Transport device and system comprising a transport device

Abstract

The invention relates to a transport device for transporting objects, in particular containers, in a system, in particular a filling and / or packaging system, the device comprising a travel sector, a plurality of transport elements (3) for transporting the objects, and a plurality of drive actuators (24) for driving the transport elements (3), wherein the drive actuators (24) are designed to drive the transport elements (3) and the transport device (1) is designed to control the drive actuators (24) so that the transport elements (3) can be moved independently of one another simultaneously relative to the travel sector and in a movement region along the travel sector, and wherein the transport device (1) comprises a cleaning station (4) which is designed to clean the transport elements (3), wherein the transport elements (3) can be moved at least partially automatically, in particular fully automatically, to the cleaning station (4). The invention further relates to a system comprising a transport device (1), in particular a filling and / or packaging system.

Description

[0001] Transport device and system comprising a transport device

[0002] SCOPE OF APPLICATION AND STATE OF THE ART

[0003] The invention relates to a transport device. The invention relates in particular to a transport device for transporting objects, especially containers, within a system, particularly a filling and / or packaging system. The invention further relates to a system comprising a transport device, in particular a filling and / or packaging system.

[0004] Numerous different transport devices are known for transporting objects in a filling and / or packaging plant, including, for example, a transport rake, a conveyor belt, a linear motor transport device and / or a planar motor transport device.

[0005] A linear motor transport device is a transport device in which transport elements can be moved and / or positioned independently of one another along a defined, curved or straight transport path. Similarly, a planar motor transport device is a transport device in which transport elements can be moved and / or positioned independently of one another along a transport surface. The transport elements are also referred to as runners or movers. The number of transport elements and the length of the transport path or the size of the transport surface can be selected by a person skilled in the art, depending on the application. It is known to equip the transport elements with electromagnets, which are energized to move them along a surface or path equipped with permanent magnets.In other embodiments, the transport elements are passively designed and have permanent magnets, with electromagnets on the transport surface or the transport route being energized accordingly to move the transport elements.

[0006] Particularly stringent requirements are placed on a transport device for a plant used in the production and / or processing of pharmaceutical, sensitive, and / or highly potent products and / or substances, such as a plant for the manufacture, filling, and / or packaging of pharmaceuticals and / or biopharmaceuticals. TASK AND SOLUTION

[0007] It is an object of the invention to provide an improved transport device for a machine system, in particular for a machine system for the production and / or processing of sensitive and / or highly effective products and / or substances, such as for the manufacture, filling and / or packaging of pharmaceuticals and / or biopharmaceuticals, and / or for the production and / or processing of pharmaceutical products, genetically modified organisms, foodstuffs, in particular baby powder, cosmetics, wound dressings or the like, as well as a machine system with such a transport device.

[0008] According to a first aspect, a transport device is created comprising a travel sector, in particular a transport track and / or a transport surface, several transport elements for transporting the objects, and several drive actuators for driving the transport elements. The drive actuators are configured to drive the transport elements, and the transport device is configured to control the drive actuators, so that the transport elements can be moved independently of one another simultaneously relative to the travel sector and within a range of motion along the travel sector. The transport device includes a cleaning station configured to clean the transport elements, in particular to disinfect and / or decontaminate and / or sterilize them, wherein the transport elements can be moved to the cleaning station at least semi-automatically, and in particular fully automatically.

[0009] The terms "a", "a", etc. are used in connection with the application solely as indefinite articles and not as counters. In particular, one embodiment provides for more than one driving sector, whereby the driving sectors have, in particular, different designs and / or orientations, and / or more than one cleaning station. The terms "first" and "second" serve only for differentiation and do not indicate any order. Furthermore, the mention of "first" does not require the presence of a second and / or further element.

[0010] The transport device comprises a cleaning station, wherein the transport elements are semi- or fully automatically movable at least towards the cleaning station, i.e., at least in the direction of the cleaning station and, for example, into the cleaning station. In some embodiments, movement of the transport elements within the cleaning station is provided. In other embodiments, this movement of the transport elements within the cleaning station is also semi- or fully automated. The cleaning station is configured to clean transport elements, in particular to disinfect and / or decontaminate and / or sterilize them. Disinfection and sterilization refer to the reduction and / or deactivation of germs. Decontamination refers to the reduction, for example, to a level that is harmless to health, of foreign substances, in particular by removing the foreign substances.In certain designs, complete removal of the foreign substance is required.

