Receiving device for pharmaceutical containers, planar transport system and plant for processing pharmaceutical containers

Abstract

The invention relates to a receiving device (140) for pharmaceutical containers (102) as a component of a planar transport system (130), in particular for use in a plant (100) for processing pharmaceutical containers (102), comprising a main body (150) on which a transport mover (142) that can be moved in a plane by the transport system (130) is arranged or which is formed by the transport mover (142), a support device (158) held on the main body (150), at least one adjusting device (160), and at least one gripping device (162), wherein the at least one adjusting device (160) comprises a first adjusting element (176) and a second adjusting element (178), which are held on the support device (158), wherein at least one adjusting element (176, 178) is designed to move relative to the support device (158), wherein the gripping device (162) comprises a first gripping element (222), which is detachably connected to the first adjusting element (176), and a second gripping element (224), which is detachably connected to the second adjusting element (178), wherein the gripping elements (222, 224) form a container receiving means (228) between them and, by moving the at least one movable adjusting element (176, 178) relative to the support device (158), they can be moved from a gripping position in which the container (102) is held in the container receiving means (228), into a release position in which the container (102) can be introduced into or removed from the container receiving means (228) or released, or vice versa. The invention also relates to a planar transport system (130) and to a plant (100) for processing pharmaceutical containers (102).

Description

[0001] PHARMACEUTICAL CONTAINER RECEIPT, PLANAR TRANSPORT SYSTEM AND PHARMACEUTICAL CONTAINER PROCESSING PLANT

[0002] The present invention relates to a receiving device for pharmaceutical containers as part of a planar transport system, in particular for use in a plant for processing pharmaceutical containers, which comprises a planar transport system and at least one processing station.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a planar transport system and a system for processing pharmaceutical containers.

[0004] Planar transport systems are known in which plate-shaped movable elements, hereinafter referred to as "transport movers," are movable by means of an electromagnetic drive unit. The drive unit can comprise drive units (also referred to as "tiles") that can be independently energized. This allows the transport movers to be moved contactlessly, suspended, in at least one spatial direction. For example, movement can occur in a transport plane spanned by two directions oriented at an angle to each other. It is also known to change the height of the transport mover relative to the drive units and / or to rotate the transport mover.

[0005] The aforementioned features are not essential for understanding and implementing the present invention. The invention relates to a receiving device for pharmaceutical containers, comprising a transport mover that can be moved contactlessly relative to the drive units in a planar transport system. In particular, the present invention relates to how the pharmaceutical containers can be preferably held on the receiving device.

[0006] Planar transport systems of the type described above are also known as levitation systems. One commercially available system is, for example, the XPianar system from Beckhoff, although other suppliers also offer similar systems.

[0007] It is known to use receiving devices for pharmaceutical containers in systems for processing such containers. These containers can be, for example, vials, syringes, cartridges, or ampoules. For instance, DE 10 2022 106 818 B3 describes the transport of vials using a planar transport system. DE 102021 116 528 A1 describes a planar transport system in which racks are held by two transport movers coupled to each other. This allows containers to be raised and lowered, as well as picked up or released, depending on the relative position of the transport movers.

[0008] EP 4 310 027 A1 describes a planar transport system in which packaging can be moved using the transport mover.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a receiving device for pharmaceutical containers, a planar transport system and a system for processing containers, wherein the containers can advantageously be held on the receiving device in a preferably structurally simple manner.

[0010] This problem is solved by a receiving device according to the invention for pharmaceutical containers as a component of a planar transport system, in particular for use in a plant for processing pharmaceutical containers, comprising a base body on which a transport mover movable in a plane by the transport system is arranged or which is formed by the transport mover, a support device held on the base body, at least one adjustment device and at least one gripping device, wherein the at least one adjustment device comprises a first adjustment element and a second adjustment element which are held on the support device, wherein at least one adjustment element is designed to be movable relative to the support device, wherein the gripping device comprises a first gripping element which is detachably connected to the first adjustment element, and a second gripping element which is detachably connected to the second adjustment element.wherein the gripping elements form a container receptacle between them and can be moved from a gripping position, in which the container is held in the container receptacle, to a release position and vice versa, in which the container can be inserted into the container receptacle or removed from it or released, by moving the at least one movable adjusting element relative to the support device.

[0011] The receiving device according to the invention can preferably be moved in a manner known per se by means of the planar transport system. For this purpose, the transport mover is operatively connected to drive units of the drive system and can, for example, change its position in a plane, its height, and its orientation relative to the drive units depending on the application of force to the drive units. The transport mover is arranged on a base body of the receiving device or forms the base body itself. A support device is held on the base body. At least one gripping device with a first and a second gripping element is provided for gripping the containers. The gripping elements can be moved from a gripping position to a release position and vice versa. This offers the possibility of gripping, picking up, or releasing a container.In this context, "releasing" also offers the possibility of freeing the container, for example, for placement on a support element, such as at a weighing station. For this purpose, the receiving device can interact with a transport device and / or at least one processing station. Movement of the gripping elements is possible because the receiving device includes at least one adjustment mechanism with two adjustment elements, at least one of which is designed to be movable relative to the support structure. It is advantageous that the gripping elements can be detachably connected to their respective adjustment elements. Depending on which containers are to be held by the receiving device, various types of gripping devices adapted to the containers can be provided.

