Fixing device for a container and system for processing containers

Abstract

The invention relates to a clamping device for temporarily securing a container (12), in particular a pharmaceutical container, to a weighing device (30) of a system (10) for processing containers (12), comprising a clamping device (38) and a support device (39). The clamping device (38) comprises a container receiving area (75) into which the container (12) can be inserted and removed, at least one clamping element (67) for securing the container (12) in the container receiving area (75), and a contact body (80). The support device (39) comprises a support body (49) and a connecting body (41), which is connected to the support body (49) for connection to the weighing device (30), and the clamping device (38) rests on the support body (49) via the contact body (80).The contact body (80) is designed to move relative to the support body (49) in response to the force acting on the clamping device (38), particularly on at least one clamping element (67), when the container (12) is inserted into the container receiving area (75) and / or when the container (12) is removed from said area. The invention also relates to a system for processing containers (12), particularly pharmaceutical containers.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a fixing device for temporarily fixing a container, in particular a pharmaceutical container, to a weighing device of a system for processing containers, in particular pharmaceutical containers.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a system for processing containers.

[0003] In such a system, containers, such as syringes, cartridges, ampoules, and / or vials, typically pass through various processing devices, also known as processing stations, from an inlet to an outlet. For example, containers fed in via the inlet are first weighed, then filled with a product, weighed again, sealed, and discharged via the outlet. It is conceivable that the processing devices are spatially and functionally combined. For instance, only one weighing device is used, where the containers are first weighed empty (tare weighing), filled, and then weighed in their filled state (gross weighing).

[0004] The containers in question may be pharmaceutical containers, such as syringes, cartridges, ampoules, and / or vials. In this context, "container" may also include other types of packaging, such as cosmetic containers. The product may be a pharmaceutical substance.

[0005] For transporting the containers, the system typically includes a transport device. With a timed transport device, the containers are processed, for example, in groups or individually. For this purpose, the containers must be temporarily placed or fixed on a processing device, preferably in a defined position. If the system includes a weighing device, it is particularly important to ensure that the containers assume a defined target position and are preferably not moved during the weighing process. With regard to potential overloading and / or a short settling time of the load cell, it is advantageous if the forces acting on the load cell when placing the container onto the fixing device on the weighing device and when removing the container from the weighing device can be kept as low as possible.

[0006] For stable containers, especially vials, this can be easily implemented because the stable containers can be placed on a support element attached to the load cell. A fixing device is therefore unnecessary. The situation is different for so-called non-stable containers, which, due to their geometry, cannot stand on their own and therefore must be fixed in another way. Examples of non-stable containers include syringes (including any needle guard), cartridges, ampoules, or other types of packaging that cannot stand upright independently due to their geometry.

[0007] EP 2 949 353 A2 discloses a method for treating or processing containers used to store or containing substances for medical, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic applications. The containers are automatically conveyed past or through at least one process station by means of a conveying device. In this method, a plurality of containers are conveyed by the conveying device while being held together in a regular arrangement on a support. For treatment or processing at or within the respective process station, the containers are raised to an elevated position and, after treatment or processing, lowered again to be held in the regular arrangement on the support.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a fixing device for a container, particularly a pharmaceutical one, for use with a weighing device of a container processing system, wherein the fixing device ensures a higher level of process reliability. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a container processing system comprising a weighing device and a fixing device.

[0009] This problem is solved by a fixing device according to the invention for temporarily fixing a container, in particular a pharmaceutical container, to a weighing device of a system for processing containers. The fixing device comprises a holding device and a support device, wherein the holding device comprises a container receptacle into which the container can be inserted and from which the container can be removed, at least one holding element for holding the container in the container receptacle, and a support body. The support device comprises a support body and a connecting body connected to the support body for connecting to the weighing device. The holding device rests on the support body via the support body, and the support body is designed to be movable relative to the support body depending on a force acting on the holding device, in particular on the at least one holding element.when inserting the container into the container holder and / or when removing the container from the container holder.

[0010] In the fixing device according to the invention, the holding element rests on the support element, with the support body resting on the support element. These two bodies are movable relative to each other. If a force acts on the holding element, the holding element can be moved relative to the support element, and thus the holding element can be moved relative to the support element. This relative movement makes it possible, at least to some extent, to decouple the holding element from the support element with respect to the acting force. The force acting on the support element, which can be transmitted to the load cell of the weighing device, is thereby preferably reduced compared to the force acting on the holding element. In particular, the fixing device can accordingly include or incorporate a force decoupling device.The force acting on the holding device arises, for example, from the fact that the container comes into contact with the at least one holding element and / or the container receptacle when inserted. Conversely, when removing the container from the receptacle, it may come into contact with the holding element. Accordingly, the force on the holding device can act, for example, in an insertion direction of the container and / or in a removal direction of the container.

[0011] By reducing the force acting on the load cell, for example, excessively high loads on the load cell, which could potentially lead to damage, can be avoided. Furthermore, the settling behavior of the weighing device is improved because the settling time is reduced. Another advantage of the invention can be, in particular, a reduction in the risk of damage to the container when inserting it into and / or removing it from the container holder, because the holding device is non-rigidly connected to the support device and thus to the weighing device.

[0012] The present invention incorporates the consideration that the weight of the container is determined, or can be determined, together with the weight of the clamping device, at the load cell of the weighing device during both tare and gross weighing. The weight of the clamping device can be subtracted as an offset from the total weight determined by the load cell to ascertain the container weight. This is equivalent to treating the weight of the clamping device as the "zero point" of the weight determined by the load cell.

