Filling device and method for filling a gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquid gas

Abstract

The present invention relates to a filling device (1) for filling a gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquid gas through a valve (100) of the gas cartridge, said valve having a valve housing (110) which extends along a longitudinal axis (L) and has at least one first filling opening (101) extending laterally to the longitudinal axis, comprising a gas supply element (10) and a holding element (20) which can be moved relative to one another between a release position and a fill position, wherein the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are spaced further apart from one another in the release position than in the fill position, in order to release the valve housing (110) or to position the valve housing (110) between the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20), wherein in the fill position, the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are arranged such that they can rest against the valve housing (110), which is arranged between the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20), wherein the gas supply element (10) has a supply line (11) for supplying gas to the first fill opening (101) in the fill position.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] title

[0003] Filling device and method for filling a gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquid gas

[0004] State of the art

[0005] The present invention relates to a filling device and a method for filling a gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquid gas through a valve of the gas cartridge, which has a valve housing extending along a longitudinal axis with at least one first filling opening extending laterally to the longitudinal axis.

[0006] Such valves are used on gas cartridges, particularly CO2 cartridges, for soda makers. Such soda makers are also called carbonators and typically have a gas cartridge connection, via which the gas cartridge, or rather the gas cartridge valve, can be connected to the soda maker. The gas cartridge valve can then be selectively opened via an actuating device on the soda maker to remove gas, particularly CO2, from the gas cartridge and feed it into a container containing a liquid to be carbonated, such as drinking water.

[0007] Such a valve for a gas cartridge is known from DE 20 2020 005 565 U1. The known valve comprises a cartridge connection opening through which gas can be filled into and removed from a receiving space of the gas cartridge. This cartridge connection opening is arranged along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, so that gas can flow into and out of the receiving space of the gas cartridge in the direction of the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, this valve has two external connection openings that open laterally to the longitudinal axis, so that the gas can flow out of the valve perpendicular to the longitudinal axis when withdrawn from the water carbonator. The gas cartridge can also be filled via this lateral connection opening. For filling, an adapter with an opening is provided, through which the valve can be inserted into an interior space of a housing of the adapter.To ensure adequate sealing when filling the gas cartridge, the opening must be precisely tailored to the respective valve. Another filling adapter for gas cartridges with such valves is described in DE 20 2022 107.

[0008] 289 U1. This adapter also features a housing with an opening through which the gas cartridge valve is inserted into the interior of the filling adapter.

[0009] With the known filling adapters, it has turned out to be disadvantageous that valves whose external geometry deviates from a specified target geometry often cannot be sufficiently sealed, so that filling is not possible.

[0010] Disclosure of the invention

[0011] The object of the present invention is to enable the filling of gas cartridges whose valves have an external geometry that deviates from a predetermined target geometry.

[0012] To achieve the object, a filling device for filling a gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquid gas through a valve of the gas cartridge is proposed, which has a valve housing extending along a longitudinal axis with at least one first filling opening extending laterally to the longitudinal axis, with a gas supply element and a holding element, which are movable relative to one another between a release position and a filling position, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are spaced further apart from one another in the release position than in the filling position in order to release the valve housing or to position the valve housing between the gas supply element and the holding element, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are arranged in the filling position such that they can rest against the valve housing arranged between the gas supply element and the holding element,wherein the gas supply element has a supply line for supplying gas to the first filling opening in the filling position.,

[0013] Unlike the filling adapters known from the prior art, the filling device according to the invention does not have an opening into which the valve of the gas cartridge must be inserted for filling. Instead, the filling device comprises a feed element and a holding element, which are spaced apart from one another in a release position such that the valve of the gas cartridge can be positioned between the gas feed element and the holding element. Starting from this release position, the gas feed element and the holding element can be moved relative to one another into the filling position, in which both the gas feed element and the holding element rest against the valve. In the filling position, the gas feed element can then guide gas to the first filling opening and fill the gas cartridge.The relatively movable gas supply element and holding element allow the two elements to be moved toward valves with an external geometry that deviates from a specified target geometry during the transition to the filling position. This makes it possible to fill such valves as well.

[0014] A gas cartridge valve, in the sense of the invention, is understood to be a valve which is designed for selectively closing and selectively opening the gas cartridge, such that the valve is configured to hold a gas in the gas cartridge when it is closed and to provide a fluid connection to the gas cartridge when it is open. The valve housing of the valve preferably comprises a cartridge connection opening which is aligned along the longitudinal axis of the valve housing, such that gas can flow into the cartridge in the direction of the longitudinal axis and can flow out of the cartridge. The first filling opening and any further filling openings present extend laterally to the longitudinal axis, such that gas can flow into the valve in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The at least one filling opening can be used as dispensing openings when the gas cartridge is used in a water carbonator, i.e.When the gas cartridge is used in a water carbonator, the gas can flow out of the valve and thus out of the gas cartridge through at least one filling opening. The gas cartridge is preferably designed to contain a compressed gas or liquid gas for carbonating a liquid.

[0015] The gas supply element and the holding element are preferably designed such that, in the filling position, they together do not cover the entire circumference of the valve housing. In this respect, the gas supply element and the holding element are preferably designed as third-circle- or quarter-circle-shaped segments. Particularly preferably, the gas supply element and the holding element each cover an angular range of 45° to 50° of the circumference of the valve housing. Alternatively, the gas supply element and the holding element can be designed such that, in the filling position, they together cover the entire circumference of the valve housing. In such an alternative design, the gas supply element and the holding element are preferably designed as semicircular segments.

[0016] The gas supply element and the holding element are movable relative to each other. Either the gas supply element or the holding element can be stationary, and the other of the gas supply element and the holding element can be movable relative to the stationary element, or both the gas supply element and the holding element can be movable.

