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

State of the art

[0001] The present invention relates to a filling device and a method for filling a gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquefied 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.

[0002] These types of valves are used with gas cartridges, especially CO₂ cartridges, for sparkling water makers. Such makers are also called carbonators and typically have a gas cartridge connection through which the gas cartridge, or rather its valve, can be connected to the maker. An actuator on the maker allows the valve to be opened to release gas, especially CO₂, into a container with the liquid to be carbonated, such as drinking water.

[0003] 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 The known valve comprises a cartridge connection opening through which gas can be filled into and withdrawn from a receiving chamber of the gas cartridge.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 chamber 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 when gas is withdrawn from the water dispenser, it can flow out of the valve perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Filling the gas cartridge can also be carried out via this lateral connection opening. For filling, an adapter with an opening is provided through which the valve can be inserted into an interior of a housing of the adapter.To ensure a sufficient seal when filling the gas cartridge, the opening must be precisely tailored to the respective valve.

[0004] Another filling adapter for gas cartridges with such valves is known from DE 20 2022 107 289 U1. This adapter also has a housing with an opening through which the valve of the gas cartridge is inserted into an interior of the filling adapter.

[0005] US Patent 5,312,084 A discloses a filling device according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0006] With the known filling adapters, it has proven to be a disadvantage that valves whose external geometry deviates from a specified target geometry often cannot be adequately sealed, so that filling is not possible. Disclosure of the invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to make it possible to fill gas cartridges whose valves have an external geometry that deviates from a predetermined target geometry.

[0008] To solve the problem, a filling device according to claim 1 is proposed.

[0009] Unlike 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 retaining element, which are spaced apart from each other in a release position such that the valve of the gas cartridge can be positioned between the gas feed element and the retaining element. From this release position, the gas feed element and the retaining element can be moved relative to each other into the filling position, in which both the gas feed element and the retaining element are in contact with the valve. In the filling position, the gas feed element can then direct gas to the first filling opening and fill the gas cartridge.The relatively movable gas supply element and retaining element make it possible to position both elements in the filling position even when approaching valves with an external geometry that deviates from a predetermined target geometry. Therefore, it is possible to fill such valves as well.

[0010] For the purposes of the invention, a gas cartridge valve is understood to be a valve designed for selectively closing and selectively opening the gas cartridge, such that the valve is configured to retain gas in the gas cartridge when closed and to provide a fluid connection to the gas cartridge when open. The valve housing preferably includes a cartridge connection opening oriented along the longitudinal axis of the valve housing, allowing gas to flow into and out of the cartridge in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The first filling opening and any additional filling openings extend laterally to the longitudinal axis, allowing gas to flow into the valve in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The at least one filling opening can also serve as a dispensing opening when the gas cartridge is used in a water dispenser.When the gas cartridge is used in a water carbonator, the gas can escape through the at least one filling opening from the valve and thus from the gas cartridge. The gas cartridge is preferably designed to contain a pressurized gas or liquefied gas for carbonating a liquid.

[0011] Preferably, the gas supply element and the retaining element are designed such that, in the filling position, they do not together cover the entire circumference of the valve housing. In this respect, the gas supply element and the retaining element are preferably designed as third-circle or quarter-circle segments. Particularly preferably, the gas supply element and the retaining element each cover an angular range of 45° to 50° of the circumference of the valve housing. Alternatively, it can be provided that the gas supply element and the retaining element are 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 retaining element are preferably designed as semicircular segments.

[0012] The gas supply element and the retaining element are movable relative to each other. Either the gas supply element or the retaining element can be fixed, and the other part of the gas supply element or retaining element can be movable relative to the fixed element, or both the gas supply element and the retaining element can be movable.

[0013] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the gas supply element and the retaining element are pivotable relative to each other between the release position and the filling position. Either the gas supply element or the retaining element can be fixed, and the other of the gas supply element and retaining element can be pivotable relative to the fixed element, or both the gas supply element and the retaining element can be pivotable.

