Apparatus for processing pharmaceutical containers

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus (100) for processing pharmaceutical containers (102) which are received in a common carrier (104), in particular in a nest (106), comprising a transport system (118) which comprises a drive device (122) and a guide device (120), carrier receptacles (140) in each of which a carrier (104) can be releasably received, wherein the carrier receptacles (140) are movable on the guide device (120) by means of the drive device (122), and at least one processing station (124) for processing of the containers (102), wherein the guide device (120) for the carrier receptacles (140) comprises a processing section (144) at which the at least one processing station (124) is arranged, a return transport section (156), a first transfer section (152) downstream of the processing section (144), a second transfer section (160) upstream of the processing section (144), a first adjustment unit (154) for the first transfer section (152), and a second adjustment unit (162) for the second transfer section (160), wherein the first transfer section (152) can be selectively coupled to the processing section (144) or to the return transport section (156) by means of the first adjustment unit (154), wherein the second transfer section (160) can be selectively coupled to the return transport section (156) or to the processing section (144) by means of the second adjustment unit (162), and wherein the carrier receptacles (140) are movable along the processing section (144) as far as the first transfer section (152) and, after adjustment thereof for coupling to the return transport section (156), can be moved along the return transport section (156) as far as the second transfer section (160), and, after adjustment thereof for coupling to the processing section (144), can be moved again along the processing section (144).

Description

[0001] DEVICE FOR PROCESSING PHARMACEUTICAL CONTAINERS

[0002] The present invention relates to a device for processing pharmaceutical containers which are received in a common carrier, in particular a nest, comprising a transport system which includes a drive device and a guide device, carrier receptacles in which a carrier can each be detachably received, wherein the carrier receptacles are movable on the guide device by means of the drive device, and at least one processing station for processing the containers.

[0003] In such a device, containers are fed into a common carrier and detachably received in a carrier holder. The carrier holder can, for example, comprise a frame on which or into which the containers can be inserted. Typically, the containers are inserted into the carrier holder upstream of at least one processing station via a feeding device and, after processing at one or more processing stations (in particular, weighing station, filling station, closing station), are removed from the carrier holder again by means of a removal device.

[0004] The carriers can be, in particular, so-called nests. In this case, the containers can be referred to as nested containers. However, the invention is not limited to this.

[0005] By arranging the containers in a carrier, they can assume defined positions relative to one another. This proves advantageous, for example, for achieving a high processing rate at the processing stations. However, it is necessary that the carriers can be transported to the processing stations in a defined manner via the carrier mounts, since the containers are typically held loosely in the carrier. For this purpose, the device includes the guide mechanism along which the carrier mounts can be moved by means of the drive mechanism.

[0006] A device of this type is described, for example, in DE 102017 100 010 A1. In this device, the carrier receptacles, fitted with supports, are moved along the guide mechanism. A series of containers are lifted out in an empty state for process control, transported to a weighing station located laterally next to the guide mechanism, and then placed back into the carrier. After filling, the containers are weighed in their full state at the aforementioned weighing station or at another weighing station. A further gripping device is used for lifting the containers. After the containers are placed back into the carrier, they are closed at a closing station.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a device of the type mentioned above which has a compact design and in which process control of the containers to be processed is preferably possible.

[0008] This problem is solved in a device of the generic type according to the invention in that the guide device for the carrier holders comprises a processing section in which the at least one processing station is arranged, a return transport section, a first transfer section downstream of the processing section, a second transfer section upstream of the processing section, a first adjustment unit for the first transfer section and a second adjustment unit for the second transfer section, wherein the first transfer section can be selectively coupled to the processing section or to the return transport section by means of the first adjustment unit, wherein the second transfer section can be selectively coupled to the return transport section or to the processing section by means of the second adjustment unit, and that the carrier holders are movable along the processing section up to the first transfer section.After being adjusted to couple with the return transport section, they can be moved along the return transport section up to the second transfer section, and after being adjusted to couple with the processing section, they can again be moved along the processing section.

[0009] In the device according to the invention, the guide assembly is designed such that the carrier mounts can be moved along a closed path. First, the carrier mounts are moved along the processing section where the at least one processing station is located. The carrier mount then moves to the first transfer section, which can be moved by means of the first adjustment unit so that it is coupled to the return transport section. The carrier mount can be moved along the return transport section to the second transfer section, which can be adjusted to couple with the processing section. The guide assembly can have a compact design, which is advantageous for a compact device design. For example, as will be discussed below, each processing station can be arranged at the processing section.It is also conceivable that at least one processing station is movable, allowing it to be moved to the processing section and otherwise stored outside the processing section in a space-saving manner. This offers, for example, the possibility of utilizing otherwise unused space between the return transport section and the processing section for storing a processing station. In particular, the need, as stated in the aforementioned document, for a processing station, such as the weighing station, to be positioned outside the guide system can be eliminated, thereby saving on gripping devices for transporting the containers there.

[0010] An advantage of the device according to the invention is that the number of required support holders can be limited, since these can be moved along the closed path. This reduces the complexity of the device and saves storage space for interchangeable support holders, for example, for different format sets. Since relatively few support holders need to be replaced, conversion work can preferably be carried out quickly. The same applies to any maintenance work on the device.

[0011] The device advantageously comprises a feed device through which a carrier can be inserted into a respective carrier holder on the second transfer section or the processing section, and a removal device through which a carrier can be removed from a respective carrier holder on the processing section or the first transfer section. In this preferred embodiment, the carrier holders are free of carriers via the return transport section. Instead, the carriers are inserted into the carrier holders along with the containers to be processed and removed from the carrier holders again after processing. Subsequent processing steps can thus be started more quickly.

