Arrangement and method for transferring a container provided with a container opening

Abstract

The invention relates to an arrangement (1), a filling device (18) and a method for transferring a container (6) provided with a preferably closeable or closed container opening (9) from an input region (2) into an output region (3), wherein the container (6) is held by a first transport device (7) in the input region (2) and the container is transferred to a second transport device (8) arranged in the output region (3) via an opening (5) in a separating wall (4), and wherein the input region (2) and the output region (3) are separated by the separating wall (4), and wherein, for transfer, the container (6) is held by the first transport device (7) at a different spacing from the container opening (9) than when it is held by the second transport device (8).

Description

[0001] Arrangement and method for transferring a container provided with a container opening

[0002] The invention relates to an arrangement with at least one input area and one output area, which are separated from one another by a partition wall, wherein the partition wall has at least one opening through which at least one container with a preferably closable or closed container opening can be transferred, wherein the input area has a first transport device and the output area has a second transport device for transfer.

[0003] In the manufacture of pharmaceutical products or in the production of food, containers are usually transported within and between protected areas, preferably as part of an isolator or a RABS (restricted access barrier system). The transfer of containers (with a container opening) from one protected area, for example an entrance area, to another protected area, for example an exit area, is particularly critical. During a handover, a transport device often reaches through the opening into a protected area and / or the transport device comes so close to the opening that contamination of a protected area can occur.Contamination must be avoided, particularly in the manufacture of the products described above. Therefore, the arrangements known from the prior art, as mentioned above, entail many disadvantages for production. Furthermore, contamination should be prevented to protect the environment or workers (in the case of toxic / high-potency products). The invention further relates to a filling device having at least one filling station and arranged in an exit area, preferably in an arrangement as described or claimed below.

[0004] The invention further relates to a method of transferring a container provided with a container opening from an input area to an output area, wherein the container is held in the input area by a first transport device and the container is transferred to a second transport device arranged in the output area through an opening in a partition wall, wherein the input area and the output area are separated by the partition wall.

[0005] The object of the invention is therefore to improve the transfer of containers, preferably in protected areas. Furthermore, the filling of containers in protected areas is to be improved.

[0006] To achieve the stated object, the features of claim 1 are provided according to the invention. In particular, to achieve the stated object, in an arrangement of the type described above, it is proposed according to the invention that the first transport device and the second transport device are designed such that the at least one container can be gripped by the first transport device at a different distance from the container opening than by the second transport device. This advantageously ensures that the at least one container is gripped at different positions by the first and second transport devices. As a result, sufficient distance can be achieved between the first and second transport devices during the transfer, whereby a

[0007] Contamination of one transport device by the other transport device and / or contamination of at least one container can be reduced or even avoided. In particular, this ensures that only the respective container moves from the entrance area to the exit area, while the transport devices can remain on the respective side of the opening.

[0008] An arrangement according to the invention can further enable flexible designs and uses of both transport devices and protected areas, such as the at least one entrance area and the at least one exit area. The entrance area and / or the exit area can each be designed as a closed chamber, in particular as a protected area.

[0009] The first transport device can be of the same type as the second transport device. It can also be provided that the first and second transport devices are designed differently. In general, at least any transport device known to those skilled in the art can be part of an arrangement according to the invention.

[0010] The partition wall can be designed as part of the entrance area and / or the exit area, as a separate component, or as an element of another component. The partition wall has at least one opening, which can be adapted to the circumference of the at least one container, so that contamination can be further reduced. It can also be provided that the partition wall is designed to transfer multiple containers, allowing for a versatile arrangement.

[0011] The opening can also be designed in a variety of ways, for example, as a hole, a gate, or a lock. The opening can also be designed to be lockable, especially when no handover is taking place. This allows an even higher standard of hygiene to be achieved, so that processes as described and / or claimed below can be carried out even more safely.

[0012] The container can also be designed in a variety of ways. For example, a sealed container opening can be designed as a predetermined breaking point or as a port. A container opening is defined in particular by the container being opened at the container opening in a manner typical of the industry and at least in accordance with the usual process steps.

[0013] The container may, for example, be closed with a sealing tab or sealing layer or may be closable or closed with a stopper or crown cork or the like.

[0014] The container can be a rigid container such as a bottle or box, or a flexible container such as a bag. Other container types and shapes can also be used advantageously.

[0015] In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one container can be positioned for receiving by the second transport device partly in the input area and partly in the output area. The opening can be almost closed during transfer by the at least one container, in particular if the size of the opening is adapted to a circumference of the at least one container. It can also be advantageous that the container can be received by the second transport device without the second

[0016] Transport device must intervene in the entrance area.

[0017] This can further reduce the risk of contamination.

[0018] In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the first transport device and / or the second transport device is / are positioned outside the opening. This allows an opening to be optimally adapted to the at least one container, since the dimensions of the transport devices do not influence the opening. The first and / or second transport device positioned outside the opening can be arranged such that a transfer can take place over a very short distance, allowing processes to be completed quickly.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the first and second transport devices do not protrude and / or engage through the opening. The first and second transport devices can be designed and positioned such that they do not reach into an area located on another side of the opening, particularly during a transfer. For example, the first transport device cannot protrude and / or engage through the opening into the exit area, which is particularly advantageous for sterile transfers in protected areas.

[0020] In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the container opening and a base of the container are arranged on different sides of the opening when the container is gripped by the first transport device and the second transport device. This allows a container to be transferred by a vertical movement, which can be particularly advantageous when the container is a container to be filled with a liquid or is already filled with it.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, the partition may be positioned between the gripping points of the first and second transport devices. This allows for a particularly sterile transfer, since potential abrasion caused by the gripping of the first and / or second transport devices cannot pass through the opening of the partition. This advantage is even greater if, as previously described and / or claimed below, the first and second transport devices do not protrude and / or grip through the opening.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that a pressure difference exists between the outlet area and the inlet area. Thus, the at least one container can be transported against a pressure gradient between the inlet area and the outlet area, which is advantageous.

[0023] The opening can preferably be arranged such that the area with a lower pressure is below the opening. For example, the inlet area below the opening can be designed as an area with a lower pressure. This allows the at least one container to be transferred to the outlet area by a vertical movement without potential contaminants entering the outlet area. Contaminants could therefore not pass through the opening due to the higher pressure in the outlet area, which is advantageous.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally, the entrance and / or exit areas can preferably be designed as part of a protected area. This allows a container to be kept particularly clean or sterile.