[0012] In particular, it is advantageous if the receiving device comprises at least one further gripping device, which includes a further first gripping element and a further second gripping element, wherein the first gripping elements differ from each other and the second gripping elements differ from each other in at least one container-specific property. Depending on which containers are to be processed, the appropriate gripping device can be selected, the gripping elements of which are adapted to the characteristics of the containers. Accordingly, gripping elements can be, in particular, format parts or form such parts. Several identically designed gripping devices can form a format set. Preferably, one gripping device covers a certain format range of containers, so that the number of gripping devices required can be kept as low as possible.Nevertheless, exchanging gripping elements proves particularly advantageous with regard to the reliable handling of the containers. In particular, two or more different gripping devices with their respective gripping elements can be provided.

[0013] It is understood that the receiving device should preferably be able to hold more than one container. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0014] It can be advantageous, for example, if the gripping elements are connected to the adjusting elements by force and / or positive locking. It can also be beneficial if the gripping elements can be connected to the adjusting elements manually and / or without tools.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the gripping elements can, for example, be attached to the adjusting elements, wherein, for example, a receptacle for a pin-shaped projection of the adjusting element is formed on the gripping element, or vice versa. The connection is effected, for example, by positive locking, clamping, and / or detent.

[0016] Advantageously, the connection is clearly defined, so that the gripping elements can only be connected to the adjustment elements in one orientation. This ensures the correct position of the gripping elements.

[0017] By detaching the gripping elements from the adjustment mechanism, the holding device also advantageously offers improved cleaning properties. For example, the gripping elements can be removed after a production cycle and cleaned separately from the rest of the holding device. The holding device is also advantageously suitable for on-site cleaning (wash-in-place), for example, after a production cycle.

[0018] To reliably grip a container, at least one gripping element comprises, for example, two gripping members spaced apart from each other in one direction of the container's extension. These two gripping members preferably absorb any tilting moments, ensuring the containers are held securely.

[0019] At least one gripping element includes, for example, a support member for bracing the bottom of the container. The container can rest on the support member and is thus held from below.

[0020] The gripping elements preferably surround the container section by section in its circumferential direction. One shape of the gripping elements is preferably adapted to a contour of the container.

[0021] The at least one movable adjustment element is preferably pivotable about a pivot axis relative to the support structure. In practice, it has been shown that this design allows for a simple movement of the gripping elements relative to each other. The pivot axis is preferably transverse and, in particular, perpendicular to a plane defined by the transport mover. For horizontally movable transport movers, the pivot axis can be vertically oriented.

[0022] The support device can preferably include or form a pivot bearing element for supporting the adjusting element. For example, the support device includes a receptacle into which the adjusting element engages in a form-fitting manner, while providing sufficient clearance to allow for reliable pivoting without tilting.

[0023] In practice, it can prove advantageous if both adjustment elements are designed to be movable relative to the support device.

[0024] In particular, it can be provided that both adjustment elements are pivotable relative to the support device, with the pivot axes running parallel to each other.

[0025] It is advantageous if the movement of both adjustment elements is coupled. This offers, for example, the possibility of moving only one of the adjustment elements via an actuator and thereby also moving the second adjustment element via a coupling.

[0026] In particular, it may be provided that the adjusting device includes coupling elements via which the pivoting movement of the adjusting elements is coupled, so that when the first adjusting element is pivoted, the second adjusting element is also pivoted.

[0027] The coupling can be such that the pivoting of the adjusting elements is in opposite directions, i.e., one adjusting element pivots counterclockwise in the direction of the pivot axis and the other adjusting element clockwise.

[0028] The pivoting of both adjustment elements preferably occurs synchronously and / or by identical pivoting angles.

[0029] The coupling elements can, for example, be projections extending from or formed on a respective adjusting element, which together form a pivot joint, wherein preferably one coupling element comprises a pin with which the other coupling element engages. The projections can be integrally connected to the respective adjusting element.

[0030] For example, a receptacle is arranged on the support device in which the pivot joint formed by the coupling elements can move back and forth when pivoting.

[0031] It can be advantageous if the adjusting device includes an actuating element that is coupled to or encompassed by the at least one movable adjusting element, and wherein the adjusting element is movable upon contact of the actuating element with an actuating body arranged externally to the receiving device. The actuating body can, for example, be arranged at a processing station for the containers or at a transport device. For example, the actuating body is a cam or a plunger that contacts the actuating element, thereby enabling the adjusting element to be moved relative to each other to move the gripping elements.

[0032] Actuation can occur, for example, as a result of movement of the receiving device. For instance, the actuating element is stationary, and the transport mover is moved in such a way that the gripping elements can be moved relative to each other.

[0033] In one embodiment of the invention, the actuating element may be designed as a lever element projecting radially from the adjusting element and connected to the adjusting element in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0034] It may be provided that a contact element is arranged on the actuating element or that such a contact element is encompassed by the actuating element for contacting the actuating body. The contact element is, for example, a roller or a sliding shoe.

[0035] It is advantageous if the at least one movable adjusting element is movable relative to the support device against the restoring force of a return element and, in particular, pivotable. In this way, the gripping elements can be moved from the gripping position to the release position against the restoring force. Under the influence of the restoring force, the gripping elements can be moved from the release position towards the gripping position, thereby reliably holding the container in the container holder. The return element is preferably a preload element, which preloads the gripping elements relative to each other so that the container can be gripped with particular reliability. The return element can, for example, be a mechanical spring element. The spring element is, in particular, a tension spring.

