Method and device for acting on a fluid in a container

Abstract

Method for acting on a fluid in a container, wherein a scraper (1) is guided along the inner wall of the container to scrape off fluid adhering to the inner wall of the container.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a method, a device, a system and a use for acting on a fluid in a container, in particular for liquefying and removing a thixotropic fluid from a container. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] It is known that, under certain circumstances, a fluid present in a container may need to be prepared for later use and / or acted upon in order to achieve the desired results during subsequent processing and / or the intended use of the fluid. This use may, for example, also involve removing the fluid from a container. Such preparation and / or actuation is often performed manually. This is usually laborious and may also not lead to satisfactory results. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The object of the invention is to simplify and / or improve the action on a fluid in a container. In particular, the fluid should be removed as effectively as possible, so that as little waste as possible, for example in the form of residual amounts, is created in the container or remains there after the removal process. A further aspect of the invention is to liquefy fluids. This also simplifies subsequent processing and / or removal from a container.

[0004] The object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are the subject matter of dependent claims and further embodiments cited in the description.

[0005] The invention enables at least partial automation of work steps for acting on the fluid. It has been recognized that different, but also complementary, aspects of the invention can solve the problem or independently contribute to solving it, whereby the various aspects can also be advantageously combined.

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a scraper is used in the container containing fluid to mechanically detach ("scrape") material adhering to the fluid from the inner wall of the container, at least temporarily. For this purpose, the scraper is brought into at least partial contact with the inner wall and guided along the inner wall in such a way that at least a portion of the fluid is scraped from the inner wall. The scraping within the meaning of the invention does not have to be complete. Scraping within the meaning of the invention also occurs if only a portion of the fluid is scraped off. This does not preclude the fluid from coming into contact with the inner wall of the container again after the scraping.

[0007] The fluid stripped off according to the invention, or portions thereof, can advantageously be discharged from the container, for example, by feeding it to an opening. It is advantageously sucked out of the container. This can improve emptying of the container, and in particular, the residual amounts remaining in the container can be reduced.

[0008] The invention thus provides a method for acting on a fluid in a container, wherein a wiper is guided along the inner wall of the container in order to remove fluid adhering to the inner wall of the container.

[0009] The term "action" in the sense of the description encompasses a mechanical action on the fluid. The action may include moving at least a portion of the fluid. In the context of the description, the term "action" may also encompass more or additional actions than mechanical action on the fluid itself. The conceptual content of the term "action" may arise from the context. Since the "action" may be the basis for the preparation or the basis for the processing or use of the fluid, the mechanical action may be an activity that is present—independent of further preparation and / or use steps.

[0010] The term "fluid" in the sense of the invention encompasses a mass that continuously deforms under the influence of shear forces. The fluid particularly includes highly viscous and / or thixotropic masses. Masses in the sense of the invention encompass substances or compositions. The compositions can be single-phase or multi-phase, such as suspensions, dispersions, pastes, or emulsions.

[0011] In an advantageous embodiment, the fluid is a mass with a dynamic viscosity at 23°C of at least 2000 mPas, preferably at least 3000 mPas, more preferably at least 4000 mPas. In an equally preferred embodiment, the fluid has a dynamic viscosity at 23°C of between 2000 mPas and 20,000 mPas. The dynamic viscosity can be measured using methods known to those skilled in the art (e.g., according to DIN EN ISO 2431 or DIN EN ISO 3219).

[0012] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the fluid is thixotropic. The term "thixotropic" also encompasses partially thixotropic.

[0013] The term "container" in the context of this description encompasses a device having a hollow space. It may be intended that the fluid can be sold, transported, and / or filled in the container. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a container can be used in which the fluid is provided or sold to a user or operator who wishes to act on the fluid for use or in preparation for use. In this embodiment, the container is therefore a ready-to-use container. This allows resources to be conserved and waste to be avoided. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for a method, device, and / or system to be adapted to the container in order to achieve improved results during the actuation.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment, the total volume of the container is at least 5 l, preferably at least 7 l, more preferably at least 10 l. However, even larger volumes, e.g. 20 l and more, are also possible.

[0015] The geometric design of the container can promote improved residual emptying, for example, by having a side wall that tapers conically toward the bottom. Furthermore, a side wall with a smooth inner surface and / or a bottom with a smooth inner surface is preferred. Preferably, the inner surfaces also have no steps and / or discontinuities. A container with a conically tapered side wall is particularly preferred.