[0025] In particular, the entrance area and / or the

[0026] The exit area can be designed as part of an isolator or RABS. Thus, such an arrangement can be used at least for sterile work in the production of pharmaceutical products and / or food.

[0027] In an advantageous embodiment, the partition wall can be curved at least in a partition wall region encompassing the opening. A curvature of the partition wall region can positively influence the air flow of a protected area, thus ensuring optimal ventilation, particularly in an entrance and / or exit area of ​​an isolator and / or RABS as described above or claimed below.

[0028] In particular, it can be provided that the partition wall extends into the entrance area and / or the exit area. This allows the partition wall to optimally extend into the entrance area and / or the exit area, thereby preferably shortening transport routes within these areas. This can accelerate an entire process, for example, the filling of a container.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one opening is formed in a horizontal and / or inclined and / or vertical section of the partition wall. Thus, an opening can be variably formed on a section of a partition wall, allowing a transport device, in particular the first and / or second transport device described above or claimed below, to be configured in various ways. Thus, an arrangement can be used in a variety of ways, which is advantageous.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, the at least one opening can be adapted to the dimensions of the at least one container by means of a replaceable metal sheet. This allows an arrangement for transferring containers of different shapes to be adapted, which is particularly user-friendly.

[0031] The sheet can be replaced manually and / or automatically on the partition wall, which allows for relatively flexible and, if necessary, sterile replacement of the sheet.

[0032] It may also be provided that the opening can be tightly closed with a lid when not in use by an (automated or manual) closing process in order to further minimize further transfer of contamination between the entrance and exit areas.

[0033] Furthermore, it can additionally or alternatively be provided that at least two containers can be transferred simultaneously through the at least one opening. Thus, in one arrangement, more than one container can preferably be transferred through the opening simultaneously. This allows the transfer of multiple containers to be carried out particularly quickly.

[0034] In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the first and / or second transport device is / are connected to the partition wall. This allows an exit area and / or an entrance area to be designed in a particularly space-saving manner.

[0035] In particular, the first and / or the second transport device can be held by the partition wall, which can simplify a construction of at least one of the two transport devices.

[0036] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one transport device can be a mover that is magnetically coupled to a stator arrangement. Thus, at least one transport device can transfer the at least one container without abrasion, which is particularly advantageous in protected areas of pharmaceutical production and / or the food industry.

[0037] Magnetic coupling of the mover to the stator assembly refers to any magnetic coupling known to those skilled in the art. The stator assembly can be configured to generate a controllably variable magnetic field that levitates and / or moves the mover.

[0038] For example, a magnetic coupling can be achieved by electromagnetically coupling the mover to the stator assembly. The stator assembly can comprise at least one electromagnet. The mover can, for example, have at least one permanent magnet or be magnetically active and / or responsive in some other way.

[0039] Alternatively or additionally, both the stator arrangement and the mover can each comprise at least one permanent magnet. In this case, a movement of the mover can be initiated, terminated, and / or controlled, in particular, by changing the magnetic field generated by the stator arrangement. The stator arrangement can thus comprise, in particular, movable permanent magnets that are and / or can be operatively connected to the mover. The movable permanent magnets can be motor-driven, for example. A controlled movement of the permanent magnets thus generates a magnetic field that can be changed in a controlled manner, which can be used to drive a movement of the mover.

[0040] Furthermore, it can be provided, for example, that the stator arrangement is formed with at least one electropermanent magnet.

[0041] The magnetic coupling serves in particular to realize a relative movement, a positioning and / or an orientation of the mover relative to the stator arrangement in a controlled manner.

[0042] It can be provided that a transport device consists of more than one mover, preferably two movers, which can be coupled to one another. Thus, the at least two preferably coupled movers can ensure a safe transfer, particularly when the object being transferred is particularly heavy. A mover can be characterized, for example, as a levitated unit that is inductively coupled to an unwound or flat stator arrangement. Positioning and / or drive can be achieved, for example, by appropriately supplying current to the stator arrangement.

[0043] Furthermore, it can be provided that the at least one mover is movable in at least two degrees of freedom, in particular in more than two degrees of freedom. Thus, the transport device can have a high degree of mobility flexibility.

[0044] In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one container can be transferred to the exit area by a movement involving at least one vertical and / or at least one horizontal component of the first and / or second transport device. Thus, a container can be transferred to the exit area by a plurality of movement components, so that an arrangement for transferring at least one container can be installed and used in a plurality of production facilities.

[0045] In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the opening between a high-pressure side and a low-pressure side is oriented such that a resulting air flow through the opening forms an angle of less than 90° to a vertical air flow running from top to bottom. In particular, an air flow exiting the opening can thus form an angle of less than 90° to an imaginary vertical line running through the opening. In this way, a unidirectional air flow can be achieved between two areas, preferably between the aforementioned outlet area and inlet area, whereby undesirable turbulence flows or eddies can be prevented. This can prevent an undesirable transfer of, for example, "high-potency" products from the low-pressure side to the high-pressure side.

[0046] In an advantageous embodiment, with independent inventive character, it can be provided that in the arrangement the here described or a first transport device and the here described or a second transport device are designed to transfer the here described or a container with a preferably closable or closed container opening, wherein the first transport device and the second transport device are designed such that the at least one container can be grasped by the first transport device at the same and / or a different distance from the container opening than by the second transport device, wherein the embodiment is characterized in thatthat the container is gripped by the first and second transport devices, and a plane extending through the container or intersecting the container is positioned between the gripping points of the first and second transport devices. Thus, the plane is positioned at least between the gripping points, preferably between the transport devices. The plane can be positioned in the opening, for example, during the transfer. A transfer of contamination from the first to the second transport device can be reduced or even prevented, particularly during the transfer, so that a spread of contamination within the entrance area described herein or within the exit area described herein, or as described herein, between the entrance area and the exit area, is slowed or even prevented.

[0047] A further advantage of the embodiment is that, alternatively or additionally, the first and second transport devices do not protrude and / or engage through the plane, for example in the opening described herein.

[0048] The plane is particularly preferably a mirror plane of the container. Thus, advantageously and as specifically provided, the first transport device and / or the second transport device can be positioned outside the opening. The first transport device and / or the second transport device can be positioned at a sufficient distance from the container and / or the opening.

[0049] It may be advantageous for stable gripping, particularly in the case of large containers, for example dispensing devices, if the at least one container is designed or gripped by the first transport device at the same distance from the container opening as by the second transport device.