[0012] The feed and discharge devices can, for example, be identical in design. The feed and discharge devices are, or include, for example, robotic systems.

[0013] A structurally simple design of the device can be achieved by having the guide device extend in a straight line along the processing section and / or the return transport section.

[0014] The processing section and the return transport section are preferably aligned parallel to each other. A transport direction on the return transport section is, in particular, oriented opposite to a transport direction on the processing section. However, it may be provided that carrier supports on the processing section and / or on the return transport section can be moved opposite to the (usual) transport direction there, which represents a main direction of movement.

[0015] The processing section and the return transport section can be arranged in alignment with each other, for example when parallel to each other, with the beginning of one section aligning with the end of the other section.

[0016] It may be intended, for example in the case of parallel alignment, that the processing section and the return transport section have an offset from each other along the transport direction, so that the beginning of the processing section and the end of the return transport section do not align with each other and the beginning of the return transport section and the end of the processing section do not align with each other.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, a compact design can be achieved by arranging the return transport section below or above the processing section, and by having the first adjustment unit be or include a lifting unit for lowering and raising the first transfer section, and / or the second adjustment unit be a lifting unit for raising and lowering the second transfer section. This keeps the footprint of the device relatively small. The carrier mounts can preferably be moved in two planes spaced apart vertically, defined by the processing section and the return transport section. Switching between these planes is accomplished by means of the transfer sections, which can be selectively raised and lowered.When the return transport section is positioned below the processing section, the carrier holder on the first transfer section is lowered, and the carrier holder on the second transfer section is raised. The opposite occurs when the return transport section is positioned above the processing section.

[0018] The adjustment units can, for example, be arranged in a substructure of the device formed by a frame, which includes a separating element in the form of a tabletop or the like. The movement can act on the transfer sections through the separating element. The guide device can be supported on top of the frame. The adjustment units are designed, for example, as electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic units. Stepper or servo motors, for instance, are used for linear movement of the transfer sections.

[0019] Position and orientation specifications such as "above", "below", "top", "bottom", or the like refer to the intended use of the device. In this context, the device rests on a frame on a surface within a room, for example, a production hall or a laboratory.

[0020] In an implementation of the invention, it may be provided that the return transport section and the processing section are arranged in a common transport plane and that the first transfer section is / are movable within the transport plane by means of the first adjustment unit and / or the second transfer section is / are movable by means of the second adjustment unit.

[0021] In a different embodiment, it may preferably be provided that the return transport section and the processing section are arranged in two transport planes aligned at an angle to each other, the angle being greater than zero.

[0022] For example, the angle is greater than 30°, greater than 45°, greater than 60°, or greater than 75°. In particular, the angle can be 90°.

[0023] The guide system advantageously includes at least one guide element at both the processing section and the return transport section for interaction with corresponding guide elements of the carrier supports. This ensures reliable movement of the carrier supports, thus guaranteeing trouble-free operation of the device.

[0024] Advantageously, both the first and second transfer sections each include at least one guide element. The design of the respective guide elements can be identical.

[0025] It can be particularly advantageous to provide two guide elements spaced apart from each other transversely to the extent of the processing section and the return transport section. The carrier supports, for example, engage with the guide elements via the guide members and are partially or completely positioned between them. A similar arrangement is preferably provided for the transfer sections.

[0026] The guide elements are designed, for example, as profile bodies, in particular as rails.

[0027] The guide elements of the support brackets are or preferably comprise guide rollers for guiding the movement with support in at least one spatial direction, preferably two spatial directions oriented transversely relative to each other. For example, horizontal and vertical guide rollers can be provided, which can roll on corresponding contact surfaces of the guide elements. Alternatively or additionally, for example, obliquely oriented guide rollers are provided, the axis of which is aligned at an angle (for example, 45° each) to a vertical and a horizontal.

[0028] The at least one processing station includes, in particular, at least one of the following: a weighing station for weighing containers in the empty and / or filled state; a filling station for filling containers with a product, which is in particular liquid; and a closing station for closing containers with closure elements.

[0029] The device preferably allows for in-process control (IPC; hereinafter: "process control"). Preferably, the containers are weighed empty (tare weighing), then filled and weighed again in the filled state (gross weighing). The containers can then be closed via the closing station.

[0030] The closure elements depend, for example, on the containers being processed, which may be syringes, vials, cartridges, or ampoules. Closure elements can be, for example, plunger stoppers or mushroom stoppers.

[0031] The processing stations are preferably arranged at the processing section, at least in one operating position. This eliminates the need to remove containers to be processed from the carrier using a gripping device and transport them to a processing station located laterally next to the guide device, for example, a weighing station. Consequently, a high processing rate can preferably be achieved with the device according to the invention.

[0032] The first transfer section is, for example, located downstream of the closing station in one transport direction and / or the second transfer section is located upstream of the weighing station in one transport direction on the guide device.

[0033] A plurality of processing stations can be provided as explained, wherein, with respect to the direction of transport, the first transfer section is located behind the last processing station and the second transfer section is located in front of the first processing station.

[0034] It is advantageous if the containers can be filled at the filling station within the carrier and / or sealed at the closing station within the carrier. This allows for a high processing rate. However, it may also be possible, as will be discussed below, for containers to be removed from the carrier, particularly for weighing at the weighing station, and these containers can preferably be filled and / or sealed outside the carrier.