[0016] An adaptation of a device to the container within the meaning of the invention can comprise the provision of a cover for the container, which can rest on the container and can, for example, have openings for suction or return of the fluid from or into the container. The cover can be designed such that it rests on the container. It can be provided that the cover can be fastened to the container in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner. Such a fastening offers the advantage that the cover and any openings present in the cover can be positioned and can remain in that position for the duration of the application.

[0017] An advantageous embodiment provides for the cover to be firmly connected to the intake line and / or the return line. In this embodiment, the cover and the lines form a solid unit. This improves handling.

[0018] The term "inner wall" as used in this description includes the side wall of the container. The term "inner wall" as used in this description can also include at least a portion of the bottom of the container in addition to the side wall(s). Where the terms "wall" and "wall" are used, it is immediately clear from the context that the terms can be used synonymously.

[0019] The term "scraper" in the sense of the invention encompasses a component or element designed to be at least partially brought into contact with the inner wall of the container and to be moved within the container while maintaining contact at least temporarily, thereby removing fluid adhesions to the inner wall. The scraper can differ from an agitator in that the scraper does not necessarily move the fluid that is not present in the area of ​​the inner wall of the container during its movement. The scraper can be designed in such a way that it does not function as an agitator, since the scraper does not move the entire fluid.

[0020] The scraper can be designed and arranged in such a way that it is guided along the bottom and / or the side wall of the container during movement, so that material adhering to the bottom and / or the side wall is scraped off.

[0021] The movement of the wiper is preferably achieved by means of a drive, so that a user or operator who wishes to influence the fluid does not have to perform this task manually. In addition to the drive for the wiper, a gear or transmission element can also be provided, which can be used to achieve a speed or rotational speed for the wiper's movement.

[0022] According to a further aspect of the invention, the fluid is pumped around in the container. It is preferably fed out of the container and back again. The pumping around can bring about homogenization of the fluid, which is otherwise typically only achieved by stirring. The pumping around makes it possible to dispense with an agitator and any motor provided for driving the agitator, which can reduce maintenance because there are fewer components to maintain. In an advantageous embodiment, the device therefore has no agitator. A agitator is defined in particular by the fact that it sets significant portions of the fluid in a container in motion.

[0023] This simplifies the design of the device used to carry out the process. Instead of a stirring device, a pump designed to remove the fluid from the container can also be used to homogenize the fluid.

[0024] With the aid of the pumping process according to the invention, homogenization results can be achieved that are equivalent to those of stirring, or even better.

[0025] The invention thus provides a method for acting on a fluid in a container, wherein the fluid is pumped out of the container and returned to the container. The above statements regarding advantageous embodiments, in particular of the fluid and the container, apply here accordingly.

[0026] The term "recirculation" in the context of the invention encompasses the process by which a fluid that has been pumped out of a container returns to the container. The pump that pumped the fluid out of the container can continue to act on the fluid pumped out of the container, causing the fluid to return to the container under pumping action. However, it is also possible for the fluid pumped out of the container to essentially flow back into the container.

[0027] The term "homogenization" as used herein encompasses the homogenization of a fluid property across the entire volume of fluid present in the container. For example, the density and / or viscosity of the fluid can be homogenized across the entire volume in the container. Advantageously, homogenizing a thixotropic fluid first involves lowering and then homogenizing the viscosity.

[0028] It is particularly preferred that the two aforementioned aspects of the invention—that is, stripping the fluid from the inner wall of the container and pumping it around for the purpose of homogenization—be combined. It is particularly advantageous that a stirring element can be dispensed with.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the method may comprise a step in which the fluid withdrawn from the container is mixed with at least one other (second) fluid. The method thus also comprises a subsequent mixing step. The mixing can also be carried out at least partially automated.

[0030] If a "further fluid" is described, it is not excluded that a further (i.e., third) fluid may also be used. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid is mixed with another fluid, with the fluid being stripped and pumped around beforehand.

[0031] Alternatively, it can also be provided that the fluid is mixed with another fluid before the fluid is stripped and pumped around.

[0032] If the mixing of fluids, i.e., the fluid and at least one other fluid, is described, this can refer to any combination of fluids. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid within the meaning of the description can be a curable component.