[0014] 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. This contact section creates a sealed fluid path between the gas supply element's inlet and the first filling opening. Preferably, the elastically deformable contact section 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 for.

[0015] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the contact section of the gas supply element has a curved, in particular circularly cylindrical, contour. Such a design allows the gas supply element to be adapted to a valve housing with a substantially cylindrical contour. The curved contact section can thus bear in contact with a surface of the valve housing and provide a good seal against the environment for a fluid path from the supply line to the first filling opening located on the surface. The elasticity of the contact section can be identical along the curved contour. However, it is preferred 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.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, the elastically deformable contact section may include one or more reinforcing elements. These reinforcing elements may be partially or completely enclosed within, or surrounded by, an elastically deformable material of the contact section. The reinforcing elements can reduce the elasticity of the contact section in the areas where they are located. For example, a reinforcing element may be provided at the edge of the contact section to increase its stiffness in that area. The reinforcing element may be made of a metal or a plastic.

[0017] Alternatively, it is possible to provide one or more non-deformable contact sections adjacent to the elastically deformable contact section, which nevertheless bear against the outer contour, for example, a surface of the valve body, in the filling position. The 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 surface of the valve body in the filling position, and that the non-deformable contact section in the filling position contacts an area of ​​the surface of the valve body that adjoins the groove.

[0018] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the contact section of the gas supply element has a projection, in particular annular segment-shaped. Such a design 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 its outer surface. In the filling position, the projection can engage in the groove of the valve body and thereby improve the sealing of the fluid path from the supply line to the first filling opening against the surroundings. The elasticity of the projection can be identical to that of the rest of the contact section. However, it is preferred that the elasticity of the projection differs from that of the rest of the 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.

[0019] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the contact section of the gas supply element comprises a through-hole for providing a fluid connection between the supply line of the gas supply element and the first filling port of the valve. Gas can be directed through this through-hole from the supply line of the gas supply element to the first filling port. If the first filling port of the valve is arranged within a groove of the valve housing, it is advantageous if the through-hole extends through a projection in the contact section, which is configured for insertion into the groove of the valve housing. This ensures that gas is directed from the supply line to the first filling port and simultaneously provides a seal for this fluid path against the environment.

[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the gas supply element has a supply nozzle that can be inserted into the first filling opening in the filling position, preferably already inserted. The supply nozzle forms a section of the gas supply element that, in the filling position, is arranged such that it rests against the valve housing located between the gas supply element and the retaining element, particularly against an inner contour of the first filling opening. Preferably, the supply nozzle seals 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 pre-tensioned towards the first filling opening by a spring element.This design facilitates 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 of plastic. Preferably, the feed nozzle has a hollow cylindrical free end for insertion into the first filling opening. Alternatively, the free end of the feed nozzle can have the shape of a hollow truncated cone, which facilitates centering the feed nozzle on the first filling opening.

[0021] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining element has a sealing section for sealing a second filling opening in the filling position. Such an embodiment is particularly advantageous for filling valves with two, and especially with exactly two, filling openings, since the second sealing section prevents unwanted gas from escaping through the second filling opening. In this respect, gas can be introduced into the first filling opening in the filling position without any risk of gas escaping through the second filling opening. Preferably, the sealing section covers the second filling opening.

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sealing section of the retaining element has a curved, in particular circularly cylindrical, outer contour. Such a design allows the retaining element to be adapted to a valve housing with a substantially cylindrical contour. The curved contact section can thus bear in contact with a surface of the valve housing and ensure a good seal for the second filling opening located on the surface. The elasticity of the sealing section can be identical along the curved contour. However, it is preferred 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.

[0023] Alternatively or additionally, the elastically deformable sealing section may include one or more reinforcing elements. These reinforcing elements may be partially or completely enclosed within, or partially or completely surrounded by, an elastically deformable material of the sealing section. The reinforcing elements can reduce the elasticity of the sealing section in the areas where they are located. For example, a reinforcing element may be provided in an edge region of the sealing section to increase its stiffness in that area. The reinforcing element may be made of a metal or a plastic.

