Connecting Devices

Abstract

The present invention relates to a connection device. The connection device (1) comprises at least one first connection (3), at least one second connection (5), at least one third connection (7) and a valve device (9). The at least one first connection (3) is adapted to fluidly connect a media supply filter test device to the connection device (1), the at least one second connection (5) is adapted to fluidly connect a multiplication device to the connection device (1), the at least one third connection (7) is configured as a superheated steam connection, and the at least one first connection (3), the at least one second connection (5) and the at least one third connection (7) are fluidly connected to a valve device (9), which in a first operating state is configured to be a superheated steam connection. and adapted to simultaneously fluidly connect at least one third connection part (7) of the at least one third connection part (7) to at least one first connection part (3) of the at least one first connection part (3) and at least one second connection part (5) of the at least one second connection part (5), such that a media supply filter test device connected to the connection device (1) and a multiplication device connected to the connection device (1) can be simultaneously sterilized by superheated steam supplied through the at least one third connection part (7).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a connection device. [Background technology]

[0002] It is known that filters, especially reusable filters, especially reusable hydrophobic media filters, are subjected to a filter test using a media-fed filter testing device, especially a Pall Aquawit device, in order to check the integrity of the filter. During a filter test, especially the so-called Water Intrusion Test (WIT), the filter is completely filled with water in order to create a water column inside the filter. The water column is then subjected to a predefined pressure and the water evaporation flow rate and / or water flow rate through the filter membrane are measured. If a predefined water evaporation flow rate and / or water flow rate through the filter membrane is exceeded, the integrity of the filter is no longer guaranteed.

[0003] Additionally, it is known that media-fed filter testing devices, particularly Aquawit devices, are fluidly connected to multiplier devices, particularly Pall Corporation's MUX devices, to simultaneously connect multiple filters for sequential testing of the filters, the multiplier device being adapted to accommodate multiple filters simultaneously. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Both the media-supply filter test device, in particular the Aquawit device, and the multiplication device, in particular the MUX device, need to be periodically disinfected in order to reduce the bacterial load of the valves and / or media lines of the device. To carry out disinfection, the fluid connection between the media-supply filter test device, in particular the Aquawit device, and the multiplication device, in particular the MUX device, must be disconnected. The devices can then be individually connected, in particular to a disinfection device, and disinfected. The disadvantage of this is that the devices can only be disinfected individually, and that the fluid connection and / or disconnection of the devices is very time-consuming and prone to errors.

[0005] The invention is therefore based on the task of creating a connection device, whereby the aforementioned disadvantages are at least partially overcome and preferably avoided.

[0006] This problem is solved by providing the present technical teachings, in particular the teachings of the independent claims, as well as the embodiments disclosed in the dependent claims and the specification.

[0007] This problem is solved in particular by creating a connection device comprising at least one first connection, at least one second connection, at least one third connection and a valve device, further comprising at least one first connection adapted to fluidly connect a media supply filter test device to said connection device. Moreover, the at least one second connection portion is adapted to fluidly connect a multiplication device to the connection device, the at least one third connection portion is configured as a superheated steam connection portion, the at least one first connection portion, the at least one second connection portion and the at least one third connection portion are fluidly connected to the valve device, and the valve device is adapted to fluidly connect at least one third connection portion of the at least one third connection portion to at least one first connection portion of the at least one first connection portion and at least one second connection portion of the at least one second connection portion simultaneously in a first operating state, and the media supply filter testing device connected to the connection device and the multiplication device connected to the connection device can be sterilized simultaneously by superheated steam supplied through the at least one third connection portion.

[0008] Advantageously, the connecting device allows for sterilization of the media-supply filter test device and the multiplication device simultaneously, in particular without fluidically isolating the media-supply filter test device from the connecting device.

[0009] In addition, the connecting device, in particular the medium lines of the connecting device, can advantageously also be at least partially, preferably completely, sterilized in the first operating state.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the connection device has a plurality of first connections, particularly preferably 5 or 6 first connections. Alternatively or additionally, the connection device preferably has a plurality of second connections, particularly preferably 3 or 4 second connections. Alternatively or additionally, the connection device preferably has a third connection, particularly preferably a superheated steam connection.

[0011] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device can be operated in a plurality of first operating states. The various first operating states differ in particular in the number of first and second connections to which in each case the at least one third connection is fluidically connected. In particular, the at least one third connection can be fluidically connected to exactly one first connection and exactly one second connection, or the at least one third connection can be fluidically connected to a plurality of first connections and / or a plurality of second connections. In particular, the at least one third connection is fluidically separated from all connections and possibly from outlets that are not explicitly connected in the described manner. Alternatively or additionally, the connection device, in particular the valve device, is adapted to be switched between at least two first operating states.

[0012] In a further preferred embodiment, the media-fed filter test device is an Aquawit device from Pall Corporation, particularly in the embodiment available on the date of determining the priority date of this patent. Alternatively or additionally, the multiplication device is preferably a MUX device from Pall Corporation, particularly in the embodiment available on the date of determining the priority date of this patent. In particular, the connection device advantageously allows simultaneous sterilization of the Aquawit device, the MUX device, and in particular the fluid connection between the Aquawit device and the MUX device, without first fluidically isolating the Aquawit device and the MUX device from the connection device.

