Contactless processing of shaped cartridge bottles

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridge bottles (100), comprising the following steps: a. Shaping cartridge bottles (100) with a heater; b. Inserting a plurality of shaped cartridge bottles (100) into a holding structure (200) arranged to be adapted to hold the plurality of shaped cartridge bottles (100); c. Conveying the holding structure 200 from the first position 401 to another position 402; d. At the other position 402, removing the shaped cartridge bottle 100 from the holding structure 200; and e, sterilizing the formed cartridge bottle 100. The invention also relates to a holding structure arranged to be adapted to hold a plurality of shaped cartridge bottles, a plurality of holding structures, and the use of one or more holding structures for transporting cartridge bottles from a processing station in which cartridge bottles are formed by a handpiece to a processing station in which shaped cartridge bottles are sterilized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges, a holding structure arranged to hold a plurality of formed cartridges, a plurality of holding structures, and the use of a holding structure or a plurality of holding structures for transporting cartridges from a processing station where the cartridges are formed by a die head to a processing station where the formed cartridges are sterilized. Background Art

[0002] Glass containers, such as cartridges, are produced in a thermoforming process that can begin with a gob of molten glass material that is shaped to form the container, or it can begin with a tubular glass body that is heated to a molten state and then formed into the container shape. Following this thermoforming process, the glass containers are transferred to other processing stations, one of which is a washing station where the shaped glass containers are sterilized, siliconized, and packaged.

[0003] The enormous number of glass containers produced per unit time requires a transport solution that can simultaneously transport large numbers of glass containers from one processing station to the next. A known method in the prior art involves placing glass containers, after production through one of the aforementioned thermoforming processes, into transport containers where they are placed side by side, with the glass in direct contact with each other. At the next processing station, several glass containers are simultaneously removed from the transport container by corresponding gripping arms and conveyed to the next process stage.

[0004] However, this method has the disadvantage that glass-to-glass contact during transport may damage the outer surface of the glass container. It is also often difficult to remove a large number of such glass containers simultaneously from such a transport container using the aforementioned gripper arm because the containers are not arranged adjacent to each other in the same alignment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In general, it is an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0006] In particular, the present invention aims to overcome the disadvantages known from the prior art when transporting a plurality of glass containers, preferably a plurality of glass cartridges, from one processing station to another in a production line for producing glass containers, preferably from a processing station where the glass containers are formed by heat treatment to a processing station where the formed glass containers are sterilized. The present invention is particularly directed to providing a method for transporting a plurality of glass containers, preferably a plurality of glass cartridges, which largely avoids mechanical damage to the glass walls and allows simultaneous removal of the plurality of glass containers from the transport container at the destination by a gripper arm at the highest possible cycle frequency. Furthermore, this transport method is preferably characterized in that a production line can be converted from producing glass containers of one size to producing glass containers of another size by simply modifying the corresponding conveying system.

[0007] The independent claims help to at least partially achieve at least one (preferably more than one) of the above objects. The dependent claims provide preferred embodiments that help to at least partially achieve at least one of the above objects.

[0008] |1a| A first embodiment of a method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges contributes to achieving at least one of the objects of the present invention, the method comprising the steps of:

[0009] a. Using a heater to form a cartridge, each cartridge comprising:

[0010] - a tubular elongated cylinder having an inner diameter d2, an outer diameter d1, a longitudinal axis L 卡式瓶 and an overall length l1, wherein the elongated cylindrical body includes a bottom region having a circular opening, the bottom region including a spherical thickening made of the material forming the tubular elongated cylindrical body and having an inner diameter d4 and an outer diameter d3; and

[0011] - the top area, which includes the shoulders, neck and collar;

[0012] b. inserting a plurality of formed cartridges into a holding structure, preferably a holding structure serving as a transport pallet, the holding structure being arranged to hold a plurality of formed cartridges, wherein the holding structure comprises:

[0013] i) a substrate; and

[0014] ii) a plurality of brackets disposed on the substrate;

[0015] Each bracket has a longitudinal axis L passing through the center of the bracket in the longitudinal direction 托座 , and includes an upper end, a lower end, a circumferentially formed side wall, and a positioning device, wherein the formed cartridge is inserted into the upper end, the holder is connected to the base plate at the lower end, the side wall extends longitudinally from the upper end to the lower end, and the positioning device is located at the center of the lower end of the holder;

[0016] - Each holder is configured to accommodate a formed cartridge such that:

[0017] - inserting at least a portion of the elongated cylindrical body having a length of l1' into the holder, and allowing the remaining portion of the elongated cylindrical body having a length of l1-l1' to extend out of the holder;

[0018] The positioning device extends into the circular opening at the bottom area of ​​the formed cartridge, thereby ensuring that the tilt angle a of the formed cartridge does not exceed 10 degrees, preferably does not exceed 8 degrees, more preferably does not exceed 6 degrees, the tilt angle a being the longitudinal axis L 托座 with the longitudinal axis L of the molded cartridge received in the holder 卡式瓶 The angle formed between them;

[0019] c. The holding structure is transported from a first position to another position;

[0020] d. At another location, the molded cartridge is removed from the holding structure;

[0021] e. Sterilize the formed cartridge;

[0022] in,

[0023] - l1' is 10% to 90%, preferably 20% to 80%, more preferably 21.2% to 71% of the total length l1;

[0024] -l1-l1' is 10% to 90%, preferably 20% to 90%, more preferably 13% to 79% of the total length l1.

