Cartridge comprising a tubular bag, and method for using the cartridge

Abstract

The invention relates to a cartridge (1) for a viscous material, which cartridge can be inserted into a cartridge gun (100) or the like and comprises: a) a cylindrical cartridge body (10) which defines a cavity and has a proximal end (11) and a distal end (12); b) a cartridge cap (20) which is arranged at the distal end (12) of the cartridge body (10), has a dispensing outlet (21), and is associated with a hollow cylinder (72) having an end face (76), wherein a longitudinal axis of the hollow cylinder (72) extends parallel to a longitudinal axis (2) of the cartridge body (10), and wherein the hollow cylinder (72) projects into the cavity of the cartridge body (10); c) a tubular bag (40), which is arranged within the cavity of the cartridge body (10), for storing the viscous material, wherein the tubular bag (40) comprises a bag film (41) which, in a closed state of the tubular bag (40), is gathered together in a sausage-end manner at least at a first bag end (42), which faces the cartridge cap (20), by a closure, preferably in the form of a clip (43); and d) a piston unit (50) having a piston (52) which can be displaced along the longitudinal axis (2) of the cartridge body (10), wherein displacement of the piston (52) presses the first bag end (42) against the end face (76) of the hollow cylinder (72), and, in an opened state of the tubular bag (40), the viscous material can be dispensed from the tubular bag (40) through the dispensing outlet (21). The invention is characterised in that a free space (77) is formed within the hollow cylinder (72), said free space being free of piercing tips or cutting elements, such that, in the closed state of the tubular bag (40), pressing the first bag end (42) against the end face (76) causes pressure to build up at the first bag end (42), said pressure causing the clip (43) to be separated from the bag film (41), without the bag film (41) being slit or pierced. The invention also relates to a method for using this cartridge (1).

Description

[0001] Henkel AG & Co. KGaA September 2, 2025

[0002] "Cartridge with pouch and method for using the cartridge"

[0003] Description

[0004] The invention relates to a cartridge for a viscous material that can be inserted into a cartridge gun. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for using such a cartridge.

[0005] For both professional applications and private use, various viscous materials, such as silicone, acrylic and adhesives, are typically supplied in cartridges from which the material can be dispensed using a cartridge gun.

[0006] EP 4 241 894 A1 discloses a cartridge comprising a cylindrical cartridge body that defines a cavity. The cartridge body has a proximal end and a distal end. A cartridge cap with a dispensing outlet is arranged at the distal end of the cartridge body. A pouch for storing the viscous material is arranged in a cavity of the cartridge body. The pouch comprises a film which, when the pouch is closed, is held together at a first end, facing the cartridge cap, by a clip in a sausage-like fashion. The film is also gathered at a second end of the pouch by a clip in a sausage-like fashion, so that the pouch has a sausage shape. The cartridge of EP 4 241 894 A1 further comprises a piston assembly with a piston that can be displaced along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge body.By moving the piston, the viscous material can be dispensed from the sausage bag through the dispensing outlet while the sausage bag is open.

[0007] The cartridge body of EP 4 241 894 A1 has several cutting rods or blade tips. These cutting rods are designed to cut or slit the pouch at the first end when the plunger is pressed against the cartridge cap during initial use of the cartridge. This allows the pouch to be inserted into the cartridge body while still closed. Therefore, it is not necessary to remove the cartridge cap from the cartridge body before first use to access the first end of the pouch and cut it open with a separate knife or scissors.

[0008] To achieve reliable opening of the first end of the pouch, EP 4 241 894 A1 teaches the use of a sealing ring in the form of a hollow cylinder as part of the cartridge cap. One longitudinal axis of the hollow cylinder runs parallel to and coincides with the longitudinal axis of the cartridge body. The hollow cylinder projects into the cartridge body, and the cutting rods for slitting the pouch are located inside the hollow cylinder. (See 2024PF00150.)

[0009] 2

[0010] Pressing the tubular bag against an end face of the hollow cylinder deforms the bag in such a way that high internal pressure builds up in the first end of the bag and especially in the area inside the hollow cylinder. As a result, the cutting rods come into contact with the tubular bag in an area where the bag film is particularly taut and stretched due to the hollow cylinder. The bag film is not just punctured at a single point, but actually bursts open.

[0011] Although the hollow cylinder, in conjunction with the cutting rods, generally opens the pouch sufficiently wide at the first end to allow for easy dispensing of the viscous material, it cannot be ruled out that individual cartridges, or even a significant proportion of the tested cartridges, may not produce sufficiently large holes in the pouch. Consequently, dispensing the viscous material may then be difficult or require considerable force.

[0012] The object underlying the invention is to provide a cartridge from which the viscous material can be dispensed easily and reliably using a conventional cartridge gun.