[0013] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the valve device is adapted in a second operating state to fluidly connect at least one first connection of the at least one first connection and at least one second connection of the at least one second connection to each other and to fluidly isolate each from the at least one third connection, such that a medium, in particular water and / or compressed air, can be supplied from the medium supply filter testing device to the multiplication device.

[0014] Advantageously, the multiplication device can be operated with medium from the medium supply filter test device without having to separate the connection device from the sterilization device, in particular the device supplying superheated steam.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the connection device can be operated in a plurality of second operating states. The various second operating states differ in particular in the number of first and second connections fluidly connected to each other. In particular, exactly one first connection can be fluidly connected to exactly one second connection. Alternatively, a plurality of first connections can be fluidly connected to exactly one second connection. Alternatively, a plurality of second connections can be fluidly connected to exactly one first connection. Alternatively, a plurality of first connections can be fluidly connected to a plurality of second connections. In particular, at least one first connection and at least one second connection are fluidly isolated from all connections and possibly from outlets that are not explicitly connected in the described manner. Alternatively or additionally, the connection device, in particular the valve device, is adapted to switch between at least two second operating states.

[0016] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device has exactly one third connection.

[0017] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the connection device has at least one outlet, the at least one outlet being fluidly connected to the valve device, the valve device being adapted to fluidly connect the at least one outlet in an outlet state to at least one connection selected from at least one first connection of the at least one first connection, at least one second connection of the at least one second connection and at least one third connection of the at least one third connection, such that a medium present in the connection device can flow out of the connection device via the at least one outlet.

[0018] Advantageously, in this way, any medium present in the connection device, in particular the multiplier device and / or the medium supply filter test device, and in particular any excess medium, can be drained in a simple manner.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the connection device has exactly one outlet.

[0020] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device can be operated in a number of outlet states. The various outlet states differ in particular in the number of first, second and third connections to which in each case the at least one outlet is fluidically connected. In particular, the at least one outlet can be fluidically connected to exactly one first connection or to multiple first connections. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one outlet can be fluidically connected to exactly one second connection or to multiple second connections. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one outlet can be fluidically connected to exactly one third connection or to multiple third connections. In particular, the at least one outlet is fluidically isolated from all connections that are not explicitly connected in the described manner. Alternatively or additionally, the connection device, in particular the valve device, is adapted to switch between at least two outlet states.

[0021] In a further preferred embodiment, in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states, the at least one outlet can be fluidically connected to at least one third connection. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidically separate the at least one outlet from the at least one third connection and / or to fluidically connect the at least one outlet to the at least one third connection in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states. This advantageously allows at least one medium line connecting the valve device to the at least one outlet to be sterilized in the first operating state.

[0022] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the connection device has at least one fourth connection, configured as a compressed air connection, the at least one fourth connection being fluidly connected to the valve device, the valve device being adapted to fluidly connect the at least one fourth connection to at least one first connection of the at least one first connection and / or to at least one second connection of the at least one second connection in a third operating state, so that the media supply filter test device connected to the connection device and / or the multiplication device connected to the connection device can be simultaneously dried by compressed air supplied through the at least one fourth connection.

[0023] Advantageously, in this way, in particular after sterilization and / or filter testing, the media supply filter testing device and / or the multiplication device can be dried, in particular simultaneously, without fluidically isolating the connection device from the media supply filter testing device and the multiplication device.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the connection device has exactly one fourth connection.

[0025] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device is adapted to split the compressed air introduced by the at least one fourth connection such that a first portion of the compressed air is supplied to the valve device and a second portion of the compressed air is used as control air for actuating the valve device.

[0026] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device can be operated in a plurality of third operating states. The various third operating states differ in particular in the number of first, second and third connections to which in each case the at least one fourth connection is fluidically connected. In particular, the at least one fourth connection can be fluidically connected to exactly one first connection or to a plurality of first connections. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one fourth connection can be fluidically connected to exactly one second connection or to a plurality of second connections. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one fourth connection can be fluidically connected to exactly one third connection or to a plurality of third connections. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one fourth connection can be fluidically connected to exactly one outlet or to a plurality of outlets. In particular, the at least one fourth connection is fluidically isolated from all connections that are not explicitly connected in the described manner. Alternatively or additionally, the connection device, in particular the valve device, is adapted to switch between at least two third operating states.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment, in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states, the at least one fourth connection can be fluidically connected to the at least one third connection. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidically separate the at least one fourth connection from the at least one third connection and / or to fluidically connect the at least one fourth connection to the at least one third connection in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states. This advantageously allows at least one medium line connecting the valve device to the at least one fourth connection to be sterilized in the first operating state.

[0028] In a further preferred embodiment, in an outlet state, in particular in at least one outlet state of the plurality of outlet states, in particular in all outlet states, the at least one fourth connection can be fluidly connected to the at least one outlet. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidly separate the at least one fourth connection from the at least one outlet and / or to fluidly connect the at least one fourth connection to the at least one outlet in an outlet state, in particular in at least one outlet state of the plurality of outlet states, in particular in all outlet states.

[0029] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the connection device has at least one fifth connection, which is configured as a water connection, and which is fluidically connected to the valve device, which in a fourth operating state is adapted to fluidically connect the at least one fifth connection to at least one first connection of the at least one first connection, so that the media supply filter test device connected to the connection device can be filled with water supplied through the at least one fifth connection.