[0025] |2a| According to a preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the maximum diameter of the positioning device extending into the circular opening at the bottom region of the formed cartridge is at least 75%, preferably at least 85%, and more preferably at least 92.2% of the inner diameter d2 of the circular opening at the bottom region of the cartridge. This embodiment is a second embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention and is preferably subordinate to the first embodiment.

[0026] |3a| According to a preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the positioning means can have a circular shape, an angular shape (e.g., a square, hexagonal, or octagonal shape), or a shape other than a circular or angular shape (e.g., a star, flower, triangle, or clover leaf shape). Furthermore, the height h of the positioning means (measured at the center of the holder) can be in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm, preferably in the range of 2 mm to 6 mm, and most preferably in the range of 3.5 mm to 4.5 mm. This embodiment is a third embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, and is preferably subordinate to the first or second embodiment.

[0027] |4a| According to a preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the holders are arranged in a regular pattern, and the sidewalls form a common partition between every two directly adjacent holders of the plurality of holders. The holders can have any shape, preferably a polygonal, circular, or flower-shaped shape when viewed from above. For example, when viewed in plan, the holders can be hexagonal and closely adjacent to each other in a regular pattern with hexagonal symmetry. When viewed in plan, the holders can also be octagonal, with four adjacent holders arranged in a diamond shape. Particularly preferably, the holders are diamond-shaped. This embodiment is the fourth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, and is preferably subordinate to any of the first to third embodiments.

[0028] |5a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, a plurality of formed cartridges are housed in a holder of a holding structure in such a manner that, during transport in process step c., the remaining portions of the elongated cylinder extending beyond the holder, the portions having a length l1-l1', do not contact one another. This embodiment is a fifth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention and is preferably subordinate to any of the first to fourth embodiments.

[0029] |6a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the cartridge formed in process step a. is a glass cartridge, and wherein the heat forming includes a process step of heating at least a portion of the glass to a temperature above the glass transition temperature. This embodiment is a sixth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, and is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0030] |7a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, each holder further includes guide elements extending radially into the holder and configured to contact a portion of the outer surface of the elongated cylindrical body of the molded cartridge accommodated in the holder. These guide elements can, for example, be formed as guide ribs extending longitudinally along the holder. This embodiment is the seventh embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention and is preferably subordinate to any of the first to sixth embodiments.

[0031] |8a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the holders are arranged in a plurality of rows extending parallel to one another in the holding structure, and the cartridges formed in step d. are removed by simultaneously removing several cartridges from a given row using a removal device. This embodiment is the eighth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention and is preferably subordinate to any of the first to seventh embodiments.

[0032] |9a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, all cartridges in a given row are removed simultaneously by a removal device. This embodiment is the ninth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention and is preferably subordinate to the eighth embodiment.

[0033] |10a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the removal device comprises a bottom side facing toward the holding structure and a top side facing away from the holding structure, and wherein, in process step d., the distance DH between the bottom side of the removal device and the upper end of the holder is in the range of 0.5 mm to 90 mm, preferably in the range of 1.0 mm to 80 mm, and more preferably in the range of 1.2 mm to 75 mm. This embodiment is the tenth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, and is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to ninth embodiments.

[0034] |11a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the removal device includes a recess for accommodating at least a portion of a molded cartridge, and the removal device is adapted and arranged so as to generate a vacuum in each recess to draw the molded cartridge into the recess and securely hold the molded cartridge in the removal device. This embodiment is the eleventh embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention and is preferably dependent on any one of the first to tenth embodiments.

[0035] |12a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 8 mm to 9 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 31 mm to 66 mm, and wherein l1′ is in the range of 20 mm to 24 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 6 mm to 7.5 mm, more preferably in the range of 6.5 mm to 7 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 60% to 80%, more preferably in the range of 65% to 75%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the same as the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 85% to 98%, more preferably in the range of 92% to 95%. 定位装置 It is preferably in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm, more preferably in the range of 6 mm to 7 mm. This embodiment is the twelfth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to eleventh embodiments.

[0036] |13a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 10 mm to <11 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 66 mm, and wherein l1′ is in the range of 22 mm to 26 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 is preferably in the range of 8 mm to 10 mm, more preferably in the range of 8.5 mm to 9.5 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 70% to 90%, more preferably in the range of 73% to 83%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 90% to 99%, more preferably in the range of 97% to 99%. 定位装置 Preferably, it is in the range of 7.5 mm to 11 mm, more preferably in the range of 8.5 mm to 9.5 mm. This embodiment is the thirteenth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to eleventh embodiments.

[0037] |14a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 11 mm to 12 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 66 mm, and wherein l1′ is in the range of 22 mm to 26 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 8.5 mm to 10.5 mm, more preferably in the range of 9 mm to 10 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 60% to 80%, more preferably in the range of 68% to 75%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the same as the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 85% to 98%, more preferably in the range of 92% to 95%. 定位装置 Preferably, it is in the range of 7.5 mm to 11 mm, more preferably in the range of 8.5 mm to 9.5 mm. This embodiment is the fourteenth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to twelfth embodiments.

[0038] |15a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 13 mm to 15 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 90 mm, and wherein l1′ is in the range of 18 mm to 22 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 10 mm to 13 mm, more preferably in the range of 11 mm to 12 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 70% to 90%, more preferably in the range of 75% to 85%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 90% to 99%, more preferably in the range of 97% to 99%. 定位装置 It is preferably in the range of 10 mm to 13 mm, more preferably in the range of 11 mm to 12 mm. This embodiment is the fifteenth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to twelfth embodiments.