[0035] The device preferably comprises at least one support device. The containers can be lifted from a support structure by means of a receiving device via this at least one support device, and can also be supported by a receiving device when being inserted into a support structure. The support device comprises, for example, contact elements, such as plungers, which can be applied to the containers in the support structure from below. The contact elements can be raised, for example, by a lifting drive so that the receiving device can lift the containers from the support structure. Conversely, the containers can be placed on the contact elements by the receiving device and then guided into the support structure by lowering the contact elements.

[0036] It is possible for the at least one processing station and / or the at least one support device to be arranged stationary with respect to one transport direction of the carrier supports at the processing section. In this way, a structurally simple and compact design of the device can be achieved. A possible application of a processing station has already been discussed.

[0037] For example, it is provided that the at least one processing station and / or the at least one support device can be moved from a storage position to an operating position and vice versa, wherein the processing station or the support device is arranged at the processing section in the operating position and at a distance from the processing section in the storage position. In the storage position, the processing station and / or the support device is stored in a space-saving manner, for example, and support brackets can be transported at the processing section. For operation, the processing station or the support device can be moved to the operating position at the processing section.

[0038] As already mentioned, it may be planned that the return transport section is located below the processing section.

[0039] In one embodiment of the invention, for example, a weighing station can be moved from the storage position to the operating position and vice versa, wherein the weighing station can be raised from the storage position to the operating position and lowered again, in particular by means of a lifting drive. This makes it possible to weigh containers in the operating position of the weighing station. If no containers need to be weighed, the weighing station can be moved to the storage position, thereby freeing up the processing section for the carrier holders.

[0040] The lifting drive can be, for example, electric, electromagnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic. For instance, the raising and lowering of the weighing station is achieved from a base of the device, as explained above using the example of the transfer sections.

[0041] Similarly, the support device can, for example, have a lifting drive, whereby the movement of system elements takes place from the substructure.

[0042] It is conceivable that the at least one processing station and / or the at least one support device blocks the return transport section in the storage position or the return transport section, at least temporarily, during transfer from the storage position to the deployment position and / or vice versa for the carrier attachments, and that transport of carrier attachments past the at least one processing station and / or the at least one support device only takes place when the return transport section is clear. For example, a timed transport of the carrier attachments on the return transport section is possible. Times when the return transport section is not blocked by the processing station and / or the support device can be used for movement from the first transfer section to the second transfer section. In the event of a blocked return transport section, the movement can be stopped or suspended.

[0043] The device preferably comprises gripping devices, wherein several carrier receptacles are each assigned a gripping device – in particular, each carrier receptacle can be assigned a gripping device – and a receiving device on the processing section for lifting containers from a carrier, wherein the containers can be inserted into the gripping device and held by means of the gripping device. The gripping device is preferably movable by means of the drive device along the processing section to the first transfer section and along the return transport section to the second transfer section and back to the processing section. The gripping devices, as well as the carrier receptacles, can be moved along a closed path over the processing section, the return transport section, and the transfer sections.

[0044] Advantageously, containers are inserted into the gripping devices that are subject to process control and are processed separately from the containers remaining in the carrier.

[0045] It can be advantageous if the containers inserted into the gripping device can be weighed empty at the weighing station, filled at the filling station, weighed full at the weighing station, and sealed with locking elements at the closing station. This allows for individual process control for each carrier whose holder is assigned a gripping device. The fill level of the containers can be determined via tare weighing and gross weighing, and any necessary countermeasures can be taken. At the weighing station, the containers are preferably separated from the gripping device but remain attached to it. The carriers are preferably filled while they remain attached to the weighing station, thus eliminating transport distances and times for the containers and enabling high processing rates.

[0046] The number of containers to be removed from the carrier can be predetermined or predetermined and can be changed, for example, during operation of the device. For instance, a row, and in particular an entire row, of the carrier can be removed, such as an entire row of a nest.

[0047] The device advantageously includes a further receiving device with which the containers received in the gripping device can preferably be reinserted into the carrier after being closed at the closing station.

[0048] Alternatively, it can be provided that the filled and weighed containers are placed back into the carrier and then sealed in the carrier.

[0049] For versatile and, in particular, adaptable use of the device, it proves advantageous if the drive unit is an electromagnetic drive unit and comprises drive units for providing alternating electromagnetic fields and magnetic elements that are directly or indirectly operatively connected to the support fixtures. The drive units of the drive unit can preferably be flexibly controlled by a control unit of the device. Depending on how this is achieved, the magnetic elements can be moved as desired, thereby moving the support fixtures.

[0050] The XTS system from Beckhoff, for example, can be used as a drive unit; it has already proven itself in systems for processing pharmaceutical containers.

[0051] The magnetic elements comprise, for example, first magnetic elements and second magnetic elements, wherein the drive unit comprises a housing in which the drive units are arranged and the first magnetic elements movable by them, and the second magnetic elements are arranged outside the housing and fixed to the support mounts. The drive units thus interact indirectly with the (second) magnetic elements on the support mounts. The first magnetic elements, which are in turn coupled to the second magnetic elements, are moved within the housing.

[0052] Alternatively, it is conceivable that the drive units are directly coupled to magnetic elements that are fixed to the carrier mounts.

[0053] To prevent friction, a gap is preferably provided between the second magnetic elements and a wall of the housing. The gap is preferably relatively small, in particular less than 5 mm, and preferably less than 2 mm.