[0050] For a contamination-free transfer of containers, it may be advantageous if the at least one container is designed to be grippable by the first transport device at a different distance from the container opening than by the second transport device. In a particularly preferred embodiment, it may be provided that the first and / or the second transport device comprise the mover described herein, whereby a transfer can be carried out particularly free of contamination, since the movers can be moved abrasion-free and flexibly, preferably in more than two degrees of freedom.

[0051] In an advantageous embodiment, the arrangement can comprise at least one monitoring unit. Thus, a transfer can be monitored. This is particularly advantageous if at least one

[0052] The transport device comprises at least one mover as described herein. The monitoring unit can therefore reliably check whether the transfer of at least one container has taken place properly.

[0053] The monitoring unit can be mounted and / or positioned anywhere in or on the assembly. The type and design of the monitoring unit is known to those skilled in the art.

[0054] Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the at least one monitoring unit is formed on the first and / or the second transport device. Thus, the transfer can be monitored close to the transfer location, in particular in the vicinity of the container described herein and / or the gripping points described herein.

[0055] gripping elements, so that monitoring can be carried out with particular precision.

[0056] Alternatively or additionally, to achieve the stated object, the features of the independent claim directed to a filling device are provided according to the invention. In particular, to achieve the stated object, in a filling device of the type described above, it is proposed according to the invention that there is a pressure difference in the or an outlet area compared to the or an inlet area. By using a filling device according to the invention, containers can be filled or refilled in a particularly sterile manner. Due to the pressure difference between the outlet area in which the filling device is positioned and the inlet area from which the at least one container can be transferred to the outlet area, a particularly high level of contamination prevention of the container or of a liquid contained in the container is achieved.Furthermore, the aforementioned pressure difference can reduce or even prevent the unwanted spread of a leaking liquid, particularly toxic ones ("highly potent" products), from the exit area, which can particularly protect a protected area as described above and / or workers. Thus, the filling of containers in a protected area can be improved.

[0057] In particular, the filling of containers in a protected area can be improved if the filling device is positioned in an exit area of ​​an arrangement as described above or claimed below. Thus, the container can be transferred to the exit area particularly advantageously. The second transport device described above or claimed below may transport the container to the filling device and / or position it at the filling station, whereby the transfer process can preferably be structurally coupled to the filling process, thus enabling the overall filling process to be particularly protected and rapid.

[0058] A filling station can, for example, be characterized as a location where filling takes place. A filling device according to the invention can advantageously comprise, for example, the aforementioned partition wall or a section of the partition wall. Thus, containers commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry can preferably be filled.

[0059] In an advantageous embodiment, the at least one filling station can be positioned on a high-pressure side. This prevents contamination from reaching the filling station, allowing the filling process to be carried out in a particularly sterile manner.

[0060] Alternatively, the at least one filling device can be positioned on a low-pressure side. This ensures that toxic substances (“high-potency” products) in particular cannot escape from the exit area. This can ensure increased safety for the environment and the workers.

[0061] In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the previously described or subsequently claimed exit area or an exit area borders a process chamber, wherein a pressure difference exists between the exit area and the process chamber. Thus, a preferably filled container can be safely transferred into a process chamber, wherein, in particular, the filling station and / or an environment outside the exit area can be advantageously protected from escaping liquid.

[0062] Preferably, the aforementioned pressure difference has the same sign as the pressure difference between the outlet area and an inlet area, in particular the one mentioned above or claimed below. "Same sign" here preferably means that the

[0063] Pressure difference a pressure gradient (negative) or a

[0064] Pressure increase (positive) between the outlet area and the inlet area and / or the process chamber. This allows a filling station, the outlet area, or an area outside the outlet area to be particularly effectively protected from escaping liquid.

[0065] Alternatively or additionally, the features of the independent claim directed to a method are provided according to the invention to achieve the stated object. In particular, to achieve the stated object in a method of the type described above, it is proposed according to the invention that the container is gripped for transfer by the first transport device at a different distance from the container opening than by the second transport device, in particular wherein the container is gripped simultaneously and / or sequentially by the first transport device and the second transport device. The first and second transport devices can thus engage a container flexibly to enable transfer and without hindering one another.By gripping the two transport devices at different distances from the container opening, at least one container can be transferred stably and more quickly, thereby improving container transfers.

[0066] By separating the entrance and exit areas with a partition wall, both areas can be kept sterile and the transfer of contamination between them can be reduced. By gripping the first and second transport devices at different distances from the container openings, the transfer of contamination can be further reduced or even prevented.

[0067] By means of a method according to the invention, not only the

[0068] Not only the entrance and exit areas are protected from contamination, but also the container and its contents, such as a pharmaceutical product or food. This can be achieved in particular by the first and second transport devices engaging away from the container opening, so that, for example, no abrasion particles enter or reach the container opening.

[0069] In particular, a method according to the invention is advantageously carried out using an arrangement as described above or claimed below.

[0070] Simultaneous and / or sequential gripping of the container by the first and second transport devices advantageously enables flexible and effective container transfer. Thus, for example, depending on the container dimensions, the containers can be gripped simultaneously or sequentially by the first and second transport devices.

[0071] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, it can be provided that the first transport device and / or the second transport device remain outside the opening at least during the transfer. This allows the method to be carried out in a particularly sterile manner. It can also be advantageous that the first and / or second transport devices do not collide with each other and / or with an edge of the opening, thus making the method particularly safe from accidents.

[0072] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, at least two containers can be transferred, whereby the at least two containers are not separated during the transfer. Thus, several containers can advantageously be transferred, which can accelerate the process speed.

[0073] Furthermore, it can advantageously be provided that the containers are transferred simultaneously, preferably through an opening. This allows for a particularly fast process speed.

[0074] In particular, it can advantageously be provided that the at least two containers are not separated by the second transport device.

[0075] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, at least two containers can be transferred, with each container being gripped individually by the second transport device. This allows the containers to be separated during the transfer. Thus, transporting or

[0076] Further processing of the containers must be designed flexibly.

[0077] After separation as described above, different containers can be provided with different transport routes and / or further processing steps. This can be advantageous for incorrectly filled and / or damaged containers that must be removed after transfer. Thus, separation of containers during transfer can serve as a particularly advantageous safety measure to improve process quality.