[0011] For example, but not limited to, the foreign substance includes at least one of the substances from the group comprising impurities, highly potent substances and / or product residues.

[0012] In some embodiments, the transport device includes additional transport elements that cannot be cleaned in the cleaning station and / or in at least one cleaning station of a plurality of cleaning stations. In other embodiments, the transport device includes at least first and second transport elements, wherein first transport elements can be cleaned in the first cleaning station and second transport elements in a second cleaning station.

[0013] In various embodiments, the transport sector is a transport path along which the transport elements, particularly those with exactly one linear degree of freedom, are movable within the movement area. In other embodiments, the transport sector is a transport surface on which the transport elements are movable within the movement area, particularly in at least two plane directions, where the two plane directions span the geometric area of ​​the transport surface. The transport elements are movable along different paths within the movement area, particularly in a transport sector designed as a transport surface. For example, the transport elements are at least partially rotatable in at least one rotational degree of freedom, particularly in a transport sector designed as a transport surface. In embodiments, the movement of the transport elements on the transport surface occurs with at least three, and particularly with six, degrees of freedom.

[0014] In particular, the range of motion includes the area in which the objects are moved during transport.

[0015] In embodiments of the transport device, at least one of the following is provided: that at least some drive actuators are arranged on the travel sector; and / or that a transport element has a drive actuator; and / or that the transport elements are movable in a speed- and / or position-controlled manner; and / or that the transport elements are driven electromagnetically by the drive actuators.

[0016] The transport device is, in particular in its various configurations, a linear motor transport device with a travel sector designed as a transport track and / or a planar motor transport device with a travel sector designed as a transport surface.

[0017] In some embodiments, at least some drive actuators are arranged on the travel sector relative to which the transport elements are movable. For example, in some embodiments, a transport element has a drive actuator.

[0018] The drive actuators can be controlled to move the transport elements relative to the travel sector. In some configurations, the transport elements can be moved in a speed- and / or position-controlled manner.

[0019] In some configurations, the transport elements are driven by the drive actuators without physical contact. In particular, force transmission from the drive actuators to the transport elements occurs without physical contact.

[0020] In particular, the transport elements are driven electromagnetically by the drive actuators. For example, a drive actuator includes an electromagnet.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the transport device is designed such that the transport elements can move relative to the driving sector without contact. This prevents abrasion of the driving sector due to movement of the transport elements relative to the driving sector.

[0022] In certain embodiments, particularly with a vertically oriented transport surface and / or when the transport elements are not supported against gravity on the travel sector while stationary or in motion, support devices are provided by means of which the transport elements are supported, particularly permanently or temporarily. For example, a support device mechanically and / or contactively supports a transport element, for example, against a guide rail. In some embodiments, a support device magnetically supports a transport element. In particular, a transport element is supported by the support device when the transport device is de-energized. Advantageously, the support device supports a transport element against gravity. In some embodiments, the transport element is movably mounted in one direction along the travel sector when supported by the support device.

[0023] For example, the support device includes a support roller. A transport element is supported and movably mounted on the support roller. In particular, the transport element includes at least parts of the support device, for example the support roller and / or a magnetically active part, especially a permanent magnet.

[0024] In particular, an interaction between the driving sector and the transport element caused by the drive actuators acts transversely, especially perpendicularly, to the vertical direction in the case of a vertically oriented driving sector.

[0025] In particular, a wall surface is arranged, at least partially, for example, at least for the most part, between drive actuators located on the travel sector and the movement area of ​​the transport elements. The wall surface delimits, at least partially, and in particular for the most part, a drive compartment in which the drive actuators are arranged, at least in one spatial direction. In some embodiments, an enclosure for the drive actuators comprises one or more wall surfaces located away from the drive actuators. In a travel sector designed as a transport area, the wall surface arranged between the drive actuators located on the travel sector and the movement area of ​​the transport elements runs, in particular, parallel to the transport area. In a travel sector designed as a transport track, at least one wall surface is provided between the drive actuators and the movement area of ​​the transport elements.At least one wall surface faces one side of the transport element during movement along the transport route, in particular forming a gap.

[0026] In certain designs, the wall surface is at least largely continuous and, for example, completely continuous.

[0027] In certain configurations, the wall surface, which is largely completely closed, has an opening through which the support device with a support element extends. In some configurations, the support element is arranged in a drive compartment bounded by the wall surface.