[0030] Advantageously, the at least one fifth connection allows the media-supply filter test device to be filled with water without first fluidly isolating the media-supply filter test device from the connection device.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the connection device has exactly one fifth connection.

[0032] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device can be operated in a plurality of fourth operating states. The various fourth operating states differ in particular in the number of first connections to which the at least one fifth connection is fluidically connected. In particular, the at least one fifth connection can be fluidically connected to exactly one first connection or to a plurality of first connections. In particular, the at least one fifth connection is fluidically isolated from all connections that are not explicitly connected in the described manner. Alternatively or additionally, the connection device, in particular the valve device, is adapted to switch between at least two fourth operating states.

[0033] In a further preferred embodiment, in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states, the at least one fifth connection can be fluidically connected to the at least one third connection. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidically separate the at least one fifth connection from the at least one third connection and / or to fluidically connect the at least one fifth connection to the at least one third connection in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states. This advantageously allows at least one medium line connecting the valve device to the at least one fifth connection to be sterilized in the first operating state.

[0034] In a further preferred embodiment, in the outlet state, in particular in at least one outlet state of the plurality of outlet states, in particular in all outlet states, the at least one fifth connection element can be fluidly connected to the at least one outlet. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidly separate the at least one fifth connection from the at least one outlet and / or to fluidly connect the at least one fifth connection to the at least one outlet in the outlet state, in particular in at least one outlet state of the plurality of outlet states, in particular in all outlet states.

[0035] In a further preferred embodiment, in the third operating state, in particular in at least one third operating state of the plurality of third operating states, in particular in all third operating states, the at least one fifth connection can be fluidly connected to the at least one fourth connection. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidly separate the at least one fifth connection from the at least one fourth connection and / or to fluidly connect it to the at least one fourth connection in the third operating state, in particular in at least one third operating state of the plurality of third operating states, in particular in all third operating states. Thereby, advantageously, at least one medium line connecting the valve device to the at least one fifth connection can be dried in the third operating state by compressed air.

[0036] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the connection device has at least one sixth connection, which is configured as a liquid supply connection, in particular an alkaline solution supply connection, and which is fluidically connected to the valve device, which in a fifth operating state is adapted to fluidically connect at least one sixth connection of the at least one sixth connection to at least one first connection of the at least one first connection and / or to at least one second connection of the at least one second connection, so that the medium supply filter test device connected to the connection device and / or the multiplication device connected to the connection device can be simultaneously treated with a liquid, in particular an alkaline solution, supplied through the at least one sixth connection.

[0037] Advantageously, the media-supplying filter test device and / or the multiplication device can be disinfectantly and / or cleanly treated by the supplied alkaline solution. Furthermore, in the fifth operating state, advantageously, the connection device, in particular the media line of the connection device, can also be at least partially disinfectantly and / or cleanly treated.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the connection device has exactly one sixth connection.

[0039] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device is configured to be stable against alkaline solutions, in particular caustic soda solutions.

[0040] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device can be operated in a plurality of fifth operating states. The various fifth operating states differ in particular in the number of first and second connections to which the at least one sixth connection is fluidically connected. In particular, the at least one sixth connection can be fluidically connected to exactly one first connection or to a plurality of first connections. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one sixth connection can be fluidically connected to exactly one second connection or to a plurality of second connections. Furthermore, the at least one sixth connection can be fluidically connected to at least one connection selected in particular from at least one outlet, at least one fourth connection and at least one fifth connection. In particular, the at least one fifth connection is fluidically isolated from all connections that are not explicitly connected in the described manner. Alternatively or additionally, the connection device, in particular the valve device, is adapted to switch between at least two of the fifth operating states.

[0041] In a further preferred embodiment, in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states, the at least one sixth connection can be fluidically connected to the at least one third connection. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidically separate the at least one sixth connection from the at least one third connection and / or to fluidically connect the at least one sixth connection to the at least one third connection in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states. This advantageously allows at least one medium line connecting the valve device to the at least one sixth connection to be sterilized in the first operating state.

[0042] In a further preferred embodiment, in the outlet state, in particular in at least one outlet state of the plurality of outlet states, in particular in all outlet states, the at least one sixth connection can be fluidly connected to the at least one outlet. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidly separate the at least one sixth connection from the at least one outlet and / or to fluidly connect the at least one sixth connection to the at least one outlet in the outlet state, in particular in at least one outlet state of the plurality of outlet states, in particular in all outlet states.

[0043] In a further preferred embodiment, in the third operating state, in particular in at least one third operating state of the plurality of third operating states, in particular in all third operating states, the at least one sixth connection can be fluidly connected to the at least one fourth connection. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidly separate the at least one sixth connection from the at least one fourth connection and / or to fluidly connect it to the at least one fourth connection in the third operating state, in particular in at least one third operating state of the plurality of third operating states, in particular in all third operating states. Thereby, advantageously, at least one medium line connecting the valve device to the at least one sixth connection can be dried in the third operating state by compressed air.

[0044] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the valve device comprises at least one valve, preferably a plurality of valves, which is fluidly arranged between the at least one first connection, the at least one second connection and the at least one third connection and adapted to control a flow in the connection device.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the operating state of the valve arrangement can be set by controlling at least one valve.