[0024] Alternatively, it is possible to provide one or more non-deformable sealing sections adjacent to the elastically deformable sealing section, which nevertheless bear against the outer contour, for example, a surface of the valve body, in the filling position. The 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 surface of the valve body in the filling position, and that the non-deformable sealing section contacts an area of ​​the surface of the valve body that adjoins the groove.

[0025] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sealing section of the retaining element has a projection, in particular annular segment-shaped. Such a design can improve the sealing of the second filling port in a valve whose valve body has an annular groove, in particular a circumferential annular groove, in its outer surface. In the filling position, the projection can engage in the groove of the valve body. If the second filling port of the valve is located within the groove of the valve housing, the projection can cover the second filling port and thus ensure its sealing. The elasticity of the projection can be identical to that of the rest of the sealing section. However, it is preferred that the elasticity of the projection differs from that of the rest of the sealing section.Furthermore, it can be provided that the elasticity of the projection changes along the curved contour of the sealing section, for example in such a way that the elasticity decreases towards an edge area of ​​the sealing section.

[0026] According to an alternative, advantageous embodiment of the invention, the holding element has a supply line for feeding gas to a second filling port in the filling position, so that the gas cartridge is filled via both the first and the second filling port. Such an embodiment is particularly advantageous for filling valves with two, and especially exactly two, filling ports, since simultaneous filling via the first and second filling ports is possible in the filling position. The first and second filling ports 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 withdrawing gas from the gas cartridge.

[0027] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining element has a feed nozzle that can be inserted, preferably is already inserted, into a second filling opening in the filling position. The feed nozzle forms a section of the retaining element that, in the filling position, is arranged such that it rests against the valve housing located between the gas supply element and the retaining element, particularly against an inner contour of the second filling opening. Preferably, the feed nozzle seals 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 retaining element as described above. It is advantageous if the feed nozzle is arranged on the retaining element such that it is biased towards the second filling opening by a spring element.This design facilitates 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. Preferably, the feed nozzle has a hollow cylindrical free end for insertion into the second filling opening. Alternatively, the free end of the feed nozzle can have the shape of a hollow truncated cone, which facilitates centering the feed nozzle on the second filling opening.

[0028] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the gas supply element and / or the retaining element each comprise two mutually parallel key surfaces for bearing against corresponding parallel surfaces of an outer contour of the valve housing in the filling position. The key surfaces on the gas supply element and the retaining element, respectively, enable the alignment of the valve housing relative to the gas supply element and the retaining element, respectively. For example, key surfaces provided on the gas supply element allow for a predetermined alignment of the valve housing relative to the gas supply element's inlet, so that the inlet of the gas supply element can be aligned with the first filling opening of the valve.Wrench flats provided on the retaining element allow for a predetermined alignment of the valve housing relative to a sealing section of the retaining element, thus ensuring the sealing of a second filling port of the valve. If the retaining element also includes a gas supply line, this line can be aligned with the second filling port of the valve. If wrench flats are provided on the gas supply element and / or the retaining element, the distance between these flats is preferably adjustable to accommodate different valve housing geometries.

[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the retaining 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 the retaining element. Advantageously, the receiving mandrel is positioned on the retaining element such that, in the filling position, it is opposite a passage opening of the gas supply element facing the valve.

[0030] 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, for example, be biased into a closed position by a spring element, in which the closure element seals a fluid path between the at least one filling opening and an interior space 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 retaining element (located in the filling position) move together relative to the actuating element.Alternatively, instead of actuating the closure element with the actuating element (via the first and, if applicable, the second filling opening), a predetermined gas pressure can be applied to the closure element to bring the closure element into an open position.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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 points, especially when the gas cartridge is in a substantially horizontal position. This facilitates the correct positioning of the gas cartridge between the actuating element and the stop element.