[0017] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the gas supply element and the holding element are pivotable relative to each other between the release position and the filling position. Either the gas supply element or the holding element can be stationary, and the other of the gas supply element and the holding element can be pivotable relative to the stationary element, or both the gas supply element and the holding element can be pivotable.

[0018] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the gas supply element has an elastically deformable contact section for contacting the valve housing in the filling position. The contact section can create a sealed fluid path between the supply line of the gas supply element and the first filling opening. The elastically deformable contact section preferably completely surrounds the first filling opening in the filling position. Because the contact section is elastically deformable, minor dimensional inaccuracies of the valve housing and / or misalignments between the valve housing and the supply element can be compensated.

[0019] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the contact section of the gas supply element has a curved, in particular circular-cylindrical, contour. Such a configuration enables adaptation of the gas supply element to a valve housing with a substantially cylindrical contour. The curved contact section can thus lie flat against a circumferential surface of the valve housing and enable good sealing of a fluid path from the supply line to the first filling opening arranged on the circumferential surface from the environment. The elasticity of the contact section can be identical along the curved contour. However, it is preferably provided that the elasticity of the contact section changes along the curved contour, for example such that the elasticity decreases towards an edge region of the contact section.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, the elastically deformable contact section may comprise one or more reinforcing elements. These reinforcing elements may be partially or completely enclosed in an elastically deformable material of the contact section or partially or completely enclosed by this elastically deformable material. The reinforcing elements may reduce the elasticity of the contact section in those regions where the reinforcing elements are arranged. For example, a reinforcing element may be provided in an edge region of the contact section in order to increase the rigidity of the contact section in this edge region. The reinforcing element may be made of a metal or a plastic.

[0021] As a further alternative, it is possible for one or more elastically non-deformable contact sections to be provided adjacent to the elastically deformable contact section, which nevertheless bear against the outer contour, for example a circumferential surface, of the valve housing in the filling position. The elastically non-deformable contact section can be made of a metal or a plastic. For example, it can be provided that the elastically deformable contact section is received in a groove, in particular a circumferential annular groove, in the circumferential surface of the valve body in the filling position, and the elastically non-deformable contact section touches a region of the circumferential surface of the valve body that borders the groove in the filling position.

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the contact section of the gas supply element has a projection, in particular one in the shape of a ring segment. Such a configuration can improve the sealing of the fluid path from the supply line to the first filling opening in a valve whose valve body has an annular groove, in particular a circumferential annular groove in the jacket surface. In the filling position, the projection can dip into the groove of the valve body and thereby improve the sealing of the fluid path from the supply line to the first filling opening with respect to the environment. The elasticity of the projection can be identical to the elasticity of the remaining contact section. However, it is preferably provided that the elasticity of the projection differs from that of the remaining contact section.Furthermore, it can be provided that the elasticity of the projection changes along the curved contour of the contact section, for example in such a way that the elasticity decreases towards an edge region of the contact section.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the contact section of the gas supply element comprises a passage opening for providing a fluid connection between the supply line of the gas supply element and the first filling opening of the valve. Gas can be conducted from the supply line of the gas supply element to the first filling opening through the passage opening. If the first filling opening of the valve is arranged within a groove of the valve housing, it is advantageous if the passage opening penetrates a projection in the contact section, which projection is configured for insertion into the groove of the valve housing. In this way, it can be ensured that gas is conducted from the supply line to the first filling opening and, at the same time, a sealing of this fluid path against the environment can be achieved.

[0024] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the gas supply element has a supply nozzle which, in the filling position, can be inserted, preferably is inserted, into the first filling opening. The supply nozzle forms a region of the gas supply element which, in the filling position, is arranged such that it rests against the valve housing arranged between the gas supply element and the holding element, in particular against an inner contour of the first filling opening. Particularly preferably, the supply nozzle rests sealingly against the inner contour of the first filling opening. Alternatively or additionally, a seal can be provided outside the first filling opening, for example by an elastically deformable contact section of the gas supply element as described above. It is advantageous if the supply nozzle is arranged on the gas supply element such that it is prestressed in the direction of the first filling opening by a spring element.Such a design can facilitate the insertion of the feed nozzle into the first filling opening. The filling nozzle can be made of a metal, for example, stainless steel, or a plastic. The feed nozzle preferably has a hollow cylindrical free end for insertion into the first filling opening. Alternatively, the free end of the feed nozzle can be shaped like a hollow truncated cone, which facilitates centering the feed nozzle on the first filling opening.

[0025] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the holding element has a sealing section for sealing a second filling opening in the filling position. Such a configuration is particularly advantageous for filling valves with two, in particular with exactly two, filling openings, since the second sealing section can prevent unwanted escape of gas through the second filling opening. Thus, in the filling position, gas can be introduced into the first filling opening without having to fear the gas escaping through the second filling opening. The sealing section preferably covers the second filling opening.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sealing section of the retaining element has a curved, in particular circular-cylindrical, outer contour. Such a configuration enables adaptation of the retaining element to a valve housing with a substantially cylindrical contour. The curved contact section can thus lie flat against a circumferential surface of the valve housing and enable good sealing of the second filling opening arranged on the circumferential surface. The elasticity of the sealing section can be identical along the curved contour. However, it is preferably provided that the elasticity of the sealing section changes along the curved contour, for example, such that the elasticity decreases towards an edge region of the sealing section.

[0027] Alternatively or additionally, the elastically deformable sealing section may comprise one or more reinforcing elements. These reinforcing elements may be partially or completely enclosed in an elastically deformable material of the sealing section or partially or completely enclosed by this elastically deformable material. The reinforcing elements may reduce the elasticity of the sealing section in those regions where the reinforcing elements are arranged. For example, a reinforcing element may be provided in an edge region of the sealing section in order to increase the rigidity of the sealing section in this edge region. The reinforcing element may be made of a metal or a plastic.