[0013] Position and orientation specifications such as "above," "above," "below," or the like refer to the intended use of the fixing device. "Relying" in this context means, in particular, that the support body is positioned directly above the support body in relation to the direction of gravity and is in contact with it.

[0014] It may be designed so that the holding device has exactly one container receptacle for only one container.

[0015] The fixing device according to the invention proves to be particularly advantageous for weighing non-standing containers such as syringes, cartridges, ampoules or other types of packaging which cannot stand upright on their own due to their geometry.

[0016] Ideally, the holding device rests solely on the support body and the support body.

[0017] Preferably, the holding device and the support device, in particular the support body and the support body, are loosely in contact with each other.

[0018] The holding device and the support device, in particular the support body and the support body, are preferably free from a particularly fixed mechanical connection to each other.

[0019] The holding device and the support device, in particular the support body and the bearing body, are preferably free of a joint with movably connected joint elements. In particular, for example, a pivot joint and / or a sliding joint can be omitted.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the holding device can, for example, be placed on the support device in the direction of gravity and lifted from the support device against the direction of gravity and thereby detached from it.

[0021] It is advantageous if the container can be inserted into the container receptacle in a defined insertion direction and / or removed from the container receptacle in a defined removal direction. The insertion and removal directions are preferably opposite to each other.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the insertion direction and / or the removal direction is arranged, in particular, in a horizontal plane.

[0023] The clamping device is preferably designed such that the insertion direction and / or the removal direction is oriented transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the extension direction of the container. Containers such as syringes, cartridges, or ampoules are longitudinally elongated and define an extension direction. By inserting and / or removing the container transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the extension direction, a lifting motion during transfer and / or removal can be avoided, as well as any resulting abrasion of machine parts.

[0024] The holding device can be movable relative to the support device in different ways.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the holding device is designed to be tiltable relative to the support device when the container is inserted into the container receptacle and / or removed from the container receptacle. For example, two opposite tilting directions can be provided. For instance, the holding device tilts rearward relative to the support device, with respect to the insertion direction, when the container is inserted into the container receptacle. When the container is removed, the holding device tilts forward relative to the support device, in the opposite direction.

[0026] The force exerted on the holding device during insertion and / or removal of the container leads in particular to a tilting moment on the holding device.

[0027] In this context, "inserting" can also be understood as "introducing", and vice versa.

[0028] The holding device may be designed to be displaceable relative to the support device. For example, a displacement in two opposite directions may occur depending on the direction of movement of the container and the associated force on the holding device.

[0029] It is advantageous if the fixing device or the system for processing containers comprises a stationary stop element with at least one first stop element, wherein the holding device comprises at least one corresponding second stop element for interaction with the at least one first stop element, and wherein the stop elements limit the range of movement of the holding device relative to the support device in at least one direction, preferably in two directions. The stop elements allow movement of the holding device relative to the support device within a certain range of motion, but limit the range of movement when the stop elements abut each other. This is preferably possible when inserting and / or removing the container in order to limit the range of movement in two directions.The stop elements can preferably also limit the force acting on the support device and thus on the weighing device.

[0030] In this context, "stationary" is to be understood in particular as meaning that the stop element is immovably held on the system according to the invention or on a component of the system, for example on a frame or substructure. Preferably, the stop element is held neither on the support device nor on the weighing device.

[0031] The stop component can therefore be manufactured or formed separately from the support device.

[0032] The corresponding stop elements preferably limit the range of motion of a tilting movement of the holding device relative to the support device in at least one tilting direction, preferably in two tilting directions.

[0033] It may be provided that the stop elements are arranged on one side of the holding device facing away from the container holder.

[0034] It can be advantageous to provide two stop elements, spaced apart from each other, for both the stop part and the holding device. For example, the stop elements are spaced apart transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the insertion direction of the container.

[0035] The stop elements include, for example, a pin-shaped projection and an engagement opening into which the projection engages with some play. Within this play, the holding device can be moved relative to the stop element. The projection can abut the edge of the engagement opening. The projection is, for example, located on the stop element, with the holding device encompassing the engagement opening, or vice versa. The engagement opening can, for example, be a through-hole, particularly on the holding device.

[0036] It is advantageous if the support body and the bearing body each include alignment elements that work together to define a target position for the bearing body and the support body. In particular, it is intended that the target position of the bearing body on the support body, and thus a target position of the holding device on the support device, is defined by the alignment elements positioned relative to each other as intended. At least one alignment element is provided on both the support body and the bearing body, and each of these may comprise several alignment elements. The respective alignment elements on the support body and / or the bearing body may be identical or functionally equivalent.

[0037] The alignment elements comprise, for example, at least one projection on the support body in the direction of the support body and at least one receptacle on the support body for receiving the projection, or vice versa. The projection can be, for example, a contour on the support body or on the support body. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one projection is, for example, arranged on the support body, and the at least one receptacle on the support body.

[0038] When the holding device tilts relative to the support device, as mentioned above, the alignment elements can, for example, slide against each other.

[0039] Alternatively, it may be provided that the alignment elements are separated from each other, for example by lifting the holding device if the holding device tilts relative to the support device.

[0040] The support body and the mounting body can preferably be made of different materials. For example, the mounting body is made of metal and the support body is made of a plastic material.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one projection has an arc-shaped cross-section. In particular, the projection can be, at least partially, circular arc-shaped or sinusoidal. "Arc-shaped" refers specifically to the contour of the projection.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one intake is designed in cross-section, for example, as a V-shaped (triangular), trapezoidal or arc-shaped part.