[0028] In certain configurations, the wall surface, which is largely continuous, has an opening through which a cleaning device of the cleaning station, such as a nozzle, extends. Depending on the configuration, the transport path, particularly that of a linear motor transport device, is at least partially straight and / or curved. Specifically, the transport path of a linear motor transport device has a stator section with a plurality of coils arranged along the stator section. Depending on the application, the coils are oriented either vertically or horizontally. In certain configurations, the transport path has at least one wall surface, at least partially, along which the transport elements are moved, particularly without contact.In particular, the transport section, in certain embodiments, has at least a section with a wall surface arranged between the transport elements and the stator section. In one embodiment, the wall surface is arranged vertically, with the transport elements moving along the wall surface, particularly without contact with the wall surface, in a horizontal direction. In another embodiment, the wall surface is arranged horizontally, with the transport elements moving along the wall surface, particularly without contact with the wall surface, in a horizontal direction. Transport sections with a horizontal wall surface are also referred to here as horizontal transport sections. In certain embodiments, the stator section is interrupted in at least one section, with the wall surface extending, in particular, over this section.In various configurations, an enclosure for the stator section comprises one or more wall surfaces that are located away from the stator section.

[0029] The transport surface, in particular the transport surface of a planar motor transport device, is arranged in a horizontal plane in one embodiment. However, embodiments are also conceivable in which, alternatively or additionally, a vertically and / or an inclinedly arranged transport surface is provided.

[0030] In some embodiments, the cleaning station has a transition, whereby transport elements can be moved into and / or out of the cleaning station via this transition. In other embodiments, the cleaning station has a transition designed as an access point, for example, exactly one access point, whereby transport elements can be moved into and out of the cleaning station via this access point. In other embodiments, the cleaning station has at least two transitions, whereby the transitions serve in particular as an entrance and a separate exit, whereby the transport elements can be moved into the cleaning station via the entrance and out of the cleaning station via the exit.In some configurations with exactly one transition and / or with at least two transitions, the cleaning station is also designed for operation in the opposite direction, whereby, for example, transport elements can be repeatedly moved back and forth between the entrance and the exit. In some configurations, the at least one transition is located on a wall, in particular on a wall that borders the cleaning station. In some configurations, the transition is not limited by structural or constructional elements.

[0031] Depending on its configuration, the cleaning station enables the cleaning of at least one transport element located in a stationary cleaning position within the station, and / or the cleaning of at least one transport element moving through the station during its movement. In this configuration, the transport elements can be moved repeatedly along a circulating path relative to the travel sector. Depending on the application, at least some transport elements can be moved into the cleaning station on each cycle, at least some transport elements as needed, and / or at least some transport elements after a defined number of cycles. In some configurations, cleaning of at least some transport elements only occurs during a product change and / or before opening a closed, particularly sterile, environment in which the transport device is located.

[0032] Depending on the application, the cleaning station can be designed to clean the entire transport element or one or more areas of the transport element, in particular to decontaminate and / or sterilize and / or disinfect.

[0033] In some configurations, the cleaning station includes a cleaning device.

[0034] In certain configurations, the cleaning device is designed to clean at least some transport elements at least semi-automatically, and in particular fully automatically.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the cleaning device is designed to clean at least some transport elements in the cleaning station with a cleaning medium, and / or to clean at least some transport elements in the cleaning station mechanically, in particular by wiping or brushing, and / or to clean at least some transport elements in the cleaning station fluidically, in particular by washing and / or ultrasonic cleaning, and / or to clean at least some transport elements in the cleaning station with solvents, and / or to clean at least some transport elements in the cleaning station chemically, in particular by caustic soaking, and / or to clean at least some transport elements in the cleaning station thermally, in particular by flame treatment or cleaning annealing.

[0036] In particular, the cleaning equipment includes at least one of the following:

[0037] - a mechanical cleaning element, for example a wiping element and / or a brush; and / or

[0038] - a nozzle for the cleaning medium, for example for applying the cleaning medium as a cleaning jet to the transport element to be cleaned and / or for applying the cleaning medium to a cleaning element.

[0039] In particular, but not limited to, the cleaning medium includes at least one of the media from the group comprising water, solvents, hydrogen peroxide, and alcohol.

[0040] In particular, the cleaning medium is a fluid, for example, with at least a liquid phase and / or a gaseous phase. In one embodiment, the cleaning medium is supplied at an increased pressure and / or an increased temperature, for example, compressed air and / or steam.

[0041] In some configurations, the cleaning equipment is designed to disinfect, decontaminate and / or sterilize at least some transport elements in the cleaning station.