[0028] As a further alternative, it is possible for one or more elastically non-deformable sealing sections to be provided adjacent to the elastically deformable sealing section, which nevertheless bear against the outer contour, for example a lateral surface, of the valve housing in the filling position. The elastically non-deformable sealing section can be made of a metal or a plastic. For example, it can be provided that the elastically deformable sealing section is received in a groove, in particular a circumferential annular groove, in the lateral surface of the valve body in the filling position, and the elastically non-deformable sealing section touches a region of the lateral surface of the valve body that borders the groove in the filling position.

[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sealing section of the holding element has a projection, in particular one in the shape of a ring segment. Such a configuration can improve the sealing of the second filling opening in a valve whose valve body has an annular groove, in particular a circumferential annular groove in the jacket surface. The projection can engage in the groove of the valve body in the filling position. If the second filling opening of the valve is arranged within the groove of the valve housing, the projection can cover the second filling opening and thus ensure the sealing of the second filling opening. The elasticity of the projection can be identical to the elasticity of the remaining sealing section. However, it is preferably provided that the elasticity of the projection differs from that of the remaining sealing section.Furthermore, it can be provided that the elasticity of the projection changes along the curved contour of the sealing section, for example such that the elasticity decreases towards an edge region of the sealing section. According to an alternative, advantageous embodiment of the invention, the holding element has a supply line for supplying gas to a second filling opening in the filling position, so that the gas cartridge is filled via both the first and the second filling opening. Such an embodiment is advantageous as an alternative, in particular for filling valves with two, in particular with exactly two, filling openings, since in the filling position, simultaneous filling can take place via the first filling opening and the second filling opening.The first and second filling openings can be arranged diametrically opposite each other on the valve so that a balanced pressure distribution can be achieved when filling the gas cartridge and also when removing gas from the gas cartridge.

[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the holding element has a supply nozzle which, in the filling position, can be inserted, preferably is inserted, into a second filling opening. The supply nozzle forms a region of the holding element which, in the filling position, is arranged such that it rests against the valve housing arranged between the gas supply element and the holding element, in particular against an inner contour of the second filling opening. Particularly preferably, the supply nozzle rests sealingly against the inner contour of the second filling opening. Alternatively or additionally, a seal can be provided outside the second filling opening, for example by an elastically deformable contact section of the holding element as described above. It is advantageous if the supply nozzle is arranged on the holding element in such a way that it is prestressed in the direction of the second filling opening by a spring element.Such a design can facilitate the insertion of the feed nozzle into the second filling opening. The filling nozzle can be made of a metal, for example, stainless steel, or a plastic. The feed nozzle preferably has a hollow cylindrical free end for insertion into the second filling opening. Alternatively, the free end of the feed nozzle can be shaped like a hollow truncated cone, which facilitates centering the feed nozzle on the second filling opening.

[0031] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the gas supply element and / or the holding element each comprise two mutually parallel key surfaces for engaging corresponding parallel surfaces of an outer contour of the valve housing in the filling position. The key surfaces on the gas supply element or the holding element enable the alignment of the valve housing relative to the gas supply element or the holding element. For example, key surfaces provided on the gas supply element can achieve a predetermined alignment of the valve housing relative to the supply line of the gas supply element, so that the supply line of the gas supply element can be aligned with the first filling opening of the valve.By means of key flats provided on the retaining element, a predetermined alignment of the valve housing relative to a sealing section of the retaining element can be achieved, thus ensuring the sealing of a second filling opening of the valve. If the retaining element also comprises a supply line for supplying gas, the supply line of the retaining element can be aligned with the second filling opening of the valve. If key flats are provided on the gas supply element and / or the retaining element, the distance between the key flats of the respective gas supply element or retaining element is preferably adjustable, thus allowing adaptation to different valve housing geometries.

[0032] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the holding element has a receiving mandrel for receiving a second filling opening. By receiving the second filling opening on the receiving mandrel, the valve housing can be aligned with respect to the holding element. Advantageously, the receiving mandrel is positioned on the holding element such that, in the filling position, it is opposite a passage opening of the gas supply element facing the valve.

[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the filling device comprises an actuating element for actuating a closure element of the valve, in particular an actuating element movable in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the valve body. The actuating element can actuate a closure element of the valve and thus open the valve. The closure element can be preloaded, for example, by a spring element into a closed position, in which the closure element closes a fluid path between the at least one filling opening and an interior of the gas cartridge. Preferably, the closure element is movable in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the valve housing. Alternatively, it can be provided that the actuating element is stationary and the gas supply element and the holding element (in the filling position) are moved together relative to the actuating element.Alternatively, instead of actuating the closure element with the actuating element (via the first and possibly the second filling opening), a predetermined gas pressure can be applied to the closure element in order to move the closure element into an open position.

[0034] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the filling device comprises a stop element for holding the gas cartridge on a side of the gas cartridge opposite the valve. The gas cartridge can be clamped between the stop element and the actuating element, particularly when the gas cartridge is in a substantially horizontal position. If the gas cartridge is clamped in a substantially vertical position between the stop element and the actuating element, the stop element can be designed as a transport means by which the gas cartridge can be transported to and / or away from the filling device.

[0035] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the filling device comprises a positioning aid for positioning the gas cartridge, in particular between the stop element and the actuating element. The positioning aid can hold the gas cartridge, in particular a container of the gas cartridge, at one or more locations, particularly when the gas cartridge is in a substantially horizontal position. This can facilitate the correct positioning of the gas cartridge between the actuating element and the stop element.

[0036] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the filling device comprises a centering element formed separately from the gas supply element and the holding element for aligning the gas cartridge, in particular the valve of the gas cartridge. The centering element allows the gas cartridge to be aligned in the release position of the gas supply element and holding element such that the gas supply element can rest against the valve housing in the region of the first filling opening in the filling position.