[0013] The problem underlying the invention is solved by the subject matter according to claim 1. Exemplary embodiments can be found in the dependent claims to claim 1.

[0014] According to the invention, a free space is formed within the hollow cylinder which is free of piercing points, cutting elements or the like, so that in the closed state of the tubular bag, pressure builds up in the first end of the bag by pressing against the end face, by which the closure is separated from the bag film or the bag film is opened otherwise, in particular by tearing or bursting, without the bag film being slit, cut or punctured by piercing points, cutting elements or the like.To ensure contact between the tubular bag and the hollow cylinder, the tubular bag and hollow cylinder are preferably matched such that the internal dimension of the hollow cylinder is smaller than the diameter of the tubular bag. This ensures that, when the tubular bag and hollow cylinder are joined as described, at least partially contact the end face of the hollow cylinder. The internal dimension refers to the characteristic internal dimension of the selected hollow body used as the hollow cylinder. In the case of an actual hollow cylinder, this corresponds to the internal width. In the case of a hollow body with a different cross-sectional shape, the internal dimension refers to the free internal dimension that functionally corresponds to the internal width of a hollow cylinder, for example, an internal width or an internal height.

[0015] According to the invention, the hollow cylinder projects at least partially into the cavity of the cartridge body. Thus, the free space formed within the hollow cylinder 2024PF00150

[0016] 3 at least partially within the cavity of the cartridge body and is therefore laterally surrounded by its wall in this area.

[0017] In one embodiment, the hollow cylinder can have a clear dimension ranging from 10 mm to 40 mm. Here, too, the clear dimension refers to the characteristic clear dimension of the selected hollow body as the hollow cylinder used. In the case of an actual hollow cylinder, this corresponds to the clear width. In the case of a hollow body with a different cross-sectional shape, the clear dimension refers to the free internal dimension that functionally corresponds to the clear width of a hollow cylinder, for example, a clear width or a clear height. Alternatively or additionally, in one embodiment, the length of the hollow cylinder can preferably be in the range of 8 mm to 20 mm.

[0018] For example, to enable safe removal of the closure or safe opening of the foil bag as described above, in one embodiment the hollow cylinder can be designed such that it has a clear cross-sectional dimension or clear cross-sectional area Q in the range of, particularly in the area of ​​its end face.

[0019] Q = TT y mm) 2 up to Q = TT y mm). The clear cross-sectional dimension or clear cross-sectional area refers to the free internal surface of the selected hollow body (for a hollow cylinder) that allows passage through its cross-section. For a hollow cylinder, this corresponds to the circular internal surface resulting from the clear width. For a hollow body with a different cross-sectional shape, the clear cross-sectional area refers to the entire free cross-sectional area, regardless of the geometric shape.

[0020] In one embodiment, the hollow cylinder can be designed such that it defines a free space which has a volume V in the range of

[0021] V = TT y mm) 2 * 8mm to V = TT (mm) 2 * 20mm, for example to allow safe removal of the closure or safe opening of the foil bag as described above.

[0022] In one embodiment, the closure is a clip, preferably made of metal or plastic, which is then separated from the bag film according to the invention. Alternatively, the bag film can also be closed using other closures, such as an O-ring (rubber, metal, paper) or a plastic binder clip. It is also conceivable that the closure is formed by welding, sealing, or gluing.

[0023] Application tests have shown that cutting or slicing is not necessary to open the first end of the bag. Since the bag film is not slashed in the area of ​​the first end, the internal pressure can increase sufficiently with the help of the hollow cylinder to allow the 2024PF00150 to open.

[0024] 4

[0025] The clip, which securely holds the pouch film together at the sausage-shaped end of the pouch, is either stripped or detached from the pouch film. Since the pouch film is then completely separated from the clip and no longer held together by it, an opening is created at the first end of the pouch, the size and shape of which are easily predictable. When a large number of identical cartridges are tested, the resulting opening is practically unaffected. Due to the dimensions of the hollow cylinder (in one embodiment, these are the diameter and height of the hollow cylinder), the pouches always have a nearly identical opening. Thus, the viscous material can be dispensed from each individual cartridge with the same and comparatively low force. This simplifies handling the cartridge.

[0026] Thus, the invention takes a completely different approach than that taught in the prior art. While EP 4 241 894 A1 aims to create sufficiently large openings by slitting or cutting the bag film, the invention seeks to avoid slitting or cutting the bag film altogether, so that sufficient pressure can build up to detach the clip and the pressure does not collapse prematurely due to the slitting / cutting. Even if the force required to detach the clip is greater than the force needed to cut or slit an opening in the bag film, the cartridge according to the invention allows for precise dispensing of the viscous material.A slightly greater maximum force required to open the pouch by separating the clip from the pouch film results in a consistently uniform opening at the first end of the pouch, ensuring that dispensing is always equally effective after opening.