[0042] The transport device comprises, in various embodiments, at least two cleaning stations with a first and a second cleaning device respectively, and / or at least one cleaning station with a first and a second cleaning device, wherein the first cleaning device and the second cleaning device are designed differently.

[0043] The transport device comprises, in various embodiments, at least first transport elements and second transport elements, wherein first transport elements can be cleaned in a first cleaning station with a first cleaning device and second transport elements can be cleaned in the first cleaning station and / or a second cleaning station with a second cleaning device, wherein the first cleaning device and the second cleaning device are designed differently.

[0044] In some configurations, the cleaning station includes a collection device, such as a basin, in which cleaning fluid and / or separated contaminants generated during cleaning can be collected. In some configurations, the collection device, such as the basin, has an outlet to safely discharge the generated cleaning fluid and / or separated contaminants. In other configurations, the collection device, such as the basin, can be hermetically sealed and, if required, operated from a sterile environment.

[0045] As mentioned, the transport elements in the cleaning station can be cleaned as a whole or in sections. In certain configurations, the cleaning device and / or the cleaning station is specifically designed to clean, and in particular to decontaminate and / or sterilize, an area of ​​the transport elements that faces the driving sector and / or a wall surface adjacent to the driving sector, especially on the back and / or underside of the transport elements.The cleaning station thus makes it possible to clean, in particular to decontamination and / or sterilize, areas of the transport elements which are not exposed during cleaning of the transport device, for example in a cleaning process called wash-down of a sterile environment, but are located opposite a wall surface and are therefore not accessible or only accessible with difficulty, for example by manually removing the transport elements from the driving sector.

[0046] The cleaning station has at least two cleaning sections in various configurations. In these configurations, the cleaning device and / or the cleaning station are designed so that different areas of the transport elements can be cleaned in different cleaning sections, in particular different areas of the back and / or underside of the transport elements. In these configurations, operation is such that several transport elements pass through the cleaning station simultaneously, with the different transport elements being cleaned in different cleaning sections, particularly simultaneously or overlapping in time. In these configurations, a maximum of one transport element is in the cleaning station at any given time.In some configurations, a transport element is moved back and forth multiple times within the cleaning station, specifically through a cleaning section and / or, for example, between the entrance and the exit. This allows, for instance, for a complete cleaning of the areas to be cleaned.

[0047] In particular, for cleaning an area which, when the transport elements are arranged on the travel sector, is opposite the travel sector, the cleaning station is, in some configurations, arranged outside the travel sector. An arrangement outside the travel sector is defined as both an arrangement spaced apart from the travel sector and an arrangement in a gap or interruption of the travel sector, whereby the transport elements in the cleaning station are separated from the travel sector at least to the extent that at least one area facing the travel sector during movement along or on the travel sector, in particular on the back and / or underside, is accessible for cleaning.

[0048] For movement of the transport elements into and / or towards the cleaning station, in particular into and / or towards a cleaning station located outside the driving sector, the transport device in embodiments comprises a transfer track arranged between the driving sector and the cleaning station, wherein the transport elements are movable along the transfer track.

[0049] In some configurations, the driving sector and the transfer track are connected, so that the transport elements can be transferred directly or indirectly from the driving sector to the transfer track, in particular they can be transferred partially or fully automatically.

[0050] In some configurations, the transfer route and the cleaning station are connected, so that the transport elements can be transferred directly or indirectly from the transfer route to the cleaning station, and in particular, can be transferred partially or fully automatically.

[0051] In some configurations, the transfer section is located within the cleaning station. The transport elements are movable, particularly via the transfer section located within the cleaning station, from an entrance to an exit of the cleaning station, and in particular, can be moved semi- or fully automatically.

[0052] Depending on its design, the transfer track serves, at least in sections, to transport the transport elements from the driving sector to the cleaning station, from the cleaning station to the driving sector, and / or to transport the transport elements through the cleaning station, for example, from a transition serving as an entrance to a transition serving as an exit, and / or in the opposite direction. In particular, if the transfer track serves to move the transport elements through the cleaning station, it is designed such that an area facing the driving sector, especially on the rear and / or underside, is exposed for cleaning, at least in sections.

[0053] The transfer track is designed such that the transport elements are moved passively along it, at least in sections. "Passively moved" refers to a design in which no driving forces are applied to the transport elements along the track. In some configurations, movement along the transfer track occurs due to the kinetic energy of the transport elements as they enter the track and / or due to the movement of subsequent transport elements. For this purpose, the transfer track is designed, for example, as a sliding rail.