[0078] In an advantageous embodiment, with independent inventive character, it can be provided that in a method of transferring a container provided with a container opening, that the container is provided with the container in particular as described herein or a first

[0079] Transport device is held and the container is transferred to the transport device, in particular as described herein, or to a second transport device, wherein at least the first and / or the second transport device is designed as the one described herein or as a mover, in particular wherein the container is gripped for transfer by the first transport device at the same and / or a different distance from the container opening than by the second transport device and / or wherein the container is gripped simultaneously and / or successively by the first transport device and the second transport device. Thus, the first and the second transport device can act flexibly on a container, as described above, to enable a transfer and without hindering one another.

[0080] Furthermore, a transfer can advantageously take place without transfer of contamination in the arrangement, for example in the exit area or entrance area described herein.

[0081] By using at least one mover, a transfer can be carried out efficiently and flexibly. By using a mover with the first and / or second transport device, the transfer can be designed to be abrasion-free, which can also reduce the spread of contamination in the arrangement. If the first and second transport devices are magnetically levitated, they can be movable on a common drive surface or on separate drive surfaces. Thus, a transfer can be carried out variably within the arrangement, even if the first and second transport devices are arranged or movable in different areas and / or drive surfaces.

[0082] The transfers are particularly advantageous if the first and / or the second transport device are additionally used to transfer a container provided with a container opening from an entrance area to an exit area, in particular using an arrangement described herein, wherein the container is held in the entrance area by a first transport device and the container is transferred to a second transport device arranged in the exit area through an opening in a partition wall, wherein the container is gripped for transfer by the first transport device at a different distance from the container opening than by the second transport device.Thus, a material flow, in particular the transport of the at least one container, within different areas and / or between two arrangements can be particularly improved since the respective transfers between the first and second transport devices are improved.

[0083] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the method, it can be provided that the container is gripped by the first and the second transport device, wherein the first transport device and / or the second transport device do not protrude and / or grip through the plane or a plane running through the container or intersecting the container, at least during the transfer. The first and second transport devices can be designed and positioned such that they do not reach into an area located on a different side of the plane, in particular not during a transfer. For example, the first transport device cannot protrude and / or grip through the plane into the area behind the container (from the perspective of the first transport device), which is particularly advantageous for sterile transfers in protected areas.

[0084] In an advantageous procedural design, the handover process can be monitored. This makes it advantageous to monitor whether and how the handover took place, allowing the quality of the handover to be assessed.

[0085] In particular, monitoring is carried out by at least one monitoring unit formed on the first and / or second transport device. Thus, monitoring can be carried out close to the area of ​​a transport device, in particular a mover.

[0086] Alternatively or additionally, monitoring can be carried out using a stationary monitoring unit, such as a 3D camera. This allows the monitoring unit to be optimally positioned within the system.

[0087] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, it can be provided that the at least one container is transferred to the exit area by a movement with at least one vertical and / or at least one horizontal movement component of the first and / or second transport device. This allows the at least one container to be transferred to the exit area by a plurality of movement components, so that a method can be flexibly adapted to a region, preferably a protected area as described above or claimed below, which can be advantageous for a user.

[0088] A flexible procedure as just described can also be implemented if at least two containers are handed over.

[0089] Alternatively or additionally, at least one mover, magnetically coupled to a stator arrangement, can be used as the first and / or second transport device. This allows for a smooth transfer, allowing a process to be designed for longevity. A protected area can also be kept clean and free of contamination, allowing a process to be maintenance-friendly and / or cost-effective.

[0090] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, it can be provided that the at least one container is transported to a filling device for filling, as described above or claimed below. This allows the container to be transported to the filling device by the second transport device in a particularly time-saving and effective manner. Thus, especially if the second transport device is part of an arrangement mentioned above or claimed below, transfer and filling can be particularly sterile and / or safe for workers.

[0091] Furthermore, it can advantageously be provided that an arrangement and / or a method described and / or claimed herein is used in an aseptic fill-finish process and / or in an aseptic fill-finish production plant. Thus, an aseptic fill-finish process and / or in an aseptic fill-finish production plant can be improved, in particular by the arrangement and / or the method described herein.

[0092] The use is particularly advantageous if, as may be provided, the arrangement described herein and / or the method described herein comprise a filling device described herein.

[0093] According to a further aspect of possibly independent inventive quality, it can be provided that at least one magnetically levitated transport device movable on a non-vertical drive surface, in particular extending at an angle to a vertical direction, for example horizontal, can be used to transport a workpiece from a first process station to a second process station.

[0094] The workpiece may, for example, be or comprise a container, in particular as described above.

[0095] For example, this aspect may be performed and / or applied within a controlled environment, such as within an isolator.

[0096] In this case, it can be provided that the first and second process stations are arranged as described and / or claimed herein. Thus, advantageously, the workpiece can be transported to the second process station in an arrangement as described and / or claimed herein. The transport can at least partially utilize the transfer methods described and / or claimed herein to realize the transport of the workpiece from the first to the second process station.

[0097] It can also be provided that the first process station is located in a first arrangement as described herein, and the second process station is located in a first arrangement as described herein. Thus, the workpiece can advantageously be transported between two arrangements as described herein to the second process station.

[0098] Furthermore, it can be particularly and advantageously provided that the at least one magnetically levitated transport device movable on a horizontal drive surface is / are designed as a first and / or second transport device as described and / or claimed herein. Thus, during transport, a transfer of the workpiece can advantageously be carried out between the two transport devices, in particular as described and / or claimed herein, and / or between the transport device and the first and / or second process station.

[0099] A process station can in particular be a filling device as described and / or claimed herein, or a closing station, control station or a determination station for determining a preferably mass-dependent or volume-dependent or quantity-dependent parameter of the workpiece and / or the transport device (e.g. a weight measurement by a scale).

[0100] A process station, in particular one located outside the arrangement, can be a labeling station or a crimping station.

[0101] The invention will now be described in more detail using exemplary embodiments, but is not limited to these exemplary embodiments. Further exemplary embodiments arise from combining the features of one or more claims with one another and / or with one or more features of the exemplary embodiments.