[0036] In practice, the receiving device may include two (or more) adjustment mechanisms. It is conceivable that two adjustment mechanisms share a common return element that engages both adjustment mechanisms. If two containers are picked up via gripping elements connected to the adjustment mechanisms, return can be achieved with only one return element in such a design.

[0037] In practical implementation of the mounting device, it proves advantageous if the support structure comprises a housing in which adjustment elements are partially enclosed, with through-openings formed in the housing. The adjustment elements can be reliably received within the housing and pivotally mounted therein, for example, via the swivel bearing element. The coupling elements and the swivel joint are preferably arranged within the housing.

[0038] The adjusting elements can, for example, extend through the openings towards the gripping elements, which are connected to the adjusting elements outside the housing. This allows for easy manipulation of the gripping elements to either detach them from or connect them to the adjusting elements. In contrast, the movable components of the adjusting device are advantageously arranged within the housing.

[0039] For example, one of the adjusting elements can extend through a through-opening on a side facing away from the gripping elements and is connected to an actuating element outside the housing, or it can include an actuating element outside the housing. In particular, the actuating element can be arranged on a side of the adjusting device facing away from the gripping elements.

[0040] In an advantageous embodiment, the housing can, for example, be a half-shell housing, preferably comprising a lower half-shell facing the transport mover and an upper half-shell facing away from the transport mover. The half-shell design offers a structurally simple and cost-effective manufacturing method while ensuring reliable operation of the receiving device. A sealing element can preferably be arranged between the joining edges of the half-shells.

[0041] The housing is advantageously sealed to be liquid-tight. For example, the housing is suitable for WIP applications and sealed against the ingress of any cleaning fluid sprayed during these applications. A sealing element can be arranged between the respective adjusting element and an edge of the through-hole to prevent cleaning fluid from entering the housing at the through-hole.

[0042] It can be advantageous if the housing is fixed to the base body using spacers and positioned at a distance from the base body, creating a gap between the two. This effectively raises the housing relative to the base body. This can be beneficial for cleaning performance. For example, cleaning fluid can run along the housing and drip off.

[0043] If the system includes a flow device for providing a gas and, in particular, air flow to blow particles off the collection device, the housing can be surrounded by air. This is advantageous for meeting hygiene requirements. The air flow can be provided, for example, by means of laminar flow (LF).

[0044] As already mentioned, more than two adjustment devices and two or more gripping devices can be provided.

[0045] For example, it can be advantageous if more than one container can be picked up and transported via the receiving device.

[0046] The receiving device can therefore advantageously include two or more adjustment devices and two or more gripping devices. Each adjustment device can be assigned one gripping device.

[0047] The adjustment devices and / or the gripping devices are preferably identical. Advantageously, a plurality of identical containers can be picked up by the receiving device. Alternatively, it is conceivable that two gripping devices differ from one another, with the adjustment devices preferably being identical. Different types of containers can be picked up by the receiving device simultaneously via the gripping devices.

[0048] The adjustment devices are preferably held on the same support structure, which may include, for example, the housing described above, and is assigned to all adjustment devices.

[0049] It is conceivable that two or more adjustment devices and gripping devices are arranged side by side along a row. For example, two, three, or more adjustment and gripping devices can be provided in a row. In an advantageous embodiment, for example, four adjustment and gripping devices are arranged side by side.

[0050] Alternatively or additionally, two adjusting devices and two gripping devices can be arranged opposite each other such that the container holder of one gripping device is located on the side facing away from the other gripping device. The respective container holders point away from the other gripping device. This is advantageous for accessing the containers from two opposite sides, preferably simultaneously. The adjusting devices and gripping devices can, for example, be symmetrical to each other. A symmetrical design with respect to an axis of symmetry is conceivable, such that the adjusting devices and gripping devices transition into each other by a 180° rotation (rotational symmetry). Alternatively, mirror symmetry with respect to a plane of symmetry is conceivable.The axis of symmetry is, for example, oriented transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to a plane of the transport mover. The plane of symmetry can, for example, be a longitudinal median plane of the receiving device.

[0051] For example, there are two rows of four adjustment devices and gripping devices each.

[0052] It may be intended that not every gripping device of the receiving unit is equipped with a container. Depending on the application, it may be intended that one or more container receiving units remain unused. It is conceivable that not every adjustment mechanism is connected to a gripping device. Depending on the application, it may be intended that at least one adjustment mechanism is unused.

[0053] If several adjustment devices are provided, it is conceivable that, particularly depending on the containers to be processed, a gripping device may work together with several adjustment devices.

[0054] For example, it is conceivable that a further gripping device (e.g., as an alternative format part) and at least one further adjustment device are provided, wherein the gripping elements are connected to adjustment elements of different adjustment devices. Such a configuration is conceivable, for example, when a relatively large container needs to be transported. For instance, the first gripping element is connected to the first adjustment element of one adjustment device, and the second gripping element is connected to the second adjustment element of the further adjustment device. This allows a relatively large container receptacle to be formed for a container of this size. The first gripping element of the further gripping device and the second gripping element of the further gripping device are specifically designed to jointly hold a container.Each adjusting device preferably includes an actuating element, so that both adjusting devices can be actuated to move the gripping elements from the gripping position to the release position.

[0055] The possibility of connecting the gripping elements of a gripping device with adjusting elements of different adjusting devices gives the receiving device a high degree of versatility.

[0056] The components of the holding device can be manufactured in various ways. For example, they can be manufactured entirely or partially using an additive manufacturing process, such as 3D printing. Alternatively or additionally, injection molding is another possible manufacturing method. The gripping elements, adjustment elements, housing, and / or base body can be made of a plastic material, for example.