[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the filling device comprises a centering element, designed 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 the holding element such that, in the filling position, the gas supply element can rest against the valve housing in the area of ​​the first filling opening.

[0034] Preferably, the centering element comprises two key surfaces arranged parallel to each other for contact with corresponding parallel surfaces of an outer contour of the valve housing in the filling position.

[0035] Furthermore, a method according to claim 13 is proposed to solve the aforementioned problem.

[0036] Unlike 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. Instead, the valve housing is positioned between the gas supply element and the retaining element. The gas supply element and the retaining element are then moved relative to each other 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 supplied to the first filling opening via the gas supply element's inlet, thus filling the gas cartridge. Moving the gas supply element and the retaining element from the release position to the filling position makes it possible to bring the two elements into contact with valves that have an external geometry that deviates from a predetermined target geometry. It is therefore possible to fill such valves as well.

[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that a feed nozzle of the gas supply element is inserted into the first filling opening in the filling position and gas is supplied to the first filling opening by means of the feed nozzle.

[0038] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that a sealing section of the retaining element seals a second filling opening of the valve housing in the filling position.

[0039] 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.

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

[0041] 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 retaining 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 way that, on the one hand, allows it to be clamped 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 area of ​​the first filling opening and / or the retaining element seals the second filling opening.

[0042] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that an actuating element actuates a closing 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.

[0043] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the actuating element is provided that the closing element of the valve is actuated while the gas supply element and the holding element are in the release position. The actuating element can clear the gas cartridge of any residual gas contained in the cartridge container before filling and / or fix it in a position predetermined by the actuating element that is suitable for filling.

[0044] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that the actuating element actuates the closing element of the valve, while the gas supply element and the holding element are moved from the release position to the filling position.

[0045] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, 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.

[0046] According to an alternative, advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the valve has a closing element which is biased into a closed position by a spring element, in which the closing 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 bring the closing element into an open position.

[0047] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the valve body is clamped in the filling position by the gas supply element and the retaining element. Such clamping prevents unwanted movement of the gas cartridge, in particular of the valve of the gas cartridge, during the filling process.

[0048] It is advantageous if the process involves filling a gas cartridge with a valve that has one or more of the features described below.

[0049] The valve is preferably designed for insertion into a water dispenser using an insertion motion, for example, without requiring multiple turns of the gas cartridge to screw the valve into a cartridge holder of the water dispenser, thus enabling a preferably loss-free gas transfer from the gas cartridge to a gas fluid system of the water dispenser. Preferably, the valve is designed such that it avoids generating a thrust force that would tend to separate the valve from a connection part of the water dispenser.For this purpose, the valve can, 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 essentially equal intervals around the circumference of the valve (for example, two connection openings on essentially opposite sides) in order to generate a minimal thrust force (for example, approximately zero) in one direction away from the connection part.

[0050] The longitudinal axis of the valve housing is preferably defined as an axis running through the valve along a direction of movement of an activation mechanism of the valve (typically in the form of a sliding closure element designed to slide along the longitudinal axis). A distal end of the valve can be inserted into a receptacle of the gas cartridge and gas-tightly attached to it (for example, by screwing, welding, or otherwise). The distal end preferably includes an inner cartridge connection opening that can be inserted into and is open to the receptacle of the cartridge.

[0051] The valve housing preferably comprises two or more external connection openings or filling openings that 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 with the container of the gas cartridge) and that are arranged at substantially equal angular intervals around the main part of the cartridge (its longitudinal axis) (for example, two external connection openings on substantially opposite sides of this, 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 ports can be configured to allow gas to escape from the gas cartridge when the valve is opened by activating a gas release mechanism (for example, by causing a distal movement of a sealing element within the valve). If the valve is opened and connected to a filling device, the gas cartridge can be filled with pressurized gas or liquefied petroleum gas via the external connection ports.