[0102] They show:

[0103] Figures 1 to 3 show a method according to the invention using an arrangement according to the invention,

[0104] Figures 4 to 6 show a method according to the invention using a first alternative embodiment of an arrangement according to the invention,

[0105] Figures 7 to 9 show a method according to the invention using a second alternative embodiment of an arrangement according to the invention,

[0106] Figures 10 to 12 show a method according to the invention using a third alternative embodiment of an arrangement according to the invention,

[0107] Figures 13 to 16 show a method according to the invention using a third alternative embodiment of an arrangement according to the invention,

[0108] Figures 17 to 20 show a method according to the invention using a fourth alternative embodiment of an arrangement according to the invention,

[0109] Figures 21 to 24 show a method according to the invention using a fifth alternative embodiment of an arrangement according to the invention,

[0110] Figures 25 to 28 show a method according to the invention using a sixth alternative embodiment of an arrangement according to the invention,

[0111] Figure 29 shows an arrangement according to the invention with a curved partition wall projecting into the exit area

[0112] Figure 30 shows an arrangement according to the invention with a filling device according to the invention positioned in a high-pressure side,

[0113] Figure 31 shows an arrangement according to the invention with a filling device according to the invention positioned in a low-pressure side,

[0114] Figures 32 to 39 show alternative gripping points of the first and second transport devices in relation to planes passing through the container during transfer,

[0115] Figure 40 shows a method for transferring a container in a further alternative embodiment of an arrangement according to the invention,

[0116] Figure 41 shows an alternative method for transferring a container in a further alternative embodiment of an arrangement according to the invention.

[0117] Figures 1 to 3 show a method according to the invention using an arrangement 1 according to the invention, which is each shown in cross section and is described below.

[0118] The arrangement 1 has an entrance area 2 and a

[0119] The arrangement 1 comprises an exit area 3, which are separated from each other by a partition wall 4. Both the entrance area 2 and the exit area 3 are designed as a protected area 12 of an isolator 13, such as is preferably found in the pharmaceutical industry or in food production. Thus, an arrangement 1 can alternatively be used in a RABS or in similar clean rooms. However, the use of an arrangement 1 according to the invention is not limited to clean rooms.

[0120] In a method according to the invention, as can be carried out by the arrangement 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3 and as will be described later, eight containers 6 can be transferred. However, it is conceivable that any other number of containers 6 can be transferred by an arrangement 1 and / or a method according to the invention.

[0121] The entrance area 2 has a first transport device 7, wherein the first transport device 7 is designed as a robot arm, which is positioned at a distance from the partition wall 4. The exit area 3, on the other hand, has a second transport device 8, designed, for example, as a gripper arm, which is positioned and secured on the partition wall 4. Both transport devices

[0122] 7, 8 are positioned outside the opening 5.

[0123] The first and second transport devices 7, 8 can be flexibly positioned in the entrance area 2 and in the exit area 3, respectively. For example, Figures 13 to 16 and Figures 17 to 20 each show alternative arrangements 1 in which the two transport devices 7, 8 are not positioned on the partition wall 4. In these arrangements 1, it is provided that at least one transport device 7,

[0124] 8, preferably the first and second transport devices 7, 8, are designed to be movable relative to the opening 5 of the partition wall 4. This allows a particularly large

[0125] Flexibility during container transfer can be designed. Figure 2 shows that the eight containers 6 in the opening 5 of the partition wall 4 are gripped by the first transport device 7 at a different distance from the container opening 9 than by the second transport device 8. The first transport device 7 grips the eight containers 6 at their bases 10 and the second transport device 8 picks up each container 6 individually just below its container opening 9. Furthermore, the eight containers 6 are advantageously positioned for pickup by the second transport device 8 partly in the entrance area 2 and partly in the exit area 3.

[0126] From Figure 2 it can also be seen that the partition wall 4 is positioned between the gripping points 31 of the first and second transport devices 7, 8, because, as explained in the previous paragraph, the first transport device 7 grips the eight containers 6 at their bases 10 and the second transport device 8 picks up the containers 6 just below their container openings 9. Thus, a transfer of containers 6 through the arrangement 1 can be carried out particularly free from contamination of the containers 6 and / or the protected areas 12. The transfer is improved and involves less contamination because the entrance area 2 or preferably the area below the opening 5 is designed as an area 11 with a low pressure.Thus, an undesired transfer into the outlet area 3, which has a higher pressure than the inlet area 2 and where an air flow 23 at the opening 5 can be less turbulent, can be reduced or even avoided during the transfer.

[0127] The differences between the alternative arrangements 1 in Figures 4 to 29 and the arrangement 1 in Figures 1 to 3 are described below. Components and functional units that are functionally and / or structurally similar or identical to the preceding embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. The statements regarding Figures 1 to 3 therefore apply accordingly to Figures 4 to 29.

[0128] The arrangement 1 according to Figures 4 to 6 differs from the preceding embodiment at least in that the eight containers 6 are not separated by the second transport device 8 during the transfer (Figure 5), but can be transferred together into the exit area 3 (Figure 6).

[0129] Likewise, the alternative arrangements 1 shown in Figures 10 to 12, 13 to 16, 17 to 20, 25 to 28 and 29 are designed such that the containers 6 are not separated during the transfer.

[0130] Alternative arrangements 1, which are designed to separate the containers 6 during transfer, can be seen in Figures 7 to 9 and 21 to 24.

[0131] However, an arrangement 1 can also be designed such that the second transport device 8 receives a part, in particular at least two containers 6, of the containers 6 gripped by the first transport device 7, so that a transfer can be carried out in stages (not shown), which can advantageously accelerate a transfer.

[0132] The alternative arrangements 1 according to Figures 7 to 9, 10 to 12, and 29 differ from the preceding embodiments at least in that the first transport device 1 has two movers 14 that are magnetically coupled to a stator arrangement 15, wherein the stator arrangement 15 is attached to a wall and / or to a floor and / or surface of the insulator 13. Such a stator arrangement 15 is shown in Figure 29. The containers 6 are positioned on a receptacle.

[0133] The alternative arrangements 1 according to Figures 13 to 16 and 17 to 20 differ from the preceding embodiments at least in that both the first and the second transport device 7, 8 have movers 14 which are coupled to a stator arrangement 15.

[0134] The alternative arrangements 1 according to Figures 21 to 24 and 25 to 28 differ from the preceding embodiments at least in that the first transport device 7 is designed as a lift that receives the containers 6 from a third transport device 17 before transfer. The second transport device 8 can preferably be designed as a mover 14, which is coupled to a stator arrangement 15 (not shown). The third transport device 17 can be designed as any transport device known to those skilled in the art.

[0135] The alternative arrangement 1 according to Figure 29 differs from the preceding embodiments at least in that the partition wall 4 is curved in a partition wall region 16 encompassing the opening 5 and projects into the exit region 3.