[0043] As mentioned, two alignment elements can be provided on both the support body and the bearing body. It can be advantageous if the alignment elements are spaced apart from each other in a specific direction. This direction of spacing runs, in particular, along the insertion direction of the container into the container receptacle. Accordingly, two alignment elements can be arranged one behind the other on both the support body and the bearing body in the insertion direction.

[0044] Each alignment element on the support body can interact with the respective alignment element on the support body.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the alignment elements on the support body and the bearing body are, for example, designed to extend longitudinally in one direction and have a constant cross-section. For example, the longitudinal extension runs transversely and, in particular, perpendicular to the aforementioned spacing direction.

[0046] The at least one projection is located in the intended position of the support body and the support body, preferably along two support lines at an edge of the at least one receptacle.

[0047] It can be advantageous if the support body or the bearing body is designed in a wave-like shape along the spacing direction, with two wave crests running transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the spacing direction, and a wave trough in between.

[0048] It can be advantageous if the support body or the support body has two grooves arranged at a distance from each other along the spacing direction and running transversely and, in particular, perpendicular to the spacing direction, especially with a V-shaped, trapezoidal or arc-shaped cross-section.

[0049] A preferred embodiment of the invention has a wave-shaped support body and a bearing body with two grooves arranged at a distance from each other.

[0050] It is advantageous if the fixing device comprises cooperating coupling elements between which a coupling force preferably acts to return the holding device to its original position relative to the support device during movement. For example, the coupling elements can counteract the movement, so that the movement of the holding device relative to the support device only begins when the force on the holding device exceeds a predetermined threshold. Once movement has occurred, the force between the coupling elements can, in particular, be a restoring force that returns the support body and the support body to their desired positions. The restoring force can, for example, act in addition to gravity.

[0051] Preferably, the holding device and the support device each comprise several coupling elements. These coupling elements are, for example, spaced apart from one another. A total coupling force can thus be composed of the sum of the coupling forces of any two coupling elements. Due to the spacing between the coupling elements, the total coupling force can act over a larger area between the holding device and the support device. This can prove advantageous for the reliable operation of the fixing device.

[0052] The coupling elements preferably couple to each other without contact.

[0053] The coupling elements are designed, for example, as magnetic elements or formed by them, against whose magnetic force the holding device can be moved relative to the support device and / or removed from it.

[0054] In particular, it is advantageous if the coupling elements are free of moving parts or have no moving parts at all.

[0055] For example, the holding device can be lifted by the support device against the coupling force, in particular the magnetic force. When the holding device is lowered onto the support device, the coupling force, in particular the magnetic force, can act in addition to gravity.

[0056] Advantageously, the fixing device on the support body and on the support body comprises at least one coupling element each, with preferably a plurality of coupling elements being arranged on the support body and / or on the support body.

[0057] The respective coupling element is arranged, for example, in a preferably closed receptacle on the support body or the mounting body. The coupling element is preferably held captive in the receptacle, for example, a blind hole.

[0058] The at least one coupling element on the holding device and the at least one coupling element on the support device are preferably arranged directly above one another in the direction of gravity, especially when the support body assumes a desired position relative to the support body.

[0059] It can be particularly advantageous if coupling elements are arranged on at least one alignment element of both the support body and the locating body. This preferably makes it possible to ensure the relative position of the alignment elements and thus define the target position of the support body on the locating body.

[0060] The holding device and the coupling device preferably each comprise at least two coupling elements that are spaced apart from each other transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to an insertion direction of the container into the container receptacle.

[0061] It can be advantageous if the fixing device on the holding device or the support device includes a receptacle into which the support device or the holding device engages, with the bearing body and the support body being arranged in the receptacle. In this way, the bearing body and the support body can be better protected from external influences, such as dirt ingress and / or contamination. For example, it can be advantageous to arrange the receptacle on the holding device with the support body engaging the receptacle from below.

[0062] It is advantageous if the receptacle includes or forms a ceiling wall that covers the support body and the supporting body, and / or a frame that surrounds the support body and the supporting body along a preferably entire circumference. For example, the frame is formed by a side wall that is closed in the circumferential direction.

[0063] It can be advantageous if the support body or the bearing body engages with play in the receptacle. This play allows for relative movement of at least one of the bodies within the receptacle.

[0064] The clearance can preferably be greater in the insertion direction of the container into the container holder than in a direction transverse and, in particular, perpendicular to the insertion direction. This allows, for example, displacement or tilting of the holding device relative to the support device during insertion and / or removal of the container. The range of movement in the transverse direction, on the other hand, is limited.

[0065] It is advantageous if the support body is fixed to the connecting body at the top.

[0066] The connecting body preferably comprises a connecting element for the detachable connection directly or indirectly with the weighing device.

[0067] The connecting body can, for example, be designed as a column element in sections or comprise a column element.

[0068] A preferred embodiment of the fixation device has a pharmaceutical-grade design and can in particular be used in an optional isolator device with an atmosphere for decontamination purposes (for example by means of H 2 O 2 ).

[0069] The fixing device is made, for example, of stainless steel (e.g., grade 316L (AISI / SAE)) and / or plastic, in particular POM (polyoxymethylene) or PEEK (polyetheretherketone).

[0070] As already mentioned, the present invention also relates to a system.

[0071] A system according to the invention, which solves the aforementioned problem, for processing containers comprises a weighing device, at least one fixing device of the type mentioned above which is connected to the weighing device, and at least one transport device with which at least one container can be transferred to and removed from the at least one fixing device.

[0072] The transfer using the transport device preferably takes place in an insertion direction into the container receptacle, and the removal in a removal direction that is opposite to the insertion direction.

[0073] The advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the fixing device according to the invention can also be achieved with the system according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the system according to the invention result from advantageous embodiments of the fixing device according to the invention. In this regard, reference is made to the preceding explanations.