[0037] The centering element preferably comprises two key surfaces arranged parallel to one another for engagement with corresponding parallel surfaces of an outer contour of the valve housing in the filling position.

[0038] To achieve the object mentioned above, a method for filling a gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquid gas through a valve of the gas cartridge is further proposed, which has a valve housing extending along a longitudinal axis with at least one first filling opening extending laterally to the longitudinal axis, with a gas supply element and a holding element, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are spaced further apart from one another in a release position than in a filling position, and the valve housing is positioned in the release position between the gas supply element and the holding element, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are moved relative to one another from the release position into the filling position, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are arranged in the filling position such that they rest against the valve housing arranged between the gas supply element and the holding element,wherein gas is supplied to the first filling opening in the filling position by means of a supply line of the gas supply element.,

[0039] Unlike the filling methods known from the prior art, in the method according to the invention the valve is not inserted into an opening of a filling adapter. Rather, the valve housing is arranged between the gas supply element and the holding element. The gas supply element and the holding element are then moved relative to one another from the release position to the filling position so that both elements come into contact with the valve housing. In this filling position, gas is fed to the first filling opening via the supply line of the gas supply element, thus filling the gas cartridge. Moving the gas supply element and holding element from the release position to the filling position makes it possible to bring the two elements closer to valves that have an external geometry that deviates from a predetermined target geometry during the transition to the filling position. It is therefore also possible to fill such valves.

[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that a feed nozzle of the gas feed element is introduced into the first filling opening in the filling position and gas is supplied to the first filling opening by means of the feed nozzle.

[0041] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that a sealing section of the holding element seals a second filling opening of the valve housing in the filling position.

[0042] According to an alternative, advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that gas is supplied to a second filling opening of the valve housing in the filling position by means of a supply line of the holding element.

[0043] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that a feed nozzle of the holding element is introduced into the second filling opening in the filling position and gas is supplied to the second filling opening by means of the feed nozzle.

[0044] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the gas cartridge is positioned on a positioning aid and / or a centering element while the gas supply element and the holding element are in the release position. By means of the positioning aid and / or the centering element, the gas cartridge can be positioned in a position that, on the one hand, enables clamping between an actuating element and a stop element and, on the other hand, aligns the gas cartridge with respect to the gas supply element such that, after being moved into the filling position, the gas supply element rests against the valve housing in the region of the first filling opening and / or the holding element seals the second filling opening.

[0045] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that an actuating element actuates a closure element of the valve, in particular an actuating element movable in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the valve body, in order to open the valve.

[0046] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the actuating element actuates the closure element of the valve while the gas supply element and the holding element are in the release position. The actuating element can be used to free the gas cartridge of any gas residues contained in the container of the gas cartridge before filling and / or to fix it in a position predetermined by the actuating element that is suitable for filling.

[0047] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that the actuating element actuates the closure element of the valve, while the gas supply element and the holding element are moved from the release position into the filling position.

[0048] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that the gas cartridge is positioned between a stop element and the actuating element, while the gas supply element and the holding element are in the release position.

[0049] According to an alternative, advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that the valve has a closure element which is pretensioned by a spring element into a closed position, in which the closure element closes a fluid path between the at least one filling opening and an interior of the gas cartridge, wherein a predetermined gas pressure is applied to the at least one filling opening in order to move the closure element into an open position. According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that the valve body is clamped in the filling position by the gas supply element and the holding element. By clamping it in this way, undesired movement of the gas cartridge, in particular of the valve of the gas cartridge, during filling of the gas cartridge can be prevented.

[0050] It is advantageous if the method involves filling a gas cartridge with a valve which has one or more of the features explained below.

[0051] The valve is preferably configured for insertion into a soda maker using an insertion movement, for example, without requiring multiple turns of the gas cartridge to screw the valve into a cartridge holder of the soda maker, in order to enable a preferably loss-free gas transfer from the gas cartridge to a gas fluid system of the soda maker. Preferably, the valve is designed to avoid generating a thrust force that would tend to separate the valve from a connecting part of the soda maker.For this purpose, the valve may, for example, be designed with connection openings for the release of the gas, referred to here as filling openings, which are oriented laterally and arranged at substantially equal distances around the circumference of the valve (for example, two connection openings on substantially opposite sides) so as to generate a minimal thrust force (for example, approximately zero) in a direction away from the connection part.

[0052] The longitudinal axis of the valve housing is preferably defined as an axis passing through the valve, along a direction of movement of an activation mechanism of the valve (typically in the form of a slidable closure element configured to slide along the longitudinal axis). A distal end of the valve may be inserted into a container of the gas cartridge and secured thereto in a gas-tight manner (e.g., by screwing, welding, or otherwise). The distal end preferably comprises an internal cartridge connection opening that can be inserted into and is open to the container of the cartridge.

[0053] The valve housing preferably comprises two or more external connection openings or filling openings which open laterally to the longitudinal axis of the valve housing (for example each oriented at an angle of at least 80° and typically at least 90° to the direction of connection to the container of the gas cartridge) and which are arranged at substantially equal angular intervals around the cartridge main body (its longitudinal axis) (for example two external connection openings on substantially opposite sides thereof or three external connection openings at an angular interval of 120° or four external connection openings at an angular interval of 90° or six external connection openings at an angular interval of 60°).The external connection openings can be configured to allow gas to escape from the gas cartridge when the valve is opened by activating a gas release mechanism of the valve (for example, by causing distal movement of a closure element within the valve). If the valve is opened and the valve is connected to a filling device, filling the gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquefied gas can be enabled via the external connection openings.

