DEVICE FOR PROCESSING PHARMACEUTICAL CONTAINERS AND FASTENING DEVICE FOR SUCH A DEVICE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a fastening device for detachably fastening a format part of a device for processing pharmaceutical containers or components of pharmaceutical containers to a holding part of the device, wherein the format part has at least one container-specific, container component-specific or processing-specific characteristic.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a device for processing pharmaceutical containers or components of pharmaceutical containers, comprising at least one format part and at least one holding part associated thereto, wherein the at least one format part has at least one container-specific, container-component-specific or processing-specific characteristic, and wherein the at least one format part can be detachably connected to the at least one holding part by means of a fastening device.

[0003] The fastening device of the aforementioned type is used in particular in a device for processing pharmaceutical containers or components of pharmaceutical containers. Typically, the pharmaceutical containers, for example, syringes, vials, or cartridges, are fed into the device, filled with a liquid or solid pharmaceutical substance, then sealed, optionally marked, and placed in a common carrier (nesting) or magazine for further processing. The pharmaceutical substance is, in particular, a medically active substance (agent). Vials can also be referred to as "bottles" or "phials."

[0004] In practice, devices for processing pharmaceutical containers or their components utilize so-called format parts. These format parts can be detachably attached to corresponding retaining elements of the device. Retaining elements are, for example, located on or enclosed by a frame, base, or similar component of the device. The format parts are interchangeable and can be swapped by the user depending on the task at hand, adapting them to the containers, their components, and / or, for example, the filling process. Further processing-specific properties of format parts are conceivable. For example, the format part used depends on the container type (such as syringes, vials, or cartridges), the container dimensions (e.g., vials of different sizes), or the method of sealing the container.Regarding the latter point, format parts of the device should be mentioned, which are used depending on the type of closing element employed (e.g., mushroom plugs, piston plugs, or crimp caps) to enable its processing. In this context, as with containers, not only the type of closing element but also its size must be considered. Other format parts may be processing-specific. For example, format parts are used depending on the substance to be filled into the containers – differences can arise, for instance, depending on whether the substance is liquid or powder, the viscosity of a liquid substance, and / or the quantity of substance to be filled into the containers.

[0005] DE 199 38 114 A1 describes a robot to which a tool, for example a gripper for opening the hoods or doors of vehicle bodies to be coated, is attached via a magnetic coupling which opens automatically in the event of overload, like a predetermined breaking point.

[0006] German patent application DE 10 2009 025 910 A1 discloses a handling element of a gripping device for packaged goods, which is attached to a frame element of the gripping device by means of magnetic force and can be detached and / or replaced semi-automatically or fully automatically. Furthermore, a method for controlling such a handling element is described.

[0007] US 2013 / 0318920 A1 describes a locking stabilizer for a locking device, comprising a fastening element that connects the locking stabilizer to the locking device, allowing the locking stabilizer to be removed from the locking device. The locking stabilizer can be secured using a magnet.

[0008] US Patent 9,522,756 B1 describes a fastening device with fasteners that can be connected to each other by means of a bayonet-like plug-and-twist connection. A mushroom-shaped projection on one fastener engages with an elongated opening on the other fastener. Both fasteners contain magnets that interact with each other when the fasteners are connected.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a fastening device and a device of the type mentioned at the outset, with which the handling of the format parts is facilitated.

[0010] This problem is solved by means of a fastening device according to the invention having the features of claim 1.

[0011] The fastening device according to the invention enables the format part to be fixed to its associated holding part by means of magnetic force. For this purpose, the respective fastening elements comprise magnetic elements. When the fastening elements are joined together to connect the format part to the holding part, the magnetic elements interact. To detach the format part from the holding part, it is preferably only necessary to overcome the magnetic force between the magnetic elements and remove the format part from the holding part. Both attaching the format part to the holding part and detaching the format part from the holding part, in particular a format change, can thus be carried out in a user-friendly manner.

[0012] By using magnetic elements, conventional fastening elements for attaching format parts can be eliminated, for example, screw connections or spring-loaded pressure elements. This allows the device to be given a simpler design when using the fastening device according to the invention.

[0013] It is understood that "magnetic" in this context refers, for example, to ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic properties, not paramagnetic or diamagnetic properties.