[0136] A method according to the invention for transferring a container 6 provided with a container opening 9, which can be carried out by an arrangement 1 described above or claimed below, could proceed as follows.

[0137] Containers 6 are opened in an entrance area 2

[0138] 5 a partition wall 4. The transport of the containers

[0139] 6 within the entrance area 2 can be carried out exclusively by the first transport device 7. It can also be provided that at least one movement component independent of the first transport device 7 initially transports the containers 6 within the entrance area 2. Thus, it can be provided that a third transport device 17 transports the containers 6 to the first transport device 7 (Figures 21 and 25) before the containers 6 are transferred. Thus, an arrangement 1 can be adapted particularly flexibly to protected areas 12, whereby an arrangement 1 can also be retrofitted into existing isolators 13.

[0140] In any case, the containers 6 are held by the first transport device 7 and transferred through an opening 5 in the partition 4, wherein the input area 2 and the output area 3 are separated by the partition 4. Furthermore, the containers 6 are gripped for transfer by the first transport device 7 at a different distance from the container opening 9 than by the second transport device 8 (Figures 2, 5, 8, 11, 14, 15, 18, 19, 23, 27).

[0141] Thus, a transfer of containers 6 with a container opening 9 can be carried out particularly efficiently and without contamination.

[0142] A method can, as shown in the alternative embodiments of Figures 2, 5, 8, 11, 14, 15, 18, 19, 23, 27, be improved, for example, in that the first transport device 7 and the second transport device 8 remain outside the opening 5 at least during the transfer.

[0143] Depending on the method, containers 6 may or may not be separated during transfer. Thus, a collective pickup of the containers 6 into the exit area 3 can be carried out by the second transport device 8 (Figures 6, 12, 16, 20, 28). Alternatively or additionally, a second transport device 8 can also be designed so that, in a method for transferring containers 6 with a container opening 9, the containers 6 are transferred individually (Figures 3, 9, 24, ).

[0144] Furthermore, the alternative methods of Figures 1 to 29 disclose that the at least one container 6 is transferred to the exit area 3 by a movement with at least one vertical movement component of the first and second transport devices 7, 8.

[0145] In a method according to Figures 1 to 31, the container 6 can be gripped simultaneously and / or successively by the first transport device 7 and the second transport device 8.

[0146] The embodiment according to Figure 29 further shows that the at least one container 6 can be transferred to the exit area 3 by a movement with at least one horizontal movement component of the first transport device 7.

[0147] A movement component can be realized not only horizontally or vertically, but also perform other movement sequences known to those skilled in the art. For example, a pivoting movement, a rotational movement, or a diagonal movement for transfer can also be realized in a method according to the invention and / or in an arrangement 1 according to the invention.

[0148] Preferably, a method according to the invention, as shown in the alternative embodiments of Figures 7 to 9, 10 to 12, 13 to 16, 17 to 20, and 29, is carried out by at least one transport device 7, 8, which is designed as a mover 14 that is magnetically coupled to a stator arrangement 15. Thus, a transfer, particularly in a protected area 12, can be particularly improved, since the movers 14 produce hardly any abrasion during the transfer, which can cause the containers 6 and / or the goods to pass from the input area 2 to the output area 3.

[0149] A transfer can be made even more flexible and safer if the second transport device 8 consists of at least two independently movable movers 14, as can be seen in the alternative arrangements 1 from Figures 13 to 16 and 17 to 20. Thus, a pickup of the containers 6 by the second transport device 8 comprising at least two stages can be carried out during the transfer, with a first mover 14 initially gripping the containers 6 (Figures 14, 18) and a second mover 14 subsequently and additionally gripping the containers 6 (Figures 15, 19). Thus, the subsequent transport of the containers 6 to the exit area 3 can be carried out with greater safety, particularly when the containers 6 are already filled and thus relatively heavy.

[0150] Figures 30 and 31 show further embodiments of the invention. Components and functional units that are functionally and / or structurally similar or identical to the preceding embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. The statements regarding Figures 1 to 29 therefore apply accordingly to Figures 30 and 31. For further illustration, the high-pressure side 20 and the low-pressure side 21 in Figures 30 and 31 are each marked with "++" and "+".

[0151] In further embodiments not shown, the same pressures prevail on both sides of the partition wall 4. Figure 30 shows an arrangement 1 according to the invention with a filling device 18 according to the invention positioned on a high-pressure side 20.

[0152] Figure 31 shows an arrangement 1 according to the invention with a filling device 18 according to the invention positioned in a low-pressure side 21.

[0153] The filling devices 18 in Figures 30 and 31 include at least one filling station 19, which can fill containers 6 known from pharmaceutical filling with a substance. The filling devices 18 or the at least one filling station 19 can be at least any filling device 18 or filling station 19 known to those skilled in the art.

[0154] In the embodiment of Figure 30, a container 6 can be transferred from a low-pressure side 21 by an arrangement 1, as previously described or claimed below, and / or by a transfer method, as previously described or claimed below, into the exit area 3, 12, which forms a high-pressure side 20. Such a protected area 12, comprising at least one arrangement 1 and a filling device 18, is particularly suitable for the aseptic filling of containers 6 with, for example, medications. The filling device 18 comprises part of the partition wall 4. Thus, the containers 6 can be filled shortly after the transfer at the filling station 19, so that the overall process time can be shortened.

[0155] In the embodiment of Figure 31, a container 6 can be transferred from a high-pressure side 20 by an arrangement 1, as previously described or claimed below, and / or by a transfer method, as previously described or claimed below, into the outlet region 3, 12, which forms a low-pressure side 21. Such a protected region 12, comprising at least one arrangement 1 and a filling device 18, is particularly suitable for filling containers 6 with toxic substances ("high-potency" products).

[0156] In the embodiments of Figures 30 and 31, the outlet area 3, 12 borders on a process chamber 22, wherein between the outlet area 3, 12 and the process chamber 22 there is a pressure difference which has the same sign as the pressure difference between the respective outlet area 3, 12 and the respective inlet area 2, 12. Thus, the filling station 19 or the outlet area 3, 12 or an environment outside the outlet area can be particularly effectively protected against escaping liquid.

[0157] It can also be provided that there is no pressure difference between the outlet area 3, 12 and the process chamber 22 and / or the inlet area 2, 12.

[0158] Figures 30 and 31 further show that the opening 5 between a high-pressure side 20 and a low-pressure side 21 is oriented such that a resulting air flow 23 through the opening 5 forms an angle of less than 90° with a vertical air flow 23 running from top to bottom. This advantageously ensures a laminar or low-turbulence air flow 23 between the high-pressure side 20 and the low-pressure side 21. This enables contamination-free transfer and safe working in protected areas 12.