[0054] The first magnetic elements can, for example, be held in the housing on retaining parts of the drive unit and guided on a support device.

[0055] The gripping devices have already been discussed. For example, it may be provided that at least one second magnetic element is fixed to each gripping device. Two gripping sections of the gripping device are conceivable, each with a second magnetic element fixed to it. This allows the gripping sections to be moved relative to each other, enabling the containers to be picked up and held, released, or set down. Furthermore, the at least one magnetic element allows the gripping devices to be moved along the guide device, particularly independently of the respective carrier mounting.

[0056] To achieve a compact design, the housing of the drive unit can, for example, be arranged laterally next to the guide unit and on top of a frame on which the guide unit is supported.

[0057] It can be advantageous if the drive device comprises a first section arranged laterally next to the processing section and a second section arranged laterally next to the return transport section, each section comprising drive units. The drive device further comprises movable drive units, each of which is assigned an adjustment unit, in particular a lifting unit. The movable drive units are movable between the first section and the second section via the adjustment units, preferably synchronously with the first and second transfer sections. This allows magnetic elements fixed to the carrier receptacles or gripping devices to be subjected to a magnetic force in order to move the carrier receptacles and gripping devices on the transfer sections.While the transfer sections are moved via the first and second adjustment units, and thereby also the carrier mounts and gripping devices, the drive units can be moved, particularly within the housing, so that the carrier mounts and gripping sections are coupled into and / or uncoupled from the transfer sections.

[0058] The device may preferably include a control unit with which the operation of the device can be controlled and / or regulated with regard to at least one of the following: the function of the at least one processing station; the drive unit, wherein preferably the carrier receptacles are movable independently of one another by means of the drive unit; the drive unit, wherein gripping devices assigned to the carrier receptacles are opened or closed; the drive unit, wherein gripping devices assigned to the carrier receptacles are movable along the guide unit, in particular independently of the carrier receptacles; and the first adjustment unit and the second adjustment unit, which are preferably operable independently of one another.

[0059] The following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, in conjunction with the drawing, serves to explain the invention in more detail. The drawing shows:

[0060] Figure 1: a schematic perspective representation of the inventive

[0061] Device in a preferred embodiment;

[0062] Figure 2: a partial view of the device in the direction of arrow "2" in Figure 1;

[0063] Figure 3: a view similar to Figure 2 in a further embodiment of the

[0064] Invention;

[0065] Figure 4: a perspective partial view of a drive unit of the device from Figure 1;

[0066] Figure 5: a schematic representation of the device from Figure 1 to illustrate its function; and

[0067] Figures 6 to 11: Representations corresponding to Figure 5 at later, successive times. Figure 1 shows, in perspective, an advantageous embodiment of the device according to the invention for processing pharmaceutical containers, designated in its entirety by reference numeral 100. In particular, Figures 5 to 11 show containers 102 in the form of syringes. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

[0068] In device 100, the containers 102 are held in a common support 104. The support 104 is, in particular, a nest 106.

[0069] The device 100 comprises a frame 108, which is positioned on a surface 112 of a room, for example a production hall or a laboratory, via support elements 110. The frame 108 includes a tabletop 114 as a separating element, beneath which a receiving space 116 is formed. The receiving space 116 is preferably enclosed by a panel of the frame 108.

[0070] The device 100 further comprises a transport system 118, which includes a guide device 120 and a drive device 122. The containers 102 held in the carriers 104 can be moved via the transport system 118 for processing at a plurality of processing stations 124. In this case, the processing stations 124 comprise a weighing station 126, a filling station 128, and a closing station 130.

[0071] The device 100 further comprises a first support device 132 and a first receiving device 134. The device 100 also comprises a second support device 136 and a second receiving device 138.

[0072] For transport along the guide device 120, each beam 104 is assigned a beam holder 140. Each beam holder 140 is also assigned a gripping device 142.

[0073] The guide device 120 is supported on the frame 108 and comprises several sections along which the support mounts 140 can be moved.

[0074] A processing section 144 is initially provided. With respect to a transport direction 146 of the processing section 144 during the processing of the containers 102, the support device 132 and the receiving device 134 are arranged in the same position. The weighing station 126 follows in the transport direction 146. The filling station 128 is arranged downstream of the weighing station 126. For filling containers 102, the filling station 128 has a filling tool 148 with filling elements (in particular, filling needles) through which, for example, a liquid product can be filled into the containers 102. The filling tool may be movable in and against the transport direction 146.

[0075] With respect to the transport direction 146, the closing station 130 is located downstream of the filling station 128. Further along the transport direction 146, the support device 136 and the receiving device 138 follow, which are arranged in the same position.

[0076] The functioning of the device 100 with the processing stations 124 and the equipment 132 to 138 is described in the unpublished patent application with the file number DE 102024 121 648.4 of the same applicant dated July 30, 2024. The content of this patent application is fully incorporated into the present disclosure.

[0077] The processing of the containers 102 takes place at the processing section 144. Following the processing section 144 in the transport direction 146 is a first transfer section 152 of the guide device 120. Associated with the first transfer section 152, the device 100 includes a first adjustment unit 154.

[0078] The guide device 120 further comprises a return transport section 156. In the present embodiment, the return transport section 156 is arranged below the processing section 144 and aligned parallel to it. The lengths of sections 144 and 156 are identical, with sections 144 and 156 being aligned with each other. A transport direction 158 of the return transport section 156 is oriented opposite to the transport direction 146 at the processing section 144.