[0014] At least one magnetic element can be a magnet. Preferably, both magnetic elements are magnets. Preferably, identical magnets are used, which, for example, are arranged with opposite polarities to each other on the fastening elements.

[0015] Alternatively, it can be provided that only one magnetic element is a magnet and the other magnetic element is a magnetizable material.

[0016] The magnet is preferably a permanent magnet to simplify the design of the fastening device. NdFeB magnets, for example, are used as permanent magnets.

[0017] Preferably, apart from the magnetic elements, the fastening elements are not magnetic or not magnetizable.

[0018] The magnetic element can be attached to the respective fastening element in various ways. For example, it can be attached by frictional connection, positive connection, and / or material connection.

[0019] One possible solution is a screw connection. For example, the magnetic element itself could be screwed to the mounting element, or alternatively, a separate screw element could be used.

[0020] One possibility is, for example, to press and / or glue the magnetic element to the fastening element.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the magnetic element can, for example, be injected, cast or rolled into the fastening element.

[0022] It is advantageous that the respective magnetic element is encapsulated within the fastening element, free from contact with the atmosphere. In this case, this can be understood, for example, to mean that the magnetic element is encased in the fastening element in such a way that no, or essentially no, exchange of media can occur between the magnetic element or a receiving space within the fastening element and the atmosphere surrounding the holding part or the format part. In this way, the magnetic element is protected from the atmosphere, which could be, for example, a protective atmosphere and / or an atmosphere used for decontamination purposes with a protective gas. H₂O₂, for example, is used as the protective gas.

[0023] In the fastening position, the fastening elements are positively engaged with each other. In this way, a defined, reliable relative positioning of the fastening elements, and thus of the format part on the holding part, can be achieved.

[0024] It may be intended that the fastening elements are joined together without gaps in the fastening position.

[0025] The magnetic elements are designed to be spaced apart and free from contact with each other when the fasteners are in their installed position. This allows the magnetic force to be easily adjusted via the gap between the magnetic elements, ensuring both reliable attachment of the format part to the holding part and easy release of the format part from the holding part. This gap could be, for example, an air gap. Alternatively, a wall of the first and / or second fastener could be positioned within this gap.

[0026] In a structurally simple embodiment that has proven successful in practice, the fastening elements according to the invention comprise a receptacle and a projection which, in the fastening position of the fastening elements, is arranged in the receptacle. In this way, a defined, reliable relative positioning of the fastening elements can be achieved.

[0027] For example, the receptacle is located on the first fastening element and the projection on the second fastening element.

[0028] Alternatively, the receptacle can be located on the second fastening element and the projection on the first fastening element.

[0029] In a structurally simple design of the fastening device, the receptacle is, for example, a blind hole and the projection is a pin that can be inserted into and removed from the blind hole.

[0030] It can be advantageous if the receptacle and the projection are each designed to be rotationally symmetrical or substantially rotationally symmetrical with respect to a common axis of the fastening elements when they are in the fastening position. This design preferably facilitates the joining of the fastening elements. Furthermore, the projection and the receptacle preferably exhibit improved cleanability.

[0031] The projection is advantageously designed to taper in the insertion direction into the receptacle, and the receptacle is preferably designed to taper in the insertion direction starting from an insertion opening for the projection. This facilitates the insertion of the projection into the receptacle.

[0032] Advantageously, an edge of an insertion opening of the receiver rests flange-like against a shoulder arranged on the projection when the fastening elements assume the fastening position.

[0033] It can be advantageous if one end face of the projection, facing the base of the recess, is planar. Alternatively or additionally, the base of the recess can, for example, be planar.

[0034] The aforementioned tapering of the projection and / or recess is advantageously conical, at least in sections. It may prove advantageous, for example, if the projection and / or recess

[0035] The insertion direction includes sections of varying taper. This can be understood, for example, as a difference in the degree of conical taper at different sections of the projection and / or the receptacle.

[0036] It can be advantageous if the projection and the receptacle include at least one corresponding fit, joined together in the mounting position. This ensures a defined seating of the projection in the receptacle.

[0037] The at least one fit is, for example, a cylindrical fit formed by the respective cylindrical surfaces of the projection and the receptacle.

[0038] In practice, it proves advantageous if, with respect to the insertion direction, two fits are arranged at a distance from each other on the projection and the receptacle. The projection and the receptacle, in particular at the fits, have different diameters with respect to the aforementioned common axis.