[0054] Typically, the valve can be opened or closed by sliding a closure element along a longitudinal axis of the valve. Typically, when the closure element is moved distally away from the filling device, the valve is opened, allowing fluid communication within the valve housing between the interior of the gas cartridge via the cartridge connection opening and the external connection openings. Conversely, when the closure element is moved proximally towards the filling device, the valve is closed, blocking fluid communication between the external connection openings and the gas cartridge container. For example, a proximal end of the closure element can be pressed against a sealing gasket element to prevent fluid communication between the filling device and the external connection openings.Opening the valve allows fluid to flow from a fluid source (e.g. from the filling device) into the gas cartridge via the external connection openings or fluid to flow out of the gas cartridge via the cartridge connection opening and the external connection openings (e.g. to a water carbonator).

[0055] One or more types of sealing designs may be incorporated into the valve to prevent gas flow around the plunger. For example, a cross-section of a sealing element surrounding the plunger may be U-shaped. The opening of the U-shape may be oriented towards the container of the gas cartridge. Thus, when the plunger is moved to release gas from the gas cartridge, the pressurized gas may fill the opening of the U-shaped sealing element to thereby push the walls of the sealing element outward, thereby reinforcing the seal around the plunger and preventing escape of the released gas around the plunger. A plunger that causes distal displacement of the closure element of the valve may be configured to be accessible to an activation mechanism, for example from a soda maker or filling device.Typically, the plunger includes an external surface that can be contacted and actuated by an actuating mechanism that is part of a filling device. A proximal end of the plunger may include an external surface that forms a pressure field. The proximal end of the plunger may be located within a recess on the proximal surface of the valve. The recess may prevent accidental pressing of the plunger, for example, by a surface that is wider than the recess.

[0056] When a compressive force is applied to the proximal end of the plunger, the plunger can be moved distally, for example, along an axis collinear with the longitudinal axis of the closure member. A distal end of the plunger can be configured to make contact with and press against a proximal end of the closure member when the plunger is pushed distally. Therefore, pushing the pressure pad at the proximal end of the plunger can push the closure member distally to open the valve. For example, an activation mechanism of a soda maker or filler can include an extendable rod or other component that can push the pressure pad at the proximal end of the valve.When the activation mechanism applies a force at least as great as a predetermined force, the closure member can be displaced distally sufficiently to thereby enable fluid communication between the cartridge port and the external port openings. The plunger can be manufactured as a separate component from the closure member. Alternatively, the plunger can be manufactured as an integral part of the closure member, for example, by forming a proximal end of the closure member. Typically, the valve also includes a reset device to maintain the closure member in the (e.g., proximal) closed position if a sufficiently strong force is not applied to the external surface.For example, a spring may be configured to urge the closure element in the proximal direction as long as the force of the spring is not overcome by a distal compressive force applied to the closure element, for example via the plunger.

[0057] The valve may comprise a device to assist in the retention of the gas cartridge by a cartridge holder, for example of a water carbonator or a cartridge filling system. For example, the valve may comprise one or more projections which may be fitted into a cooperating structure of the cartridge holder, for example one or more grooves or slots. The cartridge holder may be configured such that, when the gas cartridge is retained by the cartridge holder, the external connection openings of the valve are connected, for example, to one or more lines belonging to the cartridge holder. For example, a lateral projection in the form of a disc may extend laterally outwardly, for example, at or near a connection point of the valve with the gas cartridge.The disc can be designed to be inserted into a corresponding bracket of the cartridge holder. The disc can be used as a sealing disc between the valve and the gas cartridge, or it can be manufactured as an integral part of the valve or the gas cartridge.

[0058] Alternatively or in addition to the above-mentioned advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention, the advantageous embodiments and features described in connection with the filling device according to the invention can also be used - alone or in combination - in the method according to the invention.

[0059] Further details, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the drawings and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings merely illustrate embodiments of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0060] Short description of the characters

[0061] Fig. 1 to 6 show different views and a sectional view of a filling device according to a first embodiment, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are arranged in the release position

[0062] Figs. 7 to 12 show different views and a sectional view of the filling device according to the first embodiment, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are arranged in the filling position.

[0063] Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of a filling device according to a second embodiment, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are arranged in the release position. Fig. 14 shows a perspective view of the filling device according to the second embodiment, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are arranged in the filling position.

[0064] Fig. 15 shows a schematic side view of a filling device according to a third embodiment, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are arranged in the release position.

[0065] Fig. 16 shows a schematic side view of a filling device according to a fourth embodiment, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are arranged in the release position.

[0066] Fig. 17 shows a sectional view of a filling device according to a fifth embodiment, wherein the gas supply element and the holding element are arranged in the filling position.

[0067] Embodiments of the invention

[0068] In the various figures, identical parts are always provided with the same reference numerals and are therefore generally only named or mentioned once each. The figures show different exemplary embodiments of filling devices 1 according to the invention, which are configured to fill a gas cartridge with a valve 100 which has a valve housing 110 extending along a longitudinal axis L and having at least one first filling opening 101 extending laterally to the longitudinal axis L, preferably additionally having a second filling opening 102 extending laterally to the longitudinal axis L. The gas cartridge, of which the valve 100 is a part, is not shown in the figures for reasons of clarity. The valve 100 is shown in a highly simplified manner and can, for example, be a valve as shown and described in DE 20 2020 005 565 U1. In particular, the sectional views in Fig.6b and 12b are highly simplified and do not depict the actual internal structure of the valve 100. The valve 100 includes a pressure relief valve 106 and a retaining element 105 for holding the valve 100 or the gas cartridge in a water carbonator.

[0069] 1 to 12 show a filling device 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are in the release position in FIGS. 1 to 6 and in the filling position in FIGS. 7 to 12. The filling device 1 comprises a gas supply element 10 and a holding element 20, which are movable relative to one another between the release position shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 and the filling position shown in FIGS. 7 to 12. In the present case, the holding element 20 is stationary and the gas supply element 10 is pivotable relative to the holding element 20 in order to switch between the release position and the filling position. However, other configurations are also conceivable - for example, the gas supply element 10 is stationary and the holding element is movable relative to the gas supply element 10.is pivotable or that both elements 10, 20 move when changing between the release position and the filling position.