[0074] The weighing device of the system according to the invention may comprise a plurality of load cells and a plurality of fixing devices. Each load cell may, for example, be assigned a fixing device. This allows, for example, the simultaneous weighing of a plurality of containers, with the results being determined independently of one another.

[0075] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, in conjunction with the drawing, serves to explain the invention in more detail. The drawing shows: Figure 1: a schematic representation of a system according to the invention for processing containers, particularly pharmaceutical ones, comprising a plurality of fixing devices according to the invention; Figure 2: a perspective view of a fixing device of the system made of Figure 1 , further showing a transport device with a container, a load cell of a weighing device and a stop element; Figure 3: a perspective partial view of the fixing device according to the invention with a container held thereon in an exploded view; Figure 4: a partially cutaway side view of the fixing device according to the invention and a transport device with which a container is to be transferred to the fixing device; Figure 5: a similar representation Figure 4in a partially cutaway view, wherein the container contacts retaining elements of the fixing device and its holding device is tilted relative to its support device and assumes a tilting position; Figure 6: a representation similar to Figure 5 , wherein the container is removed from the fixing device, the holding device being arranged in a different tilting position relative to the support device; Figure 7: an enlarged view according to Detail A in Figure 2 , wherein a container is held on the fixing device; and Figure 8: a perspective view of the fixing device similar to Figure 7, excluding the container, a stop part and a cover element of the fixing device.

[0076] Figure 1Figure 10 schematically shows an advantageous embodiment of a system according to the invention for processing containers 12. These containers are pharmaceutical containers 12. In this example, the containers 12 are syringes 14, which have a syringe body 15 and a needle guard. The syringes 14 are, in particular, non-stand-up containers 12 that cannot stand upright on their own, or only in rare cases, on an end face formed by the needle guard.

[0077] System 10 serves to process the containers 12 in several stages at processing devices. For transporting the containers 12, system 10 comprises a transport arrangement 17 with a plurality of transport devices 18 movably arranged on it.

[0078] The transport devices 18 ( Figure 2In the present example, the containers 12 are configured using so-called rakes / counter-rakes. The basic principle of transporting containers 12 with rakes / counter-rakes is described using the example of vials in DE 10 2018 213 800 A1 of the same applicant and is therefore not explained further here. This functionality of the transport device 18 is not essential or limiting for the present invention.

[0079] For clarification, reference is made in particular to the Figures 2As described in Figures 4 to 6, the rake and the counter-rake each comprise a longitudinally extended holding element 19 and gripping elements 20 arranged thereon. The containers 12 can be gripped between the gripping elements 20 of both holding elements 19. If the holding elements 19 are moved in directions pointing away from each other, the containers 12 can be released so that they can remain in a container receptacle of the fixing device described below. By moving the holding elements 19 relative to each other in the opposite direction, the containers 12 can again be gripped by the gripping elements 20.

[0080] The transport devices 18 can be moved along a transport direction 22 and in the opposite direction. Furthermore, the transport devices 18 can be moved transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the transport direction 22 in a feed direction and in the opposite direction. The feed direction is referred to in the following drawing as the insertion direction 23, and the opposite direction as the removal direction 24. The movement of the transport device 18 can take place with or without a container 12.

[0081] The grasping and release of containers 12 as well as the movement along the transport direction 22 and the directions 23, 24 is described in detail in DE 10 2018 213 800 A1, to which reference is hereby made.

[0082] The transport arrangement 17 comprises drive devices 26 for moving the transport devices 18. The transport devices 18 can be moved independently of each other.

[0083] System 10 includes a coupling element 27 for coupling the containers 12 at an inlet. A decoupling element 28 is provided at an outlet.

[0084] System 10 includes a weighing device 30. The weight of each container 12 can be determined at the weighing device 30. In this example, the weighing device 30 includes a plurality of load cells 31. The drawing shows... Figure 2 For the sake of clarity, only one load cell 31 is shown. Preferably, a total of as many load cells 31 are provided as the transport device has 18 positions and can carry containers 12. In the present example, this is twelve.

[0085] With the weighing device 30, the tare weight of an unfilled container 12 and the gross weight of a filled container 12 can be determined via a respective load cell 31.

[0086] A further processing device is designed as a filling device 32 for filling the containers 12 with a product, which in this case is a pharmaceutical substance. The filling device 32 is arranged on the weighing device 30. This results in a compact design of the system 10. The gross weight can be determined during or after the filling process.

[0087] Downstream of the weighing device 30 and the filling device 32 in the transport direction 22, the system 10 comprises a further processing device designed as a closing device 33. The filled containers 12 are closed at the closing device 33, for example with plugs.

[0088] System 10 includes a control device 34 for controlling and / or regulating operation. It is understood that, unless otherwise explained here, appropriate drives may be provided for moving components of System 10.

[0089] System 10 comprises a frame 35 or a substructure. Optionally, an isolator device covering the frame 35 can be provided to supply an atmosphere for decontamination purposes, for example using H₂O₂.

[0090] For temporarily fixing the containers 12 to the weighing device 30, in particular to a respective load cell 31, the system 10 comprises an advantageous embodiment of the fixing device according to the invention designated by reference numeral 37. Figure 2Figure 1 shows only one fixing device 37, which is connected to the load cell 31. It is understood that a fixing device 37 is also arranged on the other load cells 31 (not shown). The number of fixing devices 37 corresponds to the number of load cells 31 and preferably to the number of positions of the transport device 18. The fixing devices 37 are identical in design.

[0091] The weighing device 30 may in particular include the fixing devices 37.