[0039] |16a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 16 mm to 18 mm, the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 95 mm, and the length l1′ is in the range of 26 mm to 30 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 13 mm to 15 mm, more preferably in the range of 13.5 mm to 14.5 mm. This embodiment is the sixteenth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, and is preferably dependent on any of the first to twelfth embodiments.

[0040] |17a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 21 mm to 23 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 85 mm, and wherein l1′ is in the range of 16 mm to 20 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 17.5 mm to 19.5 mm, more preferably in the range of 18 mm to 19 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 70% to 90%, more preferably in the range of 75% to 85%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 90% to 99%, more preferably in the range of 97% to 99%. 定位装置 It is preferably in the range of 16 mm to 20 mm, more preferably in the range of 17 mm to 19 mm. This embodiment is the seventeenth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to twelfth embodiments.

[0041] |18a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 25 mm to 28 mm, the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 80 mm, and l1′ is in the range of 26 mm to 30 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 22 mm to 25 mm, more preferably in the range of 23 mm to 24 mm. This embodiment is the eighteenth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, and is preferably dependent on any of the first to twelfth embodiments.

[0042] |19a| According to another preferred embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention, in process step c., a plurality of stacked holding structures, each holding a formed cartridge, are transported from a first location to another location. Each holding structure in the stack of holding structures is adapted to hold cartridges having the same outer diameter d1 and includes a key feature for ensuring that only holding structures adapted to hold formed cartridges within the same range of outer diameters d1 can be stacked together. The key feature can, for example, include a mandrel and a groove located in an edge region of the holding structure. The groove's diameter and depth are designed such that only mandrels designed to hold cartridges having the same outer diameter d1 can fit precisely within the groove, thereby allowing only identical holding structures to be stacked together. This embodiment is the nineteenth embodiment of the method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges according to the present invention and is preferably dependent on any of the first to eighteenth embodiments.

[0043] |1b| A first embodiment of a holding structure configured to hold a plurality of formed cartridges contributes to achieving at least one of the objects of the present invention, each cartridge comprising:

[0044] - a tubular elongated cylinder having an inner diameter d2, an outer diameter d1, a longitudinal axis L 卡式瓶 and an overall length l1, wherein the elongated cylindrical body includes a bottom region having a circular opening, the bottom region including a spherical thickening made of the material forming the tubular elongated cylindrical body and having an inner diameter d4 and an outer diameter d3; and

[0045] - the top area, which includes the shoulders, neck and collar;

[0046] Among them, the maintenance structure includes:

[0047] i) a substrate; and

[0048] ii) a plurality of brackets disposed on the substrate;

[0049] Each bracket has a longitudinal axis L passing through the center of the bracket in the longitudinal direction 托座 , and includes an upper end, a lower end, a circumferentially formed side wall, and a positioning device, wherein the formed cartridge is inserted into the upper end, the holder is connected to the base plate at the lower end, the side wall extends longitudinally from the upper end to the lower end, and the positioning device is located at the center of the lower end of the holder;

[0050] - Each holder is configured to accommodate a formed cartridge such that:

[0051] - inserting at least a portion of the elongated cylinder having a length of l1' into the holder, and the remaining portion of the elongated cylinder having a length of l1-l1' extending out of the holder;

[0052] The positioning device extends into the circular opening at the bottom area of ​​the formed cartridge, thereby ensuring that the tilt angle a of the formed cartridge does not exceed 10 degrees, preferably does not exceed 8 degrees, more preferably does not exceed 6 degrees, the tilt angle a being the longitudinal axis L 托座 with the longitudinal axis L of the molded cartridge received in the holder 卡式瓶 The angle formed between them;

[0053] in,

[0054] l1' is 10% to 90%, preferably 20% to 80%, more preferably 71% to 21.2% of the total length l1;

[0055] l1 - l1 ′ is 10% to 90%, preferably 20% to 80%, more preferably 13% to 79% of the total length l1 .

[0056] |2b| According to a preferred embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention, the maximum diameter of the positioning device extending into the circular opening in the bottom region of the molded cartridge is at least 75%, preferably at least 85%, and more preferably at least 92.2% of the diameter of the circular opening in the bottom region of the cartridge. This embodiment is a second embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention and is preferably subordinate to the first embodiment.

[0057] |3b| According to another preferred embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention, the positioning device can have a circular or angular shape (e.g., a square, hexagon, or octagon), or a shape other than circular or angular (e.g., a star, flower, triangle, or clover). Furthermore, the height h of the positioning device (measured at the center of the holder) can be in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm, preferably in the range of 2 mm to 6 mm, and most preferably in the range of 3.5 mm to 4.5 mm. This embodiment is the third embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention, and is preferably subordinate to the first or second embodiment.

[0058] |4b| According to a preferred embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention, the brackets are arranged in a regular pattern, and the sidewalls form a common partition between every two directly adjacent brackets of the plurality of brackets. The brackets can have any shape, including polygonal, circular, or flower-shaped when viewed from above. For example, when viewed from above, the brackets can be hexagonal and closely adjacent to each other in a regular, hexagonally symmetrical arrangement. Alternatively, when viewed from above, the brackets can be octagonal, with four adjacent brackets arranged in a diamond shape. Particularly preferably, the brackets are diamond-shaped. This embodiment is the fourth embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention, and its preferred configuration depends on any of the first to third embodiments.

[0059] |5b| According to a preferred embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention, each holder further includes guide elements extending radially into the holder and configured to contact a portion of the outer surface of the elongated cylindrical body of the cartridge accommodated therein. These guide elements may, for example, be formed as guide ribs extending longitudinally along the holder. This embodiment is the fifth embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention and is preferably subordinate to any of the first to fourth embodiments.