[0159] In many embodiments, the direction of the air flow is directed from top to bottom, thus realizing the embodiments shown. The embodiments of Figures 32 to 39 show alternative gripping points 31 of the first and second transport devices 7, 8 with respect to planes 24 extending through the container 6, in particular their mirror planes 25, during the transfer in a method described herein, which can proceed in particular as described below.

[0160] The method can be advantageously carried out, particularly in the arrangements 1 described herein, for the contamination-free transfer of at least one container 6, but also in other arrangements 1. Components and functional units that are functionally and / or structurally similar or identical to the preceding embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and are not described separately again. The statements regarding Figures 1 to 31 therefore apply accordingly to Figures 32 to 41.

[0161] The first transport device 7, 14 and the second transport device 8 (in the embodiments of Figures 32, 33 and 36, 37) or 8, 14 (in the embodiments of Figures 34, 35 and 38, 39) are designed to transfer the at least one container 6 with a closable or closed container opening 9, wherein the first transport device 7, 14 and the second transport device 8 or 8, 14 are designed such that the at least one container 6 is gripped by the gripping element

[0162] 26 of the first transport device 7, 14 at a different distance from the container opening 9 than from the gripping element

[0163] 27 of the second transport device 8 or 8, 14 is gripped (Figures 32 to 39).

[0164] In this case, the container 6 is gripped by the first transport device 7, 14 and the second transport device 8 or 8, 14 during the transfer such that the mirror plane 24, 25 of the container 6 running through the container 6 is positioned between the gripping points of the first transport device 7, 14 and the second transport device 8 or 8, 14 (Figures 32, 34, 36 and 38). These are particularly preferred embodiments because the two transport devices 7, 14 and 8 / 8, 14 do not reach through the mirror plane 24, 25 and are arranged outside of this mirror plane 24, 25 or at a distance from the container 6. Thus, in these embodiments, the transfer of contamination is advantageously particularly greatly reduced or even prevented in a horizontal and vertical direction.

[0165] In the embodiments of Figures 37 and 39, a transfer of contamination is also particularly greatly reduced or even prevented, since the horizontal plane 25 shown just below the container opening 9 is not penetrated by the second transport device 8 (Figure 37) or 8, 14 (Figure 39), since their highest horizontal point runs below this axis 25.

[0166] The design according to Figure 38 is exemplary in the one shown in Figure

[0167] 40 is further explained, wherein here a container 6 designed as a dispensing device 29 is transferred. Figure 40 also shows the transfer of a container 6, wherein the first transport device 7, 14 is moved on a vertically arranged stator arrangement 15. During this transfer from the first transport device 7, 14 to the second transport device 8, 14, the container 6 is gripped by the first transport device 7, 14 at a different distance from the container opening 9 than by the second transport device 8 or 8, 14.

[0168] The design according to Figure 32 is exemplary in the one shown in Figure

[0169] 41 is further explained, wherein here a container 6 designed as a dispensing device 29 is transferred. The second transport device 8 is designed here as a gripper robot. Figure 41 also shows the transfer of a container 6 from a further first transport device 7, 14 to a process station 28. During this transfer from transport device 7, 14 to process station 28, the container 6 is gripped by the first transport device 7, 14 at a different distance from the container opening 9 than by the process station 28.

[0170] In the embodiments of Figures 32 to 39, the transfer process is monitored by a monitoring unit 30 formed on the transport unit 7, 14. Such monitoring is or can also be provided in the further embodiments described herein.

[0171] The magnetically levitated and horizontally movable drive surfaces described herein

[0172] Transport devices 7, 14 and 8, 14 can be used to transport a container 6 from a first process station 28 to a second process station 28, in particular within a controlled environment, in particular within an isolator.

[0173] The invention thus generally proposes an arrangement 1, a filling device 18 and a method for transferring a container 6 provided with a preferably closable or closed container opening 9 from an entrance area 2 to an exit area 3, wherein the container 6 is held in the entrance area 2 by a first transport device 7 and the container 6 is transferred to a second transport device 8, which is arranged in the exit area 3, through an opening 5 in a partition wall 4, and wherein the entrance area 2 and the exit area 3 are separated by the partition wall 4, and wherein the container 6 is gripped for transfer by the first transport device 7 at a different distance from the container opening 9 than by the second transport device 8.