[0027] The tubular bag can be made of plastic. It can also be made of siliconized or coated paper. The bag film can be single-layered or multi-layered. The term "bag film" is not intended to restrict the bag material to plastic.

[0028] The production of the tubular bag can be carried out in a continuous process in which the viscous material is filled into an endless tube. A clip blank is fed radially in according to the length of the bag, compressing the endless tube at the appropriate point. The compressed bag film is then held or fixed together by the clip created by closing the clip blank. After the clip has been attached, the section with the compressed bag film and the clip is separated from the remaining endless tube. This results in a sausage-shaped tubular bag with two sausage-like ends. A longitudinal seam, with or without an overlap, can extend between the two ends. It is also possible for the tubular bag to have no longitudinal seam, but rather a closed circumference from the time the bag film is extruded.

[0029] In one embodiment, the clip can be made of a material with a smooth surface. This is particularly conceivable with a metallic material. In such a design, 2024PF00150

[0030] For example, the low friction of the clip on the tubular bag can make it particularly easy to remove. Alternatively, a clip made of a material with sharp edges or a tooth-like texture can be used. This is also conceivable, especially with a metallic material. On the one hand, such a texture may be intentional; on the other hand, it may be a consequence of the manufacturing process of the clip or the tubular bag. For example, a wire used to manufacture such a metallic clip may be deformed by the feed device, such as a knurled wheel, leaving tooth-like structures. This texture must be taken into account, as it can lead to damage to the tubular bags.On the other hand, this design can also be used to one advantage, as it may provide an alternative way to open the pouch without removing the clip. Since the pouch film is not slit at the first end of the pouch, as described, the internal pressure can increase sufficiently with the help of the hollow cylinder that the clip, which holds the pouch film securely at the sausage-shaped end of the pouch, is not stripped or blown off. Nevertheless, the cartridge can still be opened by the closure bursting or rupturing, thus utilizing the aforementioned design of the clip.Here, the tubular bag opens due to the introduction of weakened areas into the film, caused by the aforementioned design when the internal pressure increases, particularly through the sharp-edged or toothed design of the clip material. It has proven especially advantageous to incorporate sharp-edged or toothed features with a height of 0.01 mm to 0.2 mm into the clip material.

[0031] The term "cartridge gun or the like" in claim 1 represents a device that, by means of a pressure plate serving to bear against the piston of the cartridge, can exert axial pressure on the piston so that it moves along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge body to force the viscous material through the dispensing outlet. This device could, in principle, also be a hand-held dispenser into which the cartridge according to the invention can be inserted.

[0032] In one embodiment, the hollow cylinder has a continuous and / or uninterrupted outer surface. With such a design, a seal can be provided, particularly for an open tubular bag, in the area of ​​the cavity, for example to prevent premature hardening or drying out of the viscous material located in the free space.

[0033] In one embodiment, the hollow cylinder can have a lateral surface that is interrupted and / or segmented and / or has cutouts and / or an irregular, in particular a jagged and / or stepped and / or crenellated distal, projecting into the cavity 2024PF00150

[0034] 6

[0035] It has a front face. Such a design can, for example, save material.

[0036] In one embodiment, the hollow cylinder has a circular cross-section. However, other cross-sectional shapes are conceivable, so that other geometric hollow body shapes besides hollow cylinders can also be used. The term "hollow cylinder" used here is therefore not necessarily limited to a truly hollow cylindrical shape, but is intended to encompass other geometric shapes of a hollow body. In particular, the cross-section of the hollow cylinder can also be oval or rectangular. For example, the cross-section can be a regular hexagon or octagon.

[0037] The cartridge comprises a cartridge body, preferably cylindrical, with a proximal end and a distal end. The cartridge cap with a dispensing outlet is located at the distal end. The cartridge cap is a separate component that can be securely connected to the distal end of the cartridge body. In one embodiment, the connection between the cartridge cap and the cartridge body is designed such that the user can separate the two components, ideally without the need for additional tools. This allows the cartridge cap and cartridge body to be separated and, depending on the materials used, recycled accordingly. While the emptied pouch and the cartridge cap may still need to be disposed of with residual waste due to adhering product residues, the plastic content is significantly lower than in a conventional cartridge.