[0039] In the insertion direction of the first fit, the projection and the receptacle preferably taper. Between the fits, the projection and the receptacle preferably taper in the insertion direction.

[0040] In the embodiment of the invention according to the invention, the magnetic element is arranged at the bottom of the receptacle and the magnetic element is arranged on an end face of the projection.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the fastening elements may have or form a receiving body with a receiving chamber in which the magnetic element is arranged on one side of a wall of the receiving chamber that faces away from the other fastening element. For example, at least one fastening element comprises the wall facing the other fastening element, with the magnetic element arranged on the side of the wall facing away from the other fastening element. With respect to the other fastening element, the magnetic element is, in a sense, arranged "behind" the wall. This means that the magnetic element is, for example, held within the receiving body by the wall or encapsulated by it.

[0042] The magnetic element can, for example, be located at the bottom of the recording behind the wall (a floor wall).

[0043] The magnetic element can, for example, be located on the front face of the projection behind the wall (an end wall).

[0044] For example, a form-fitting arrangement of the magnetic element in the receiving space, especially transverse to the aforementioned axis, proves to be advantageous.

[0045] It can be advantageous if the magnetic element is subjected to a force, preferably in the direction of the other fastening element, by means of a pressure element. The pressure element, for example, applies pressure to the magnetic element so that it rests against the aforementioned wall.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, a sealing element can be arranged on the side of the magnetic element facing away from the other fastening element. This is advantageous, for example, in the screw connection of the receiving element to the base element mentioned below, with regard to encapsulating the magnetic element within the fastening element.

[0047] For example, the fastening element may comprise a receiving member forming the receiving space and a base member, which is preferably connected to the receiving member by means of screws. For example, each fastening element comprises a base member, wherein the receiving members are engaged with each other in the fastening position.

[0048] It can be advantageous if the fastening device comprises a plurality of first fastening elements and second fastening elements. The first fastening elements are advantageously identical in design, and the second fastening elements are preferably identical in design.

[0049] As already mentioned, the invention also relates to a device for processing pharmaceutical containers or components of pharmaceutical containers.

[0050] The problem mentioned at the outset is solved according to the invention in a generic device by the fact that the at least one format part can be detachably connected to the at least one holding part by means of a fastening device of the type described above.

[0051] The advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the fastening device according to the invention can also be achieved with the device according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the device result from advantageous embodiments of the fastening device. In this regard, reference can be made to the preceding explanations.

[0052] It may be intended, for example, that two or more format parts are assigned to a given holding part, differing in their properties, and that the format parts can be optionally connected to the holding part. Depending on which format part is required for the task to be performed, the format part can be attached to the holding part. An existing format part can be detached from the holding part beforehand. The format parts differ, in particular, in at least one of their container-specific, container-component-specific, or processing-specific properties.

[0053] For example, a format part can be assigned a plurality of holding parts and connected to the holding parts via a respective fastening device.

[0054] The format part can, for example, be a support part for the containers, in particular a transport wheel or a gripping element for the containers.

[0055] The format part can, for example, be a plunger for a closing element of the container.

[0056] However, the present invention is not limited to the aforementioned examples of possible format parts. Reference is made to the preceding and following explanations in this regard.

[0057] The following explanation of preferred embodiments of the invention, in conjunction with the drawing, serves to further explain the invention. The drawing shows: Figure 1: A top view of a device according to the invention for processing pharmaceutical containers and their components in a preferred embodiment, shown schematically; Figure 2: A perspective view of detail A in Figure 1 Figure 3: a view along the arrow "3" in Figure 1, in which a holding part and a format part as well as fastening devices according to the invention are shown in a preferred embodiment; Figure 4: a representation according to detail B in Figure 3 in a perspective exploded view; Figure 5: a sectional view according to detail B in Figure 3 Figure 6: an enlarged view of detail C in Figure 5 Figure 7: a perspective partial view of the device made of Figure 1 looking along the direction of arrow "6" in Figure 1 ; and Figure 8: a schematic sectional view along line 8-8 in Figure 7 in a relative to Figure 7 other working position of the device.

[0058] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a top view of an advantageous embodiment of the device according to the invention for processing pharmaceutical containers 12, designated overall by reference numeral 10. In the present exemplary embodiment, the pharmaceutical containers are vials 14 ( Figure 2), which are to be filled with a pharmaceutical substance.