[0054] Alternatively or additionally, in certain embodiments, the transport device includes a handling unit arranged between the travel sector and the cleaning station. The handling unit is configured to move the transport elements at least section by section between the travel sector and the cleaning station, and in particular, to move the transport elements from the travel sector to the transfer section and / or from the transfer section to the cleaning station. A handling device is defined as a conveyor system and / or a kinematic system, in particular a single-axis or multi-axis system, for moving the transport elements between at least two positions. In certain embodiments, the conveyor system is designed as a belt conveyor, screw conveyor, rake, or the like, and is configured to move the transport elements continuously or incrementally along the transfer section.A single-axis system is designed, for example, as a slide mechanism, where the slide mechanism interacts with a transfer track, allowing the transport elements to be moved along the transfer track to or from the cleaning station. A multi-axis system, depending on its configuration, is designed as a serial mechanism, a parallel kinematic system, or a hybrid mechanism. The multi-axis system is configured to transport the elements along a transport track or in free space to the cleaning station.

[0055] The transport sector is configured as a transport surface, wherein the transport elements are movable on the transport surface. In particular, the transport surface is configured as a planar motor transport surface comprising drive actuators. These drive actuators are installed and operable to drive the transport elements on the transport surface, in particular by means of contactless and / or electromagnetic drive. In some configurations, the cleaning station is located outside the transport surface. Movement on the transport surface occurs along at least one path, in particular a closed path.

[0056] The transport sector is configured as a transport track, in particular as a circulating transport track, wherein the transport elements are movable along the transport track, and wherein the transport track is specifically configured as a linear motor transport track comprising drive actuators, wherein drive actuators are installed and operable to drive the transport elements along the transport track, in particular contactlessly and / or electromagnetically. In some configurations, the cleaning station is located outside the transport track.

[0057] In some configurations, the travel sector, in particular the transport track and / or the transport area, has an interruption between a first track section and a second track section, with the cleaning station being arranged between the first track section and the second track section, so that the transport elements can be moved from the first track section via the cleaning station to the second track section and / or from the second track section via the cleaning station to the first track section.

[0058] The transport sector, in particular the transport track and / or the transport area, has, in at least one section, two parallel paths, whereby the transport elements optionally traverse either the first or the second path. If they traverse the first path, the transport elements are conveyed to the cleaning station; if they traverse the second path, they are not conveyed to the cleaning station. In other embodiments, all transport elements are guided through the cleaning station.

[0059] In some configurations, the first and second track sections are connected at least partially via the transfer track, with transport elements being movable at least partially between the first and second track sections along the transfer track. Alternatively or additionally, some configurations include a handling unit that transfers transport elements from the first track section to the cleaning station and from the cleaning station to the second track section.

[0060] In certain embodiments, the drive actuators are provided and operational to propel the transport elements on the travel sector, in particular the transport track and / or the transport surface, so that the transport elements can be moved at least section by section from the first track section via the cleaning station to the second track section and / or from the second track section via the cleaning station to the first track section. For example, the drive actuators on the travel sector, in particular the transport track and / or the transport surface, accelerate the transport elements to a sufficient speed so that the transport elements can reach the second track section without any additional driving forces.In some configurations, the transport elements on the second track section are driven in the opposite direction, allowing them to return to the first track section without any additional driving forces. Depending on the configuration, this back-and-forth movement can be performed with a fixed number of repetitions or with a number of repetitions determined as needed to achieve the desired cleaning result.

[0061] In some embodiments, the travel sector, in particular the transport track and / or the transport surface, comprises a guide rail, wherein the transport elements are movably mounted, in particular slidably and / or by means of rollers, at least section by section along the travel sector, in particular the transport track and / or the transport surface, and / or between the first track section and the second track section on the guide rail. In some embodiments, the guide rail also serves as a transfer track. In other embodiments, the guide rail is interrupted in order to remove transport elements from the travel sector, in particular the transport track and / or the transport surface, and feed them to the cleaning station.The guide rail is designed to support transport elements in a de-energized state, in particular on a vertical wall surface arranged between the drive actuators and the transport elements.

[0062] In certain configurations, the transport elements are designed to hold at least one object, for example, a container, in particular to hold it directly or indirectly. Specifically, the transport elements are designed to ensure that at least one held object remains in its position and / or orientation relative to the transport element when the transport elements are moved.