[0033] For the purposes of the description, a curable component includes a liquid which can preferably harden through a polymerization reaction, in particular through the addition of a further component, the hardener.

[0034] The curable component can be a curable resin. The resin component can be a liquid or liquefiable natural or synthetic resin, preferably a synthetic resin, which cures to thermosets or elastomers through polymerization, polyaddition, or polycondensation. Preferred resins are selected from the group consisting of polyurethane, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyurea, vinyl ester, polyester, epoxy, polyacrylate, or styrene-butadiene rubber, or mixtures thereof.

[0035] The resin can be present as a prepolymer. "Prepolymers" within the meaning of the invention are oligomeric or already polymeric compounds that serve as precursors or intermediates for the synthesis of high-molecular-weight substances. In a preferred embodiment, the curable component comprises at least one polymethyl methacrylate resin (PMMA resin) or a polyurethane. The curable component is preferably cured by polyaddition or radical polymerization.

[0036] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the fluid is a curable PMMA resin. This applies to both aspects of the invention, i.e., the wiping and the pumping. This applies particularly to the combination of both aspects.

[0037] Preferably, the combination of the aspects, in particular for a PMMA resin as a fluid, is used to provide a curable sealing compound at the place of its use, i.e. on a construction site.

[0038] The curing of the fluid, preferably the polymerization of the resin, can be initiated by a curing agent, in particular comprising an initiator or catalyst.

[0039] The additional fluid is preferably a hardener component comprising an initiator. Common polymerization initiators and catalysts are well known, and the hardener component can be freely selected from these.

[0040] The further fluid may be a hardener component which may be adapted to the (first) fluid in order to cause the (first) fluid to harden when mixed with the (first) fluid.

[0041] The further fluid may in particular comprise an azo compound or a peroxide.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the further fluid is a hardener component comprising a peroxide, in particular an organic peroxide, preferably selected from the group consisting of benzoyl peroxide, hydroperoxides, dicumyl peroxide and methyl ethyl ketone peroxide.

[0043] To ensure that the hardener is added to the resin in a quantity and concentration suitable for polymerization, it is advantageous to reliably dose the hardener component. Under these circumstances, reliable dosing that results in the desired mixing ratio presents a particular challenge, especially because the percentage of the hardener, usually supplied in larger quantities, in the mixture is often only in the low single-digit range, particularly between 2-6%.

[0044] For the purposes of the description, mixing can be carried out in a static mixer. Static mixers are known to those skilled in the art from their general technical knowledge. Mixing can be performed within a device, with a downstream dispensing device.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the scraper is arranged in the container, preferably centrally.

[0046] The rotational speed of the scraper is preferably less than 30 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 25 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 20 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 15 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 10 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 5 revolutions / min, rotated in the container.

[0047] In particular, the scraper can be rotated at a rotational speed of essentially 2 revolutions per minute. This allows for a low speed that is perfectly sufficient to scrape off the material deposits on the inner wall, rather than the speed typically required for stirring with the objective of mixing. This eliminates the energy input, both in the form of the required voltage or current for driving a stirring element, and only requires minimal power consumption.

[0048] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the scraper is moved at a predetermined speed, particularly intermittently, i.e., discontinuously. It is not excluded that the scraper is also moved continuously, but pauses between the movement phases are particularly possible. This fulfills the purpose of the scraper and also reduces the drive energy required to move the scraper. In particular, the scraper can be operated intermittently at a speed of 2 revolutions / min.

[0049] The scraper can be used to empty the container.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, a suction line and the wiper are arranged such that the moving wiper supplies fluid to the suction line. In particular, the wiper can be arranged around the end of the suction line.

[0051] The design and / or material of the wiper can be selected such that the edge and / or bottom of the wiper has elasticity that allows it to adapt to changes in the shape of the side wall and / or bottom of the container. This makes it possible for the wiper to compensate for changes in the shape of the container, for example, resulting from transport. In particular, a deformation, particularly in the form of a bulge, in the side wall and / or bottom can be compensated for. A design and / or material can be selected on the wiper or for the wiper that allows an adaptation in shape with sufficient contact to effect wiping and / or supply of the fluid to the suction line.

[0052] The invention also provides a device for acting on a fluid in a container, the device comprising a wiper which can be arranged in the container and which is adapted to the inner wall of the container in order to be guided along the inner wall of the container when inserted into the container in order to wipe off fluid adhering to the inner wall of the container.