[0070] In the release position (Figs. 1 to 6), the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are spaced further apart than in the filling position. This allows the valve housing 110 of the valve 100 to be released after a completed filling process, or the valve housing 110 can be positioned between the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 before a filling process.

[0071] In the filling position (Figs. 7 to 12), however, the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are arranged such that the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 rest against the valve housing 110 arranged between the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20. Preferably, the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 clamp the valve housing 110 firmly between them. In the filling position, the gas cartridge can be filled with compressed gas or liquid gas through the valve 100. In the filling position, the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 together do not cover the entire circumference of the valve housing 110. In this respect, the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are designed as quarter-circle-shaped segments.

[0072] The gas supply element 10 comprises a supply line 11 for supplying gas to the first filling opening 101 in the filling position. This supply line is preferably connected to a filling apparatus (not shown) that provides the gas in the form required for filling the gas cartridge; the filling apparatus itself is in turn preferably connected to a compressed gas or liquid gas storage device (not shown). The supply line 11 opens into a holder 12 of the gas supply element 10. The shape of the holder 12 is adapted to the outer contour of the valve housing 110. On the side of the gas supply element 10 that comes into contact with the valve housing 110 in the filling position, the gas supply element 10 has an elastically deformable contact section 13. This contact section 13 contacts the valve housing 110 in the filling position. According to the embodiment, a ring segment-shaped projection 14 is provided as part of the contact section 13.This projection 14 corresponds to an annular, circumferential groove 103 of the valve housing 110. In the filling position, the projection 14 can be inserted into the groove 103 of the valve housing and improve the seal between the contact section 13 and the outer contour of the valve housing 110. The elasticity of the elastically deformable contact section 13 can be uniform across its entire extent or can have a different elasticity in the ring-segment-shaped projection 14. It is also conceivable for the ring-segment-shaped projection 14 alone or additionally to have a different elasticity across its extension from the outside to the inside.

[0073] The contact section 13 of the gas supply element 10 further comprises a passage opening 15 through which a fluid connection can be established between the supply line 11 of the gas supply element 10 and the first filling opening 101 of the valve 100. In the filling position, the compressed gas or liquefied gas can thus be introduced from the supply line 11 through the passage opening in the contact section 13 into the first filling opening 101 of the valve 100. To enable this fluid path, it is necessary that the passage opening 15 of the gas supply element 10 is aligned with the first filling opening 101 of the valve 100. In the present embodiment, this alignment is achieved in that the valve 100, in particular the valve housing 110, is aligned by the holding element 20 such that, during the transition to the filling position, the passage opening 15 of the gas supply element 10 is aligned with the first filling opening 101 of the valve 100.For this purpose, the holding element 20 preferably comprises two key surfaces 24 arranged parallel to one another, which are provided on a respective inner side of one of two centering elements 23. These key surfaces 24 correspond to parallel surfaces of the outer contour of the valve housing 110 and, when the valve housing 110 rests against the key surfaces, enable a clear alignment of the valve housing 110 with respect to the holding element 20 and thus of the entire filling device 1. According to a modification of the exemplary embodiment, a receiving mandrel can be provided on the holding element 20 for aligning the valve housing 110, on which the second filling opening can be received.

[0074] The holding element 20 further comprises a sealing section 22 for sealing the second filling opening 102 in the filling position. The sealing section 22 of the holding element 20 has a curved, in particular circular-cylindrical, contour. Furthermore, a ring-segment-shaped projection 25 is provided as part of the sealing section 22. The elasticity of the sealing section 22 can be uniform across its entire extent or can have a different elasticity in the ring-segment-shaped projection 25. It is also conceivable for the ring-segment-shaped projection 25, alone or additionally, to have a different elasticity across its extension from the outside to the inside.

[0075] In the filling position, a good seal of the second filling opening 102 of the valve 100 can be achieved by the sealing section 22 and in particular the projection 25, so that there is no fear that gas which is introduced through the first filling opening 101 will undesirably escape through the second filling opening 102.

[0076] In the first embodiment, the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are designed such that, in the filling position, they together do not cover the entire circumference of the valve housing 110. Therefore, the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are designed as quarter-circular segments.

[0077] 13 and 14 show a filling device 1 according to a second embodiment of the invention, wherein the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are in the release position in Fig. 13 and in the filling position in Fig. 14.

[0078] The filling device 1 according to the second embodiment essentially corresponds to the filling device 1 according to the first embodiment. In contrast to the first embodiment, both the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are designed such that, in the filling position, they each cover one half of the circumference of the valve housing 110. The gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are thus designed as semicircular segments.

[0079] In the filling device 1 according to the second embodiment, an actuating element 30 is provided for actuating a closure element of the valve 100, in particular an actuating element 30 movable in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the valve body 110. This actuating element 30 can actuate a closure element of the valve 100 and thus open the valve 100. The closure element can be preloaded, for example, by a spring element into a closed position, in which the closure element closes a fluid path between the filling opening 101 and an interior space of the gas cartridge. Such an actuating element 30 can also be present in the first embodiment.As an alternative to an actuating element 30, the valve can be opened by applying a predetermined gas pressure to the closure element - for example via the first filling opening 101 - in order to move the closure element into an open position and to fill the valve.

[0080] Fig. 15 shows a filling device 1 according to a third embodiment of the invention, wherein the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are in the release position. The filling device 1 according to the third embodiment further comprises an actuating device 30, a stop element 50, and a centering element 40.