[0063] The transport elements, in their various configurations, include a holding element for at least one object. In particular, the holding element is designed to ensure that at least one object remains in its position and / or orientation on the transport element during movement of the transport elements. The design of the holding element can be suitably selected by a person skilled in the art, depending on the application. In some configurations, the holding element is passive and includes, for example, spring elements for clamping the at least one object. In other configurations, the holding element is active and includes, for example, a suction device with which the objects can be held on the transport element by means of negative pressure.Alternatively or additionally, in certain embodiments, at least two transport elements form a transport unit for transporting at least one object, in particular several objects, wherein at least one of the at least two transport elements has a holding element for the at least one object, and in particular, wherein both of the at least two transport elements have a holding element for the at least one object, and the at least one object can be held clamped between the holding elements. In certain embodiments, the two holding elements of the transport unit are designed as a rake and a counter-rake. In certain embodiments, the transport elements are movable relative to each other in order to clamp or release objects between the rake and the counter-rake and can be moved together for transporting the objects along the travel sector, in particular along the transport route.

[0064] In particular, the holding element of a transport element is movable within the range of motion of the transport device.

[0065] According to a second aspect, a machine system, in particular a machine system for carrying out process steps on objects, is created with a transport device comprising a cleaning station. For example, the machine system is a filling and / or packaging system. In particular, the objects are products and / or packaging materials for products. For example, but not limited to, the objects, in particular the products, selected from the group comprising pharmaceutical, sensitive and / or highly potent products and / or products for pharmaceuticals, genetically modified organisms, foodstuffs, in particular baby powder, cosmetics, medical devices, for example, wound dressings. The process steps comprise, for example, but not limited to, exactly one or more steps selected from the group comprising production of the object, packaging of the product, for example, filling the product into containers, and sealing the containers.Depending on its design, the cleaning station allows the transport elements to be cleaned before, during or after operation of the machine system.

[0066] In its various configurations, the machine system comprises a cleanroom structure with an enclosure, whereby a cleanroom environment is created within a cleanroom area of ​​the enclosure to allow process steps to be carried out, at least partially, under cleanroom conditions. In particular, the cleanroom environment is suitable for carrying out process steps on highly potent products and / or pharmaceutical products and / or genetically modified organisms and / or foodstuffs and / or cosmetics and / or medical devices. For example, the machine system is a machine system for filling pharmaceutical and / or highly potent substances and / or products in a sterile environment.

[0067] The required cleanroom conditions are defined by the application, in particular by the product being handled and / or the intended use of the handled object. Specifically, cleanroom conditions require at least a certain degree of sterility. Regulations defining cleanroom conditions include, for example, DIN EN ISO 14644-1 and / or VDI 2083 and / or "The Rules Governing Medicinal Products in the European Union, EU Guidelines for Good Manufacturing Practice for Medicinal Products for Human and Veterinary Use" (EU GMP Guide), Annex 1 (currently: Volume 4 dated August 22, 2022) and the regulations referenced therein. The cleanroom conditions required, at least in part, for carrying out process steps on objects are, in particular, classes A, B, C, and D according to the EU GMP Guide, Annex 1, especially classes A, B, and C.In particular, the cleanroom condition required for filling and sealing the containers is Class A.

[0068] In certain embodiments, the transport device is at least partially located within the cleanroom area of ​​the cleanroom structure. In particular, in certain embodiments, at least the transport elements and / or the movement area of ​​the transport device are located within the cleanroom area of ​​the cleanroom structure. Specifically, the drive actuators are located outside the cleanroom area of ​​the cleanroom structure. In certain embodiments, a wall surface is provided between the drive actuators and the movement area of ​​the transport elements, separating a drive chamber, in which the drive actuators are located, from a cleanroom area.

[0069] In certain configurations, the cleaning station is designed such that the transport elements within the cleanroom area of ​​the cleanroom setup can be cleaned, at least semi-automatically and / or fully automatically. For example, a cleaning section and / or a transfer section and / or a handling device of the cleaning station is arranged within the cleanroom area of ​​the cleanroom setup. In particular, a cleaning device of the cleaning station is configured to clean a transport element located within the cleanroom area of ​​the cleanroom setup.

[0070] In some configurations, elements of the cleaning station are located outside a cleanroom area of ​​a cleanroom structure and / or outside a cleanroom structure altogether. For example, in some configurations, supply lines to a cleaning device designed as a nozzle and / or parts of the nozzle are located outside the cleanroom area. The nozzle's outlet openings lead into the cleanroom area to allow cleaning of the transport element within the cleanroom.