[0038] In one embodiment, the cartridge cap and the associated hollow cylinder can preferably be permanently connected, particularly in the delivered state and before use by the user. Alternatively, the cartridge cap and hollow cylinder form a single, integral component. Both embodiments provide the user with a cartridge in which, in particular, the features essential for opening the pouch are fixed in their designated positions, thus preventing malfunctions caused by misplaced or misaligned components. Connecting elements can be provided for the connection between the cartridge cap and the hollow cylinder, simplifying manufacturing.In particular, corresponding connecting elements are conceivable on both the cartridge cap and the hollow cylinder, which can be engaged with each other, thus allowing for separate manufacturing on the one hand. On the other hand, a secure connection of the two components is also possible by engaging the corresponding connecting elements. For example, the hollow cylinder can have a protruding connecting section or a connecting cylinder that can be engaged with a corresponding connecting section of the cartridge cap. The position of the hollow cylinder relative to the cartridge cap can be fixed by means of appropriate force-fit and / or form-fit connecting means, such as locking lips and locking notches 2024PF00150.

[0039] 7 will be. Of course, alternative, suitable connection options for joining the two components are also possible.

[0040] In one embodiment, the cartridge body has a wall extending from the distal end to the proximal end, with the hollow cylinder at least partially abutting the inner wall of the wall with its outer surface. This design, for example, improves the arrangement of the cartridge cap on the cartridge body. For instance, such a design can enable a positive connection between the outer surface and the inner wall. Alternatively or additionally, a suitable design can reduce or prevent unwanted cavities between the outer surface and the inner wall, in which, for example, parts of the tubular bag could become trapped.

[0041] The longitudinal axis of the hollow cylinder can coincide with the longitudinal axis of the cartridge body. The hollow cylinder and the cartridge body can therefore be arranged coaxially.

[0042] In one embodiment, the end face of the hollow cylinder is a closed annular surface. It is also conceivable that the end face has a gap and / or interruptions.

[0043] Clip retainers may be provided upstream of the dispensing outlet to prevent the detached clip from entering the outlet and thus causing a blockage. These clip retainers may include a retaining ring that can be arranged concentrically upstream of the dispensing outlet.

[0044] The hollow cylinder can be connected to the retaining ring via a connecting cylinder. The diameter of the connecting cylinder can be larger than the diameter of the retaining ring and smaller than the diameter of the hollow cylinder.

[0045] The diameter of the hollow cylinder (in this case, its outer diameter is meant) can be 60 to 80% of the inner diameter of the cartridge body. In one embodiment, the diameter of the hollow cylinder is 65 to 70% of the inner diameter of the cartridge body. The height of the hollow cylinder is, in another embodiment, 40 to 80% or 50 to 70% of its diameter. With such dimensions, particularly with a combination of the diameter values ​​given here, or the values ​​given above for height and / or clear dimensions and / or clear cross-sectional dimensions and / or volume of the free space, the separation or stripping of the closure from the bag film, or the bursting or rupture of the closure, can be readily achieved, especially with a suitable design and selection of the components used.

[0046] The connecting cylinder can connect axially to the hollow cylinder. This means that the connecting cylinder and the hollow cylinder do not move axially, or only to a very limited extent. 2024PF00150

[0047] Eight small dimensions (less than 2 mm) overlap. The connecting cylinder can be connected to the hollow cylinder via radial webs. The radial webs can be evenly distributed around the circumference. For example, with three radial webs, the distance to an adjacent web can be 120°. The radial web bridges the radial distance between the connecting cylinder and the hollow cylinder.

[0048] In one embodiment, the hollow cylinder is part of a separate insert element that can be inserted into the cartridge cap. The separate insert element and the cartridge cap can therefore be manufactured separately and then assembled. It is also conceivable that the hollow cylinder and the cartridge cap are formed as a single piece. The hollow cylinder, the retaining ring, and the connecting cylinder can be formed as a single piece and together constitute the separate insert element.

[0049] The cartridge cap may have a receiving space for the connecting cylinder, which centers the insert element in the cartridge cap.

[0050] In one embodiment, the cartridge body has a wall extending from the distal to the proximal end, made of a plant fiber-based material. This sleeve can be made of cardboard, paper, or corrugated board, for example. After separating the cartridge cap, piston unit, and pouch, the cartridge body can be disposed of with waste paper and thus reintroduced into the recycling loop. The cartridge body can already be made from recycled paper material, making the cartridge an even more sustainable product. While the plant fiber-based cartridge body can be printed, one embodiment does not include any additional coating of another material such as plastic or aluminum to facilitate efficient recycling.According to an alternative version, the cartridge body, made of paper or cardboard, may have a moisture-repellent coating to protect against moisture.

[0051] The proximal end may have a proximal butt joint. The distal end may have a distal butt joint, whereby at least one butt joint of the cartridge body may be covered by a section of material attached to the cartridge body. The material section covering the butt joint rests against both the inner and outer surfaces of the wall in an area adjacent to the butt joint. This prevents, or at least hinders, moisture from penetrating directly into the cartridge body material via the otherwise exposed butt joints, which would cause rapid swelling of the fibers and thus destabilization of the material.