[0053] The term "scraper" as used in this description refers to an element in the device design that has a shaft from which at least one radially extending contact element extends to contact the inner wall of the container. The contact element may have a non-rectilinear radial extension. More than one contact element is possible on the shaft, and it may be preferred that the radially extending contact elements arranged on the shaft be arranged at an angular equidistant distance around the shaft. In particular, two contact elements may be provided, between which there is an angle of substantially 180° around the shaft. In a preferred embodiment, the contact element(s) has an opening so that the fluid can "flow through the contact element." Thus, the contact element does not displace the fluid present outside the area on the inner wall.When the contact element moves, the fluid is not forced or displaced; rather, the fluid can flow through the aperture when the contact element(s) is / are moved relative to the fluid. The wiper can be moved, particularly rotationally driven, by the shaft. The drive can be provided by a motor. A transmission or gear between the motor and the wiper or shaft is possible.

[0054] The configuration in which the wiper is adapted with its outer contour to the inner wall of the container encompasses, within the meaning of the description, a configuration in which the outer contour of the wiper is designed to complement the inner wall of the container. In particular, an outer contour adapted to the inner wall of the container can have a configuration in which the outer contour of the wiper runs essentially parallel to the inner wall of the container when the wiper is inserted into the container.

[0055] The contact element(s) can be designed with its / their design in radial extension such that when the contact element moves, the first component can move in the direction of the intake pipe.

[0056] The wiper can have a hollow shaft with an elastic lip, in particular comprising an elastic material, preferably rubber. The intake line for the fluid can be mounted in the hollow shaft. The elastic lip can contact the side wall and / or the bottom of the container. Due to the arrangement and movement of the wiper, it can supply fluid to the intake line. In particular, the wiper and intake line can be arranged concentrically in the container, with the intake line being located centrally in the container. In particular, the intake line can be arranged at the bottom of the container.

[0057] Struts can be provided on the wiper between the hollow shaft and the lip, which are shaped in such a way that, when the wiper moves, they cause the fluid to circulate essentially from top to bottom and from outside to inside. Struts with a suitable curvature can be provided, which, when the wiper moves, move the fluid, especially at the bottom of the container, toward the center of the container.

[0058] The invention also provides a device for acting on a fluid in a container, the device comprising a suction line and a return line which are designed to be guided into the container with the first component.

[0059] The term "suction line" as used herein refers to a line that can be connected to a pump or can be connected to a pump to suck the fluid out of the container. The suction line can have a section that extends into the container and through which the fluid can be pumped out of the container.

[0060] The term "return line" as used herein refers to a line through which the fluid that has left the container can be returned to the container. The return line can be located at an opening in the container and / or extend into the container from above.

[0061] It can be provided that the intake line and / or the return line can be routed through a cover on the container. In particular, the return line and / or the intake line can extend through the cover. Openings or apertures adapted to the outer contour and outer diameter of the intake line and / or the return line, in which the intake line and / or the return line can be fixed, can be provided in the cover.

[0062] The aspect of the device concerning the suction line and the return line can be combined with the aspect of the scraper.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the suction line comprises a suction pipe which has a length adapted to the container, so that an opening formed on the suction pipe ends just above the bottom of the container.

[0064] The term "intake pipe" as used herein encompasses a tubular element or a tubular section that can have any configuration with regard to its inner and / or outer cross-section. A round configuration is possible, but not mandatory. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the intake pipe is round, in particular circular.

[0065] For the purposes of the description, the term "just above the bottom" includes a distance between the opening of the intake pipe and the bottom that is just small enough to allow the first component to flow towards the intake pipe, but just small enough to ensure proper emptying of the container.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the suction pipe can be arranged substantially centrally to the container, whereby the possibility for good residual emptying can be increased, since the first component can flow evenly towards the suction pipe from all sides.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the intake pipe has an open end. This allows for an opening to be provided on the intake pipe for suction, which is located at the longitudinal end of the intake pipe, thus enabling a simple design that can also be used for efficient residual emptying. The intake pipe can, in particular, be designed with an open end, which simplifies the design, construction, and / or maintenance of the device.