[0060] |6b| According to a preferred embodiment of the holding structure of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the molded cartridge is in the range of 8 mm to 9 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 31 mm to 66 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 20 mm to 24 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 6 mm to 7.5 mm, more preferably in the range of 6.5 mm to 7 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 60% to 80%, more preferably in the range of 65% to 75%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the same as the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 85% to 98%, more preferably in the range of 92% to 95%. 定位装置 It is preferably in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm, more preferably in the range of 6 mm to 7 mm. This embodiment is the sixth embodiment of the holding structure according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0061] |7b| According to a preferred embodiment of the holding structure of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 10 mm to <11 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 66 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 22 mm to 26 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 8 mm to 10 mm, more preferably in the range of 8.5 mm to 9.5 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 70% to 90%, more preferably in the range of 73% to 83%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 90% to 99%, more preferably in the range of 97% to 99%. 定位装置It is preferably in the range of 9 mm to 11 mm, more preferably in the range of 8.5 mm to 9.5 mm. This embodiment is the seventh embodiment of the holding structure according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0062] |8b| According to another preferred embodiment of the holding structure of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the molded cartridge is in the range of 11 mm to 12 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 66 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 22 mm to 26 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 8.5 mm to 10.5 mm, more preferably in the range of 9 mm to 10 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 60% to 80%, more preferably in the range of 68% to 75%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the same as the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 85% to 98%, more preferably in the range of 92% to 95%. 定位装置 Preferably, it is in the range of 7.5 mm to 11 mm, more preferably in the range of 8.5 mm to 9.5 mm. This embodiment is the eighth embodiment of the holding structure according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0063] |9b| According to a preferred embodiment of the holding structure of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 13 mm to 15 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 90 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 18 mm to 22 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region of the cartridge is preferably in the range of 10 mm to 13 mm, more preferably in the range of 11 mm to 12 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 70% to 90%, more preferably in the range of 75% to 85%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 90% to 99%, more preferably in the range of 97% to 99%. 定位装置 It is preferably in the range of 10 mm to 13 mm, more preferably in the range of 11 mm to 12 mm. This embodiment is a ninth embodiment of the holding structure according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0064] |10b| According to a preferred embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the formed cartridge is in the range of 16 mm to 18 mm, the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 95 mm, and the length l1′ is in the range of 26 mm to 30 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 13 mm to 15 mm, more preferably in the range of 13.5 mm to 14.5 mm. This embodiment is the tenth embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention and is preferably dependent on any of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0065] |11b| According to a preferred embodiment of the holding structure of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the molded cartridge is in the range of 21 mm to 23 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 85 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 16 mm to 20 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 17.5 mm to 19.5 mm, more preferably in the range of 18 mm to 19 mm. Furthermore, the diameter d 托座 and the diameter d of the positioning device 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 70% to 90%, more preferably in the range of 75% to 85%. In addition, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is about the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio is preferably in the range of 90% to 99%, more preferably in the range of 97% to 99%. 定位装置 It is preferably in the range of 16 mm to 20 mm, more preferably in the range of 17 mm to 19 mm. This embodiment is the eleventh embodiment of the holding structure according to the present invention, which is preferably subordinate to any one of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0066] |12b| According to a preferred embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention, the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body of the molded cartridge is in the range of 25 mm to 28 mm, the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body is in the range of 34 mm to 80 mm, and the length l1′ is in the range of 26 mm to 30 mm. Furthermore, the inner diameter d4 of the bottom region is preferably in the range of 22 mm to 25 mm, more preferably in the range of 23 mm to 24 mm. This embodiment is the twelfth embodiment of the retaining structure of the present invention and preferably belongs to any of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0067] |1c| According to the present invention, a first embodiment, preferably a plurality of retaining structures according to any one of the first to eleventh embodiments thereof, contributes to achieving at least one of the objects of the present invention, wherein the plurality of retaining structures are stacked on top of one another, wherein each retaining structure includes a poka-yoke feature for ensuring that only retaining structures adapted to accommodate molded cartridges having the same range of outer diameters d1 can be stacked on top of one another.

[0068] |2c| According to a preferred embodiment of the plurality of retaining structures of the present invention, each retaining structure accommodates a formed cartridge.

[0069] |1d| According to the present invention, preferably a holding structure according to any one of its first to eleventh embodiments, or according to the present invention, preferably a first embodiment of the use of a plurality of holding structures according to its first or second embodiment, contributes to achieving at least one of the objects according to the present invention, in that the holding structure is used to transport cartridges from a processing station where these cartridges are formed by a die head to a processing station where these formed cartridges are sterilized.

[0070] Maintain structure

[0071] The holding structure of the present invention can generally be any device considered by a skilled artisan to be suitable for holding multiple cartridges. A preferred holding structure is a so-called nested carrier structure, which is well known in the art of transport packaging for primary packaging holders for medical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products. The holding structure is preferably produced by deep drawing or injection molding, with injection molding being particularly preferred. Additionally or preferably, the holding structure is made of one or more plastics. Preferably, the plate-shaped carrier element is integral with the multiple holders. Further preferably, the holding device is of a one-piece design. Preferably, the holders form a regular pattern in a top view of the holding device.

[0072] Positioning device

[0073] The purpose of the positioning device is to prevent or at least reduce the tilting of the cartridge held in the holder of the holding structure. 卡式瓶 The longitudinal axis L of the holder for receiving the cartridge 托座 When the angle between them (= tilt angle a) is not zero, the cartridge will tilt. 卡式瓶 is an axis running through the center of the elongated cylinder, about which the elongated cylinder is preferably rotationally symmetrical, and the longitudinal axis L of the bracket 托座 It is the axis that passes vertically through the center of the bracket in the slender direction along the depth h of the bracket.