[0046] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the at least one valve comprises at least one membrane comprising polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0047] According to a further development of the invention it is provided that the connection device comprises a control device, which is adapted to set an operating state of the valve device.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, said control device is operatively connected to said valve arrangement and adapted to control said valve arrangement, in particular said at least one valve, to set an operating state.

[0049] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the connection device comprises at least one seventh connection, which is configured as a pneumatic connection, and which is fluidly connected to the valve device, which is adapted to be controlled via the at least one seventh connection in order to set an operating state.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one valve is adapted to be controlled via at least one seventh connection to set the operating state.

[0051] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device comprises a plurality of seventh connections, particularly preferably 12 or 13 seventh connections.

[0052] In particular, each seventh connection is connected to at least one valve, such that a valve can be controlled by each seventh connection.

[0053] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the connection device comprises at least one pressure reducing device, which is fluidly connected to the at least one fourth connection.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the pressure reducing device preferably comprises a pressure gauge adapted to indicate the pressure of the compressed air supplied via the fourth connection.

[0055] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the connection device has a first connection element, which is adapted for mechanically (in particular rigidly) connecting the media-supply filter test device to the connection device.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the first connection element is configured such that the media-supplied filter test device connected to the connection device by the first connection element cannot move relative to the connection device.

[0057] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the connection device comprises a second connection element, which is adapted to mechanically (in particular rigidly) connect the multiplication device to the connection device.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the second connection element is configured such that the multiplication device connected to the connection device by the second connection element cannot move relative to the connection device.

[0059] According to a further embodiment of the invention it is provided that at least one connection element selected from the first connection element and the second connection element comprises a positioning element, which is preferably adapted to align and position the media supply filter testing device and / or the multiplication device in a simple manner relative to the connection device.

[0060] According to a further development of the invention it is provided that the connection device comprises a fastening device, which is adapted to fasten the connection device in a substrate and / or to a wall.

[0061] According to a further development of the invention, it is provided that the connection device comprises at least one cover element adapted to cover at least one line element, in particular at least one hose fluidly connecting the connection device to at least one device selected from the media supply filter test device and the multiplication device.

[0062] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the connecting device comprises a first cover element and a second cover element, the first cover element comprising a first connecting element with a first positioning element, and the second cover element comprising a second connecting element with a second positioning element.

[0063] According to a further development of the invention, the connection device comprises at least one eighth connection adapted for fluidly connecting at least one compressed air utilization device, in particular a filter dryer device, to the connection device, the at least one eighth connection being fluidly connected to at least one fourth connection of the at least one fourth connection for pressurizing the at least one compressed air utilization device with compressed air.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the connection device has two eighth connections.

[0065] In a further preferred embodiment, the at least one eighth connection is fluidly connected to at least one fourth connection of the at least one fourth connection via a first medium line. In addition, the medium line is preferably fluidly connected to a second medium line fluidly connecting the at least one fourth connection to the pressure reducing device. Thereby, at least a part of the compressed air introduced via the at least one fourth connection is led to the at least one eighth connection before the compressed air enters the pressure reducing device.

[0066] In a further preferred embodiment, the at least one eighth connection is fluidly connected to at least one fourth connection of the at least one fourth connection via a valve device, the valve device being adapted to pressurize the at least one compressed air utilization device with compressed air in the sixth operating state.

[0067] In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device can be operated in a plurality of sixth operating states. The various sixth operating states differ in particular in the number of fourth and eighth connections fluidly connected to each other. In particular, exactly one fourth connection can be fluidly connected to exactly one eighth connection. Alternatively, the plurality of fourth connections can be fluidly connected to exactly one eighth connection. Alternatively, the plurality of eighth connections can be fluidly connected to exactly one fourth connection. Alternatively, the plurality of fourth connections can be fluidly connected to a plurality of eighth connections. In particular, at least one fourth connection and at least one eighth connection are fluidly isolated from all connections and possibly from outlets that are not explicitly connected in the described manner. Alternatively or additionally, the connection device, in particular the valve device, is adapted to switch between at least two of the six operating states.

[0068] In a further preferred embodiment, in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states, the at least one eighth connection is fluidically separated from the at least one third connection. This advantageously makes it possible to prevent sterilization of the at least one eighth connection. Alternatively, in the first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states, the at least one eighth connection can be fluidically connected to the at least one third connection by a fluid connection via the valve device. This advantageously makes it possible to sterilize in the first operating state at least one medium line connecting the valve device to the at least one eighth connection. In particular, the valve device is adapted to fluidly isolate the at least one eighth connection from the at least one third connection or to fluidly connect the at least one eighth connection to the at least one third connection in a first operating state, in particular in at least one first operating state of the plurality of first operating states, in particular in all first operating states.

[0069] In a further preferred embodiment, in the outlet state, in particular in at least one outlet state of the plurality of outlet states, in particular in all outlet states, the at least one eighth connection can be fluidly connected to the at least one outlet. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidly separate the at least one eighth connection from the at least one outlet and / or to fluidly connect the at least one eighth connection to the at least one outlet in the outlet state, in particular in at least one outlet state of the plurality of outlet states, in particular in all outlet states.