[0059] The containers 12 are transferred to the device 10 at a feed area 16. The containers 12 are then transferred to a transport wheel 18, followed by another transport wheel 20. The transport wheel 20 transfers the containers 12 to a linear transport device 22.

[0060] From the transport device 22 the containers 12 are first transported to a weighing station 24, then to a filling station 26, to another weighing station 28, to a closing station 30 and finally to a control station 32.

[0061] Following the control station 32, the containers 12 are transferred via a transport wheel 34 to another transport wheel 36, to which a delivery area 38 is connected.

[0062] It is understood that the device 10 may, for example, include at the feed area 16 devices for feeding the containers 12 from a common carrier (nest) and / or as bulk material. Similarly, the device 10 may include at the discharge area 38 devices for transferring the containers 12 into the common carrier (nest) and / or for storing the containers 12.

[0063] Device 10 can process containers 12 of different types and / or dimensions. For example, in contrast to the vials 14 shown here, device 10 can process syringes and / or cartridges. The containers 12, whether vials, syringes, or cartridges, can have different dimensions.

[0064] Depending on the containers 12 to be processed, the device 10 can be adapted to the container-specific, container-component-specific (e.g., closing elements such as mushroom plugs, piston plugs, or crimp caps), and / or processing-specific characteristics of the containers 12. The processing-specific characteristics refer, for example, to the design of the filling station 26 depending on which pharmaceutical product is to be filled into the containers 12. For example, there may be differences regarding the form of the pharmaceutical product (liquid or powder), the quantity of the substance to be filled, or its flow properties, such as viscosity.

[0065] In order to adapt the device 10 to the task of processing the respective containers 12, the device 10 preferably has a plurality of format sets 40. Figure 1The figure schematically shows an unused format set 40. Format set 40 can, for example, replace the format set used in the device 10 during a modification.

[0066] Each format set 40 comprises at least one format part 42 and, in this case, in particular, a plurality of format parts 42. The format parts 42 have container-specific, container-component-specific, or processing-specific characteristics. For example, format parts 42 of the same type, such as transport wheels, differ in that containers 12 of different types and / or different sizes must be processed.

[0067] Depending on the task, it may not be necessary to change an entire format set 40, but only a part of the format parts 42 of the format set 40.

[0068] For example, format set 40 shows transport wheels 18', 20', 34' and 36' as replacement parts for transport wheels 18, 20, 34 and 36 respectively. In addition, format set 40 shows, for example, plungers 44' as replacement parts for plungers 44, which are used in the closing station 30 ( Figure 7 and 8 ).

[0069] Furthermore, format set 40 shows exemplary gripping elements 46', which can be used as exchange parts for gripping elements 46. The gripping elements 46 are used in the transport device 22 to hold a plurality of containers 12 ( Figure 2 ).

[0070] Other possible format parts include, for example, receiving elements 48 at the weighing stations 24, 28 and a holding element 50 for needles 52 at the filling station 26.

[0071] The format parts 42 are detachably connected to retaining parts 54 in the device 10 when in use. Detaching the format part 42 from the retaining part 54 allows, in particular, a format change to be carried out, in which the format part 42 is replaced by another format part 42. Accordingly, a plurality of format parts 42 can be assigned to each retaining part 54.

[0072] This will first be explained using the example of transport wheel 18 as format part 42. Transport wheel 18 can be replaced, for example, by transport wheel 18' when changing formats. The following explanations regarding transport wheel 18 can apply in an identical or similar manner to transport wheels 20, 34, and 36.

[0073] The holding parts 54 for the format parts 42 are, for example, fixed to a frame 56 or substructure of the device 10. The frame 56 is, for example, placed on the floor of a laboratory or the like.

[0074] A column element 60 arranged on a support element 58 of the frame 56 is used as a holding part 54 for the transport wheel 18 ( Figure 3 ).

[0075] According to the invention, the format part 42, designed as a transport wheel 18, can be detachably connected to the holding part 54 via at least one fastening device 62. In the present case, a plurality of fastening devices 62 are provided to secure the transport wheel 18 to the holding part 54. The design of the fastening devices 62 is identical, so that the following description of the Figures 3 to 6 Only one of the fastening devices 62 is discussed.