[0052] The cartridge body can be manufactured as a coiled sleeve. The cartridge body can include a tear-off aid designed as a material weakening feature, extending from the distal end. 2024PF00150

[0053] 9

[0054] The tear-off aid extends into the wall at the end or the proximal end. It serves to make it easier to tear open the cartridge body and thus to separate it more easily from plastic components located in the cavity, such as an empty sausage pack.

[0055] In one embodiment, the piston comprises an outer piston, an inner piston, and an expanding ring. The outer piston is expanded radially by the expanding ring when the inner piston is pressed against the expanding ring or the outer piston by the cartridge gun. The inner piston may have a piston body in which at least one slot is provided, extending axially from the preferably unslotted expanding ring to a mounting surface for a pressure plate of the cartridge gun. Due to the slot, which can expand or contract during operation of the cartridge in the cartridge gun, the inner piston exhibits a certain degree of compliance, so that an angular or positional misalignment of the pressure plate acting on the inner piston is not, or not completely, transmitted to the outer piston.In other words, due to its flexibility, the inner piston can at least partially compensate for the angular and / or positional misalignment of the pressure plate, ensuring that the outer piston remains aligned against the inside of the cylindrical cartridge body in such a way that bulging or other damage to the cartridge body does not occur. Consequently, the cartridge body does not need to withstand such high forces, allowing it to be made of thin-walled and / or relatively soft material.

[0056] Another object of the invention, the provision of a method for using the cartridge described above, is solved by the combination of features according to claim 14.

[0057] According to the invention, when using the cartridge described above, the tubular bag is placed in the cartridge body in the closed state or has already been placed in the cartridge body at the factory, the piston is moved along the longitudinal axis, whereby the first end of the bag is pressed against the end face of the hollow cylinder, whereby pressure is generated at the first end of the bag by which the clip is separated from the bag film without the bag film being slit, punctured or cut open before or during the separation of the clip.

[0058] The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the embodiment shown in the drawing. The drawing shows:

[0059] Figure 1 shows a cartridge with a suggested cartridge gun;

[0060] Figure 2 shows a cartridge body and a tube bag;

[0061] Figure 3 shows a cartridge cap with insert element; 2024PF00150

[0062] 10

[0063] Figure 4 shows a longitudinal section along line AA in Figure 3;

[0064] Figure 5 shows the cartridge cap and the insert element in a perspective exploded view.

[0065] Position;

[0066] Figures 6 and 7 show different perspective views of the insert element;

[0067] Figure 8 shows the insert element in a slightly modified form from below;

[0068] Figure 9 shows the insert element of Figure 8 from the side;

[0069] Figure 10 shows the insert element of Figure 8 from above;

[0070] Figure 1 shows a piston unit from the side;

[0071] Figure 12 shows a longitudinal section along line AA in Figure 11;

[0072] Figure 13 shows the piston unit in longitudinal section in the assembled state.

[0073] Figure 1 shows a cartridge, designated as a whole by 1. The cartridge comprises a cylindrical cartridge body 10 with a proximal end 11 and a distal end 12. The cartridge body 10 is made of paper or cardboard as a wound sleeve. A cartridge cap 20 with a dispensing outlet 21 is arranged at the distal end 12. The cartridge cap 20 is a separate component that can be securely connected to the distal end 12 of the cartridge body 10. A dispensing nozzle 23 can be screwed onto an external thread 22 of the dispensing outlet 21. The tip of the dispensing nozzle 23 can be cut at various axial locations to obtain a desired outlet cross-section.

[0074] The cartridge body 10 defines a cavity that serves to hold a tubular bag 40 (see Figure 2). The tubular bag 40 contains a viscous or pasty material, for example, silicone, acrylic, a sealant, or an adhesive. The tubular bag 40 has a film 41 which is held together at a first end 42 by a clip 43, preferably made of metal, but also of other materials such as rubber, plastic, or paper, in a sausage-like manner. At a second end 44, the film 41 is also held together in a sausage-like manner by another clip 45, so that the tubular bag 40 has the shape of a sausage with two sausage-like ends. Folds 46 are formed at the ends 42 and 44 in the film 41 due to the bunching. A small overhang 47 on the clip 43 is a few millimeters, for example, 2 to 6 mm.The clip 43 can be formed from a wire or rod-shaped clip blank, which is bent into an approximately round clip with a circumference, 2024PF00150.

[0075] 11 within which the bag film 41 is held compressed. A force-fit exists between the bag film 41 and the clip 43. If a sufficiently high force is applied to it, the clip 43 slides along the projection 47 until it is completely separated from the bag film.