[0081] The gas cartridge 200 is placed against the stop element 50 or inserted into the stop element 50, in particular such that a bottom region of the container 120 of the gas cartridge 200 touches the stop element 50. The valve housing 110 is brought into contact with the centering element 40 such that two parallel key surfaces of the centering element 40 bear against corresponding surfaces on the outer contour of the valve housing 110. The gas cartridge 200, in particular the valve 100 of the gas cartridge 200, is thereby aligned such that the valve 100 can be actuated via the actuating element 30, and the gas supply element 10 rests against the valve housing 110 in the region of the first filling opening 101 after being moved into the filling position.

[0082] Then, the actuating element 30 is first brought toward the valve 100, and the valve 100, in particular a valve tappet of the valve 100, is actuated so that the valve 100 is opened. During this process, or in a subsequent step, the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are moved from the release position into the filling position, in which both elements rest against the valve housing 110. The gas cartridge 200 is then filled by supplying liquefied gas or compressed gas by means of the gas supply element 10 through the first filling opening 101 of the open valve 100.

[0083] Fig. 16 shows a filling device 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, wherein the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are in the release position. The filling device 1 according to the fourth embodiment further comprises an actuating device 30, a stop element 50, and a positioning aid 60. Optionally, the actuating device can additionally comprise a centering element 40 - for example, as shown in Fig. 15. The gas cartridge 200 is placed on the positioning aid 60 and placed against the stop element 50, in particular such that a bottom region of the container 120 of the gas cartridge 200 touches the stop element 50. If a centering element 40 is present, the valve housing 110 is brought into contact with the centering element 40 such that two parallel key surfaces of the centering element 40 bear against corresponding surfaces on the outer contour of the valve housing 110.The gas cartridge 200, in particular the valve 100 of the gas cartridge 200, is thereby oriented such that the valve 100 can be actuated via the actuating element 30 and the gas supply element 10 rests against the valve housing 110 in the region of the first filling opening 101 after being brought into the filling position.

[0084] Then, the actuating element 30 is first brought toward the valve 100, and the valve 100, in particular a valve stem of the valve 100, is actuated so that the valve is opened. During this process, or in a subsequent step, the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are moved from the release position to the filling position, in which both elements rest against the valve housing 110. The gas cartridge 200 is then filled by supplying liquefied gas or compressed gas by means of the gas supply element 10 through the first filling opening 101 of the open valve 100.

[0085] The filling devices 1 according to Figs. 15 and 16 are suitable for filling gas cartridges 200, wherein these are arranged in a substantially horizontal position. Alternatively, the filling devices according to Figs. 15 and 16 can be designed such that the gas cartridge 200 is arranged substantially vertically, particularly during filling. Such a modification has the advantage that the stop element 50 can also be used as a transport means, for example, to transport the gas cartridge to the filling device 1 or away from the filling device 1.

[0086] Fig. 17 shows a filling device 1 according to a fifth embodiment of the invention, wherein the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are in the filling position.

[0087] The filling device 1 according to the fifth embodiment essentially corresponds to the filling device 1 according to the first embodiment. In contrast to the first embodiment, the gas supply element 10 comprises a supply nozzle 16. In the filling position shown, the supply nozzle 16 is inserted into the first filling opening of the valve 100 and thus enables the direct supply of gas through the supply line 11 and the supply nozzle 16. In the illustration according to Fig. 17, the supply nozzle 16 is conical, i.e., as a hollow truncated cone. According to a modification of this embodiment, the supply nozzle 16 can be designed as a hollow cylinder, for example, as a drawn tube.

[0088] A further modification of this exemplary embodiment provides that not only does the gas supply element 10 comprise a supply nozzle 16, but also a supply nozzle is provided on the holding element 20, via which the second filling opening 102 of the valve 100 can be filled. For this purpose, the supply nozzle of the holding element 20 is inserted into the second filling opening 102. In this modification, the supply nozzles can also be designed either as a hollow truncated cone or as a hollow cylinder.

[0089] With the filling devices 1 explained above with reference to the exemplary embodiments, a method for filling a gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquefied gas can be carried out through a valve 100 of the gas cartridge, wherein the valve 100 has a valve housing 110 extending along a longitudinal axis L and having at least one first filling opening 101 extending laterally to the longitudinal axis. In this method, the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are moved relative to one another from the release position into the filling position, and the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are arranged in the filling position such that they bear against the valve housing 110 arranged between the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20. In the filling position, gas is then supplied to the first filling opening 101 by means of the supply line 11 of the gas supply element 10.

[0090] The filling device 1 and the corresponding method enable, by means of the relatively movable gas supply element 10 and holding element 20, the two elements to be brought into contact with valves 100 during the transition into the filling position, which have an external geometry which deviates from a predetermined target geometry. It is therefore also possible to fill such valves.

[0091] According to a modification of the previously explained embodiments, the holding element 20 can also have a supply line for supplying gas to the second filling opening in the filling position and, if appropriate, an additional supply nozzle. In this case, it is not necessary to seal the second filling opening. Rather, compressed gas or liquid gas can also be supplied to the gas cartridge via the second filling opening 102 of the valve 1. If the holding element 20 comprises a sealing section, this then has a passage opening for providing a fluid path from the supply line to the second filling opening 102.