[0068] However, in an alternative and / or additional embodiment, it may also be possible for at least one radially aligned opening to be provided at the end of the intake pipe, whereby it can be created that the intake pipe stands on the bottom of the container with its end directed into the container and the fluid is sucked in via the radially aligned opening(s).

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, a non-return valve is arranged in the intake pipe. The non-return valve can reduce the possibility of the first component sucked into the intake pipe flowing back into the container.

[0070] The term "check valve" as used herein encompasses any element acting on a fluid flow that allows fluid to flow in only one direction. The check valve ensures that the fluid in the intake pipe can only flow in the direction of suction. A check valve can be designed, in particular, as a check valve or a flap valve.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the scraper comprises a hollow shaft and a contact element extending radially from the hollow shaft for contact with the inner wall of the container, wherein the contact element has an opening. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the hollow shaft is arranged rotatably around the intake pipe.

[0072] The term "rotatably arranged" in the sense of the description includes the possibility that the hollow shaft or the wiper can rotate around the intake pipe without the intake pipe itself having to rotate.

[0073] The term "hollow shaft" as used in this description refers to a shaft that is adapted, at least in sections, to the outer contour of the intake manifold. A round or circular inner cross-section of the hollow shaft is preferred to enable uniform movement.

[0074] The term "opening" as used in this description encompasses any shape and other configuration that allows the first component to flow through the opening when the first contact element is moved relative to the first component. A geometric configuration of the opening that is simple and can be realized using easily constructed shapes is preferred. However, shapes for the opening that merely allow the first component to flow through the opening are also possible.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, the wiper comprises an elastic material. This ensures that no excessive friction is generated during contact between the wiper and the inner wall of the container. Excessive friction could have a detrimental effect on the drive of the wiper and / or cause increased wear on the wiper or even damage the container when the wiper is moved along the inner wall. If it is described that the wiper comprises an elastic material, this includes, within the meaning of the description, that the wiper can consist essentially of the elastic material.However, in a preferred embodiment, it can also be provided that the elastic material encloses a support structure which is part of the wiper, so that the support structure gives the wiper a stable shape and the enclosing reduces friction by means of the elastic material.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the intake line has a mechanical interface. A mechanical interface enables the use of a modular structure. For example, the described device can be adapted to the container of the fluid in terms of intake pipe and / or wiper and / or a cover and essentially comprise the required components. It can be provided that the device can have further components in addition to the components mentioned, such as a cover. It can also be provided that a receptacle with lines for a container of a further fluid can be part of the device. By means of the receptacle, the container can be connected to the further fluid and the lines can ensure the flow of the further fluid desired for the action.It can also be provided that a cavity and lines can be part of the device, whereby the additional fluid can be introduced or filled into the cavity. In addition to or as an alternative to other components, it can be provided that a gear, a converter, or a gear-like unit can be part of the device for moving the wiper, which can ensure that the wiper is guided at a desired speed along the inner wall of the container for the first component. For example, it is possible to use two interacting elements to ensure the speed or rotational speed of the wiper.It is possible, for example, that two or more elements, in particular gears, interacting in a certain ratio are provided in order in particular to enable the scraper to be guided along the inner wall of the container at a substantially predetermined number of revolutions.

[0077] A gear or converter for the scraper can be designed by means of two gears, one of which can be a drive gear that can be connected to a drive, and the other of the two can be a scraper gear as an output gear that meshes with the drive gear.

[0078] The term "mechanical interface" as used in this description refers to a mechanical interface that enables a connection. The connection can be implemented in the form of a plug-in, screw-in, plug-in-screw, or any other connection. The mechanical interface can enable a fastening or fixation, whereby the intake line can be connected to another line in such a way that flow from the intake line into the other line is possible.

[0079] It may also be possible that any return line present has a mechanical interface.

[0080] It can be provided that the device forming a module can be connected to a module comprising one or more pumps. A modular design opens up the possibility of simplified transport, simpler maintenance, and / or increased flexibility with regard to different first and additional components.

[0081] The invention also provides a system for acting on a fluid in a container, comprising a device for acting on a fluid and a device adapted to the container. This allows the components that must be adapted to the container to be present independently of other components and / or modules. For example, it is possible for the device to be adapted to the container, but for the other components or modules to be used independently of the container.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises a pump with a connection to the device. The connection can be a connection option with the mechanical interface. In particular, multiple pumps can be present. The number of pumps can correspond to the number of fluids. With a number of pumps corresponding to the number of fluids, the fluids can be pumped or conveyed independently of one another and, in particular, a predetermined mixing ratio of the fluids can be achieved if necessary.