[0076] The cartridge 1 further comprises a piston unit 50, which is essentially concealed by the cartridge body 10 in Figure 1. Only a small part of the connecting piece 51, which is fixed to the proximal end 11 of the cartridge body 10, is visible. The piston unit 50 has a piston 52 (see Figures 11 to 13) that can move along a longitudinal axis 2 of the cartridge body 10. In an initial state, the axially movable piston 52 is connected to the fixed connecting piece 51 via thin connecting webs 53, which are designed as predetermined breaking points. By axially moving the piston 52, the viscous material from the foil pouch 40 can be dispensed through the dispensing outlet 21. However, the originally closed foil pouch 40 and the dispensing outlet 21 must first be opened.The pressure required for dispensing the piston 52 can be provided by a standard cartridge gun 100, of which only a pressure plate 101 and a push rod 102 are shown in Figure 1 as representatives. A more detailed description of the piston unit 50 follows below.

[0077] Figures 3 to 5 show the cartridge cap 10 and a separate insert element 70 that can be inserted into the cartridge cap 10. The separate insert element 70 is shown separately in Figures 6 to 10.

[0078] The dispensing opening 24, defined by the dispensing outlet 21, is closed by a breakable resealing element 25. The resealing element 25 is initially fixed to the dispensing outlet 21 and closes the dispensing opening 24, thus protecting it before the cartridge 1 is put into operation. The connection between the resealing element 25 and the cartridge cap 20 includes four predetermined breaking points, which can be broken by a user of the cartridge 10 to separate the resealing element 25 from the cartridge cap 20. The resealing element 25 is conical or tapered and projects into the dispensing opening 24 with a conical tip 26. After separation from the cartridge cap 20, the resealing element 25 can be used as a closure for the dispensing opening 24 or as a closure for the dispensing nozzle 23.

[0079] The cartridge cap 20 is essentially rotationally symmetrical and has a stepped shoulder section 27 that connects the dispensing outlet 21 and a compression ring 28. The compression ring 28 has circumferential claw elements 29 on its outer circumference, which engage with the paper material of the cartridge body 10 to securely fasten the cartridge cap 20 to the cartridge body 10. The diameter of the compression ring 28 corresponds approximately to the inner diameter of the cartridge body 10. An outer circumferential rim 30 of the shoulder section 27 forms an axial contact surface for the cartridge body 10. 2024PF00150

[0080] 12

[0081] The stepped shoulder section 21 forms a cylindrical receiving chamber 28 for the insert element 70. In particular, the receiving chamber 28 serves to center the insert element 70 in the cartridge cap 20. In the assembled state (see Figure 4), a connecting cylinder 71 of the insert element 70 sits coaxially in the cylindrical receiving chamber 28. The connecting cylinder 71 connects a hollow cylinder 72 and a retaining ring 73. The hollow cylinder 72, the connecting cylinder 71, and the retaining ring 73 are arranged coaxially with each other and have a common central axis, which, in the assembled state, coincides with the longitudinal axis 2 of the cartridge body 10. The connecting cylinder 71 has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the hollow cylinder 72 and larger than the diameter of the retaining ring 73. The retaining ring 73 is connected to the connecting cylinder 71 via three radial ribs 74.The connecting cylinder 71 is connected to the hollow cylinder 72 via three radial webs 75. The connecting cylinder 71 and the hollow cylinder 72 do not overlap axially along the longitudinal axis 2. The diameter of the hollow cylinder 72, or more precisely, its outer diameter, is 60 to 80%, preferably 65 to 75%, of the diameter of the compression ring 28, or 60 to 80%, preferably 65 to 75%, of the inner diameter of the cartridge body 10.

[0082] The hollow cylinder 72 projects along the longitudinal axis 2 into the cavity of the cartridge body 10. The hollow cylinder 72 has an annular circumferential end face 76. A clearance 77 is formed within the hollow cylinder 72, in which there are no piercing points, cutting elements, or the like that could serve to slit the pouch 40 at the first pouch end 42 when the pouch 40 is pressed against the cartridge cap 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the clearance extends over the entire axial length of the hollow cylinder 72.

[0083] As described below, the hollow cylinder 72 serves to automatically open the closed bag end 42 (see Figure 2) without slashing or puncturing the bag film 41. When the piston 52 is moved, the first bag end 42 is pressed against the end face 76 of the hollow cylinder 72. The annular end face 76 divides the first bag end 41 into an outer and an inner area, with the inner area lying radially inside the hollow cylinder 72. The outer area extends radially outwards from the end face 76 to the inner diameter of the cartridge body 20, assuming that the inner diameter of the cartridge body 20 corresponds approximately to the diameter 48 of the tubular bag 40.