[0057] As mentioned at the outset, it is conceivable that the transport mover forms the base body. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the receiving device has a base body that forms a housing or is part of a housing on or in which the transport mover is arranged. Such a design offers, for example, advantageous cleaning properties.

[0058] A planar transport system according to the invention comprises an electromagnetic drive unit configured to interact with a transport mover in at least one receiving device of the type described above, for contactless movement relative to the drive unit in a transport plane. At least one receiving device can be part of the transport system.

[0059] An inventive system for processing pharmaceutical containers comprises a planar transport system as described above and at least one receiving device of the type described above. Furthermore, the system comprises at least one processing station on the transport system to which the containers can be fed by means of the at least one receiving device.

[0060] The advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the receiving device according to the invention can also be achieved with the transport system and the plant according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the transport system and the plant result from advantageous embodiments of the receiving device according to the invention. Reference is made to the preceding explanations.

[0061] The at least one processing station includes, for example, a weighing station, a filling station, a closing station and / or a control station.

[0062] 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:

[0063] Figure 1: a schematic representation of the inventive system for processing containers with the inventive planar transport system and the inventive receiving device, each in a preferred embodiment;

[0064] Figure 2: the transport system and the receiving device from Figure 1 in perspective view; Figure 3: a perspective view of the receiving device according to the invention, on which several containers are held;

[0065] Figure 4: another perspective view of the recording device in a partial view;

[0066] Figure 5: an exploded view of the recording device, with some containers omitted;

[0067] Figure 6: a (partial) sectional view along line 6-6 in Figure 3;

[0068] Figure 7: an enlarged sectional view along line 7-7 in Figure 3;

[0069] Figure 8: an enlarged top view of the recording device in a partial view;

[0070] Figure 9: a representation of the receiving device from Figure 3 in a different configuration, wherein, compared to Figure 3, different gripping devices are used to receive different containers; and

[0071] Figure 10: another perspective representation of the configuration according to Figure 9 in a manner corresponding to Figure 4.

[0072] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an advantageous embodiment of the system for processing pharmaceutical containers 102, designated by reference numeral 100. The containers 102 are designed as vials. The containers 102 are processed on the system 100 and filled with a pharmaceutical product, which can be in powder or liquid form.

[0073] The system 100 is located in a facility for processing the containers 102, which includes a platform 104. The system 100 comprises a frame 106, which may, for example, be designed like a table and, in this case, rests on the platform 104 via support elements 108. The frame 106 includes a partition 110, which may, for example, be designed as a tabletop 112. The partition 110 separates a receiving area 114 in a substructure 116 from a processing chamber 118 located above the partition 110. The receiving area 114 may, for example, be enclosed externally by means of suitable cladding. The system 100 includes a cover 120 that delimits the processing chamber 118. The cover 120 may, for example, be or include an isolator 122 to provide a defined atmosphere in the processing chamber 118, for example, for decontamination purposes.

[0074] The covering device 120 can include a flow device 124. The flow device 124 provides a defined gas and, in particular, air flow in the processing chamber 118 during the processing of the containers 102. This is specifically a laminar flow (LF) flow. This blows off any particles adhering to the containers 102 and the components of the system 100.

[0075] The system 100 can include a cleaning unit 126. A cleaning fluid, for example water, optionally with an added cleaning chemical, can be dispensed into the processing chamber 118 via a nozzle unit 128 through the cleaning unit 126. This allows the components of the system 100 to be cleaned preferably on-site after a production cycle (WIP, washing-in-place).

[0076] For transporting the containers 102, the system 100 comprises a planar transport system 130 according to the invention, which is shown here in a preferred embodiment. The transport system 130 is arranged largely within the processing area 118.

[0077] The transport system 130 has a housing 132 mounted on the separating element 110. Electromagnetic drive units 134 of a drive device 135 are arranged in the housing 132. Figure 1 schematically shows the contours of the drive units 134 by means of a dashed line 136.

[0078] An electrical power supply unit 138 is located in the receiving area 114. The drive units 134 can be supplied with electrical energy via the power supply unit 138. This makes it possible to generate alternating magnetic fields.

[0079] The transport system 130 comprises a receiving device 140 according to the invention, which is also shown in a preferred embodiment in the drawing. The receiving device 140 includes a transport mover 142, which is configured to interact with the drive units 134. The magnetic fields allow the transport mover 142 to be moved in a floating position relative to the housing 132. In particular, movement parallel to the plane of the housing 132 is possible. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the transport mover 142 is raised or lowered and / or changes its orientation (for example, by rotating) relative to the housing 132. A tilting movement is also conceivable.

[0080] The Transportmover 142, for example, is made of aluminium or stainless steel.

[0081] Depending on how the drive units 134 are actuated, the receiving device 140 performs the desired movement.

[0082] A control unit 144 controls the operation of the transport system 130 and the plant 100 as a whole.

[0083] The system 100 comprises at least one processing station 146 for processing the containers 102, which is shown schematically in Figure 1. It is understood that several processing stations 146 may be provided. For example, at least one weighing station, one filling station, one closing station and / or one inspection station is provided.

[0084] During a production cycle, the containers 102 are moved to the processing station 146 by means of the receiving device 140. The containers 102 can, for example, be transferred from a transport device 148 to the receiving device 140. Alternatively or additionally, the containers 102 can be transferred from the transport device 148 to the receiving device 140.

