metering device (101) and / or the second metering device (102) and / or the third metering device (103) and / or the air supply device (106).

13. The application system (100) according to claim 12, wherein: The control unit (107) is configured to controlling the ratio between the mass flow rate of the gas stream and the mass flow rate of the first component and / or the ratio between the mass flow rate of the gas stream and the mass flow rate of the third component, and / or controlling the ratio between the volume flow rate of the gas stream and the volume flow rate of the first component and / or the ratio between the volume flow rate of the gas stream and the volume flow rate of the third component, and / or Controlling the mass flow and / or volume flow of the gas stream, in particular making it proportional to the mass flow of the first component and / or the mass flow of the third component, and / or proportional to the rotational speed of the mixer (8), and / or controlling the pressure in the first pipeline or the second pipeline so that it is greater than the pressure in the mixing space (5), preferably by 1 bar, and / or The rotation speed of the mixer (8) is controlled, in particular, so that the rotation speed of the mixer (8) is proportional to the mass flow rate of the first component and / or proportional to the mass flow rate of the third component.

14. The application system (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 13, further comprising: - a first material processing device (200a) configured to provide a material flow of the first component to the first metering device (101), and / or - a second material processing device (200b) configured to provide a material flow of the third component to the second metering device (102).

15. A method for mixing a plurality of components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object (G), in particular using an application system (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 14, the method comprising the following steps: - S11: providing a material flow of the first component, S12: setting a mass flow rate of the first component by means of a first metering device (101), S13: providing the material flow to the first injection unit (7a) of the application device (1), - S21: providing the air flow, S22: setting the mass flow rate of the air flow by means of the second metering device (102), S23: providing the air flow to the second injection unit (7b) of the application device (1), - S31: providing a material flow of the third component, S32: setting a mass flow rate of the third component by means of the third metering device (103), S33: and providing the material flow to the third injection unit (7c) of the application device (1), - S1: injecting the first component into the mixing chamber (5) of the mixing tube (2) of the application device (1) through the first injection unit (7a) and injecting it into a first position along the mixing section (6) defined by the mixing chamber (5), S2: injecting air into the mixing chamber (5) through the second injection unit (7a) and injecting it into a second position (Pb), the second position being located at or after the first position (Pa) along the mixing section (6), - S3: mixing the first component and the air in the mixing chamber (5) along the mixing section (6) by rotating the mixer (8) in the mixing chamber (5) to produce a mixture of the first component and the air, - S4: injecting the third component into the mixing chamber (5) into a third position via the third injection device (7c), the third position being located at or after the second position along the mixing section (6), and - S5: By rotating the mixer (5), the third component is mixed with the mixture of the first component and the air to produce the multi-component mixture.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The first component and / or the third component are injected into the mixing chamber (5) in an air-free state and / or a gas-free state, and / or wherein the first component passes through the first metering device (101) in an air-free or gas-free state, and / or wherein the third component passes through the third metering device (103) in an air-free or gas-free state.

17. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 16, further comprising - S7: Controlling the ratio of the mass flow rate of the gas stream to the mass flow rate of the first component and / or the ratio of the mass flow rate of the gas stream to the mass flow rate of the third component, in particular the ratio of the mass flow rates injected into the mixing chamber (5), wherein The control preferably includes: The mass flow rate of the first component is set by the first metering device (101), and / or the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the airflow is set by the second metering device (102), and / or the mass flow rate of the third component is set by the third metering device (103).

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: - S7: Controlling the pressure in the pipelines conducting the gas flow, in particular the first pipeline and / or the second pipeline, in particular so that it is greater than the pressure in the mixing space, preferably greater than 1 bar, preferably greater than the pressure at a position in the region of the first position (Pa) along the mixing section (6), wherein the controlling preferably comprises: The air supply device (106) and / or the actuator (105) are actuated.

Images