[0052] Typically, the valve can be opened or closed by sliding a closure element along a longitudinal axis of the valve. Typically, sliding the closure element distally away from the filling device opens the valve, allowing fluid communication within the valve body between the inside of the gas cartridge, via the cartridge connection port, and the external port openings. Conversely, sliding the closure element proximally toward the filling device closes the valve, blocking fluid communication between the external port openings and the gas cartridge container. For example, a proximal end of the closure element can be pressed against a sealing element to prevent fluid communication between the filling device and the external port openings.Opening the valve allows fluid to flow from a fluid source (for example, 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 (for example, to a water dispenser).

[0053] The valve may incorporate one or more types of sealing elements to prevent gas flow around the plunger. For example, the cross-section of a sealing element surrounding the plunger may be U-shaped. The opening of the U-shape may be oriented towards the gas cartridge container. Thus, when the plunger is moved to release gas from the cartridge, the pressurized gas can fill the opening of the U-shaped sealing element, forcing the walls of the sealing element outwards. This reinforces the seal around the plunger and prevents the released gas from escaping. A plunger that causes a distal displacement of the valve's closing element may be designed to be accessible to an activation mechanism, such as 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 depressing of the plunger, for example, by having a surface that is wider than the recess.

[0054] When a pressure 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 element. A distal end of the plunger can be configured to make contact with and press against a proximal end of the closure element when the plunger is pushed distally. Therefore, pressing the pressure field at the proximal end of the plunger can push the closure element distally to open the valve. For example, an activation mechanism of a soda maker or filling device may include a retractable rod or other component that can push the pressure field at the proximal end of the valve.When the activation mechanism applies a force at least as great as a predetermined force, the closure element can be displaced sufficiently distally to establish the fluidic connection between the cartridge connection port and the external connection ports. The plunger may be manufactured as a separate component from the closure element. Alternatively, the plunger may be manufactured as an integral part of the closure element, for example, by forming a proximal end of the closure element. Typically, the valve also includes a reset mechanism to hold the closure element in the (e.g., proximal) closed position when no sufficiently strong force is applied to the external surface.For example, a spring may be designed to push the locking element in a proximal direction as long as the force of the spring is not overcome by a distal pressure force applied to the locking element, for example via the plunger.

[0055] The valve may include a device to assist in holding the gas cartridge by a cartridge holder, such as that of a soda maker or cartridge filling system. For example, the valve may include one or more projections that fit into a cooperating structure of the cartridge holder, such as one or more grooves or slots. The cartridge holder may be configured so that, when the gas cartridge is held by the cartridge holder, the external connection ports of the valve connect to one or more lines belonging to the cartridge holder. For example, a lateral projection in the form of a disc may extend laterally outward at or near a connection point between the valve and 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 washer between the valve and the gas cartridge, or it can be manufactured as an integral part of the valve or the gas cartridge.

[0056] Alternatively or in addition to the aforementioned 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 applied to the method according to the invention - alone or in combination.

[0057] Further details, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the drawings and from the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings merely illustrate embodiments of the invention, which do not limit the inventive concept. Brief description of the characters

[0058] The Figs. 1 to 6 The figures 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. ... . Figs. 7 to 12 The figures 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. Fig. 13Figure 1 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 Figure 1 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. Fig. 15 Figure 1 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. Fig. 16 Figure 1 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. Fig. 17shows 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. Embodiments of the invention

[0059] In the various figures, identical parts are always provided with the same reference numerals and are therefore generally only named or mentioned once. The figures show different embodiments of filling devices 1 according to the invention, configured to fill a gas cartridge with a valve 100, which has a valve housing 110 extending along a longitudinal axis L and at least one first filling opening 101 extending laterally to the longitudinal axis L, preferably additionally with 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 the sake of clarity. The valve 100 is shown in a highly simplified form and can, for example, be a valve such as that shown and described in DE 20 2020 005 565 U1. In particular, the sectional views in Fig.Figures 6b and 12b are highly simplified and do not represent the actual internal structure of the valve 100. The valve 100 comprises a pressure relief valve 106 and a retaining element 105 for holding the valve 100 or the gas cartridge in a water dispenser.