[0070] In a further preferred embodiment, in the third operating state, in particular in at least one third operating state of the plurality of third operating states, in particular in all third operating states, the at least one eighth connection can be fluidly connected to the at least one fourth connection. In particular, the valve device is thus adapted to fluidly separate the at least one eighth connection from the at least one fourth connection and / or to fluidly connect it to the at least one fourth connection in the third operating state, in particular in at least one third operating state of the plurality of third operating states, in particular in all third operating states. Thereby, advantageously, at least one medium line connecting the valve device to the at least one eighth connection can be dried in the third operating state by compressed air.

[0071] In a further preferred embodiment, in the fifth operating state, in particular in at least one fifth operating state of the plurality of fifth operating states, in particular in all fifth operating states, the at least one eighth connection is fluidically separated from the at least one sixth connection. This advantageously makes it possible to prevent at least a partial disinfection and / or cleaning treatment of the at least one eighth connection. Alternatively, by means of a fluid connection via the valve device, the at least one eighth connection can be fluidly connected to the at least one sixth connection in the fifth operating state, in particular in at least one fifth operating state of the plurality of fifth operating states, in particular in all fifth operating states. Thus, advantageously, at least one medium line connecting the valve device to the at least one eighth connection can be at least partially treated in a disinfection and / or cleaning manner in the fifth operating state, in particular by the supplied alkaline solution. In particular, in this way, the valve device is adapted to fluidly isolate the at least one eighth connection from or to fluidly connect the at least one sixth connection in a fifth operating state, in particular in at least one fifth operating state of the plurality of fifth operating states, in particular in all fifth operating states.

[0072] In one embodiment, an operating state selected from the first operating state, the second operating state, the third operating state, the fourth operating state, the fifth operating state, the sixth operating state and the outlet state is selected by the control device. At least one first valve of the valve device is controlled by the control device to set the selected operating state. Furthermore, preferably, at least one second valve of the valve device, in particular a second valve different from the at least one first valve, is controlled by at least one seventh connection, whereby a partial operating state of the selected operating state can be set.

[0073] In a further particularly preferred embodiment, at least one connection selected from the at least one first connection, at least one second connection, at least one third connection, at least one fourth connection, at least one fifth connection, at least one sixth connection, at least one seventh connection and at least one eighth connection is configured as a plug-in coupling, in particular a Stäubli connection, in particular for a Teflon hose.

[0074] This problem is also solved by creating a filter testing device comprising a connection device according to the invention or according to one or more of the previously described embodiments. Furthermore, the filter testing device comprises a media-supply filter testing device and a multiplication device. The media-supply filter testing device is fluidly connected to the connection device via the at least one first connection. Furthermore, the multiplication device is fluidly connected to the connection device via the at least one second connection. In particular, the advantages already described in relation to the connection device arise in relation to the filter testing device.

[0075] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the media-fed filter test apparatus is a Pall Corporation Aquawit apparatus, particularly in embodiments available as of the date of priority of this patent. Alternatively or additionally, the multiplication apparatus is preferably a Pall Corporation MUX apparatus, particularly in embodiments available as of the date of priority of this patent.

[0076] In particular, the at least one seventh connection, configured as a pneumatic connection, is fluidly connected to a media-supply filter test device, in particular an AQUAWIT device, and the valve device of the connection device can be controlled by the media-supply filter test device. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one seventh connection, configured in particular as a pneumatic connection, is fluidly connected to a multiplication device, in particular a MUX device, such that the valve device of the connection device can be controlled by the multiplication device.

[0077] The media-supply filter test device is mechanically connected to the connecting device, in particular by means of a first connecting element, in particular such that the media-supply filter test device and the connecting device cannot move relative to one another.

[0078] The multiplier device is in particular mechanically connected to the connection device by means of a second connection element, in particular such that the multiplier device and the connection device cannot move relative to each other.

[0079] In one embodiment, the filter testing device also comprises at least one compressed air utilization device, in particular a filter drying device, which is fluidly connected to the connection device via at least one eighth connection, in particular the at least one eighth connection being fluidly connected to at least one fourth connection of the at least one fourth connection for pressurizing the at least one compressed air utilization device with compressed air. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0080] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a connection device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a connection device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a connection device. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment of a connection device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a fifth embodiment of a connection device. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a sixth embodiment of a connection device. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a seventh embodiment of a connection device. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an eighth embodiment of a connection device. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a ninth embodiment of a connection device. [Figure 10] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of a tenth embodiment of a connection device. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a filter testing apparatus. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a filter testing apparatus. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a filter testing apparatus. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment of a filter testing apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0081] 1 shows a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a connection device 1. The connection device comprises a first connection part 3, a second connection part 5, a third connection part 7 and a valve device 9. The first connection part 3, the second connection part 5 and the third connection part 7 are fluidly connected to the valve device 9.

[0082] The first connection 3 is adapted to fluidly connect a media supply filter test device to the connection device 1. The second connection 5 is adapted to fluidly connect a multiplication device to the connection device 1. The third connection 7 is configured as a superheated steam connection.

[0083] The valve device 9 is adapted to, in a first operating state, fluidly connect the third connection portion 7 to the first connection portion 3 and the second connection portion 5 simultaneously, whereby the media supply filter testing device connected to the connection device 1 and the multiplication device connected to the connection device 1 are simultaneously sterilized by superheated steam supplied through the third connection portion 7.

[0084] In particular, the valve device 9 is further adapted to fluidly connect and / or disconnect the first connection 3 , the second connection 5 and the third connection 7 .