[0076] The fastening device 62 comprises a first fastening element 64 encompassed by the format part 42 and a second fastening element 66 encompassed by the retaining part 54.

[0077] In the present example, the first fastening element 64 is fixed to a retaining member 68 of the transport wheel 18. The second fastening element 66 is fixed to a retaining member 70, the retaining member 70 being fixed to the column element 60.

[0078] The fastening element 64 is pin-shaped and comprises a base member 72, which is fixed at one end to the retaining member 68. At the end opposite the retaining member 68, the fastening element 64 comprises a receiving member 74. The receiving member 74 is connected to the base member 72, in this case by a screw connection 76. The receiving member 74 has an internal thread that engages with an external thread of the base member 72. The base member 72 and the receiving member 74 are dimensioned such that their respective outer surfaces 78, 80 are aligned with each other on the outside.

[0079] The receiving element 74 forms a receiving body 82 that overlaps an end section 84 of the base element 72. A receiving space 86 of the receiving element 74 is bounded circumferentially and at its end face by a wall 88 of the receiving element 74 and at its end face opposite the base element 72.

[0080] A magnetic element 90 is positively engaged in the receiving chamber 86. The magnetic element 90 is a magnet 92, in particular a permanent magnet, for example an NdFeB magnet. For example, the magnet 92 is disc-shaped. A sealing element 94 is arranged between the magnet 92 and the end section 84 and seals the receiving chamber 86 against the screw connection 76.

[0081] The fastening element 66 defines an axis 96 and is designed to be rotationally symmetrical with respect to this axis.

[0082] The magnetic element 90 is arranged in the receiving space 86 such that it rests against the end face of the wall 88. The wall 88 forms a base 98 of a receptacle 100 for the second fastening element 66. The magnet 92 is arranged on the base 98, behind the wall 88 with respect to the fastening element 66.

[0083] The receptacle 100 extends axially and is circumferentially bounded by the wall 88. At one end, the receptacle 100 includes an insertion opening 102. The fastening element 66 can be partially inserted into the receptacle 100 in an insertion direction 104, as explained below.

[0084] Starting from the insertion opening 102, the receptacle 100 tapers in the insertion direction 104. Starting from the base 96, the receptacle 100 comprises a tapered section 106, followed by a cylindrical section 108, which in turn is followed by a tapered section 110, followed by another cylindrical section 112, and, in the region of the insertion opening 102, another tapered section 114. Sections 106 to 114 belong to a radially inner surface 116 of the wall 88 with respect to the axis 96.

[0085] The second fastening element 66 comprises a pin-shaped projection 118. A bushing-shaped base element 120 of the fastening element 66 is formed on the retaining member 70 and is connected to the projection 118. For this purpose, the projection 118 engages with a section 122 of a recess 124 of the base element 120. The projection 118 is secured to the base element 120 by a screw connection 126 with an internal thread in the base element 120 and an external thread in the section 122. An annular shoulder 128 is arranged outside the recess 124 and abuts a flange-like edge of the opening of the recess 124.

[0086] The projection 118 is designed as a receiving element 130, which forms a receiving body 132 with a receiving space 134. Overall, the projection 118 is rotationally symmetrical with respect to an axis 136. In a fastening position of the fastening elements 64, 66, the axes 96, 136 are aligned with each other and form a common axis of both fastening elements 64, 66.

[0087] The projection 118 comprises a wall 138 that delimits the receiving space 134. The wall 138 encloses the receiving space 134 circumferentially along the axis 136 and also at its end face. In this case, the end face section of the wall 138 is planar, as is the base 98, which is formed by the end face section of the wall 88. In the fastening position of the fastening elements 64, 66, the end face section of the wall 138 can lie flat against the base 98.

[0088] A magnetic element 140 is arranged in the receiving chamber 134. The magnetic element 140 is a magnet 142, in particular a permanent magnet, for example an NdFeB magnet. For example, the magnet 142 is disc-shaped.

[0089] The magnet 142 is positively engaged in the receiving space 134 and rests against the end face section of the wall 138. With respect to the fastening element 64, the magnet is located behind the wall 138 at the end face.

[0090] The magnets are spaced apart. A gap exists between magnets 92 and 142, in which the two end-face sections of the walls 88 and 138 are arranged.