[0060] The Figs. 1 to 12 show a filling device 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention, wherein the gas supply element 10 and the holding element 20 are located in Figs. 1 to 6 are in the release position and in Figs. 7 to 12 in the filling position.

[0061] The filling device 1 comprises a gas supply element 10 and a holding element 20, which are positioned relative to each other between the in Figs. 1 to 6 shown release position and the one in Figs. 7 to 12The filling position shown is movable. In the present case, the retaining element 20 is fixed, and the gas supply element 10 is pivotable relative to the retaining element 20 to switch between the release position and the filling position. However, other configurations are also conceivable – for example, that the gas supply element 10 is fixed and the retaining element is movable or pivotable relative to the gas supply element 10, or that both elements 10 and 20 move when switching between the release position and the filling position.

[0062] In the release position ( Figs. 1 to 6 The gas supply element 10 and the retaining 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 to be positioned between the gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 before a filling process.

[0063] In the filling position ( Figs. 7 to 12 The gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 are arranged such that they abut the valve housing 110 located between them. Preferably, the gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 clamp the valve housing 110 between them. In the filling position, the gas cartridge can be filled with pressurized gas or liquid gas through the valve 100. In the filling position, the gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 together do not cover the entire circumference of the valve housing 110. Therefore, the gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 are designed as quarter-circle segments.

[0064] 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 preferably connected to a compressed gas or liquid gas storage tank (not shown). The supply line 11 terminates in 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 exemplary embodiment, an annular 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 engage in 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 over its entire extent or exhibit differing elasticity in the annular segment-shaped projection 14. It is also conceivable that the annular segment-shaped projection 14, alone or additionally, exhibits differing elasticity along its extension from the outside to the inside.

[0065] The contact section 13 of the gas supply element 10 further comprises a through-hole 15 through which a fluid connection can be established between the supply line 11 of the gas supply element 10 and the first filling port 101 of the valve 100. In the filling position, the pressurized gas or liquefied gas can thus be introduced from the supply line 11 through the through-hole in the contact section 13 into the first filling port 101 of the valve 100. To enable this fluid path, it is necessary that the through-hole 15 of the gas supply element 10 is aligned with the first filling port 101 of the valve 100. In the present embodiment, this alignment is achieved by aligning the valve 100, in particular the valve housing 110, by the retaining element 20 such that, when transitioning to the filling position, the through-opening 15 of the gas supply element 10 is aligned with the first filling opening 101 of the valve 100.For this purpose, the retaining element 20 preferably comprises two mutually parallel key surfaces 24, which are provided on the 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 unique alignment of the valve housing 110 relative to the retaining 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 retaining element 20 for aligning the valve housing 110, on which the second filling opening can be received.

[0066] The retaining 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 retaining element 20 has a curved, in particular circularly cylindrical, contour. Furthermore, an annular segment-shaped projection 25 is provided as part of the sealing section 22. The elasticity of the sealing section 22 can be uniform over its entire extent or exhibit differing elasticity in the annular segment-shaped projection 25. It is also conceivable that the annular segment-shaped projection 25 alone or additionally exhibits differing elasticity along its extension from the outside to the inside.

[0067] 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 risk of gas which is introduced through the first filling opening 101 escaping undesirably through the second filling opening 102.

[0068] In the first embodiment, the gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 are designed such that, in the filling position, they do not together cover the entire circumference of the valve housing 110. In this respect, the gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 are designed as quarter-circle segments.

[0069] The Figs. 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 located in Fig. 13 are in the release position and in Fig. 14 in the filling position.