[0071] For example, a cleanroom setup includes an isolator and / or a decontaminated unit. An isolator is a decontaminated unit that allows its interior to be isolated from the external environment. In some configurations, the cleanroom area, particularly the sterile environment, is the interior of a closed or open restricted access barrier system (RABS). Isolators and RABS are used especially in the manufacture, processing, and / or handling of pharmaceutical products, biopharmaceutical products, biological products, highly potent products, and / or other highly sensitive products. In some configurations, negative pressure is maintained within the cleanroom to prevent the escape of substances and / or products.

[0072] In particular, two directions within the meaning of this disclosure are perpendicular to each other if the angle between these directions is at least 20 degrees, in particular at least 45 degrees, and / or if these two directions are at least mostly, in particular at least approximately, perpendicular to each other.

[0073] In particular, a feature is at least largely realized in an entity within the meaning of this disclosure if the feature is realized in at least 65%, and in particular in at least 80% of the entity, and / or if the feature is realized at least approximately in the entity.

[0074] In particular, a feature is realized at least approximately in an entity within the meaning of this disclosure if the feature is realized in at least 90% of the entity and / or if the feature is realized with technically irrelevant deviations and / or technically caused deviations.

[0075] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0076] Further advantages and aspects of the invention will become apparent from the claims and from the description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, which are explained below with reference to the figures. Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a transport device comprising a driving sector designed as a transport track, several transport elements, and a cleaning station;

[0077] Fig. 2 shows a detail of the transport device according to Fig. 1 in a sectional view;

[0078] Fig. 3 shows a detail of a transport device similar to Fig. 2 in a sectional view;

[0079] Fig. 4 shows a top view of a transport device similar to Fig. 1;

[0080] Fig. 5 shows a sectional view of a design of a transport device with a

[0081] Cleaning station;

[0082] Fig. 6 shows a top view of another embodiment of a transport device with a cleaning station;

[0083] Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of a first cleaning section of a further embodiment of a transport device with a cleaning station;

[0084] Fig. 8 shows a sectional view of a second cleaning section of the cleaning station according to Fig. 6;

[0085] Fig. 9 shows a top view of another embodiment of a transport device with a cleaning station;

[0086] Fig. 10 shows a top view of another embodiment of a transport device with a cleaning station;

[0087] Fig. 11 shows a top view of another embodiment of a transport device with a cleaning station; and

[0088] Fig. 12 shows an embodiment of a transport device comprising a driving sector designed as a transport surface, a transport element, and a cleaning station. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLES

[0089] Fig. 1 schematically shows a first embodiment of a transport device 1 comprising a travel sector designed as a transport track 2, several transport elements 3, and a cleaning station 4 in a perspective view. Fig. 2 shows a detail of the transport device 1 in a partially cutaway view.

[0090] The transport elements 3 are moved along a path, for example oval, as schematically shown in Fig. 1 by an arrow.

[0091] The transport device 1 is, in particular, part of a machine system (not shown), wherein, by means of the transport elements 3, objects 5 are picked up at a receiving position, transported along the transport path 2 at least to one processing station, in particular a filling station, and subsequently delivered to a downstream device at a delivery position. As schematically shown in Fig. 1, the transport elements 3 are subsequently fed to a delivery point for the objects 5 of the cleaning station 4.

[0092] In particular, the machine system comprises a cleanroom structure with a housing schematically represented as wall section 10. A cleanroom environment can be created within a cleanroom area 11 inside the housing.

[0093] The illustrated transport section 2 comprises drive actuators 24 shown in Fig. 2. The drive actuators 24 are arranged in an enclosure 27. A drive chamber 28, in which the drive actuators 24 are arranged, is separated from the cleanroom area 11 by the enclosure 27.

[0094] The enclosure 27 of the transport track 2 has a vertically oriented wall surface 20, which faces the transport elements 3. The side of the transport elements 3 facing the wall surface 20 is referred to as the rear side 30. The transport elements 3 are moved along the wall surface 20, with a gap formed between the wall surface 20 and the rear side 30. In particular, the transport elements 3 are moved without contact with the wall surface 20. In some embodiments, the transport elements 3 are moved without contact within the cleanroom area 11. As can be seen in Fig. 2, the illustrated transport track 2 includes a guide rail 22, with the transport elements 3 being mounted so as to be movable along the guide rail 22 by means of rollers 34.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the transport track 2 comprises two parallel guide rails 22, also referred to as the first guide rail 22 and the second guide rail 22. In this embodiment, the rollers 34 of successive transport elements 3 are alternately supported on the rolling surfaces of the first guide rail 22 and the second guide rail 22. However, the number and arrangement of the rollers 34 and the design of the guide rail 22 are merely examples.