[0092] The fixing device 37 comprises a holding device 38 and a support device 39.

[0093] The support device 39 is connected to the load cell 31. A detachable connection is particularly conceivable.

[0094] The support device 39 comprises a connecting body 41. The connecting body 41 has a base element 42. A connecting element 43, for example a pin-shaped one, is arranged on the base element 42. The connecting element 43 engages in a receiving element 44 on the load cell 31. An anti-rotation element may be provided.

[0095] The connecting body 41 further comprises a column element 45 projecting from the base element 42. The column element 45 extends in a vertical direction, in this case along the direction of gravity 46. A stiffening element 47 stiffens the connecting body 41 by engaging the base element 42 and the column element 45.

[0096] The support device 39 further comprises a support body 49 on the upper side of the column element 45. The support body 49 is fixed to a section 50 of the connecting body 41, in this example by means of a screw connection. The section 50 is designed in the form of a plate.

[0097] The support body 49 is essentially rectangular in shape when viewed from above along the direction of gravity. In this case, the support body 49 has an extension along the insertion direction 23 that is greater than its extension transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to it, the transverse direction 51. Figure 3 The transverse direction 51 is shown, which is oriented transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to a spacing direction 52. In the intended use of the fixing device 37, the spacing direction 52 runs along the insertion direction 23.

[0098] It is understood that the transverse direction 51 and the spacing direction 52 are defined in the reference system, in particular of the fixing device 37. However, it is advantageous if the spacing direction 52 runs along the insertion direction 23 and the opposite removal direction 24. This can be ensured during the installation of the system 10.

[0099] Contrary to the above, it could be provided that the extension of the support body 49 along the spacing direction 52 is not greater than along the transverse direction 51.

[0100] The supporting body 49 comprises two projections 54 spaced apart from each other in the spacing direction 52. In a cross-section with respect to the transverse direction 51, the projections 54 have an arc-shaped contour. At their apex, the projections 54 each have an approximately circular arc shape. The cross-section is constant along the transverse direction 51.

[0101] The projections 54 are formed longitudinally along the transverse direction 51 ( Figure 3 The projections 54 are preferably designed identically.

[0102] The supporting body 49, viewed along the distance direction 52, is designed in a wave-like shape due to the shape of the projections 54, with wave crests 55 running in the transverse direction 51 and a wave trough 56 in between.

[0103] Viewed in the insertion direction 23, there is a front projection 54 and a rear projection 54.

[0104] The projections 54 of the support body 49 each form an alignment element 58.

[0105] The support device 39 comprises at least one magnetic element 60. In this case, several magnetic elements 60 are provided, in particular four magnetic elements 60. Each magnetic element 60 forms a coupling element 61.

[0106] A receptacle 62 is formed on the support body 49 to accommodate a magnetic element 60. The receptacle 62 is designed as a blind hole and is formed on a side of the support body 49 facing section 50. The receptacle 62 is closed by means of a closing element 63.

[0107] The magnetic element 60 is arranged within the support body 49 in this way. In particular, a top surface 64 of the support body 49 is free of openings.

[0108] The magnetic elements 60 are each arranged on the projections 54. Two magnetic elements 60 are arranged on each projection 54, spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction 51 ( Figure 3 ).

[0109] The holding device 38 comprises a base body 66 in this case. At least one holding element 67 is pivotably mounted on the base body 66 about a pivot axis 68. Two holding elements 67 are provided here, which are functionally identical; therefore, the discussion will focus primarily on one holding element 67.

[0110] The retaining element 67 extends from the base body 66 towards the transport device 18 and has a retaining projection 69 at one free end. A retaining member 70 is arranged on the retaining projection 69.

[0111] A coupling element 71 of the holding device 38 is pivotally coupled to the retaining element 67. The coupling elements 71 are operatively connected to each other via a preload element 72. The preload element 72 is designed as a spring element, for example as a compression spring.

[0112] If the retaining elements 67 on the retaining members 70 are spread apart relative to each other, this occurs against the effect of the prestressing element 72. Conversely, the retaining elements 67 can be pivoted again under the effect of the prestressing element 72 so that the retaining members 70 are brought closer together.

[0113] The holding device 38 comprises a cover element 74 that covers the base body 66, the coupling elements 71 and the prestressing element 72.

[0114] The holding device 38 includes a container receptacle 75 for the container 12. The container receptacle 75 is arranged on the holding device 38 facing the transport device 18. A receiving direction 76 ( Figure 4 ) is aligned with an extension direction 77 of the container 12 when the latter is arranged in the container receptacle 75.

[0115] The insertion direction 23 and / or the removal direction 24 preferably lie in a plane perpendicular to which the receiving direction 76 is aligned.

[0116] The container receptacle 75 has mounting elements 78 for the container 12, which are preferably integrally formed on the cover element 74.

[0117] To insert the container 12 into the container receptacle 75, the container 12 is moved in the insertion direction 23 by the transport device 18. When the container 12 contacts the retaining elements 70, a force F1 acts on the retaining device 38. The force F1 is directed in the insertion direction 23 ( Figure 5 The force F1 spreads the retaining elements 67 apart, and the container can be inserted into the container receptacle 75. It then accepts the contents in the Figures 3 and 7 position shown.

[0118] When removed from the container holder 75, the container 12 is moved in the removal direction 24. During this movement, the container 12 exerts a force F2 on the holding device 38 ( Figure 6 The force F2 acts in the removal direction 24. The force F2 spreads the retaining elements 67 relative to each other, and the container 12 can be removed.

[0119] The holding device 38 has a support body 80 for interaction with the support body 49.