[0070] The filling device 1 according to the second embodiment is essentially the same as the filling device 1 according to the first embodiment. In contrast to the first embodiment, both the gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 are designed such that, in the filling position, they each cover half of the circumference of the valve housing 110. The gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 are thus designed as semicircular segments.

[0071] 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, for example, be biased into a closed position by a spring element, in which the closure element seals 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.

[0072] As an alternative to an actuating element 30, the valve can be opened by applying a predetermined gas pressure to the closing element - for example via the first filling opening 101 - in order to bring the closing element into an open position and to fill the valve.

[0073] The Fig. 15 Figure 1 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.

[0074] The gas cartridge 200 is placed against or inserted into the stop element 50, in particular such that a base area of ​​the container 120 of the gas cartridge 200 contacts the stop element 50. The valve housing 110 is thereby brought into contact with the centering element 40 such that two parallel wrench flats 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 thus aligned such that the valve 100 can be actuated via the actuating element 30 and the gas supply element 10, after being moved into the filling position, bears against the valve housing 110 in the area of ​​the first filling opening 101.

[0075] First, the actuating element 30 is brought into contact with the valve 100, and the valve 100, in particular a valve plunger of the valve 100, is actuated so that the valve 100 is open. During this process, or in a subsequent step, the gas supply element 10 and the retaining 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 liquid gas or pressurized gas via the gas supply element 10 through the first filling opening 101 of the open valve 100.

[0076] The Fig. 16Figure 1 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 include a centering element 40 – for example, as shown in Figure 1. Fig. 15 shown - include.

[0077] The gas cartridge 200 is placed on the positioning aid 60 and positioned against the stop element 50, specifically such that a base area of ​​the container 120 of the gas cartridge 200 contacts 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 wrench flats of the centering element 40 bear against corresponding surfaces on the outer contour of the valve housing 110. The gas cartridge 200, and 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, after being moved into the filling position, rests against the valve housing 110 in the area of ​​the first filling opening 101.

[0078] First, the actuating element 30 is brought into contact with the valve 100, and the valve 100, in particular a valve plunger of the valve 100, is actuated so that the valve is open. During this process, or in a subsequent step, the gas supply element 10 and the retaining 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 pressurized gas via the gas supply element 10 through the first filling opening 101 of the open valve 100.

[0079] The filling devices 1 according to Figs. 15 and 16 are suitable for filling 200g gas cartridges, which are arranged in a substantially horizontal position. Alternatively, the filling devices can be arranged according to... Figs. 15 and 16The gas cartridge 200 should be designed such that it is arranged essentially vertically, particularly during filling. This modification has the advantage that the stop element 50 can also be used as a means of transport, for example, to transport the gas cartridge to or from the filling device 1.

[0080] The Fig. 17 Figure 1 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.

[0081] The filling device 1 according to the fifth embodiment is essentially the same as the filling device 1 according to the first embodiment. In contrast to the first embodiment, the gas supply element 10 includes 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.

[0082] In the representation according to Fig. 17 The feed nozzle 16 is conical, i.e., designed as a hollow truncated cone. According to a modification of this embodiment, the feed nozzle 16 can be designed as a hollow cylinder, for example as a drawn tube.

[0083] Another modification of this embodiment provides that not only does the gas supply element 10 include a supply nozzle 16, but a supply nozzle is also provided on the retaining element 20, through which the second filling opening 102 of the valve 100 can be filled. For this purpose, the supply nozzle of the retaining element 20 is inserted into the second filling opening 102. In this modification as well, the supply nozzles can optionally be designed as a hollow truncated cone or a hollow cylinder.

[0084] With the filling devices 1 described above with reference to the exemplary embodiments, a method for filling a gas cartridge with compressed gas or liquefied gas through a valve 100 of the gas cartridge can be carried out, wherein the valve 100 has a valve housing 110 extending along a longitudinal axis L and at least one first filling opening 101 extending laterally to the longitudinal axis. In this method, the gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 are moved relative to each other from the release position to the filling position, and the gas supply element 10 and the retaining element 20 are arranged in the filling position such that they bear against the valve housing 110 located between the gas supply element 10 and the retaining 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.