[0085] Figures 1 and 2 show a receiving device 140 of the transport system 130. It is understood that the transport system 130 can comprise a plurality of receiving devices 140. These receiving devices 140 are preferably identical in design.

[0086] The following section discusses the design and function of the receiving device 140, initially with reference to Figures 3 to 8.

[0087] The receiving device 140 comprises a base body 150, which, in use, faces the housing 132 of the transport system 130. The base body 150 forms a housing 152. The transport mover 142 is arranged in the housing 152, which comprises a lower part 154 and an upper part 156. Retaining elements 157 are attached to the transport mover 142 for fixation. Overall, the base body 150 has a substantially plate-like shape.

[0088] The receiving device 140 further comprises a support device 158. The support device is fixed to the base body 150 and in turn serves to hold at least one adjusting device 160, on which a gripping device 162 is held.

[0089] In the present example, the transport mover 142 is encapsulated in the housing 152. In a different embodiment, for example, no housing 152 is provided to accommodate the transport mover 142. Instead, a body, for example made of a flat material such as a sheet of metal, can be provided, which is connected to the transport mover 142. This body can, for example, hold the support device 158. The body can be connected to the transport mover 142, in particular by adhesive bonding. For this purpose, double-sided adhesive tape can be used, for example (dashed line on the transport mover 142 on the left in Figure 5). An edge of the body can be sealed relative to the transport mover 142, for example with silicone.

[0090] The receiving device 140 comprises, in particular, a plurality of adjustment devices 160 and their respective associated gripping devices 162. The design of the adjustment devices 160 is identical, so that the following discussion focuses primarily on one adjustment device. In the configuration of the receiving device 140 described in connection with Figures 3 to 8, the gripping devices 162 used are identical. For this reason, the discussion here also focuses primarily on only one gripping device 162. However, the receiving device 140 has further gripping devices 162, the function and purpose of which are explained below.

[0091] In this example, the support device 158 comprises a housing 164. The housing 164 is designed to extend longitudinally. Furthermore, the housing 164 is fixed to the base body 150 by means of spacers 166. This creates a gap 168 between the housing 164 and the base body 150. Such a design proves advantageous when using laminar flow airflow, which can flow around the housing 164. Particles can, for example, be deposited on the upper part 156. The design of the receiving device is also advantageous during cleaning processes using the cleaning devices 126. Cleaning fluid can drain or drip from the housing 164.

[0092] The housing 164 has a simple design, employing a semi-shell construction. In particular, the housing 164 has a lower semi-shell 170 facing the base body 150, and an upper semi-shell 172 facing away from the base body.

[0093] The joining edges of the half-shells 170 and 172 do not directly abut each other. Instead, a circumferential sealing element 174 is arranged between the half-shells 170 and 172. This allows the housing 164 to be designed to be liquid-tight.

[0094] Each adjusting device 160 is held on the support device 158. The adjusting device 160 comprises a first adjusting element 176 and a second adjusting element 178. The adjusting elements 176 and 178 are essentially pin-like or tenon-like in this case. Due to their mobility relative to the support device 158, the adjusting elements 176 and 178 could, for example, also be described as shafts.

[0095] A receptacle 180 is formed in the housing 164 for each adjusting element 176, 178. The receptacle 180 is located on the lower half-shell 170. The adjusting element 176, 178 fits snugly in the receptacle 180 and thus has a defined position on the support device 158. However, there is sufficient play to allow the adjusting element 176, 178 to move relative to the support device 158.

[0096] In this embodiment, both adjusting elements 176 and 178 are movable, with their movements coupled to each other via coupling elements 182 and 184. The first adjusting element 176 is pivotable relative to the housing 164 about a pivot axis 186. The second adjusting element 178 is pivotable relative to the housing 164 about a pivot axis 188. The pivot axes 186 and 188 are aligned parallel to each other. In this embodiment, the pivot axes 186 and 188 run transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to a plane defined by the transport mover 142.

[0097] The images 180 form swivel bearing elements.

[0098] Through-openings 190 for the adjusting elements 176, 178 are formed in the housing 164. These through-openings 190 are formed in the upper half-shell 172, and the adjusting elements 176, 178 extend through the through-openings 190 so that they project outside the housing 164 (Figures 4 and 6). Pin-shaped projections 192 of the adjusting elements 176, 178 are arranged outside the housing 164.

[0099] The first adjusting element 176 is associated with a further through-opening 190 in the housing 164 on the lower half-shell 170 below the receptacle 180. The adjusting element 176 protrudes downwards from the housing 164 (Figure 6).

[0100] A sealing element 194 seals between the adjusting elements 176, 178 and the respective edge 196 of the through-opening 190. In this way, the housing 164 is also designed to be liquid-tight at the through-openings 190.

[0101] The adjusting device 160 comprises an actuating element 198. The actuating element is designed to cause the adjusting elements 176, 178 on the housing 164 to pivot when it comes into contact with an actuating body 200 arranged externally to the receiving device 140. The actuating body 200 is, for example, a component of the processing station 146.

[0102] Figure 8 schematically shows such an actuating body 200. The contact of the actuating element 198 with the actuating body 200 occurs, for example, as a result of the movement of the transport mover 142, whereby the actuating body 200 can be stationary. Alternatively, it can be provided that the actuating body 200 is actively moved and thereby contacts the actuating element 198.

[0103] In this case, the actuating element 198 is a lever element 202. The lever element 202 is rotationally fixed to the first adjusting element 176, for example by screws. The lever element 202 is located outside the housing 164 and is connected to the section 204 of the adjusting element 176, which extends through the through-opening 190 in the lower half-shell 170. The lever element projects radially from the adjusting element 176 with respect to the pivot axis 186.