[0174] List of reference symbols

[0175] 1 arrangement

[0176] 2 Entrance area

[0177] 3 Exit area

[0178] 4 Partition wall

[0179] 5 Opening of 4

[0180] 6 containers

[0181] 7 first transport device

[0182] 8 second transport device

[0183] 9 Container opening

[0184] 10 Bottom of the container 6

[0185] 11 Area of ​​lower pressure

[0186] 12 protected area

[0187] 13 I insulator

[0188] 14 movers

[0189] 15 St at or arrangement

[0190] 16 Partition wall area

[0191] 17 third transport device

[0192] 18 Filling device

[0193] 19 Filling station

[0194] 20 High pressure side

[0195] 21 Low pressure side

[0196] 22 Process room

[0197] 23 Air flow

[0198] 24 Level of 6

[0199] 25 mirror plane of 6

[0200] 26 gripping element of 7

[0201] 27 gripping element of 8

[0202] 28 Process station

[0203] 29 Dispensing device

[0204] 30 monitoring unit

[0205] 31 Gripping point

[0206] ++ High pressure side

[0207] + Low pressure side

Claims

Claims: Arrangement (1) with at least one inlet area (2) and one outlet area (3) separated from each other by a partition (4), wherein the partition (4) has at least one opening (5) through which at least one container (6) with a preferably closable or closed container opening (9) can be transferred, wherein the inlet area (2) has a first transport device (7) and the outlet area (3) has a second transport device (8) for transfer, wherein the first transport device (7) and the second transport device (8) are designed such that the at least one container (6) is transferred from the first transport device (7) to the container opening (9) at a different distance than from the second transport device (7). Transport device (8) is accessible. Arrangement (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one container (6) can be positioned partially in the inlet area (2) and partially in the outlet area (3) for receipt by the second transport device (8). Arrangement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first transport device (7) and / or the second transport device (8) is / are positioned outside the opening (5) and / or that the first and the second transport devices (7, 8) do not project through and / or engage the opening (5). Arrangement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container opening (9) and a bottom (10) of the container (6) are arranged on opposite sides of the opening (5) when the container (6) from the first transport device (7) and the second Transport device (8) is engaged and / or that the A partition (4) is positioned between the gripping points of the first and second transport devices (7, 8). Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that between the starting area (3) and the inlet area (2) a pressure difference exists, wherein the opening (5) is preferably arranged such that the area (11) below the opening (5) has a lower pressure, and / or that the inlet area (2) and / or the outlet area (3) is / are preferably formed as part of a protected area (12), in particular an isolator (13) or a RABS. Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the partition (4) is curved at least in a partition area (16) encompassing the opening (5), in particular such that the partition (4) projects into the entrance area (2) and / or the exit area (3), and / or that the at least one opening (5) is formed in a horizontal and / or inclined and / or vertical section of the partition (4), and / or that the at least one opening (5) is adaptable to the dimensions of the at least one container (6) by means of an interchangeable sheet, and / or that at least two containers (6) can be transferred through the at least one opening (5) simultaneously. Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and / or the second transport device (7, 8) is / are connected to the partition (4), in particular held by the partition (4). Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one transport device (7, 8) is a mover (14) which is magnetically coupled to a stator arrangement (15). Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one container (6) can be transferred to the discharge area (3) by a movement with at least one vertical and / or at least one horizontal component of the first and / or the second transport device (6, 7). Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening (5) between a high-pressure side (20) and a low-pressure side (21) is oriented such that a resulting airflow (23) through the opening (5) forms an angle of less than a vertically flowing airflow (23) from top to bottom. 90 0occupies. Arrangement (1), in particular according to claim 1 or according to one of the preceding dependent claims, wherein in the arrangement (1) the or a first transport device (7), preferably comprising at least the or a mover (14), and the or a second transport device (8), preferably comprising at least the or a mover (14), are configured for transferring the or a container (6) with a preferably closable or closed container opening (9), wherein the first transport device (7) and the second transport device (8) are configured such that the at least one container (6) is transferred by the first transport device (7) at the same and / or a different distance to the container opening (9) than by the The second transport device (8) is accessible, characterized in that the container (6) is gripped by the first and the second transport device (7, 8) at at least one gripping point (31) such that a plane (24) extending through or intersecting the container (6), preferably a mirror plane (25) of the container (6), is positioned between the gripping points (31) of the first and second transport device (7, 8). Arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement (1) comprises at least one monitoring unit (30), and / or wherein the at least one monitoring unit (30) is formed on the first and / or the second transport device (7, 8). Filling device (18) comprising at least one A filling station (19) arranged in the outlet region (3), preferably in an arrangement (1) according to claim 1 or according to a dependent claim, characterized in that there is a pressure difference between the outlet region (3) and the inlet region (2). A filling device (18) according to a preceding claim directed to a filling device (18), characterized in that the at least one filling station (19) is positioned on a high-pressure side (20) or a low-pressure side (21). A filling device (18) according to a preceding claim directed to a filling device (18), wherein the outlet region (3) borders a process chamber (22), characterized in that there is a pressure difference between the outlet region (3) and the process chamber. (22) exists, wherein this pressure difference preferably has the same sign as the pressure difference between the or an outlet area (3) and the or an inlet area (2) .Method for transferring a container (6) provided with a container opening (9) from an inlet area (2) to an outlet area (3), in particular using an arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container (6) is held in the inlet area (2) by a first transport device (7) and the container (6) is transferred to a second transport device (8) arranged in the outlet area (3) through an opening (5) in a partition wall (4), wherein the inlet area (2) and the outlet area (3) are separated by the partition wall (4), wherein the container (6) is gripped for transfer by the first transport device (7) at a different distance from the container opening (9) than by the second transport device (8), in particular wherein the container (6) is gripped simultaneously and / or successively by the first transport device (7) and the second transport device (8).A method according to a preceding claim directed to a method, characterized in that the first transport device (7) and / or the second transport device (8) remain outside the opening (5) at least during the transfer. A method according to a preceding claim directed to a method, wherein at least two containers (6) are transferred, characterized in that the at least two containers (6) are not separated during the transfer, in particular that the at least two. Container (6) not through the second transport device (8) are separated. A method according to a preceding claim directed to a method, wherein at least two containers (6) are transferred, characterized in that each container (6) is gripped individually by the second transport device (8). A method according to a preceding claim directed to a method, characterized in that the at least one container (6) is transferred into the output area (3) by a movement with at least one vertical and / or at least one horizontal movement component of the first and / or the second transport device (7, 8) and / or that a mover (14) which is magnetically coupled to a stator arrangement (15) is used as the first and / or second transport device (7, 8).Method, in particular according to claim 16 or a preceding method claim dependent on claim 16, of transferring a container (6) provided with a container opening (9), in particular using an arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container (6) is held by the or a first transport device (7) and the container (6) is transferred to the or a second transport device (8), wherein at least the first and / or the second transport device (7, 8) is / are designed as the or a mover (14) which is magnetically coupled to a stator arrangement (15), in particular wherein the container (6) is gripped for transfer by the first transport device (7) at the same and / or a different distance to the container opening (9) than by the second transport device (8) and / or. wherein the container (6) is gripped simultaneously and / or successively by the first transport device (7) and the second transport device (8).

22. Method according to a preceding claim directed to a method, characterized in that the container (6) is gripped by the first and the second transport device (7, 8), wherein the first transport device (7) and / or the second transport device (8) do not project and / or grip through the or a plane (24) passing through or intersecting the container (6), preferably a mirror plane (25), at least during the transfer.

23. Method according to a preceding claim directed to a method, characterized in that the method for transfer is monitored, in particular by at least one monitoring unit (30) mounted on the first and / or second transport device (7, 8) and / or stationary.

24. Method according to a preceding claim directed to a method, characterized in that the at least one container (6) for filling is connected to a filling device (18) according to a claim directed to a Filling device (18) directed claim, is transported.

25. Use, in particular in an arrangement according to one of the preceding claims directed to an arrangement and / or in a method according to one of the preceding claims directed to a method, at least one magnetically levitated transport device movable on a non-vertical, in particular horizontal, drive surface for transporting a workpiece, in particular a container, from a first process station to a second process station, particularly within a controlled environment, particularly within an isolator. Use of an arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 12 and / or a method according to one of claims 16 to 23 in an aseptic fill finish process and / or in an aseptic fill finish production plant.

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