[0091] A pressure element 144, designed as a helical spring, is arranged in the receiving chamber 134 and exerts a force on the magnet 142 directed towards the fastening element 64. The side of the pressure element 144 facing away from the magnet is supported against the base member 120.

[0092] The projection 118 is designed to taper in the insertion direction 104. Starting from the end face section of the wall 138, the projection 118 comprises a tapered section 146, followed by a cylindrical section 148, followed by a tapered section 150, followed by another cylindrical section 152, which is followed by a section 154 with a relief groove. Sections 146 to 154 are formed by the outer surface 156 of the projection 118.

[0093] As already mentioned, the fastening elements 64, 66 can assume a fastening position. For this purpose, the projection 118 can be inserted into the receptacle 100. The respective tapered sections make this easy for the user to handle. The projection 118 is inserted until the end face of the wall 138 rests against the base 98. When this occurs, the wall 88 rests against the ring shoulder 128 with the edge of the insertion opening 102.

[0094] In the fastening position, the fastening elements 64 and 66 are positively engaged with each other and are joined together without gaps. The following respective sections of the receptacle 100 and the projection 118 are adjacent to each other: sections 106 and 146, 108 and 148, 110 and 150, 112 and 152, and 114 and 154.

[0095] Fits 158 are formed between sections 108 and 148 on the one hand, and between 112 and 152 on the other. In this case, the fits are cylindrical fits.

[0096] In practice, it proves advantageous if the sections 106, 110, 114, 146, and 150, each exhibiting a taper, are conically tapered. It can be particularly beneficial if the taper of sections 110 and 152 is not constant in the axial direction, but rather if these sections have two regions with different inclinations relative to the axes 96 and 136.

[0097] In the present case, the magnets 92, 142 are, as mentioned, positively engaged in the receiving spaces 86 and 134, respectively. According to the present invention, the following types of attachment to the respective fastening element 64, 66 can be provided, for example: by force and / or positive engagement, by screwing, by pressing, by bonding, by injection molding or casting.

[0098] When the fastening elements 64, 66 assume the fastening position, the magnets 92, 142 interact via magnetic force. For this purpose, the magnets 92, 142 are polarized in opposite directions. The magnetic coupling allows the user to connect the format part 42 to the holding part 54 in a user-friendly manner. Any screw connections or pressure pieces, as used in conventional format parts and holding parts, are eliminated. Similarly, the format part 42 can be easily detached from the holding part 54 by lifting it, thus overcoming the magnetic force.

[0099] The fastening device 62 is designed to be particularly suitable for pharmaceutical applications. The receiving spaces 86 and 134 are closed via the respective screw connections 76 and 126. The base elements 72 and 120 and the receiving elements 74 and 130 are made of a material suitable for pharmaceutical applications, for example, stainless steel.

[0100] The following refers to the Figure 7 and 8 The design of the plunger 44 as format parts 42 is discussed. A support part 160 is provided as a holding part 54, on which the plunger 44 is arranged.

[0101] By means of a fastening device 162 with a first fastening element 164 and a second fastening element 166, the plunger 44 can be detachably connected to the support part 160.

[0102] The first fastening element 164 is formed by the plunger 44 itself. This plunger is piston-like and has a radially extending projection 170 on a side facing the support part 160, extending with respect to an axis 168. A projection 172 is provided in the axial direction.

[0103] The axis 168 is a common axis of the fastening elements 164, 166 when they assume the fastening position.

[0104] A recess 174 is formed on the end face of the projection 172. A magnetic element 176 in the form of a magnet 178, and in particular a permanent magnet, is arranged in the recess 174. The magnet 178 is positively engaged in the recess 174 and secured therein, for example, by means of a screw element 180. The magnet 178 is ring-shaped in this case.

[0105] The second fastening element 166 is formed by the support part 160. In the direction of the plunger 44, the support part 160 includes a receptacle 182. A recess 186 is formed on a base 184 of the receptacle 182.

[0106] A magnetic element 188, in particular configured as a magnet 190 and specifically a permanent magnet, is arranged in the recess 186. The magnet 190 is secured in the recess 186, for example, by means of a screw element 192. The magnet 190 is ring-shaped in this case.

[0107] In the fastening position of the fastening elements 164, 166, the projection 172 engages positively in the receptacle 182. A rim 194 of an insertion opening 196 of the receptacle 182 rests against the radial projection 170.