[0120] The support body 80 is essentially rectangular in plan view along the direction of gravity 46. Its extent in the distance direction 52 is greater than in the transverse direction 51. However, as with the support body 49, this could also be different.

[0121] In the spacing direction 52, the support body 80 is longer than the support body 49 and projects beyond it on both sides. A similar arrangement can be provided in the transverse direction 51.

[0122] Facing the support body 49, receptacles 81 are formed on the support body 80, whereby each projection 54 can engage in one of the receptacles 81 to which it is assigned.

[0123] The receptacles 81 are separated from each other in the spacing direction 52 and have the same spacing from each other as the projections 54. Preferably, the receptacles 81 are identically designed.

[0124] In cross-section with respect to the transverse direction 51, the recesses 81 in the present example are V-shaped. Each edge of the recess 81 has two edge sections 82, 83 adjoining each other at an angle. The angle between the edge sections 82, 83 is, for example, approximately 90° to 120°, preferably approximately 100° to 110°.

[0125] In the transverse direction 51, the cross-section of the receptacles 81 is constant. Accordingly, receptacles 81 with a V-shaped cross-section extending in the transverse direction 81 are provided on the support body 80. The receptacles 81 are formed as grooves 79.

[0126] The recordings 81 form alignment elements 84 for interaction with the alignment elements 58.

[0127] At least one magnetic element 60 is also arranged on the support body 80. Several magnetic elements 60 are provided, in particular four, corresponding to the number of magnetic elements 60 on the support body 49. The magnetic elements 60 of the support body 80 form coupling elements 85 for coupling with the coupling elements 61.

[0128] The magnetic elements 60 are received in blind-shaped recesses 62 of the support body 80, which are formed on the side of the support body 80 facing away from the support body 49. In particular, a lower surface of the support body 80 is free of openings.

[0129] The magnetic elements 60 are arranged in the area of ​​the receptacles 81. Two magnetic elements 60, spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction 51, are arranged at each receptacle 81.

[0130] The magnetic elements 60 of the support body 49 and the bearing body 80 are opposite each other when they assume a target position relative to each other ( Figure 4 In this case, in particular, the magnetic elements 60 are arranged on the support body 80 in the direction of gravity 46 above and, in particular, directly above the magnetic elements 60 on the support body 49.

[0131] The magnetic elements 60 on the support body 49 and on the support body 80 are polarized in opposite directions, so that they attract each other and exert a coupling magnetic force (coupling force) on each other.

[0132] The holding device 38 has a receptacle 87. The receptacle 87 is hood-shaped and has a top wall 88 and a surrounding side wall 89. The side wall 89 projects from the top wall 88 towards the support device 39 and forms a frame 90.

[0133] The ceiling wall 88 is held to the base body 66 by a connecting element 91.

[0134] The support body 80 is dimensioned such that it is arranged in a form-fitting manner in the receptacle 87 and preferably rests against the ceiling wall 88. By way of example, the support body 80 is connected to the base body 66 via a screw element 92.

[0135] The support device 39 engages the receptacle 87 from below. The support body 49 and, in this case, also the section 50 are arranged in the receptacle 87. The frame 90 surrounds the support body 80 and the support body 49. The receptacle 87 is dimensioned such that the support body 49 is arranged with clearance in the receptacle 87 at the front and rear in the spacing direction 52. In the transverse direction 51, the support body 49 is preferably arranged in the receptacle 87 in a form-fitting manner.

[0136] The fixing device 37 comprises a stop element 94. The stop element 94 can alternatively be part of the system 10 or the weighing device 30. In the present case, the stop element 94 is preferably positioned in a fixed location and, in particular, held on the frame 35. The stop element 94 is formed separately from the support device 39 and the holding device 38.

[0137] The stop element 94 comprises a base body 95. Stop elements 96 are arranged on the base body 95. In this case, each holding device 38 is assigned two stop elements 96, which are designed as pin-shaped projections 97.

[0138] Corresponding stop elements 98 are encompassed by the holding device 38. The stop elements 98 are framed engagement openings 99, in particular through-openings, on the holding device 38.

[0139] In the present case, the stop elements 96, 98 are arranged on the side of the holding device 38 facing away from the container receptacle 75.

[0140] The diameter of the engagement openings 99 is dimensioned such that the projections 97 engage with play in the engagement openings 99. This allows the holding device 38 to move relative to the stop element 94. However, the range of movement is determined and limited by the dimensioning of a projection 97 relative to the engagement opening 99.

[0141] In a different design of the stop part 94, for example, at least one stop element 98 is provided which is non-circular, for example oval or elliptical, and which engages in a corresponding engagement opening 99.

[0142] As can be seen particularly from the Figures 3 to 6 As can be seen, the holding device 38 is placed on the support device 39. For example, the placement takes place in the direction of gravity 46.

[0143] The holding device 38 rests on the support body 49 via the support body 80 and thus on the support device 39. In particular, the support body 80 and the support body 49 rest loosely against each other and are free from a fixed mechanical connection.

[0144] Beyond the installation of the support body 80 and the support body 49, no further installation of the holding device 38 on the support device 39 is provided.

[0145] The support body 80 can assume a defined target position on the support body 49 ( Figure 4 In the intended position, the projections 54 engage in the receptacles 81. The respective magnetic elements 60 are arranged directly opposite each other and interact via magnetic force.

[0146] It is understood that the magnetic elements 60 of the support body 80 and the support body 49 do not contact each other.

[0147] In the intended position of the two bodies 49, 80, the projections 97 engage centrally in the engagement openings 99.

[0148] The target position of the bodies 49, 80 is assumed in particular when no force F1 or F2 acts on the holding device 38 via the container 12.