[0104] At the free end of the actuating element 198, a contact element for contact with the actuating body 200 can be arranged, for example. In this case, the contact element is a roller 206 for rolling along the actuating body 200.

[0105] When the actuating body 200 contacts the actuating element 198, the adjusting element 176 is pivoted about the pivot axis 186 relative to the housing 164. As a result of the coupling via the coupling elements 182, 184, the second adjusting element 178 is also pivoted, specifically about the pivot axis 188.

[0106] The pivoting is synchronous and occurs by the same angle of rotation. Furthermore, the pivoting is inversely proportional. For example, when viewed from the top view of Figure 8, the adjusting element 176 pivots counterclockwise in the axial direction when actuated (arrow 208), while the adjusting element 178 pivots clockwise (arrow 210).

[0107] In the present embodiment, the coupling elements 182, 184 are projections 212 and 214 formed by the respective adjusting element. The projections 212, 214 are integrally formed with the adjusting elements 176, 178. Projection 212 forms a pin 216 with which projection 214 engages. Together, projections 212, 214 form a pivot joint 218.

[0108] The pivot joint 218 is arranged in the housing 164 so that its position can be changed. The pin 216 engages in a receptacle 220 in which there is sufficient play for a back-and-forth movement of the pin 216 when the adjusting elements 176, 178 are pivoted.

[0109] The gripping device 162 mentioned above, which is associated with the adjusting device 160, comprises a first gripping element 222 and a second gripping element 224. The gripping elements 222 and 224 are associated with the adjusting elements 176 and 178, respectively. The gripping elements 222 and 224 are designed to be mirror-symmetrical relative to each other and are arranged on the receiving device 140. The reference numeral 226 indicates the corresponding plane of symmetry for a gripping device 162 (Figure 8).

[0110] The first gripping element 222 can be detachably connected to the first adjusting element 176. Similarly, the second gripping element 224 can be detachably connected to the second adjusting element 178. This is advantageous because the gripping device 162 can be replaced.

[0111] The gripping elements 222, 224 are adapted in size and shape to the containers 102 to be picked up. The adaptation is such that the containers 102 can be reliably held in a container receptacle 228 formed between the gripping elements 222, 224. Depending on which containers 102 are to be picked up by the receiving device 140, different types of gripping devices 162 can be used. Figure 3 illustrates this by way of example, showing additional gripping devices 162 with respective gripping elements 222, 224. The respective first gripping elements 222 differ from each other in a container-specific property. The same applies to the respective second gripping elements 224.

[0112] The above design gives the receiving device 140 a high degree of versatility. The gripping devices 162 are, in particular, format parts that can preferably cover a format range of various types of containers 102.

[0113] Each gripping element 222 has at least one gripping member 230. The gripping member 230 is adapted in shape to a contour of the container 102 and can be positioned laterally against it. Advantageously, two gripping members 230 are provided, spaced apart from each other in one direction of extension of the container 102.

[0114] Advantageously, each gripping element 222, 224 can include a support member 232 to support the bottom of the container 102. This allows the container 102 to rest on the support member 232.

[0115] The connection of the gripping elements 222, 224 with the adjusting elements 176 and 178, respectively, is possible manually and, in particular, without tools. The same applies to the release of the gripping elements 222, 224.

[0116] The gripping elements 222 and 224 can be attached to the adjusting elements 176 and 178, respectively. For this purpose, a substantially blind-hole-shaped receptacle 234 is formed on the gripping element 222 or 224. The respective projection 192 engages in the receptacle 234 to form a positive-locking connection. A connection by frictional engagement, for example by clamping, is also conceivable. A snap-fit ​​connection is also possible.

[0117] The position of the gripping elements 222, 224 relative to the adjusting elements 176 and 178 is unambiguous. For this purpose, the receptacles 234 and the projections 192 are each designed as non-circular shapes (Figures 4 and 5).

[0118] During operation of the receiving device 140, the gripping elements 222, 224 can be moved into a release position. This release position can also be referred to as the receiving position when no container 102 is held in the container receptacle 228. By actuating the actuating element 198, the adjusting elements 176, 178 are pivoted about the pivot axes 186 and 188, respectively. This also pivots the gripping elements 222, 224, in opposite directions. The container receptacle 228 is widened. In a release position, the container 102 can be inserted into the receptacle, for example, by the transport device 148.

[0119] When force is applied to the actuating element 198, the gripping elements 222, 224 are moved into a gripping position in which the containers 102 are reliably held by the gripping elements 222, 224 in the container receptacle 228.

[0120] The pivoting of the adjusting elements 176, 178 required for this purpose can be performed actively. However, it is advantageous if a return element 236 is provided for pivoting. Accordingly, the gripping elements 222 are moved into the release position against the return force of the return element 236 and into the gripping position under the influence of the return force.

[0121] In the present example, the return element 236 is a mechanical spring element, in particular a tension-acting helical spring 238. The helical spring 238 can be seen, for example, in Figure 8, in which (by way of example) two gripping elements 222, 224 assume the release position at the bottom left and two gripping elements 222, 224 assume the gripping position at the bottom right.

[0122] The coil spring 238 engages the pivot joint 218. A further pivot joint 218 of another adjusting device 160 serves as a counter bearing for the coil spring 238. In this way, the adjusting devices 160, which are opposite each other, share a return element 236.