[0108] In the area of ​​the base 184 of the recording 182, a gap 198 is formed between the magnets 178 and 190, so that they are spaced apart from each other and do not touch each other. This gap is an air gap.

[0109] A fit 200, in this case a cylindrical fit, is formed by respective sections 202 and 204 of the outer surfaces of the projection 172 and the inner surfaces of the receptacle 182, respectively, and ensures a reliable fit of the format part 42 to the holding part 54. Additionally, an anti-rotation element 206 is effective between the projection 172 and the edge 194.

[0110] When the fastening elements 164, 166 assume the fastening position, the magnets 178, 190 interact via magnetic force. For this purpose, the magnets 178, 190 are polarized in opposite directions. The magnetic coupling allows the user to connect the format part 42 to the holding part 54 in a user-friendly manner. Similarly, the format part 42 can be easily detached from the holding part 54 by lifting it, thus overcoming the magnetic force. For further details, please refer to the preceding explanations.

[0111] The plunger 44 serves to transfer closing elements 208, in this case in the form of piston plugs 210, for closing the vials 14 into a receiving part 212. The receiving part 212 positions the piston plugs 210 above the filled vials 14, and they are then pressed down with plungers (not shown in the drawing).

[0112] The other format parts 42 mentioned above, for example the gripping elements 46, receiving elements 48 or the holding element 50, can also be detachably attached to their associated holding parts 54 by means of fastening devices according to the invention, whereby magnetic elements are used to provide a magnetic holding force. Reference symbol list

[0113] 10 Device 12 Container 14 Vial 16 Feed area 18, 20 Transport wheel 22 Transport device 24, 28 Weighing station 26 Filling station 30 Closing station 32 Control station 34, 36 Transport wheel 38 Discharge area 40 Format set 42 Format part 44 Plunger 46 Gripping element 48 Pickup element 50 Holding element 52 Needle 54 Holding part 56 Frame 58 Mounting element 60 Column element 62 Fastening device 64, 66 Fastening element 68, 70 Holding link 72 Base link 74 Pickup link 76 Screw connection 78 Shell surface 80 Shell surface 82 Pickup body 84 End section 86 Pickup chamber 88 Wall 90 Magnet element 92 Magnet 94 Sealing element 96 Axle 98 Bottom 100 Receptacle 102 Insertion opening 104 Insertion direction 106, 108, 110, 112, 114 Section 116 Shell surface 118 Projection 120 Base member 122 Section 124 Recess 126 Screw connection 128 Ring shoulder 130 Receptacle 132 Receptacle body 134 Receptacle space 136 Axis 138 Wall 140 Magnetic element 142 Magnet 144 Pressure element 146, 148, 150, 152,154 Section 156 Shell surface 158 Fit 160 Support part 162 Fastening device 164, 166 Fastening element 168 Axis 170, 172 Projection 174 Recess 176 Magnetic element 178 Magnet 180 Screw element 182 Receptacle 184 Bottom 186 Recess 188 Magnetic element 190 Magnet 192 Screw element 194 Edge 196 Insertion opening 198 Gap 200 Fit 202, 204 Section 206 Anti-rotation element 208 Locking element 210 Piston plug 212 Receptacle part

Claims

1. A securing device for detachably fastening a format part (42) of an apparatus (10) for processing pharmaceutical containers (12) or components of pharmaceutical containers (12) on a holding part (54) of the apparatus (10), wherein the format part (42) has at least one container-specific, container-component-specific or process-specific quality, wherein the securing device (62; 162) comprises a first securing element (64; 164) and a second securing element (66; 166), wherein the first securing element (64; 164) is arranged on or comprised by the format part (42), and the second securing element (66; 166) is arranged on or comprised by the holding part (54), wherein the securing elements (64, 66; 164, 166) comprise a receptacle (100; 182) and a projection (118; 172) which in a securing position of the securing elements (64, 66; 164, 166), is arranged in the receptacle (100; 182), wherein the securing elements (64, 66; 164, 166) comprise magnetic elements (90, 140; 176, 188) which interact when the interconnected securing elements (64, 66; 164, 166) are in the securing position, in which the securing elements (64, 66; 164, 166) are positively engaged with one another, wherein the magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is encapsulated in the respective securing element (64, 66; 164, 166) free from contact with the atmosphere, and the magnetic elements (90, 140; 176, 188) in the securing position of the securing elements (64, 66; 164, 166) are arranged at a distance from each other and free from contact with one another, characterized in that one of the magnetic elements (90, 140; 176, 188) is arranged at the bottom (98; 184) of the receptacle (100; 182) and the other magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is arranged on an end face of the projection (118; 172).