[0084] With sufficiently high axial pressure from the piston 52, the outer surface of the first bag end 42 slides along the outside of the hollow cylinder and into the annular gap between the hollow cylinder 72 and the compression ring 28. Simultaneously, the internal pressure in the inner area of ​​the first bag end 42 increases, resulting in a large tensile force on the bag film 41 2024PF00150

[0085] 13, or rather, on the protrusion 47 (sausage end). The tensile force becomes so great that, despite the clamping force between the bag film 41 and the clip 43, the bag film 41 is pulled along the clip 43, so that the protrusion 47 becomes shorter and shorter until the clip 43 is completely separated from the bag film 41. Since the bag film 41 is no longer held together at the first bag end 42 by the clip 43, the bag end 42 opens. In contrast to slitting or piercing, a very large opening is created abruptly at the first bag end 42, so that the viscous mass can be dispensed without significant flow resistance.

[0086] Since the clip 43 is now completely separated from the pouch film 41, it is pressed towards the dispensing outlet 21 by the viscous material. The retaining ring 73, or rather its position in the receiving chamber of the cartridge cap 20, prevents the clip 43 from entering the dispensing opening 24 and clogging it. The insert element 70 thus serves not only to open the pouch 40 but also to catch the clip 43. The insert element 70 could therefore also be described as a clip catcher.

[0087] The connecting cylinder 71 can have a circumferential detent 78 on its outer side, which interacts with a circumferential detent lip 31 on the inner side of the stepped shoulder part 27. Through the interaction of the detent lip 31 and the detent 78, the insert element sits securely in the cartridge cap 20.

[0088] The piston 52 of the piston unit 50 comprises an inner piston 54, an outer piston 55, and a frustoconical expanding ring 56, which is integrally formed with the inner piston 54. Figures 11 to 13 show the piston unit 50 in its initial state, in which the connecting webs 53 are not yet cut. In Figures 11 and 12, the inner piston 54 and the outer piston are shown separately. Figure 13 shows the piston unit in its assembled initial state, in which the inner piston 54 is partially and the expanding ring 55 is completely located within an interior space 57 of the outer piston 55.

[0089] The inner piston 54 has a piston body 58. A slot 59 is provided in the piston body 58, extending axially (along the longitudinal axis 2) from the expanding ring 56 to a mounting surface 60 for the pressure plate 101 of the piston gun 100. The circumference of the piston body 58 is completely interrupted by the slot 59. Figure 12 clearly shows that the slot 59 extends to the expanding ring 56, but does not open its closed circumference.

[0090] Due to the slot 59, the inner piston 54 is flexible and therefore does not transmit, or only mitigates, stresses or unwanted forces resulting from an inclined and / or off-center pressure plate 101 to the outer piston 55. The outer piston 55 can therefore be guided more easily longitudinally through the cartridge body 10. Damage to the cartridge body 10 caused by greater radial forces from the outer piston 55 can be prevented. 2024PF00150

[0091] 14 thus avoid even if the wall thickness of the cartridge body 10 is small and / or a soft material such as paper or cardboard is chosen for the cartridge body.

[0092] The axial pressure expands the expanding ring 56, causing the outer piston 55 with its sealing lips 61 to be pressed tightly against the inside of the cartridge body 10. A piston base 62 of the outer piston 55 is slightly convex and has an opening / recess 63 for receiving the clip 45 (see Figure 2). The piston base 62 can also have a different shape, which can influence the pressure distribution in the pouch 40 and thus also the pressure distribution in the first pouch end 42 when it is pressed against the end face 76 of the hollow cylinder 72.

[0093] Circumferential claw elements 64 are provided on one outer side of the connecting element 51 for secure connection with the proximal end 11 of the cartridge body 10. An end stop 65 of the connecting element 51 ensures axial fixation with respect to the cartridge body 10.