[0074] The positioning means are configured such that, when a cartridge is introduced into the holder, it is introduced into the circular opening at the lower end of the holder. To this end, the positioning means is located at the center of the lower end of each holder on the base plate. Furthermore, the positioning means can have any shape deemed suitable for introduction into the circular opening by a person skilled in the art, such as a circular or angular shape (e.g., a square, hexagonal, or octagonal shape). Furthermore, the height of the positioning means can be in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably in the range of 2 mm to 15 mm, and most preferably in the range of 3 mm to 10 mm.

[0075] In order to effectively prevent the cartridge from tilting in the holder, the diameter d of the positioning device extending into the circular opening at the bottom area of ​​the molded cartridge is preferably 定位装置 At least 75%, preferably at least 85%, more preferably at least 95% of the size of the inner diameter d4 of the circular opening at the bottom area of ​​the cartridge. In this case, preferably, the diameter d 定位装置 The ratio to the height h is in the range of 0.5 to 20, preferably in the range of 0.6 to 19.

[0076] Plate-shaped carrier element

[0077] "Plate-shaped" means that the width and length of the carrier element are at least 5 times, preferably at least 10 times, more preferably at least 50 times, and most preferably at least 100 times the thickness of the carrier element, respectively. Preferably, the thickness of the carrier element is in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, more preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 3 mm, even more preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, and most preferably in the range of 0.8 mm to 2 mm. Additionally or preferably, the carrier element has a substantially flat top surface or a substantially flat bottom surface or both. Here, a "plate-shaped carrier element" refers to a substantially flat element without any optional protrusions visible to the naked eye on its top or bottom surface. Preferably, the top and bottom surfaces of the plate-shaped carrier element are substantially rectangular. Here, "substantially" means that the edge areas of the top or bottom surface can be formed with rounded corners and / or grooves.

[0078] Side wall of the bracket

[0079] Preferably, the bracket wall of the bracket is composed of all the wall elements of the bracket. Here, the bracket wall can only partially close the bracket interior, that is, the wall body has the first opening and the other openings. The wall body is a geometric body formed by the bracket wall.

[0080] Guide elements

[0081] The function of the guide elements is to guide the cartridge into the holder during insertion. Preferably, these guide elements are formed as guide ribs extending in the longitudinal direction of the holder, wherein preferably, in each holder, two or more guide ribs are evenly spaced apart at certain angles, for example, at equal angular distances, in particular at 90 degrees or 45 degrees.

[0082] It is sufficient if the guide rib protrudes radially inwards from the side wall or side wall portion of the holder to a relatively small extent, for example only by a distance of approximately 1 mm or less.The guide rib or at least its leading edge can be designed as a flat inclined surface.

[0083] Error-proofing components

[0084] The function of the error-proofing feature is to ensure that only retaining structures suitable for accommodating cartridges having the same outer diameter d1 can be stacked on top of one another. The error-proofing feature can, for example, comprise a mandrel and a groove located in the edge region of the retaining structure, the diameter and depth of the groove being designed such that only the mandrel of a retaining structure for retaining cartridges having the same outer diameter d1 can fit precisely into the groove, and thus only identical retaining structures can be stacked on top of one another. For example, the longitudinal axis of such a groove can be parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the holder. 托座 , or perpendicular to the axis. In addition, within a given holding structure, accurate positioning of the error-proofing components helps ensure that only identical holding structures can be stacked on top of each other.

[0085] Glass

[0086] The container wall of each formed cartridge preferably comprises glass, more preferably consists essentially of glass. This glass can be any type of glass and can have any composition deemed suitable by a skilled artisan for use in the present invention. Preferably, the glass is suitable for pharmaceutical packaging. Particularly preferably, the glass is Type I glass, as defined in Section 3.2.1 of the European Pharmacopoeia, 7th Edition, 2011. Additionally or alternatively, the glass is selected from borosilicate glass, aluminosilicate glass, and fused silica, or a combination of at least two thereof, with borosilicate glass being particularly preferred. Borosilicate glass, as used herein, refers to glass having a B₂O₃ content of at least 1 wt%, preferably at least 2 wt%, more preferably at least 3 wt%, more preferably at least 4 wt%, even more preferably at least 5 wt%, and particularly preferably in the range of 5 wt% to 15 wt%, all based on the total weight of the glass. Preferred borosilicate glasses have an Al₂O₃ content of less than 7.5 wt%, preferably less than 6.5 wt%, and particularly preferably in the range of 0 to 5.5 wt%, all based on the total weight of the glass. On the other hand, the Al2O3 content of the borosilicate glass is in the range of 3 wt% to 7.5 wt%, preferably in the range of 4 wt% to 6 wt% (all based on the total weight of the glass).