[0083] If it is described that a pump can be provided, it is possible for the pump to be part of another module that can supplement the module with the scraper and / or the intake line. The module with the pump(s) can also optionally include a drive for the scraper. The module with the pumps can also include a power supply, in particular in the form of a voltage source, which can be configured as a battery or accumulator.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises a control unit configured to control the pump with respect to the amount of fluid to be pumped from the container. The control unit can optionally control multiple pumps.

[0085] The term "control unit" as used in this description encompasses an electrical or electronic device that is functionally coupled to the pump(s) to generate and / or transmit signals for controlling the pump(s). A unidirectional connection between the control unit and the pump(s) may be preferred; however, it is not excluded that the control unit also receives signals. The control unit can be connected to an operator or user interface to transmit parameters for the action and / or start / stop signals to the control unit, so that it can, for example, control the pumps as desired by the user.

[0086] The module with the pumps can contain the control unit.

[0087] The module with the pumps can have a drive for the scraper. The control unit can be functionally coupled to the drive for the scraper in order to generate and / or forward signals for controlling the drive for the scraper. A unidirectional connection between the control unit and the drive for the scraper can be preferred; however, it is not excluded that the control unit also receives signals. It can be provided that the speed or rpm for the scraper can be changed via the operator or user interface. If the control unit for the pump(s) is also referred to as a control unit for the drive for the scraper, it goes without saying that an additional control unit for the drive of the scraper can also be provided.

[0088] Using the control unit, if mixing two components is desired, the fluid can first be pumped out of the container and returned to homogenize the fluid. After homogenization, the control unit can automatically perform the mixing process by controlling the pumps for the fluids to be mixed according to the mixing ratio.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises a control unit configured to drive a motor for moving the scraper, wherein the control unit is configured to rotate the scraper in the container, in particular at intervals, at a rotational speed of less than 30 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 25 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 20 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 15 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 10 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 5 revolutions / min.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises a triple valve, by means of which fluid can be selectively returned from the container to the container via a return line. A simple design of different flow paths is possible. In particular, the fluid can be homogenized first and then mixed with another fluid. To do this, only the position of the triple valve needs to be changed.

[0091] The invention also provides a use of a device or system for acting on a fluid in a container, wherein a wiper is used to wipe the fluid from the inner wall of the container.

[0092] The invention also provides a use of a device or system for acting on a fluid in a container, wherein a pump is used to pump the fluid out of the container and to return the fluid pumped out of the container back to the container.

[0093] The invention is described with respect to one or more aspects of a method, a device, a system, and a use. The description of each of the named categories and aspects complements the other statements relating to the categories and / or aspects, so that in particular the description of the device and / or system comprising the device can be used to describe the method and / or the use. The categories and / or aspects complement each other and can be freely exchanged, supplemented, and / or used with regard to their formal design of device features, method features, and use features.

[0094] As used herein, the terms "comprise" and "comprise" include, in addition to a literal meaning, the terms "consist essentially of" and "consist of" and refer specifically to them. Thus, the terms "comprise" and "comprise" refer both to embodiments in which the subject matter "comprises" or "comprises" the specifically listed elements does not include any other elements, and to embodiments in which the subject matter "comprises" or "comprises" the specifically listed elements may include and / or does include other elements.

[0095] Further objects, features, advantages, and aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description and the appended claims. However, it should be understood that the following description, the appended claims, and the specific examples showing preferred embodiments of the invention are given for illustrative purposes only. Various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosed invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following. FIGURES

[0096] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a scraper in an isometric view; Fig. 2 shows the scraper of Fig. 1 in a view from above; Fig. 3 shows the scraper of the Fig. 1 and 2 in a side view; Fig. 4shows a schematic representation of a device with a suction line; and Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a system for mixing two fluids. SPECIAL DESCRIPTION

[0097] The Figures 1 to 3 show a scraper 1 that is used to scrape material deposits on the inner wall of a container. In the illustrated embodiment, the scraper 1 has a hollow shaft 2 and two contact elements 3 extending radially from the hollow shaft 2. The contact elements 3 are not designed to cover the entire surface, but each have an opening 4.