[0149] The holding device 38 can be lifted by the support device 39 against the direction of gravity 46. In this case, the magnetic force of the magnetic elements 60 is also overcome.

[0150] The support body 80 is designed to be movable relative to the support body 49. This makes it possible to move the holding device 38 relative to the support device 39.

[0151] In particular, there is the possibility of a tilting movement of the holding device 38 to the rear, with respect to the insertion direction 23, as well as to the front, with respect to the insertion direction 23. This will be discussed below.

[0152] The force F1 acting when the container 12 is inserted into the container receptacle 75, as mentioned above, acts on the holding device 38 as a whole via the holding elements 67. The holding device 38 can tilt backwards, the tilting moment being due to the force F1.

[0153] Since the support body 80 rests loosely on the support body 49, the support body 80 can be lifted in the area of ​​the front receptacle 81. In the area of ​​the rear receptacle 80, the projection 54 remains in the receptacle 81 ( Figure 5 ).

[0154] However, the range of motion of the holding device 38 during the tilting movement is limited by the stop elements 96, 98. If the projection 97 abuts the edge of the engagement opening 99, no further tilting movement of the holding device 38 occurs.

[0155] The tilting of the holding device 38 occurs against the magnetic force of the magnetic elements 60. If the force F1 ceases, the support body 80 returns to its original intended position under the influence of gravity and the magnetic force. Figure 4 back. This target position is assumed particularly during the weighing process.

[0156] When the container 12 is removed from the container holder 75, the force F2 mentioned above acts on the holding device 38 as a whole via the holding elements 67.

[0157] The holding device 38 can tilt forwards relative to the support device 39, with the tilting moment being based on the force F2.

[0158] Since the support body 80 rests loosely on the support body 49, the support body 80 can be lifted in the area of ​​the rear receptacle 81. In contrast, the projection 54 remains in the receptacle 81 in the area of ​​the front receptacle 81.

[0159] The range of motion of the tilting movement of the holding device 38 is also limited in this case by the stop elements 96, 98. The holding device 38 can be tilted until the projection 97 abuts the rear edge of the engagement opening 99 ( Figure 6 ).

[0160] If the force F2 ceases, the support body 38 returns to its intended position on the support body 49 under the influence of gravity and the magnetic force of the magnetic elements 60. This is the case, for example, when no container 12 is arranged in the container receptacle 75.

[0161] The design of the fixing device 37 according to the invention allows the force exerted on the support device 39 during the insertion and removal of containers 12, and thus on the load cell 31, to be limited. Excessive stress and damage to the load cell 31 can therefore be avoided. Furthermore, settling times can be shortened and the measurement result improved.

[0162] Furthermore, the probability of damage to the container 12 when inserting it into the container receptacle 75 or when removing it from the container receptacle 75 can be reduced by the tilting movements of the holding device 38.

[0163] It is understood that a tilting of the holding device 38, for example, only occurs if the force F1 and / or F2 exceeds a threshold value and generates a tilting moment that is sufficiently large to cause the holding device 38 to tilt backwards and / or forwards. Reference symbol list

[0164] 10 System 12 Container 14 Syringe 15 Syringe body 17 Transport arrangement 18 Transport device 19 Holding part 20 Gripping element 22 Transport direction 23 Insertion direction 24 Withdrawal direction 26 Drive device 27 Coupling element 28 Coupling element 30 Weighing device 31 Load cell 32 Filling device 33 Closing device 34 Control device 35 Frame 37 Fixing device 38 Holding device 39 Support device 41 Connecting body 42 Base element 43 Connecting element 44 Receiving element 45 Column element 46 Gravity direction 47 Stiffening element 49 Support body 50 Section 51 Transverse direction 52 Spacing direction 54 Projection 55 Wave crest 56 Wave trough 58 Alignment element 60 Magnet element 61 Coupling element 62 Receiving 63 Closing element 64 Surface 66 Base body 67 Holding element 68 Swivel axis 69 Holding projection 70 Holding member 71 Coupling element 72 Pretensioning element 74 Cover element 75 Container receptacle 76 Receipt direction 77 Extension direction 78 Mounting element 79 Groove 80 Support body 81 Receptacle 82 Edge section 83 Edge section84 Alignment element 85 Coupling element 87 Mount 88 Ceiling wall 89 Side wall 90 Frame 91 Connecting element 92 Screw element 94 Stop part 95 Base body 96 Stop element 97 Projection 98 Stop element 99 Access opening

Claims

1. A fixing apparatus for temporarily fixing a container (12), in particular a pharmaceutical container, to a weighing apparatus (30) of a system (10) for processing containers (12), comprising a holding device (38) and a support device (39), wherein the holding device (38) comprises a container receptacle (75) into which the container (12) is insertable and out of which the container (12) is removeable, at least one holding element (67) for holding the container (12) in the container receptacle (75), and a contact body (80), wherein the support device (39) comprises a support body (49) and a connection body (41), which is connected to the support body (49), for connecting to the weighing apparatus (30), wherein the holding device (38) rests on the support body (49) via the contact body (80), wherein the contact body (80) is configured to be movable relative to the support body (49) on the basis of a force acting on the holding device (38), in particular on the at least one holding element (67), when the container (12) is inserted into the container receptacle (75) and / or when the container (12) is removed from the container receptacle (75).

2. The fixing apparatus in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that the holding device (38) and the support device (39), in particular the contact body (80) and the support body (49), rest loosely on one another and / or do not have an, in particular, fixed mechanical connection to one another, and / or in that the holding device (38) rests on the support device (39) solely via the contact body (80) and the support body (49).