[0087] direction

[0088] The transverse and longitudinal directions herein are perpendicular to each other. Preferably, the longitudinal direction extends along the length of the carrier. Preferably, any direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is considered a transverse direction. Thus, multiple transverse directions can be derived from a single longitudinal direction. Preferably, the transverse direction forms a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Preferably, this plane is the plane of extension of the plate-shaped carrier element. Any transverse cross-section is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0089] Unless otherwise specified in the description or specific drawings:

[0090] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a formed cartridge 100 to be transported from a first position 401 to another position 402 or to be accommodated in a holding structure 200 in a method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges 100 according to the present invention;

[0091] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a bottom region of a formed cartridge 100 to be transported from a first position 401 to another position 402 or to be accommodated in a holding structure 200 in a method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges 100 according to the present invention;

[0092] Figure 3shows the transport of formed cartridges 100 housed in a stack 209 of holding structures 200 from a first location 401 to another location 402 in accordance with the present invention;

[0093] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a molded cartridge 100 housed in a receptacle 202 of a retaining structure 200 according to the present invention;

[0094] Figure 5 is a top view of the bracket 202, showing the positioning device 202 located at the center of the bracket 202;

[0095] Figure 6 is another cross-sectional view of the molded cartridge 100 housed in the receptacle 202 of the retaining structure 200 according to the present invention;

[0096] Figure 7 is a top view of the retaining structure 200 according to the present invention;

[0097] Figure 8 is another cross-sectional view of the molded cartridge 100 housed in the receptacle 202 of the retaining structure 200 according to the present invention;

[0098] Figure 9 The simultaneous removal of a plurality of formed cartridges 100 from the holding structure 200 by a gripper arm 300 at a further processing station 402 according to the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0099] Figure 1 4 is a cross-sectional view of a formed cartridge 100 to be transported from a first location 401 to another location 402 or to be housed in a holding structure 200 in a method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges 100 according to the present invention. The formed cartridge 100 comprises a tubular elongated cylindrical body 101 having an inner diameter d2, an outer diameter d1, and a longitudinal axis L. 卡式瓶 The elongated cylindrical body 101 is further characterized by an inner diameter d2 and an outer diameter d1. The elongated cylindrical body 101 includes a bottom region 106 having a circular opening 107. The bottom region 106 includes a bulbous thickening 108 made of the material from which the tubular elongated cylindrical body 101 is formed and has an inner diameter d4 and an outer diameter d3. The formed cartridge also includes a top region 102 including a shoulder 103, a neck 104, and a collar 105, and a bottom region 106 having a circular opening 107.

[0100] Figure 2 4 is a cross-sectional view of the bottom region of a formed cartridge 100 to be transported from a first position 401 to another position 402 or to be accommodated in a holding structure 200 in a method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges 100 according to the present invention. Figure 2As can be seen in FIG, the bottom region 106 comprises a spherical thickening 108 (indicated by the dashed circle on the right) of the material forming the wall of the tubular elongated cylinder 101, the bottom region 106 having an inner diameter d4 and an outer diameter d3.

[0101] Figure 3 The transport of formed cartridges 100 contained in a stack 209 of holding structures 200 according to the present invention from a first location 401 to another location 402 is shown. The first location 401 includes a palletizing system by which a plurality of holding structures 200 are stacked on top of each other to form a stack 209 of holding structures 200, each holding structure 200 containing a cartridge 100 that has been preformed in a thermoforming process, starting with a gob of molten glass material that is formed to form the cartridge 100, or starting with a tubular glass body that is heated to a molten state and then formed into the cartridge shape. Next, the stack 209 of holding structures 200 containing the molded cartridges 100 is transferred to another location 402 (e.g., a cleaning and processing station where the molded cartridges are sterilized, siliconized, and packaged), wherein a plurality of molded cartridges are simultaneously removed from a given holding structure 200 by a gripper arm 300 and introduced into a conveying system 304 (e.g., a conveyor belt or screw conveyor 304), which moves the molded cartridges 100 into the cleaning and processing station.

[0102] Figure 4 FIG2 is a cross-sectional view of a molded cartridge 100 housed in a holder 202 of a holding structure 200 according to the present invention. The holding structure 200 includes a base plate 201 and a plurality of holders 202 disposed on the base plate 201. Each holder 202 has a longitudinal axis L extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the base plate 201 and passing through the center of the holder 202. 托座 Each holder 202 further includes an upper end 203, a lower end 204, a circumferentially formed sidewall 205, and a positioning device 206. The molded cartridge 100 is inserted into the upper end 203, and the lower end 204 of the holder 202 is connected to the base plate 201. The sidewall 205 extends longitudinally from the upper end 203 to the lower end 204. The positioning device 206 is located at the center of the lower end 204 of the holder 202. Each holder 202 is configured to accommodate the molded cartridge 100 such that at least a portion of the elongated cylindrical body 101 having a length l1' (the length l1' corresponds to the depth of the holder) is inserted into the holder 202, and the remaining portion of the elongated cylindrical body 101 having a length l1-l1' extends out of the holder 202. When receiving the molded cartridge 100, the positioning means 206 at the bottom center of the holder 202 extends into the circular opening 107 of the bottom region 106 of the molded cartridge 100, thereby ensuring that the tilt angle a of the molded cartridge 100 does not exceed 10 degrees, where the tilt angle a is the angle of the longitudinal axis L. 托座The longitudinal axis L of the molded cartridge 100 received in the holder 202 is 卡式瓶 The angle between them. Figure 3 As shown, each holder 202 may also include guide elements 207 that extend radially into the holder 202 and are configured to contact a portion of the outer surface of the elongated cylindrical body 101 of the formed cartridge 100 accommodated in the holder 202. To ensure that the formed cartridge 100 is aligned and securely positioned within the holding structure 200 with sufficient precision, while also being easily removed from the holding structure at the next location 402 to which it is transported, a compromise must be found in the design of the depth of the holder 202 within the holding structure 200 for process safety. For longer cartridges, deeper insertion of the cartridge 100 into the deep cavity of the holder 202 facilitates removal. In this case, the cartridge has better, longer guides and therefore sits more upright within the holding structure 200. This has a positive impact on safe cartridge removal. However, deep holders 202 have a negative impact on the removal of very short cartridges. The gripper arm 300 cannot properly and reliably grip these cartridges. If the distance from the holding structure 200 is too small, the grabbing arm 300 may collide with the holding structure 200. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure a minimum distance between the grabbing arm 300 and the holding structure 200. According to the present invention, l1' is at least 10%-90% of the total length l1, and l1-l1' is at least 13%-79% of the total length l1.