[0079] On the side opposite the first transfer section 160, the guide device 120 includes a second transfer section 160. A second adjustment unit 162 is assigned to the second transfer section 160.

[0080] In the present example, the adjustment units 154, 162 are configured as lifting units 164. The lifting units 164 are preferably arranged in the receiving space 116. The transfer sections 152, 160 can be selectively raised or lowered via the lifting units 164. The movement is controlled by a control unit 166 of the device 100. The operation of the device 100 can be controlled and / or regulated by the control unit 166. The height-adjustable transfer sections 152, 160 can each be selectively and independently coupled to the processing section 144 or the return transport section 156 via the lifting units 164. In the raised state, as shown in Figures 1, 8 and 9, the transfer sections 152, 160 couple with the processing section 144, resulting in an aligned guide for the carrier receptacles 140.The carrier mounts 140 can be moved in particular from the processing section 144 to the transfer section 152 and from the transfer section 160 to the processing section 144.

[0081] In the lowered position (Figure 10), the transfer sections 152 and 160 couple with the return transport section 156. In this case as well, the support mounts 140 are aligned. The support mounts 140 can be moved from the transfer section 152 to the return transport section 156 and from there to the transfer section 160.

[0082] Figures 5 to 7 and 11 show the transfer section 152 in the lowered state and coupled with the return transport section 156 and the transfer section 160 in the raised state and coupled with the processing section 144.

[0083] The configuration described above allows the carrier supports 140 to move along a closed path, namely from transfer section 160 via processing section 144 to transfer section 152. Once there, transfer section 152 can be lowered and coupled to the return transport section 156, so that the carrier supports 140 can be moved via the return transport section to the (then lowered) transfer section 160. This can then be raised so that it couples again with processing section 144.

[0084] The ability to move the support mounts 140 along a closed path allows their number to be kept relatively low in the device 100. Furthermore, the device 100 is characterized by a compact design due to the structure of the transport system 118.

[0085] The carriers 104, containing containers 102 to be processed, can be fed via a feed device 168 and inserted into the carrier holders 140. The feed device 168 is, for example, robotically designed and, in this case, is located at the transfer section 160 or at the front of the processing section 144, relative to the transport direction 146. After the containers 102 have been processed, the carriers 104 can be removed from the carrier holders 140 by means of a removal device 170 and fed to further processing. The removal device 170 can be robotically designed and, in this case, is located at the end of the processing section 144 or at the transfer section 152, relative to the transport direction 146.

[0086] In the upper level of the guide unit 120, the carrier receptacles 140 are transported loaded with carriers 104. In the lower level, from transfer section 152 via return transport section 156 to transfer section 160, the carrier receptacles 140 are moved without the carriers 104.

[0087] As can be seen particularly from Figures 1 and 2, the carrier receptacle 140 for receiving the carrier 104 comprises a frame 172. The carrier 104 can be supported on the frame 172 and can, for example, be locked to it. A lateral movement (double arrow 174 in Figure 2) can preferably be provided to displace the carrier 104 within the frame 172 or the frame 172 itself transversely to the transport direction 146. This serves to align containers 102 arranged in a staggered (spaced) manner within the carrier 104 relative to the filling needles which are fixed in the transverse direction. Details on this are described in a further patent application of the same applicant.

[0088] The guide device 120 comprises guide elements 176 at all sections 144, 152, 156, and 160. The guide elements 176 are designed as profile bodies and, in particular, as rails. At each section 144, 152, 156, and 160, two guide elements 176 are provided, spaced apart from each other transversely to the respective transport direction 146, 158. This allows the support brackets 140 to be reliably guided.

[0089] The support mounts 140 in turn include guide members 178, which engage with the guide elements 176. The guide members 178 are designed as rollers 180. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the rollers 180 are inclined, i.e., the axis of rotation of the rollers 180 is oriented at an angle to both the vertical and the horizontal (for example, 45° each). The rollers 180 engage in corresponding grooves of the guide elements 176.

[0090] In a different embodiment of the support mounts 140, shown in a front view in Figure 3, two rollers 182, 183 are provided. The rollers 182 serve for guidance in the horizontal direction and have a vertical axis of rotation, and the rollers 183 serve for guidance in the vertical direction and have a horizontal axis of rotation.

[0091] In the present embodiment, the drive unit 122 is electromagnetically designed. The drive unit 122 comprises drive units 184 with which alternating magnetic fields can be generated. Control is effected by the control unit.

[0092] As can be seen particularly from Figure 4, the drive unit 122 has a support structure 186 made of interconnected structural elements. The support structure 186 rests on the top of the frame 108 and is positioned laterally next to the guide unit 120 (Figure 1). In this way, a compact design can be achieved.

[0093] Drive units 184 are fixed to the support structure 186 in a defined relative arrangement. In particular, a first section 188 of the drive unit 122 is provided. The first section 188 is positioned laterally next to the processing section 144 and has the same height relative to the table top 114 as the processing section 144. The lengths, with respect to the transport direction 146, of sections 188 and 144 are identical.

[0094] The drive unit 122 further comprises a second section 190, which is arranged laterally next to the return transport section 156 and has the same height relative to the table top 114 as the return transport section 156. With respect to the transport direction 158, the lengths of sections 190 and 156 are identical.