[0092] List of reference symbols

[0093] 1 filling device

[0094] 10 Gas supply element 11 Supply line

[0095] 12 bowls

[0096] 13 Contact section

[0097] 14 lead

[0098] 15 Passage opening 16 Feed nozzle

[0099] 20 holding element

[0100] 21 bowl

[0101] 22 Sealing section

[0102] 23 Centering element 24 Wrench flat

[0103] 25 lead

[0104] 30 Actuating element

[0105] 40 Centering element

[0106] 50 Stop element 60 Positioning aid

[0107] 100 valve

[0108] 101 Bef ü Hope

[0109] 102 Bef ü Hope

[0110] 103 Groove 104 Cartridge connection opening

[0111] 105 Retaining element

[0112] 106 Pressure relief valve

[0113] 110 valve housing

[0114] 120 containers 200 gas cartridges

[0115] L Longitudinal axis

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Filling device (1) for filling a gas cartridge (200) with compressed gas or liquid gas through a valve (100) of the gas cartridge (200), which has a valve housing (110) extending along a longitudinal axis (L) with at least one first filling opening (101) extending laterally to the longitudinal axis, with a gas supply element (10) and a holding element (20) which are movable relative to one another between a release position and a filling position, wherein the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are spaced further apart from one another in the release position than in the filling position in order to release the valve housing (110) or to position the valve housing (110) between the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20), wherein the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are arranged in the filling position in such a way thatthat they can rest on the valve housing (110) arranged between the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20), wherein the gas supply element (10) has a supply line (11) for supplying gas to the first filling opening (101) in the filling position., 2. Filling device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are pivotable relative to each other between the release position and the filling position.

3. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas supply element (10) has an elastically deformable contact section (13) for contacting the valve housing (110) in the filling position.

4. Filling device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the contact section of the gas supply element (10) has a curved, in particular circular-cylindrical, contour.

5. Filling device (1) according to one of claims 3 or 4, characterized in that the contact section (13) of the gas supply element (10) has a projection (14), in particular in the form of a ring segment.

6. Filling device (1) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the contact section (13) of the gas supply element (10) has a passage opening (15) for providing a fluid connection between the supply line (11) of the gas supply element (10) and the first filling opening (101) of the valve (100).

7. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas supply element (10) has a supply nozzle (16) which can be inserted into the first filling opening (101) in the filling position.

8. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding element (20) has a sealing section (22) for sealing a second filling opening (102) in the filling position.

9. Filling device (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the sealing section (22) of the holding element (20) has a curved, in particular circular-cylindrical, contour.

10. Filling device (1) according to one of claims 8 or 9, characterized in that the sealing section (22) of the holding element (20) has a projection (25), in particular in the form of a ring segment.

11. Filling device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the holding element (20) has a supply line for supplying gas to a second filling opening (102) in the filling position.

12. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding element (20) has a feed nozzle which can be inserted into a second filling opening (102) in the filling position.

13. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by an actuating element (30) for actuating a closure element of the valve (100), in particular an actuating element (30) movable in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the valve body (110).

14. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a stop element (50) for holding the gas cartridge (200) on a side of the gas cartridge (200) opposite the valve (100).

15. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a positioning aid (60) for positioning the gas cartridge (200), in particular between the stop element (50) and the actuating element (30).

16. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gas supply element (10) and / or the holding element (20) each comprise two key surfaces (24) arranged parallel to one another for contact with corresponding parallel surfaces of an outer contour of the valve housing (110) in the filling position.

17. Filling device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by a centering element (40) formed separately from the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) for aligning the gas cartridge, in particular the valve of the gas cartridge (200).

18. Filling device according to claim 17, characterized in that the centering element (40) comprises two key surfaces arranged parallel to one another for contact with corresponding parallel surfaces of an outer contour of the valve housing (110) in the filling position.

19. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding element (20) has a receiving mandrel for receiving a second filling opening (102).

20. A method for filling a gas cartridge (200) with compressed gas or liquid gas through a valve (100) of the gas cartridge (200), which has a valve housing (110) extending along a longitudinal axis (L) with at least one first filling opening (101) extending laterally to the longitudinal axis (L), with a gas supply element (10) and a holding element (20), wherein the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are spaced further apart from one another in a release position than in a filling position, and the valve housing (110) is positioned in the release position between the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20), wherein the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are moved relative to one another from the release position into the filling position, wherein the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are arranged in the filling position in such a way,that they rest on the valve housing (110) arranged between the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20), wherein gas is supplied to the first filling opening (101) in the filling position by means of a supply line (11) of the gas supply element (10).

21. Method according to claim 20, characterized in that a supply nozzle (16) of the gas supply element (10) is introduced into the first filling opening (101) in the filling position and gas is supplied to the first filling opening (101) by means of the supply nozzle (16).

22. Method according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that a sealing section (22) of the holding element (20) seals a second filling opening (102) of the valve housing (110) in the filling position.

23. Method according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that gas is supplied to a second filling opening (102) in the filling position by means of a supply line (11) of the holding element (20).

24. Method according to claim 23, characterized in that a feed nozzle of the Holding element (20) in the filling position is introduced into the second filling opening (102) and gas is supplied to the second filling opening (102) by means of the supply nozzle.

25. Method according to one of claims 20 to 24, characterized in that the gas cartridge is positioned on a positioning aid (60) and / or a centering element (40) while the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are in the release position.

26. Method according to one of claims 20 to 25, characterized in that an actuating element (30) actuates a closure element of the valve (100), in particular an actuating element (30) movable in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the valve body, in order to open the valve (100).

27. Method according to claim 25, characterized in that the actuating element (30) the closure element of the valve (100) is actuated while the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are in the release position or while the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are moved from the release position into the filling position.

28. Method according to one of claims 26 to 27, characterized in that the gas cartridge is positioned between a stop element (50) and the actuating element (30) while the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20) are in the release position.

29. according to one of claims 20 to 28, characterized in that the valve (100) has a closure element which is prestressed by a spring element into a closed position, in which the closure element closes a fluid path between the at least one filling opening (101) and an interior of the gas cartridge, wherein a predetermined gas pressure is applied to the at least one filling opening (101) in order to bring the closure element into an open position.

30. Method according to one of claims 20 to 29, characterized in that the valve body (110) is clamped in the filling position by the gas supply element (10) and the holding element (20).

Images