[0085] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the connection device 1.

[0086] Identical and functionally identical elements are labeled with the same reference numbers in all figures, so reference should be made to the previous description.

[0087] The connection device 1 preferably also has an outlet 11 which is fluidly connected to the valve device 9 .

[0088] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the connection device 1.

[0089] The connection device 1 also preferably has further connections selected from a fourth connection 13, in particular a compressed air connection, and a sixth connection 17, in particular a liquid supply connection.

[0090] The valve arrangement 9 also preferably comprises at least one valve 19, in particular a first valve 19.1, a second valve 19.2 and a third valve 19.3. The valves 19, in particular the first valve 19.1, the second valve 19.2 and the third valve 19.3, are adapted to fluidly connect and / or separate further connections selected from the first connection 3, the second connection 5, the third connection 7, the outlet 11 and the fourth connection 13 and the sixth connection 17.

[0091] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment of the connection device 1.

[0092] 2, the connection device 1 comprises a fourth connection part 13 and a pressure reducing device 21. The pressure reducing device 21 is fluidly connected to the fourth connection part 13.

[0093] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a fifth embodiment of the connection device 1.

[0094] In addition to the connections shown in FIG. 3, the connection device 1 comprises a fifth connection 15, in particular a water connection, and a fourth valve 19.4.

[0095] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a sixth embodiment of the connection device 1. As shown in FIG.

[0096] In addition to the first connection 3, the second connection 5 and the third connection 7, the connection device 1 comprises an outlet 11, a fourth connection 13, a fifth connection 15 and a sixth connection 17. Furthermore, the valve device 9 comprises five valves, in particular a first valve 19.1, a second valve 19.2, a third valve 19.3, a fourth valve 19.4 and a fifth valve 19.5.

[0097] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a seventh embodiment of the connection device 1. As shown in FIG.

[0098] In addition to the connection device shown in FIG. 6, the connection device 1 comprises an eighth connection 23 and a sixth valve 19.6, by means of which compressed air from the fourth connection 13 can be supplied to the filter drying device in particular via the eighth connection 23.

[0099] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an eighth embodiment of the connection device 1. In FIG.

[0100] In addition to the connection device shown in FIG. 6, the connection device 1 comprises an eighth connection 23 and a pressure reducing device 21, so that compressed air from the fourth connection 13 can be supplied to the filter drying device, in particular by the eighth connection 23.

[0101] In particular, the eighth connection 23 is fluidly connected to the fourth connection 13 via a first medium line 24.1. Furthermore, the first medium line 24.1 is fluidly connected to a second medium line 24.2, which fluidly connects the fourth connection 13 to the pressure reducing device 21, so that at least a portion of the compressed air introduced through the fourth connection 13 is directed to the eighth connection 23 before the compressed air enters the pressure reducing device 21.

[0102] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an eighth embodiment of the connection device 1. As shown in FIG.

[0103] In addition to the connection device shown in FIG. 8, the connection device 1 comprises a device selected from a seventh connection 25 , in particular a pneumatic connection, and a control device 27 .

[0104] A device selected from the seventh connection 25, in particular a pneumatic connection, and the control device 27 is operably connected to the valve arrangement 9, in particular the plurality of valves 19, and adapted to control the valve arrangement 9, in particular the plurality of valves 19.

[0105] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a ninth embodiment of the connection device 1.

[0106] In addition to the connection device shown in FIG. 1, the connection device 1 comprises a device selected from a seventh connection 25 , in particular a pneumatic connection, and a control device 27 .

[0107] The valve device 9 shown in Figures 1 to 10 is adapted to fluidly connect the third connection to the first connection 3 and the second connection 5 simultaneously in a first operating state, so that the media supply filter test device connected to the connecting device 1 and the multiplication device connected to the connecting device 1 can be sterilized simultaneously by superheated steam supplied through the third connection 7. Optionally, the valve device is further adapted to fluidly connect the third connection to at least one connection selected from the fourth connection 13, the fifth connection 15, the sixth connection 17, the eighth connection 23 and the outlet 11 in the first operating state. In particular, all other connections that are not fluidly connected to the third connection 7 are fluidly isolated from the third connection 7.

[0108] 1 to 10 is further adapted to, in a second operating state, fluidly connect the first connection 3 and the second connection 5 to each other and to fluidly isolate them from all other connections, in particular the third connection 7, the fourth connection 13, the fifth connection 15, the sixth connection 17, the eighth connection 23 and the outlet 11. Thereby, a medium, in particular water and / or compressed air, can be supplied by the connection device 1 from the medium supply filter test device to the multiplication device.

[0109] Preferably, the valve device 9 shown in Figures 3 to 9 is further adapted to fluidly connect the fourth connection 13 to the first connection 3 and the second connection 5 simultaneously in the third operating state. This allows the media supply filter test device connected to the connection device 1 and the multiplication device connected to the connection device 1 to be simultaneously dried by compressed air supplied through the fourth connection 13. Preferably, the other connections, in particular the third connection 7, the fifth connection 15, the sixth connection 17, the eighth connection 23 and the outlet 11, are fluidly connected to the fourth connection 13 or are separated from the fourth connection 13, respectively.