[0095] Furthermore, the drive unit 122 comprises a movable drive unit 184 on a third section 192. The third section 192 is height-adjustable on the support structure 186 via an adjustment unit 194, designed as a lifting unit 196. The corresponding drive unit 184 can optionally be arranged in a row with the drive units of the first section 188 or the second section 190. The third section 192 is arranged laterally next to the transfer section 152, and its height is synchronized with the height of the transfer section 152 relative to the frame 108. The lifting units 196, 164 are designed and controllable such that the third section 192, with the drive unit 184 arranged thereon, can be lowered or raised synchronously with the transfer section 152. Similarly, the drive unit 122 comprises another movable drive unit 184 on a fourth section 198.The fourth section 198 is also assigned an adjustment unit 200, designed as a lifting unit 196, for adjusting the height of the drive unit 184 arranged thereon. The drive unit 184 can optionally be arranged in a row with the drive units of the first section 188 or the second section 190. Like the third section 192, the fourth section 198 is synchronized with the transfer section 160 with regard to height and height changes.

[0096] The drive unit 122 comprises first magnetic elements 202, which can be moved by means of the drive units 184. The magnetic elements 202 are fixed to retaining parts 204, which are held and guided at sections 188, 190, 192 and 198 by the components of the support structure 186. Depending on the control signal of the drive unit 122, the magnetic elements 202 are moved, with the movement being guided by the retaining parts 204.

[0097] Arranged on the third section 192 and the fourth section 198, the retaining elements 204 with the magnetic elements 202 attached to them can be lowered or raised by means of the lifting units 196. As a result, when the drive unit 122 is appropriately controlled, the magnetic elements 202 execute a movement along a closed path. This serves to move the support mounts 140 along the closed path.

[0098] The drive unit 122 further comprises second magnetic elements 206, each of which is operatively connected to corresponding first magnetic elements 202. While the support structure 186, the drive units 184, the adjustment units 194, 200, and the magnetic elements 202 are arranged in a housing 208 of the drive unit 122, the magnetic elements 206 are arranged outside the housing (Figures 1 and 2). A magnetic element 206 is fixed to a respective support receptacle 140. A narrow gap 210, particularly in the millimeter range, is provided between the magnetic elements 206 and a wall of the housing 208 to prevent frictional losses.

[0099] When the magnetic elements 202 are moved, this causes the support brackets 140 to move. While the lifting and lowering of the transfer sections 152 and 160 is achieved by means of the lifting units 164, sections 192 and 198 are also lowered and raised, as explained, so that the magnetic elements 202 are moved along the sections via the height adjustment of the drive units 184 located thereon. This allows the support brackets 140 to be moved along the transfer sections 152 and 160 in both planes by means of the drive unit 122.

[0100] Each carrier holder 140 is assigned a gripping device 142. The gripping device 142 is located immediately upstream of the carrier holder 140 at the processing section 144, with respect to the transport direction 146 there, and immediately downstream at the return transport section 156, with respect to the transport direction 158 there.

[0101] The gripping device 142 comprises two gripping sections 214, 216, which are movable relative to each other with respect to the transport directions 146, 158. (Second) magnetic elements 206 serve to facilitate movement. A magnetic element 206 is fixed to each gripping section 214, 216 (shown schematically in Figure 5). Depending on the relative position of both magnetic elements 206, the gripping device 142 is either open to pick up, release, or free containers 102, or closed, with containers 102 held between the gripping sections 214, 216. The gripping device 142 forms a gripper bar for picking up multiple containers 102.

[0102] When the two magnetic elements 206 are moved at a fixed distance from each other, the gripping device 142 moves along the guide device 120 in the open or closed state.

[0103] It is possible to move the gripping device 142 along the closed path curve via the magnetic elements 206 in a manner similar to the support mounts 140. In this case, the gripping devices 142 are movable independently of the support mounts 140, and the distance relative to them can vary. Alternatively, for example, a spatial coupling of the gripping devices 142 with the support mounts 140 can be provided.

[0104] The weighing station 126 of the device 100 can be selectively raised and lowered. For this purpose, a lifting drive 218 is provided, which is advantageously arranged in the receiving space 116, so that the lifting movement can be carried out from the base.

[0105] In an elevated operating position (Figures 5, 6, 10 and 11), the weighing station 126 is positioned so close to the processing section 144 that the scale holders 220 for the containers 102 are located between the guide elements 176. A housing 222 of the weighing station 126 is positioned at the level of the return transport section 156 and blocks it. The housing 222 is sufficiently narrow to be able to move between the guide elements 176.

[0106] In contrast, the weighing station 126 is in a lowered storage position (Figures 1 and 7 to 9) so far that the scale mounts 220 and the housing 222 are arranged below the return transport section 156.

[0107] The support devices 132, 136 are also height-adjustable. For this purpose, lifting drives 224 are preferably provided in the receiving space 116, so that in this case too the movement can be carried out from the substructure.

[0108] The support devices 132, 136 comprise support elements 226 for attaching to the containers 102 from below. The support elements 226 can also be raised from a lowered storage position to a raised operating position and vice versa. Figures 8 and 9 show raised support elements 226 of the first support device 132 and the second support device 136, respectively. In the operating position, the support elements 226 are arranged in the transport path of the return transport section 156 and block it.

[0109] An exemplary operating principle of the device 100 is explained below using the example of Figures 5 to 11.

[0110] The carriers 104 are inserted into the carrier receptacles 140 when these are arranged on the transport section 152, which is aligned with the processing section 144. The containers 102 are lifted by the support device 132 and removed from the carrier 104 by the receiving device 134. By a backward movement of the carrier receptacle 140 and the gripping device 142, the containers are inserted into the gripping device 142 via the receiving device 134 and are held therein.