[0103] Figure 5 is a top view of the bracket 202, showing the positioning device 202 located at the center of the bracket 202. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the diameter d of the positioning device is 定位装置 The diameter d of the bracket 202 is 9 mm. 托座 It is 14mm.

[0104] Figure 6 2 is another cross-sectional view of a formed cartridge 100 housed in the receptacle 202 of the holding structure 200 according to the present invention. As can be seen from the figure, when the cartridge 100 is housed in the receptacle 202 of the holding structure, the positioning means 206 extends into the circular opening 107 of the cartridge 100, thereby ensuring that the angle of inclination a of the formed cartridge 100 does not exceed 10 degrees, the angle of inclination a being the longitudinal axis L. 托座 The longitudinal axis L of the molded cartridge 100 received in the holder 202 卡式瓶 The angle between them.

[0105] Figure 7 FIG. 2 is a top view of a holding structure 200 according to the present invention. As can be seen from the figure, the holding structure 200 may include a plurality of rows 208 of regularly arranged brackets 202, wherein the plurality of rows 208 of brackets 202 are arranged adjacent to each other. Figure 9 ) to simultaneously remove a plurality of formed cartridges 100 from such a holding structure 200, wherein preferably the gripper arm 300 can remove all formed cartridges 100 of a given row 208 at once.

[0106] Figure 8 is another cross-sectional view of a molded cartridge 100 housed in a receptacle 202 of a retaining structure 200 according to the present invention. Figure 8 As can be seen in FIG, the holding structure 200 is configured to be adapted to securely hold formed cartridges 100 having elongated cylindrical bodies 101 of varying lengths l1 but identical outer diameters d1. Figure 8 The illustrated holding structure 200 also includes a poka-yoke feature 208 for ensuring that only holding structures 200 adapted to accommodate molded cartridges 100 having the same range of outer diameters d1 can be stacked on top of one another. Figure 8 The illustrated error-proofing component 208 is a mandrel sized to be inserted into a corresponding recess in a retaining structure 200 configured to hold formed cartridges having the same outer diameter d1 .

[0107] Figure 9 The present invention is shown in a further processing station 402 where a plurality of molded cartridges 100 are simultaneously removed from a holding structure 200 by a removal device 300 (e.g., a gripper arm). The removal device 300 comprises a bottom side 301 facing toward the holding structure 200 and a top side 302 facing away from the holding structure 200, wherein in process step d., a distance DH between the bottom side 301 of the removal device 300 and the upper end 203 of the holder 202 is in the range of 0.5 mm to 90 mm. The removal device 300 comprises recesses 303 for accommodating at least a portion of the molded cartridges 100, wherein the removal device 300 is adapted and arranged in such a manner as to generate a vacuum in each recess 303 to draw the molded cartridges 100 into the recess 303 and securely hold the molded cartridges 100 in the removal device 300.

[0108] Reference Signs List

[0109] 100 Molded Cartridges

[0110] 101 tubular slender cylinder

[0111] 102 Top Area

[0112] 103 Shoulders

[0113] 104 Neck

[0114] 105 Collar

[0115] 106 bottom area

[0116] 107 circular opening

[0117] 108 A spherical thickening of the material forming the tubular elongated cylinder 101