[0110] Preferably, the valve arrangement 9 shown in Figures 5 to 9 is further adapted, in a fourth operating state, to fluidly connect the fifth connection 15 to the first connection 3 and preferably to fluidly isolate it from the second connection 5, the third connection 7, the fourth connection 13, the sixth connection 17, the eighth connection 23 and the outlet 11. Thereby, a media-supplied filter test device connected to the connection arrangement 1 can be filled with water supplied through the fifth connection 13.

[0111] Preferably, the valve arrangement 9 shown in Figures 3 and 5 to 9 is further adapted to fluidly connect the sixth connection 17 to the first connection 3 and the second connection 5 simultaneously in the fifth operating state. Thereby, the medium-supply filter test device connected to the connection arrangement 1 and the multiplication device connected to the connection arrangement 1 can be simultaneously treated with a liquid, in particular an alkaline solution, supplied through the sixth connection 17. In particular, all other connections are either fluidly connected to the sixth connection 17 or are isolated from the sixth connection 17.

[0112] 7 is additionally adapted to fluidly connect the eighth connection 23 to the fourth connection 13 in the sixth operating state in order to conduct compressed air from the fourth connection 13 via the eighth connection 23 to a compressed air utilization device 35, in particular a filter dryer, connected to the connection device 1. In particular, all other connections are fluidly isolated from the eighth connection 23.

[0113] 2 to 9 is further adapted to fluidly connect, in the outlet state, the outlet 11 to at least one connection selected from the first connection 3, the second connection 5, the third connection 7, the fourth connection 13, the fifth connection 15, the sixth connection 17 and the eighth connection 23. This allows the medium present in the connection device 1 to flow out of the connection device 1 via the outlet 11.

[0114] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a first embodiment of a filter testing apparatus 29.

[0115] The filter testing device 29 comprises a connection device 1, a media-fed filter testing device 31, in particular an Aquawit device, and a multiplication device 33, in particular a MUX device. The media-fed filter testing device 31, in particular an Aquawit device, is fluidly connected to the connection device 1 via at least one first connection 3. Furthermore, the multiplication device 33, in particular a MUX device, is fluidly connected to the connection device 1 via at least one second connection 5.

[0116] In particular, the connection device 1 is the connection device 1 shown in at least one of FIGS.

[0117] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a filter testing apparatus 29.

[0118] The filter testing device 29 comprises a connection device 1, a media-fed filter testing device 31, in particular an Aquawit device, and a multiplication device 33, in particular a MUX device, as shown in Fig. 1. The media-fed filter testing device 31, in particular an Aquawit device, is fluidly connected to the connection device 1 via at least one first connection 3. Furthermore, the multiplication device 33, in particular a MUX device, is fluidly connected to the connection device 1 via at least one second connection 5.

[0119] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a filter testing apparatus 29 .

[0120] The filter testing device 29 comprises a connection device 1, a media-supply filter testing device 31, in particular an Aquawit device, and a multiplication device 33, in particular a MUX device, as shown in Fig. 10. The media-supply filter testing device 31, in particular an Aquawit device, is fluidly connected to the connection device 1 via at least one first connection 3. Furthermore, the multiplication device 33, in particular the MUX device, is fluidly connected to the connection device 1 via at least one second connection 5. Furthermore, at least one seventh connection 25 configured as a pneumatic connection is fluidly connected to the media-supply filter testing device 31, in particular the Aquawit device, such that the valve device 9 of the connection device 1 is controlled by the media-supply filter testing device 31.

[0121] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment of a filter testing apparatus 29.

[0122] The filter testing device 29 comprises a connection device 1, a media-supply filter testing device 31, in particular an Aquawit device, a multiplication device 33, in particular a MUX device, and a compressed air utilization device 35, in particular a filter drying device. The media-supply filter testing device 31, in particular an Aquawit device, is fluidly connected to the connection device 1 via at least one first connection 3. Furthermore, the multiplication device 33, in particular the MUX device, is fluidly connected to the connection device 1 via at least one second connection 5. Furthermore, the compressed air utilization device 35, in particular the filter drying device, is fluidly connected to the connection device 1 via at least one eighth connection 23. In particular, the at least one eighth connection 23 is fluidly connected to at least one fourth connection 13 for pressurizing the at least one compressed air utilization device 35 with compressed air.

[0123] In particular, the connection device 1 is the connection device 1 shown in at least one of FIGS.

Claims

1. A connection device (1), At least one first connection (3), at least one second connection (5), at least one third connection (7), and a valve device (9), said at least one first connection (3) adapted to fluidly connect a media supply filter testing device to said connection device (1); said at least one second connection (5) adapted to fluidly connect a multiplication device to said connection device (1); the at least one third connection (7) is configured as a superheated steam connection, the at least one first connection (3), the at least one second connection (5) and the at least one third connection (7) are fluidly connected to the valve device (9); The valve device (9) is adapted to simultaneously fluidly connect at least one third connection (7) of the at least one third connection (7) to at least one first connection (3) of the at least one first connection (3) and at least one second connection (5) of the at least one second connection (5) in a first operating state, and the media supply filter test device connected to the connection device (1) and the multiplication device connected to the connection device (1) can be simultaneously sterilized by superheated steam supplied through the at least one third connection (7).