[0111] The excavated containers 102 are then weighed at the weighing station 126, which is in its operating position, with the containers 102 suspended. Using the filling tool 148, the containers 102 are filled at the weighing station 126 and weighed in their filled state.

[0112] The gripping device 142 and the carrier holder 140 are then moved to the closing station 130 for closing the containers 102. The containers held by the gripping device 142 are lifted by means of the support device 136 and placed back into the carriers 104 via the receiving device 138.

[0113] The processing of the unexcavated containers 102 takes place in carrier 104.

[0114] The processing method described above is described in the unpublished patent application DE 102024 121 648.4 filed by the same applicant on July 30, 2024. Reference is made to the details provided therein.

[0115] After processing, the carriers 104 are removed from the carrier receptacles 140.

[0116] When the weighing station 126 and the support devices 132, 136 are in use, they assume the raised operating position. Otherwise, the weighing station 126 and the support devices 132, 136 assume the lowered storage position.

[0117] Figure 5 shows the situation of a carrier receptacle 140 freed from the carrier 104 and the associated gripping device 142 on the transfer section 152, which is in the lowered state.

[0118] The carrier mount 140 and the gripping device 142 are moved as far as possible in the transport direction 158, initially past the support device 136. However, the transport path is blocked by the raised weighing station 126 (Figure 6).

[0119] Subsequently, the weighing station 126 assumes the storage position, but the transport route is shortly thereafter blocked by the raised support device 132 (Figures 7 and 8), so that the carrier receptacle 140 and the gripping device 142 initially remain in place on the return transport section 156.

[0120] Only when the return transport section 156 is completely cleared, the carrier receptacle 140 and the gripping device 142 are moved to the transfer section 160 (Figures 9 and 10).

[0121] The transfer section 160 is lifted and coupled to the processing section 144 (Figure 11). The carrier holder 140 is fitted with a new carrier 104. Reference numeral list

[0122] Device Container Carrier Nest

[0123] frame

[0124] Stand element

[0125] Installation area

[0126] Tabletop recording area

[0127] Transport system, guide device, drive device, processing station, weighing station

[0128] Filling station

[0129] Locking station, first support device, first receiving device, second support device, second receiving device, carrier receiving, gripping device, processing section, transport direction, filling tool, first transfer section, first adjustment unit, return transport section, transport direction, second transfer section, second adjustment unit, lifting unit

[0130] Control unit, feed unit, extraction unit, frame

[0131] Double arrow back and forth movement

[0132] Guide element

[0133] leadership member

[0134] Roll, 183 roll

[0135] drive unit

[0136] Support structure first section second section third section

[0137] Adjustment unit

[0138] Lifting unit, fourth section

[0139] Adjustment unit first magnetic element

[0140] Retaining part second magnetic element

[0141] Housing

[0142] gap

[0143] Gripping section

[0144] Gripping section

[0145] Lifting drive

[0146] Scale recording

[0147] Housing

[0148] Lifting drive

[0149] Plant element

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Device (100) for processing pharmaceutical containers (102) which are received in a common carrier (104), in particular in a nest (106), comprising a transport system (118) which includes a drive device (122) and a guide device (120), carrier receptacles (140) in which a carrier (104) can each be detachably received, wherein the carrier receptacles (140) are movable on the guide device (120) by means of the drive device (122), and at least one processing station (124) for processing the containers (102), characterized in that the guide device (120) for the carrier receptacles (140) comprises a processing section (144) on which the at least one processing station (124) is arranged, a return transport section (156), a first transfer section (152) downstream of the processing section (144), and a second transfer section upstream of the processing section (144). (160)a first adjustment unit (154) for the first transfer section (152) and a second adjustment unit (162) for the second transfer section (160), wherein the first transfer section (152) can be selectively coupled to the processing section (144) or to the return transport section (156) by means of the first adjustment unit (154), wherein the second transfer section (160) can be selectively coupled to the return transport section (156) or to the processing section (144) by means of the second adjustment unit (162), and that the carrier mounts (140) are movable along the processing section (144) to the first transfer section (152), after which the return transport section (156) is movable to couple with the return transport section (156), and after which the second transfer section (160) is moved again to couple with the processing section (144). (144) are movable along.

2. Device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the device (100) comprises a feed device (168) via which a carrier (104) can be inserted into a respective carrier receptacle (140) on the second transfer section (160) or on the processing section (144), and a removal device (170), a carrier (104) can be removed from a respective carrier receptacle (140) at the processing section (144) or at the first transfer section (152).

3. Device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the guide device (120) is designed to extend in a straight line at the processing section (144) and / or at the return transport section (156).

4. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the processing section (144) and the return transport section (156) are aligned parallel to each other.

5. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the processing section (144) and the return transport section (156) are aligned parallel to each other.

6. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the return transport section (156) is arranged below or above the processing section (144) and that the first adjustment unit (154) is or comprises a lifting unit (164) for lowering and raising the first transfer section (152) and / or the second adjustment unit (162) is a lifting unit (164) for raising and lowering the second transfer section (160).

7. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the return transport section (156) and the processing section (144) are arranged in a common transport plane and that the first transfer section (152) is / are movable within the transport plane by means of the first adjustment unit (154) and / or the second transfer section (160) is / are movable by means of the second adjustment unit (162).

8. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the return transport section (156) and the processing section (144) are arranged in two transport planes aligned at an angle to each other, the angle being greater than zero and in particular 90°.

9. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guide device (120) on the processing section (144) and on the return transport section (156) comprises at least one guide element (176) for cooperating with corresponding guide members (178) of the carrier receptacles (140), preferably that the first transfer section (152) and the second transfer section each also comprise at least one guide element (176).

10. Device (100) according to a preceding claim, characterized in that two guide elements (176) are provided which are spaced apart from each other transversely to the extent of the processing section (144) and the return transport section (156) and are preferably designed as profile bodies.

11. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guide members (178) are guide rollers or comprise guide rollers for guiding the movement with a support in at least one spatial direction, preferably two spatial directions oriented transversely to each other.

12. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one processing station (124) comprises at least one of the following: a weighing station (126) for weighing containers (102) in the empty and / or filled state; a filling station (128) for filling containers (102) with a product; a closing station (130) for closing containers (102) with closure elements.

13. Device (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that the containers (102) can be filled at the filling station (128) in the carrier (104) and / or can be closed at the closing station (130) in the carrier (104).

14. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (100) comprises at least one support device (132, 136) by means of which containers (102) can be lifted for removal from a carrier (104) by means of a receiving device (134, 138) and by means of which containers (102) can be supported when being inserted into a carrier (104) by means of a receiving device (134, 138).

15. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 13 or claim 14, characterized in that the at least one processing station (124) and / or the at least one support device (132, 136) is arranged stationary with respect to a transport direction (146, 158) of the carrier receptacles (140) on the processing section (144).

16. Device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 13 or according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the at least one processing station (124) and / or the at least one support device (132, 136) can be transferred from a storage position to an operating position and vice versa, wherein the processing station (124) or the support device (132, 136) is arranged at the processing section (144) in the operating position and is arranged at a distance from the processing section (144) in the storage position.

17. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a weighing station (126) can be moved from the storage position to the operating position and vice versa, wherein the weighing station (126) can be raised from the storage position to the operating position and vice versa, in particular by means of a lifting drive (218).

18. Device (100) according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the at least one processing station (124) and / or the at least one support device (132, 136) support the return transport section (156) in the storage- The position or the return transport section (156), at least temporarily, is blocked for the carrier attachments (140) during the transfer from the storage position to the operational position and / or vice versa, and that a transport of carrier attachments (140) past the at least one processing station (124) and / or the at least one support device (132, 136) is only carried out when the return transport section (156) is cleared.

19. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (100) comprises gripping devices (142), wherein several carrier receptacles (140) are each assigned a gripping device (142), and a receiving device (134, 138) on the processing section (144) for lifting containers (102) from a carrier (104), wherein the containers (102) can be inserted into the gripping device (142) and can be held by means of the gripping device (142), and that the gripping device (142) can be moved by means of the drive device (122) along the processing section (144) to the first transfer section (152) and along the return transport section (156) to the second transfer section (160) and again to the processing section (144).

20. Device (100) according to claim 19 in conjunction with claim 12, characterized in that the containers (102) inserted into the gripping device (142) can be weighed in the empty state at the weighing station (126), filled at the filling station (128), weighed in the filled state at the weighing station (126) and closed with closing elements at the closing station (130).

21. Device (100) according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the device (100) comprises a further receiving device (134, 138) with which the containers (102) received in the gripping device (142) can preferably be reinserted into the carrier (104) after being closed at the closing station (130).

22. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive device (122) is an electromagnetic drive device (122) and comprises drive units (184) for providing electromagnetic Alternating fields and magnetic elements (202, 206) that are directly or indirectly connected to the carrier receptacles (140).

23. Device (100) according to claim 22, characterized in that the magnetic elements (202, 206) comprise first magnetic elements (202) and second magnetic elements (206) and that the drive device (122) comprises a housing (208) in which the drive units (184) are arranged and the first magnetic elements (202) movable by them, wherein second magnetic elements (206) are arranged outside the housing (208) and are fixed to the support receptacles (140).

24. Device (100) according to claim 22 or 23 in conjunction with one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that at least one second magnetic element (206) is fixed to each of the gripping devices (142), preferably that the gripping devices (142) comprise two gripping sections (214, 216) to each of which a second magnetic element (206) is fixed for moving the gripping sections (214, 216) relative to each other.

25. Device (100) according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that the housing (208) is arranged laterally next to the guide device (120) and on top of a frame (108) on which the guide device (120) is supported.

26. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive device (122) comprises a first section (188) arranged laterally next to the processing section (144), and a second section (190) arranged laterally next to the return transport section (156), wherein the sections (188, 190) each comprise drive units (184), and that the drive device (122) comprises movable drive units (184) to which a respective adjustment unit (194, 200) is assigned, in particular a lifting unit (196), wherein the movable drive units (184) are connected via the adjustment units (194, 200) between the first section (188) and the second section (190). are movable, preferably synchronous with the first transfer section (152) and the second transfer section (160).

27. Device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (100) comprises a control unit (166) with which the operation of the device (100) can be controlled and / or regulated with regard to at least one of the following: the function of the at least one processing station (124); the drive unit (122), wherein preferably the carrier receptacles (140) are movable independently of one another by means of the drive unit (122); the drive unit (122), wherein gripping devices (142) assigned to the carrier receptacles (140) are opened or closed; the drive unit (122), wherein gripping devices (142) assigned to the carrier receptacles (140) are movable along the guide unit (120), in particular independently of the carrier receptacles (140); the first adjustment unit (154) and the second adjustment unit (162), which are preferably actuated independently of one another.

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