[0123] It may be provided that the gripping elements 222, 224 are not moved into the release position in order to remove the container 102 from the container receptacle 228. For example, this process serves to release the containers 102. This is carried out, for example, at a processing station 146 in the form of a weighing station, where the containers 102 are placed on a weighing platform of the weighing station. After weighing, the gripping elements 222, 224 are moved back into the gripping position, allowing the containers 102 to be lifted from the weighing station. The receiving device 140, in the configuration shown in Figures 3 to 8, has eight positions for transporting eight containers 102. Accordingly, eight adjusting devices and eight gripping devices 162 are provided. These are arranged in two rows of four adjusting devices 160 and four gripping devices 162 each.

[0124] Four adjusting devices 160 and four gripping devices 162 are positioned side by side, in particular in a straight line.

[0125] Furthermore, gripping devices 162 are arranged opposite each other such that their respective container receptacles 228 are located on the side facing away from the other gripping device 162. The adjusting devices 160 associated with these two gripping devices 162 have the common return element 236. The adjusting devices and the gripping devices are designed symmetrically with respect to an axis of symmetry 240 (rotational symmetry of 180°).

[0126] The present design specifically provides that each adjustment device 160 can be actuated independently of the other adjustment devices 160. Joint actuation via an actuating element 200 is also possible.

[0127] When replacing the gripping device 162 to cover other format ranges, configurations of the receiving device 140 can be enabled, which in turn can have eight digits. However, it is conceivable that not all positions are occupied.

[0128] Adjustment devices 160 can remain unoccupied by not having a gripping device 162 connected to them. Any configuration is conceivable, for example, with an occupancy of one to eight positions.

[0129] It goes without saying that this can apply to all possible gripping devices 162, even with different format sets.

[0130] The receiving device 140 can comprise format sets 242 (Figure 3), wherein each format set 242 comprises at least one gripping device 162.

[0131] A mixed configuration of the receiving device 140 with different gripping devices 162 is also conceivable. Furthermore, it is of course conceivable that not all gripping devices 162 are equipped with a container 102 and that container receptacles 228 remain empty.

[0132] Figures 9 and 10 show a configuration of the receiving device 140 in which gripping devices 162 are used for a four-digit configuration of the receiving device 140. For example, these gripping devices 162 form a format set 242. In the configuration according to Figures 9 and 10, the gripping elements 222, 224 are dimensioned larger to accommodate containers 102 with a larger diameter than in the configuration according to Figures 3 to 8.

[0133] A special feature of this arrangement is that the gripping elements 222 and 224 are connected to and interact with adjusting elements 176 and 178 of different adjusting devices 160, respectively. Specifically, the first gripping element 222 is connected to a first adjusting element 176 of an adjusting device 160. The second adjusting element 178 of this adjusting device 160 is not occupied. The second gripping element 224 is instead connected to the second adjusting element 178 of another adjusting device 160, which is adjacent to the first adjusting device 160 (in terms of their lateral arrangement). The first adjusting element 176 of the second adjusting device 160 is also not occupied.

[0134] In such a configuration, both gripping elements 222, 224 can be pivoted relative to each other by actuating the actuating elements 198 of both adjustment devices 160 by one or more actuating bodies 200. For further details, please refer to the above explanations.

[0135] Reference symbol list

[0136] System Container Installation surface Frame Support element Separating element Tabletop Receiving area Substructure Processing area Covering device Isolator device Flow device Cleaning device Nozzle device Transport system , 152, 164 Housing

[0137] Drive unit, drive device (dashed line), power supply unit, receiving device, transport mover, control device, processing station, transport device, base body, lower part, upper part, retaining element, support device, adjusting device, gripping device, spacer element, gap, lower half-shell, upper half-shell, sealing element, first adjusting element, second adjusting element, 220, 234, receiving, 184, coupling element, 188, swivel axis

[0138] Through opening, 212, 214 Projection Sealing element Edge Actuating element Actuating body Lever element Section Roller Arrow Arrow Pin Swivel joint First gripping element Second gripping element Plane of symmetry Container holder Gripping member Support member Returning element Helical spring Axis of symmetry Format set

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Receiving device (140) for pharmaceutical containers (102) as part of a planar transport system (130), in particular for use in a plant (100) for processing pharmaceutical containers (102), comprising a base body (150) on which a transport mover (142) movable in a plane by the transport system (130) is arranged or which is formed by the transport mover (142), a support device (158) held on the base body (150), at least one adjustment device (160) and at least one gripping device (162), wherein the at least one adjustment device (160) comprises a first adjustment element (176) and a second adjustment element (178) which are held on the support device (158), wherein at least one adjustment element (176, 178) is designed to be movable relative to the support device (158), and wherein the gripping device (162) comprises a first gripping element (222) comprises a first adjusting element (176) that is detachably connected to a second gripping element (224),which is detachably connected to the second adjusting element (178), wherein the gripping elements (222, 224) form a container receptacle (228) between them and can be moved by movement of the at least one movable adjusting element (176, 178) relative to the support device (158) from a gripping position in which the container (102) is held in the container receptacle (228) to a release position and vice versa, in which the container (102) can be inserted into the container receptacle (228) or removed from it or released.

2. Receiving device (140) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the receiving device (140) comprises at least one further gripping device (162) comprising a further first gripping element (222) and a further second gripping element (224), wherein the first gripping elements (222) differ from each other and the second gripping elements (224) differ from each other in at least one container-specific property.