2. 2. The connection device (1) of claim 1, wherein the valve device (9) is adapted to fluidly connect at least one first connection (3) of the at least one first connection (3) and at least one second connection (5) of the at least one second connection (5) to each other and fluidly isolate each from the at least one third connection (7) in a second operating state, so that a medium, in particular water and / or compressed air, can be supplied from the medium supply filter test device to the multiplier device.

3. It has at least one outlet (11), the at least one outlet (11) is fluidly connected to the valve device (9); 2. The connection device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the valve device (9) is adapted to fluidly connect at least one outlet (11) of the at least one outlet (11) to at least one connection selected from at least one first connection (3) of the at least one first connection (3), at least one second connection (5) of the at least one second connection (5), and at least one third connection (7) of the at least one third connection (7) in an outlet state, such that a medium present in the connection device (1) can flow out of the connection device (1) via the at least one outlet (11).

4. at least one fourth connection (13); the at least one fourth connection (13) is configured as a compressed air connection, the at least one fourth connection (13) is fluidly connected to the valve device (9); 2. The connection device (1) of claim 1, wherein the valve device (9) is adapted to fluidly connect at least one fourth connection (13) of the at least one fourth connection (13) to at least one first connection (3) of the at least one first connection (3) and / or at least one second connection (5) of the at least one second connection (5) in a third operating state, so that the media supply filter testing device connected to the connection device (1) and / or the multiplication device connected to the connection device (1) can be dried by compressed air supplied through the at least one fourth connection (13).

5. At least one fifth connection (15), the at least one fifth connection (15) is configured as a water connection, the at least one fifth connection (15) is fluidly connected to the valve device (9); 2. The connection device (1) of claim 1, wherein the valve device (9) is adapted to fluidly connect at least one fifth connection (15) of the at least one fifth connection (15) to at least one first connection (3) of the at least one first connection (3) in a fourth operating state, so that the media supply filter test device connected to the connection device (1) can be filled with water supplied through the at least one fifth connection (15).

6. at least one sixth connection (17); the at least one sixth connection (17) is configured as a liquid supply connection, in particular as an alkaline solution supply connection, the at least one sixth connection (17) is fluidly connected to the valve device (9); 2. The connection device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the valve device (9) is adapted, in a fifth operating state, to fluidly connect at least one sixth connection (17) of the at least one sixth connection (17) to at least one first connection (3) of the at least one first connection (3) and / or to at least one second connection (5) of the at least one second connection (5), so that the media supply filter testing device connected to the connection device (1) and / or the multiplication device connected to the connection device (1) can be treated with a liquid, in particular an alkaline solution, supplied through the at least one sixth connection (17).

7. 2. The connection device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the valve device (9) comprises at least one valve (19), preferably a plurality of valves (19), which are fluidly arranged between the at least one first connection (3), the at least one second connection (5), and the at least one third connection (7) and are adapted to control flow within the connection device (1).

8. 2. The connecting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein said at least one valve (19) comprises at least one membrane comprising polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

9. A control device (27) is provided, 2. The connection device (1) of claim 1, wherein the control device (27) is adapted to set an operating state of the valve device (9), preferably the control device (27) is operably connected to the valve device (9) and adapted to control the valve device (9), in particular the at least one valve (19), to set an operating state.

10. At least one seventh connection (25), the at least one seventh connection (25) is configured as a pneumatic connection; the at least one seventh connection (25) is fluidly connected to the valve device (9); 2. The connection device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the valve device (9), in particular the at least one valve (19), is adapted to be controlled via the at least one seventh connection (25) in order to set an operating state.

11. At least one pressure reducing device (21), the pressure reducing device (21) is fluidly connected to the at least one fourth connection (13); 5. The connection device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the pressure reducing device (21) preferably comprises a pressure gauge adapted to indicate the pressure of the supplied compressed air.

12. a first connecting element; 2. The connection device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first connection element is adapted to mechanically connect the media supply filter testing device to the connection device (1), in particular to connect the media supply filter testing device and the connection device (1) so that they cannot move relative to each other.

13. a second connecting element; 2. The connection device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the second connection element is adapted to mechanically connect the multiplier device to the connection device (1), in particular to connect the multiplier device and the connection device (1) so that they cannot move relative to each other.

14. 2. The connecting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein at least one connecting element selected from the first connecting element and the second connecting element comprises a positioning element.

15. 2. A connection device (1) according to claim 1, comprising a fastening device adapted to fix the connection device (1) in a substrate and / or on a wall.

16. at least one cover element; 2. The connection device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one cover element is adapted to cover at least one hose fluidly connecting the connection device (1) to at least one device, in particular to at least one device selected from the media supply filter testing device and the multiplication device.

17. At least one eighth connection (23), the at least one eighth connection (23) is adapted to fluidly connect at least one compressed air utilization device (35), in particular a filter dryer device, to the connection device (1); 2. The connection device (1) of claim 1, wherein the at least one eighth connection (23) is fluidly connected to at least one fourth connection (13) of the at least one fourth connection (13) for pressurizing the at least one compressed air utilization device with compressed air.

18. A filter testing device (29) comprising a connection device (1) as described in claim 1, a media supply filter testing device (31), in particular an Aquawit device, and a multiplier device (33), in particular a MUX device, wherein the media supply filter testing device (31) is fluidly connected to the connection device (1) via the at least one first connection part (3) and the multiplier device (33) is fluidly connected to the connection device (1) via the at least one second connection part (5).

Images