[0098] Fig. 4shows a schematic representation of a device 5 having an intake line 7 with an intake pipe 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the intake line 7 is connected to a cover 8 for a container 9 containing a fluid. A mechanical interface 10 is formed at the end of the intake line 7, by means of which the intake line 7 can be selectively connected to a pump line.

[0099] Fig. 5 schematically shows a system for mixing two fluids, wherein a module 11 is provided with the intake lines 12, 13 for the fluids contained in the containers 14, 15. The intake lines 12, 13 are connected to supply lines to pumps 18, 19 via mechanical interfaces 16, 17. The pumps 18, 19 are controlled via a control unit 34, which is functionally connected to the pumps 18, 19.

[0100] The pumps are components of a second module 35.

[0101] A triple valve 22 is provided for homogenizing the fluid in the container 14 prior to mixing. During homogenization, only the pump 18 operates, and the triple valve 22 is switched so that the fluid pumped from the container 14 is returned to the container 14 via the return line 23, which is connected to the triple valve 22 via a mechanical interface 24. The triple valve 22 is also switched via the control unit 34.

[0102] After homogenization, the triple valve 22 is switched by the control unit 34 so that the fluid from the container 14, as well as the fluid from the container 15, is fed to a mixer 25. The pumping volume of the pumps 18, 19 is controlled by the control unit 34 according to the specified mixing ratio.

[0103] In the lines upstream of the mixer 25, a check valve 26, 27 is provided for each fluid.

Claims

1. A method for acting on a fluid in a container, wherein a wiper is guided along the inner wall of the container in order to wipe off fluid adhering to the inner wall of the container.

2. A method for acting on a fluid in a container, in particular according to claim 1, wherein the fluid is pumped out of the container and returned to the container.

3. A method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the fluid from the container is mixed with another fluid.

4. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, when dependent on claim 1, wherein the scraper is arranged centrally in the container and is rotated in the container at a rotational speed of less than 30 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 25 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 20 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 15 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 10 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 5 revolutions / min.

5. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a suction line and the wiper are arranged relative to one another in such a way that the moving wiper supplies fluid to the suction line, so that in particular a residual emptying is achieved.

6. Device for acting on a fluid in a container, the device comprising a wiper which can be arranged in the container and which is adapted to the inner wall of the container in order to be guided along the inner wall of the container when inserted into the container in order to wipe off fluid adhering to the inner wall of the container.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the wiper is disposed around a suction line, and the wiper and the suction line are disposed relative to one another such that the wiper, as it moves, supplies fluid to one end of the suction line.

8. Device for acting on a fluid in a container, in particular according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the device has a suction line and a return line which are designed to be led into the container with the fluid.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the suction line comprises a suction pipe which has a length adapted to the container, so that an opening formed on the suction pipe ends just above the bottom of the container.

10. Device according to claim 9, wherein the suction pipe can be arranged substantially centrally to the container.

11. Apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the intake pipe has an open end.

12. Device according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein a check valve is arranged in the intake pipe.

13. Device according to one of claims 9 to 12, when dependent on claim 6, wherein the scraper comprises a hollow shaft and a contact element extending radially from the hollow shaft for contact with the inner wall of the container, wherein the contact element has an opening.

14. Apparatus according to claim 6 or any one of claims 7 to 13 when dependent on claim 6, wherein the wiper comprises an elastic material.

15. Apparatus according to claim 8 or any one of claims 9 to 14 when dependent on claim 8, wherein the intake line has a mechanical interface.

16. A system for acting on a fluid in a container comprising a device for acting on a fluid and a device adapted to the container according to one of claims 6 to 15.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the system comprises a pump having a connection to the device of any one of claims 6 to 15.

18. The system according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the system comprises a control unit configured to control the pump module with respect to the amount of fluid to be pumped from the container.

19. System according to claim 16 to 18, wherein the system comprises a control unit which is designed to drive a motor for moving the scraper, wherein the control unit is designed to rotate the scraper at a rotational speed of less than 30 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 25 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 20 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 15 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 10 revolutions / min, particularly preferably less than 5 revolutions / min, in the container, in particular at intervals.

20. System according to one of claims 16 to 19, wherein a 3-way valve is provided by means of which fluid can be selectively returned from the container to the container via a return line.

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