3. Receiving device (140) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: the gripping elements (222, 224) are connected to the adjusting elements (176, 178) by force and / or form fit; The gripping elements (222, 224) can be connected manually and / or without tools to the adjusting elements (176, 178).

4. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the gripping elements (222, 224) can be attached to the adjusting elements (176, 178), wherein, for example, a receptacle (234) for a pin-shaped projection (192) of the adjusting element (176, 178) is formed on the gripping element (222, 224) or vice versa.

5. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: at least one gripping element (222, 224) comprises two gripping members (230) spaced apart from each other in an extension direction of the container (102); at least one gripping element (222, 224) comprises a support member (232) for supporting a container bottom of the container (102).

6. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one movable adjusting element (176, 178) is pivotable relative to the support device (158) about a pivot axis (186, 188), wherein the pivot axis (186, 188) is designed transversely and in particular perpendicular to a plane defined by the transport mover (142).

7. Receiving device (140) according to claim 6, characterized in that the support device (158) comprises or forms a pivot bearing element for supporting the adjusting element (176, 178).

8. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that both adjusting elements (176, 178) are designed to be movable relative to the support device (158), in particular that both adjusting elements (176, 178) are pivotable relative to the support device (158) about pivot axes (186, 188) that run parallel to each other.

9. Receiving device (140) according to claim 8, characterized in that the adjusting device (160) comprises coupling elements (182, 184) via which the pivoting movement of the adjusting elements (176, 178) is coupled.

10. Receiving device (140) according to claim 9, characterized in that the coupling members (182, 184) are projections (212, 214) extending from or formed by a respective adjusting element (176, 178), which together form a pivot joint (218), wherein preferably one coupling member (182, 184) comprises a pin (216) with which the other coupling member (182, 184) engages.

11. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adjusting device (160) comprises an actuating element (198) which is coupled to or encompassed by the at least one movable adjusting element (176, 178), and wherein the adjusting element (176, 178) is movable when the actuating element (198) comes into contact with an actuating body (200) arranged externally to the receiving device (140).

12. Receiving device (140) according to claim 11 , characterized in that the actuating element (198) is designed as a lever element (202) which projects radially from the adjusting element (176, 178) and is connected to the adjusting element (176, 178) in a rotationally fixed manner.

13. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one movable adjusting element (176, 178) is movable and in particular pivotable relative to the support device (158) against the restoring force of a restoring element (236), so that the gripping elements (222, 224) can be moved from the gripping position to the release position against the restoring force.

14. Receiving device (140) according to claim 13, characterized in that the return element (236) is a mechanical spring element, in particular a tension spring, and / or that two adjusting devices (160) comprise a common return element (236) that acts on both adjusting devices (160).

15. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support device (158) comprises a housing (164) in which the adjusting elements (176, 178) are partially received, wherein through-openings (190) are formed in the housing (164) and at least one of the following applies: the adjusting elements (176, 178) extend through the through-openings (190) in the direction of the gripping elements (222, 224) which are connected to the adjusting elements (176, 178) outside the housing (164); one of the adjusting elements (176, 178) extends through a through-opening (190) on a side facing away from the gripping elements (222, 224) and is connected to an actuating element (198) outside the housing (164) or comprises an actuating element (198) outside the housing (164).

16. Receiving device (140) according to claim 15, characterized in that the housing (164) is a half-shell housing, preferably comprising a lower half-shell (170) facing the transport mover (142) and an upper half-shell (172) facing away from the transport mover (142), wherein in particular a sealing element (174) is arranged between joining edges of the half-shells (170, 172).

17. Receiving device (140) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the housing (164) is fixed to the base body (150) by means of spacer elements (166) and is arranged at a distance from the base body (150) so that a space (168) is formed between the base body (150) and the housing (164).

18. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device (140) comprises two or more adjusting devices (160) and two or more gripping devices (162), wherein the adjusting devices (160) and / or the gripping devices (162) are preferably identically designed.

19. Receiving device (140) according to claim 18, characterized in that at least one of the following applies: two or more adjusting devices (160) and gripping devices (162) are arranged laterally next to each other along a row; two adjusting devices (160) and two gripping devices (162) are arranged opposite each other such that the container receiving (228) of one gripping device (162) is arranged on the side facing away from the other gripping device (162), wherein the adjusting devices (160) and gripping devices (162) are in particular designed symmetrically to each other.

20. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a further gripping device (162) is provided and at least one further adjusting device (160), wherein the gripping elements (222, 224) are connected to adjusting elements (176, 178) of different adjusting devices (160).

21. Receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a further gripping device (162) is provided and a further adjusting device (160), wherein the first gripping element (222) of the further gripping device (162) is connected to a first adjusting element (176) of the further adjusting device (160) and the second gripping element (224) of the further gripping device (162) is connected to the second adjusting element (178) of the adjusting device (160), wherein the first gripping element (222) of the further gripping device (162) and the second gripping element (224) of the further gripping device (162) are configured to jointly hold a container (102).

22. Planar transport system (130) comprising an electromagnetic drive device (135) configured to cooperate with a transport mover (142) of at least one receiving device (140) according to one of the preceding claims, for contactless movement relative to the drive device (135) in a transport plane.

23. Plant (100) for processing pharmaceutical containers (102), comprising a planar transport system (130) according to claim 22, at least one receiving- device (140) according to one of claims 1 to 21 and at least one processing station (146) on the transport system (130) to which the containers (102) can be fed by means of the at least one receiving device (140).

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