2. The securing device in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that at least one magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is a magnet (92, 142; 178, 190), in particular both magnetic elements (90, 140; 176, 188) are magnets (92, 142; 178, 190) or in that only one magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is a magnet (92, 142; 178, 190) and the other magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is a magnetizable material.

3. The securing device in accordance with claim 2, characterized in that the magnet (92, 142; 178, 190) is a permanent magnet.

4. The securing device in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is fixed to the respective securing element in at least one of the following ways: - by a force-locking and / or positive connection; - by an integral bond; - by a screw connection; - by pressing; - by gluing; - the magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is injected, cast or rolled into the securing element (64, 66; 164, 166).

5. The securing device in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing elements (64, 66; 164, 166) are interconnected with one another without gaps in the securing position.

6. The securing device in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: - the receptacle (100; 182) and the projection (118; 172) are each rotationally symmetrical or substantially rotationally symmetrical with respect to a common axis (96; 168) of the securing elements (64, 66; 164, 166) when they assume the securing position; - the projection (118; 172) is configured to taper in the insertion direction (104) into the receptacle (100; 182), and in that the receptacle (100; 182) is configured to taper in the insertion direction (104) starting from an insertion opening (102) for the projection (118; 172); - the projection (118; 172) and the receptacle (100; 182) comprise at least one corresponding fit (158; 200) interconnected in the securing position, in particular in that the at least one fit (158; 200) is a cylinder fit formed by respective lateral surfaces (116, 156) of the projection (118; 172) and of the receptacle (100; 182), wherein preferably, relative to the insertion direction (104), two fits (158) are arranged at a distance from one another on the projection (118; 172) and on the receptacle (100; 182).

7. The securing device in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the securing elements (64, 66; 164, 166) has or forms a receiving body (82; 132) with a receiving space (86; 134) in which the magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is arranged on one side of a wall (88; 138) of the receiving space (86; 134) which faces away from the respectively other securing element (64, 66; 164, 166).

8. The securing device in accordance with claim 7, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: - the magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is positively engaged in the receiving space (86; 134); - the magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) is acted upon by a pressing element (144) with a force preferably in the direction of the additional securing element (64, 66; 164, 166), and / or in that a sealing element (94) is arranged on the magnetic element (90, 140; 176, 188) on the side facing away from the respectively other securing element (64, 66; 164, 166); - the securing element (64, 66; 164, 166) comprises a receiving member (74, 130) forming the receiving space (86; 134) and a base member (72; 120) connected to the receiving member (74; 130) preferably by a screw connection (76; 126).

9. The securing device in accordance with one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing device (62; 162) comprises a plurality of first securing elements (64; 164) and second securing elements (66; 166), and preferably in that the first securing elements (64; 164) are configured identically, and the second securing elements (66; 166) are configured identically.

10. An apparatus for processing pharmaceutical containers (12) or components of pharmaceutical containers (12), comprising a securing device (62; 162) according to one of the preceding claims at least one format part (42) and at least one holding part (54) assigned thereto, wherein the at least one format part (42) has at least one container-specific, container-component-specific or process-specific quality, and wherein the at least one format part (42) is detachably connectable to the at least one holding part (54) by means of the securing device (62; 162).

11. The apparatus in accordance with claim 10, characterized in that two or more format parts (42), which differ from one another with regard to their qualities, are assigned to a respective holding part (54), and in that the format parts (42) are selectively connectable to the holding part (54).

12. The apparatus in accordance with claim 10 or 11, characterized in that a format part (42) is assigned a plurality of holding parts (54) and is connected to the holding parts (54) via a respective securing device (62; 162).

13. The apparatus in accordance with one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the format part (54) is a carrier part for the containers (12), in particular a transport wheel (18, 20, 34, 36) or a gripping element (46) for the containers (12).

14. The apparatus in accordance with one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the format part (42) is a plunger (44) for a closing element (208) of the container (12).