[0094] 2024PF00150

[0095] 15

[0096] Reference symbol list

[0097] 1 cartridge

[0098] 2 Longitudinal axis

[0099] 10 cartridge bodies

[0100] 11 distal end

[0101] 12 proximal end

[0102] 20 cartridge caps

[0103] 21 Delivery outlet

[0104] 22 external threads

[0105] 23 Dispensing nozzle

[0106] 24 Drop-off opening

[0107] 25 Re-sealing part

[0108] 26 top

[0109] 27 Shoulder section

[0110] 28 Press ring

[0111] 29 Claw element

[0112] 30 Rand

[0113] 30 Rastlippe

[0114] 40 tubular bags

[0115] 41 bags of foil

[0116] 42 first end of bag

[0117] 43 Clip

[0118] 44 second bag end

[0119] 45 Clip

[0120] 46 folds

[0121] 47 Overhang

[0122] 50 piston units

[0123] 51 Connecting piece

[0124] 52 pistons

[0125] 53 Connecting bridge

[0126] 54 internal pistons

[0127] 55 external pistons

[0128] 56 Spreader ring

[0129] 57 Interior

[0130] 58 piston bodies

[0131] 59 slots

[0132] 60 Attachment area

[0133] 61 Sealing element

[0134] 62 piston crown

[0135] 63 Opening A / recess 2024PF00150

[0136] 64 Claw element

[0137] 65 End stop

[0138] 70 Deployment element

[0139] 71 connecting cylinders

[0140] 72 hollow cylinders

[0141] 73 retaining ring

[0142] 74 Radial rib

[0143] 75 Radial web

[0144] 76 Front surface

[0145] 77 Free space

[0146] 78 Rastenschnung

Claims

2024PF00150 17 Patent claims 1. Cartridge (1) for a viscous material, which can be inserted into a cartridge gun (100) or the like and comprises: - a cylindrical cartridge body (10) defining a cavity, with a proximal end (11) and a distal end (12); - a cartridge cap (20) arranged at the distal end (12) of the cartridge body (10), having a dispensing outlet (21) and to which a hollow cylinder (72) with an end face (76) is associated, wherein a longitudinal axis of the hollow cylinder (72) extends parallel to a longitudinal axis (2) of the cartridge body (10) and wherein the hollow cylinder (72) projects into the cavity of the cartridge body (10); - a tubular bag (40) arranged in the cavity of the cartridge body (10) for storing the viscous material, wherein the tubular bag (40) comprises a bag film (41) which, in a closed state of the tubular bag (40), is held together at least at a first bag end (41) facing the cartridge cap (20) by a sausage-like closure, - a piston unit (50) with a piston (52) which can be displaced along the longitudinal axis (2) of the cartridge body (10), wherein by displacing the piston (52) the first bag end (42) is pressed against the end face (76) of the hollow cylinder (72) and in an open state of the tubular bag (40) the viscous material can be dispensed from the tubular bag (40) through the dispensing outlet (21), characterized in that a free space (77) is formed inside the hollow cylinder (72) which is free of piercing points or cutting elements, so that in the closed state of the tubular bag (40) a pressure builds up in the first bag end (42) by pressing against the end face (76), by which the closure is opened or separated from the bag film (41) without the bag film (41) being slit or punctured.

2. Cartridge (1) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the closure is designed as a clip (43).

3. Cartridge (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the hollow cylinder (72) has a circular cross-section.

4. Cartridge (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylinder coincides with the longitudinal axis (2) of the cartridge body (10).

5. Cartridge (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the end face (76) is a closed annular surface. 2024PF00150 18 6. Cartridge (1) according to claim 2 and one of claims 1, 3 to 5, characterized in that clip retaining means are provided in front of the dispensing outlet (21) which prevent the detached clip (43) from entering the dispensing outlet (21).

7. Cartridge (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the clip retaining means comprise a retaining ring (73) which is arranged concentrically in front of the dispensing outlet (21).

8. Cartridge (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that the hollow cylinder (72) is connected to the retaining ring (73) via a connecting cylinder (71), wherein a diameter of the connecting cylinder (71) is larger than a diameter of the retaining ring (73) and smaller than a diameter of the hollow cylinder (72).

9. Cartridge (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the connecting cylinder (71) is axially connected to the hollow cylinder (72) and is connected to the hollow cylinder (72) via radial webs (75).

10. Cartridge (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the hollow cylinder (72) is part of a separate insert element (70) which can be inserted into the cartridge cap (20).

11. Cartridge (1) according to claim 8 or 9 and according to claim 10, characterized in that the cartridge cap (20) has a receiving space (28) for the connecting cylinder (71) by which the insert element (70) is centered in the cartridge cap (20).

12. Cartridge (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the cartridge body (10) has a wall extending from the distal end (12) to the proximal end (11) and is made of a material based on plant fibers.

13. Cartridge (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the piston (52) has an outer piston (55), an inner piston (54) and an expanding ring (56), wherein the outer piston (55) is expanded in a radial direction by the expanding ring (56) when the inner piston (54) is pressed against the expanding ring (56) or the outer piston (55) by the cartridge gun (100), wherein the inner piston (54) has a piston body (58) in which at least one slot (59) is provided, which extends in an axial direction from the preferably unslotted expanding ring (56) to a contact surface (60) for a pressure plate (101) of the cartridge gun (100).

14. Method for using the cartridge (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the tubular bag (40) is placed in the cartridge body (10) in the closed state, the piston (52) is moved along the longitudinal axis (2), wherein the first bag end (42) is pressed against the end face (76) of the hollow cylinder (72), wherein at the first bag end 2024PF00150 19 (42) a pressure is generated which opens the closure or separates it from the bag film (41) without the bag film (41) being slashed or punctured before or during the separation of the clip (43).

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