[0118] 200 Maintaining Structure

[0119] 201 substrate

[0120] 202 bracket

[0121] 203 upper end of the bracket 202

[0122] 204 lower end of the bracket 202

[0123] 205 side wall of the bracket 202

[0124] 206 Positioning device in the bracket 202

[0125] 207 Guide element in bracket 202

[0126] 208 Error-proofing components

[0127] 209 Stacked bodies that maintain structure

[0128] 300 Grab Arm and Other Removal Equipment

[0129] 301 Remove the bottom side of the device 300

[0130] 302 Remove the top side of the device 300

[0131] 303 Removing the notch of the device 300

[0132] 304 Conveyor System

[0133] 401 First Processing Station

[0134] 402 Another processing station

Claims

1. A method for producing a plurality of sterile cartridges (100), the method comprising the steps of: a. forming a cartridge (100) using a heater, each cartridge (100) comprising: - a tubular elongated cylinder (101) having an inner diameter d2, an outer diameter d1, a longitudinal axis L 卡式瓶 and an overall length l1, wherein the elongated cylindrical body (101) comprises a bottom region (106) having a circular opening (107), the bottom region (106) comprising a spherical thickening (108) made of the material forming the tubular elongated cylindrical body (101) and having an inner diameter d4 and an outer diameter d3; and - a top region (102) comprising shoulders (103), a neck (104) and a collar (105); b. inserting a plurality of formed cartridges (100) into a holding structure (200) arranged to hold the plurality of formed cartridges (100), wherein the holding structure (200) comprises: i) a substrate (201); and ii) a plurality of brackets (202) arranged on the substrate (201); Each bracket (202) has a longitudinal axis L that passes longitudinally through the center of the bracket (202) 托座 , and comprising an upper end (203), a lower end (204), a circumferentially formed side wall (205), and a positioning device (206), wherein the formed cartridge bottle (100) is inserted into the upper end (203), the holder (202) is connected to the base plate (201) at the lower end (204), the side wall (205) extends longitudinally from the upper end (203) to the lower end (204), and the positioning device (206) is located at the center of the lower end (204) of the holder (202); - Each holder (202) is configured to accommodate a formed cartridge (100) such that: - inserting at least a portion of the elongated cylindrical body (101) having a length of l1' into the bracket (202), and the remaining portion of the elongated cylindrical body (101) having a length of l1-l1' extending out of the bracket (202); The positioning device (206) extends into the circular opening (107) at the bottom region (106) of the formed cartridge (100), thereby ensuring that the tilt angle a of the formed cartridge (100) does not exceed 10 degrees, the tilt angle a being the longitudinal axis L 托座 and the longitudinal axis L of the molded cartridge (100) housed in the holder (202) 卡式瓶 The angle formed between them; c. transporting the holding structure (200) from a first position (401) to another position (402); d. at the other position (402), removing the formed cartridge (100) from the holding structure (200); e. sterilizing the molded cartridge (100); in, - l1' is at least 10% to 90% of the total length l1; - l1 - l1 ' is at least 10% to 90% of the total length l1.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein The brackets (202) are regularly arranged, and wherein the side wall (205) is formed as a common partition between every two directly adjacent brackets (202) in the plurality of brackets (202).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The plurality of formed cartridges (100) are housed in the receptacles (202) of the holding structure (200) in such a manner that the remaining portions of the elongated cylinders extending out of the receptacles (202) by a length l1-l1' do not contact each other during transport in process step c.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The cartridge (100) formed in process step a. is a glass cartridge, and wherein the thermoforming comprises a process step of heating at least a portion of the glass to a temperature above the glass transition temperature.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein Each holder (202) further comprises a guide element (207) extending radially into the holder (202) and configured to contact a portion of the outer surface of the elongated cylindrical body (101) of the formed cartridge (100) received in the holder (202).

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) of the formed cartridge (100) is in the range of 8 mm to 9 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) is in the range of 31 mm to 66 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 20 mm to 24 mm, or wherein the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) of the formed cartridge (100) is in the range of 10 mm to <11 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) is in the range of 34 mm to 66 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 22 mm to 26 mm, or wherein the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) of the formed cartridge (100) is in the range of 11 mm to 12 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) is in the range of 34 mm to 66 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 22 mm to 26 mm, or wherein the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) of the formed cartridge (100) is in the range of 13 mm to 15 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) is in the range of 34 mm to 85 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 18 mm to 22 mm, or wherein the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) of the formed cartridge (100) is in the range of 16 mm to 18 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) is in the range of 34 mm to 95 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 26 mm to 30 mm, or wherein the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) of the formed cartridge (100) is in the range of 21 mm to 23 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) is in the range of 34 mm to 85 mm, and wherein l1' is in the range of 16 mm to 20 mm, or wherein the outer diameter d1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) of the formed cartridge (100) is in the range of 25 mm to 28 mm, wherein the length l1 of the elongated cylindrical body (101) is in the range of 34 mm to 80 mm, and wherein l1′ is in the range of 26 mm to 30 mm.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein: In process step c., a plurality of holding structures (200) stacked on top of one another are transported from a first location (401) to another location (402), each holding structure (200) accommodating the molded cartridges (100), wherein each holding structure (200) in the stack (209) of holding structures (200) is adapted to hold cartridges (100) having the same outer diameter d1 and comprises a foolproofing feature (208) for ensuring that only holding structures (200) adapted to accommodate molded cartridges (100) having the same range of outer diameters d1 can be stacked on top of one another.

8. A holding structure (200) configured to hold a plurality of formed cartridges (100), each cartridge (100) comprising: - a tubular elongated cylinder (101) having an inner diameter d2, an outer diameter d1, a longitudinal axis L 卡式瓶 and an overall length l1, wherein the elongated cylindrical body (101) comprises a bottom region (106) having a circular opening (107), the bottom region (106) comprising a spherical thickening (108) made of the material forming the tubular elongated cylindrical body (101) and having an inner diameter d4 and an outer diameter d3; and - a top region (102) comprising shoulders (103), a neck (104) and a collar (105); Wherein, the retaining structure (200) comprises: i) a substrate (201); and ii) a plurality of brackets (202) arranged on the substrate (201); Each bracket (202) has a longitudinal axis L that passes longitudinally through the center of the bracket (202) 托座 , and comprising an upper end (203), a lower end (204), a circumferentially formed side wall (205), and a positioning device (206), wherein the formed cartridge bottle (100) is inserted into the upper end (203), the holder (202) is connected to the base plate (201) at the lower end (204), the side wall (205) extends longitudinally from the upper end (203) to the lower end (204), and the positioning device (206) is located at the center of the lower end (204) of the holder (202); - Each holder (202) is configured to accommodate a formed cartridge (100) such that: - inserting at least a portion of the elongated cylindrical body (101) having a length of l1' into the bracket (202), and the remaining portion of the elongated cylindrical body (101) having a length of l1-l1' extending out of the bracket (202); The positioning device (206) extends into the circular opening (107) at the bottom region (106) of the formed cartridge (100), thereby ensuring that the tilt angle a of the formed cartridge (100) does not exceed 10 degrees, the tilt angle a being the longitudinal axis L 托座 and the longitudinal axis L of the molded cartridge (100) housed in the holder (202) 卡式瓶 The angle formed between them; in, - l1' is at least 10% to 90% of the total length l1; - l1 - l1 ' is at least 10% to 90% of the total length l1.

9. Use of the holding structure (200) according to claim 8 for transporting cartridges (100) from a processing station where said cartridges (100) are formed by a die head to a processing station where the formed cartridges (100) are sterilized.

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