3. The fixing apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding device (38) and the support device (39), in particular the contact body (80) and the support body (49), do not have a joint with joint members that are movably connected to one another, and / or in that the holding device (38) is configured to be placed on the support device (39) in the direction of gravity and is configured to be lifted from the support device against the direction of gravity and thereby detached from it.

4. The fixing apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container (12) is configured to be inserted into the container receptacle (75) in a defined direction of insertion (23) and / or is configured to be removed from the container receptacle (75) in a defined removal direction (24), wherein preferably at least one of the following applies: - the direction of insertion (23) and the removal direction (24) are opposite to one another; - the direction of insertion (23) and / or the removal direction (24) is aligned transversely and in particular perpendicularly to a direction (77) of extension of the container (12).

5. The fixing apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding device (38) is configured to be tiltable relative to the support device (39) when the container (12) is inserted into the container receptacle (75) and / or when it is removed from the container receptacle (75) and / or in that the holding device (38) is configured to be displaceable relative to the support device (39).

6. The fixing apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing apparatus (37) comprises a stationary stop part (94) with at least one first stop element (96), wherein the holding device (38) comprises at least one corresponding second stop element (98) for interacting with the at least one first stop element (96), wherein a range of movement of the holding device (38) relative to the support device (39) is limited in at least one direction, preferably in two directions, via the stop elements (96, 98).

7. The fixing apparatus in accordance with claim 6, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: - the stop elements (96, 98) are arranged on a side of the holding device (38) facing away from the container receptacle (75); - two stop elements (96, 98) of the stop part (94) and of the holding device (38) arranged at a distance from one another are provided; - the movement range of a tilting movement of the holding device (38) relative to the support device (39) in at least one tilting direction is limited via the corresponding stop elements (96, 98), preferably in two tilting directions; - a peg-shaped projection (97) and an engagement opening (99), in which the projection (97) engages with play, are provided as stop elements (96, 98).

8. The fixing apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support body (49) and the contact body (80) comprise corresponding alignment elements (58, 84) which interact to define a target position of the contact body (80) and of the support body (49).

9. The fixing apparatus in accordance with claim 8, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: - the alignment elements (58, 84) comprise at least one projection (54) on the support body (49) in the direction of the contact body (80), and at least one receptacle (81) on the contact body (80) for receiving the projection (54), or vice versa, wherein preferably the at least one projection (54) is configured arcuate in cross section, in particular at least in portions with a circular arc shape or a sinusoidal shape and / or the at least one receptacle (81) is configured V-shaped, trapezoidal, or arcuate in cross section; - two alignment elements (58, 84) are provided in each case on the support body (49) and on the contact body (80), which alignment elements (58, 84) are arranged at a distance from one another in a distance direction (52), in particular along a direction of insertion (23) of the container (12) into the container receptacle (75).

10. The fixing apparatus in accordance with claim 8 or 9, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: - the alignment elements (58, 84) are configured to extend longitudinally along an extension direction (51) and have a constant cross section; - in the target position of the contact body (80) and the support body (49), the at least one projection (54) rests on an edge of the at least one receptacle (81) along two contact lines; - the support body (49) or the contact body (80) is configured wave-shaped along the distance direction (52), with two wave peaks (55) running transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the distance direction (52) and a wave trough (56) between them; - the contact body (80) or the support body (49) has two grooves (79) arranged at a distance from one another along the distance direction (52) and running transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the distance direction (52), in particular with a V-shaped, trapezoidal, or arcuate cross section.

11. The fixing apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing apparatus (37) comprises coupling elements (61, 85) interacting on the holding device (38) and on the support device (39), between which elements a coupling force acts.

12. The fixing apparatus in accordance with claim 11, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: - the coupling elements (61, 85) are configured as or formed by magnetic elements (60), against the magnetic force of which the holding device (38) is configured to be moved relative to the support device (39) and / or is configured to be removed from it; - the fixing apparatus (37) comprises in each case at least one coupling element (61, 85) on the contact body (80) and on the support body (49), wherein preferably a plurality of coupling elements (61, 85) is arranged in each case on the contact body (80) and / or on the support body (49); - the at least one coupling element (85) on the holding device (38) and the at least one coupling element (61) on the support device (39) are arranged one above the other in the direction of gravity (46); - the support body (49) and the contact body (80) comprise respective alignment elements (58, 84), which interact for definition of a target position of the contact body (80) and the support body (49), wherein coupling elements (61, 85) are arranged on, in each case, at least one alignment element (58, 84) of the contact body (80) and of the support body (49).

13. The fixing apparatus in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing apparatus (37) comprises a receptacle (87) on the holding device (38) or on the support device (39), in which receptacle (87) the support device (39) or the holding device (38) engages, wherein the contact body (80) and the support body (49) are arranged in the receptacle.

14. The fixing apparatus in accordance with claim 13, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: - the receptacle (87) comprises a top wall (88) of forms a top wall (88) which covers the contact body (80) and the support body (49), and / or a frame (90) which surrounds the contact body (80) and the support body (49) along preferably an entire circumference; - the support body (49) or the contact body (80) engages with play in the receptacle (87), wherein preferably the play is greater longitudinally in a direction of insertion (23) of the container (12) into the container receptacle (75) than in a transverse direction (51) transversely and in particular perpendicularly to the direction of insertion (23).

15. A system for processing in particular pharmaceutical containers, comprising a weighing apparatus (30), at least one fixing apparatus (37) in accordance with any one of the preceding claims, which is connected to the weighing apparatus (30), and at least one transport apparatus (18), with which at least one container (12) is transferable to the at least one fixing apparatus (37) and removable therefrom.

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