[0085] The filling device 1 and the corresponding method, through the relatively movable gas supply element 10 and holding element 20, make it possible to bring the two elements into the filling position even when the valves 100 have an external geometry that deviates from a predetermined target geometry. It is therefore possible to fill such valves as well.

[0086] According to a modification of the previously described embodiments, the retaining element 20 can also have a supply line for feeding gas to the second filling opening in the filling position and, optionally, an additional supply nozzle. In this case, it is not necessary to seal the second filling opening. Instead, pressurized gas or liquefied gas can also be supplied to the gas cartridge via the second filling opening 102 of the valve 1. If the retaining element 20 includes a sealing section, this section then has a passage opening to provide a fluid path from the supply line to the second filling opening 102. Reference symbol list

[0087] 1 Filling device 10 Gas supply element 11 Supply line 12 Tray 13 Contact section 14 Projection 15 Passage opening 16 Supply nozzle 20 Retaining element 21 Tray 22 Sealing section 23 Centering element 24 Wrench flat 25 Projection 30 Actuating element 40 Centering element 50 Stop element 60 Positioning aid 100 Valve 101 Filling opening 102 Filling opening 103 Groove 104 Cartridge connection opening 105 Retaining element 106 Pressure relief valve 110 Valve housing 120 Container 200 Gas cartridge Longitudinal axis

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 retaining element (20), which are movable relative to each other between a release position and a filling position, wherein the gas supply element (10) and the retaining element (20) are further apart from each other 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 retaining element (20), wherein the gas supply element (10) and the retaining element (20) are arranged in the filling position such that they can abut against the valve housing (110) arranged between the gas supply element (10) and the retaining 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, 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, which has a curved, in particular circularly cylindrical curved, contour; and / or - the retaining element (20) has a sealing section (22) for sealing a second filling opening (102) in the filling position, which has a curved, in particular circularly cylindrically curved, contour.

2. Filling device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas supply element (10) and the retaining 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 contact section (13) of the gas supply element (10) has a projection (14), in particular in the form of an annular segment.

4. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact section (13) of the gas supply element (10) comprises 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).

5. 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.

6. Filling device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing section (22) of the retaining element (20) has a projection (25), in particular in the form of an annular segment.

7. 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).

8. 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).

9. 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).

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

11. Filling device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by a centering element (40) formed separately from the gas supply element (10) and the retaining element (20) for aligning the gas cartridge, in particular the valve of the gas cartridge (200).

12. Filling device according to claim 11, characterized in that the centering element (40) comprises two wrench flats arranged parallel to each other for engagement with corresponding parallel surfaces of an outer contour of the valve housing (110) in the filling position.

13. Method for filling a gas cartridge (200) with pressurized 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 retaining element (20), wherein the gas supply element (10) and the retaining element (20) are further apart from each other in a release position than in a filling position, and the valve housing (110) is positioned between the gas supply element (10) and the retaining element (20) in the release position, wherein the gas supply element (10) and the retaining element (20) are moved relative to each other from the release position to the filling position, wherein the gas supply element (10) and the retaining element (20) are arranged in the filling position in such a way that they abut against the valve housing (110) arranged between the gas supply element (10) and the retaining 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), characterized in that - the gas supply element (10) has an elastically deformable contact section (13) which contacts the valve housing (110) in the filling position, wherein the contact section (1) has a curved, in particular circularly cylindrical curved, contour; and / or - the retaining element (20) has a sealing section (22) which seals a second filling opening (102) in the filling position, wherein the sealing section (22) has a curved, in particular circularly cylindrically curved, contour.

14. Method according to claim 13, 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).

15. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the valve (100) has a closure element which is biased 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 space of the gas cartridge, wherein a predetermined gas pressure is applied to the at least one filling opening (101) in order to move the closure element into an open position.

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