[0096] The transport section 2 also has schematically depicted drive actuators 24, which can be controlled, in particular energized, to exert a force on the transport elements 3 in order to move the transport elements 3 along the wall surface 20. For example, the drive actuators 24 are stator coils which, when energized, exert a force on permanent magnets (not shown) of the transport elements 3.

[0097] In particular, the wall surface 20 delimits the cleanroom area 11 to the drive room 28.

[0098] In the illustrated embodiment, the wall surface 20 at least partially delimits a drive chamber 28, with the drive actuators 24 being arranged in the drive chamber 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide rails 22 are also arranged in the drive chamber 28. The transport elements 3 comprise a first section 31, which is arranged outside the drive chamber 28 delimited by the wall surface 20, and a second section 32 with the rollers 34, which is arranged in the drive chamber 28. The wall surface 20 has a slot 201 through which a third section 33 of the transport element 3, connecting the first section 31 with the second section 32, is guided. In some embodiments, the slot 201 is sealed.For example, the seal is designed to prevent or at least reduce the ingress of substances, such as product residues from a product transported with the objects, into the drive chamber 28 bounded by the wall surface 20. For example, the seal is designed to prevent or at least reduce the escape of contaminants from the drive chamber 28 bounded by the wall surface 20, particularly into the cleanroom area 11. The transport elements 3 have retaining elements 34 designed to ensure that a held object 5 is secured in its position and / or orientation during transport. The illustrated transport elements 3 have retaining elements 34 in the form of fingers, by which objects 5 are held for transport along the transport path 2. The illustrated retaining elements 34 are merely examples.

[0099] In particular, the holding elements 34 move within a range of motion defined by the transport device. In configurations of a machine system with a cleanroom setup, the range of motion is located specifically within the cleanroom area.

[0100] As schematically illustrated in Fig. 1, the transport section 2 shown in Fig. 1 has an interruption between a first section 25 and a second section 26, with the cleaning station 4 being arranged between the first section 25 and the second section 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the transport elements 3 are transferred from the first section 25 to the second section 26 via the cleaning station 4. In this illustrated embodiment, the transport elements 3 are thus fed to the cleaning station 4 on each revolution.

[0101] In particular, the interruption is arranged downstream of the discharge position and upstream of the receiving position with respect to the direction of movement of the transport elements 3. For example, the interruption of the transport path 2 has a section in which at least one element of the transport path 2 is missing and / or has a different design. In particular, in embodiments in the area of ​​the interruption of the transport path 2, fewer drive actuators 24 are provided, for example, no drive actuators 24 in some sections, and / or no guide elements are provided, and / or drive actuators 24 and / or the wall surface 20 are arranged offset. In embodiments, the interruption allows better access to the rear side 30 of the transport elements 3 for cleaning. In embodiments, the interruption is provided to create installation space for elements of the cleaning station 4.

[0102] In some configurations, cleaning station 4 is provided on transport route 2, without any interruption to transport route 2.

[0103] The cleaning station 4 is designed to clean the transport elements 3, in particular to decontaminate and / or sterilize and / or disinfect them. For this purpose, the cleaning station 4 has a cleaning device not shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 schematically shows a second embodiment of a transport device 1 comprising a travel sector designed as a transport track 2 and several transport elements 3 in a partially cutaway view. The transport device 1 according to Fig. 3 is similar to the transport device 1 according to Figs. 1 and 2, and uniform reference numerals are used for identical or similar components.

[0104] The transport device 1 comprises drive actuators 24 arranged in a drive chamber 28. The drive chamber 28 is separated from a cleanroom area 11, in which objects 5 not shown in Fig. 3 are moved by the transport device 1, by an enclosure 27.

[0105] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3, the transport elements 3 are guided on guide rails 22, which are arranged in the drive chamber 28. The illustrated transport elements 3 comprise a first section 31, which is arranged outside the drive chamber 28 bounded by the housing 27, and a second section 32 with rollers 34, which is arranged in the drive chamber 28. The housing 27 has a labyrinth guide 29 through which a third section 33 of the transport element 3, connecting the first section 31 with the second section 32, is guided. In some embodiments, the labyrinth guide 29 serves as a seal.

[0106] The housing 27 comprises a wall surface 20 arranged between the transport elements 3 and the drive actuators 24. The wall surface 20 shown is horizontally oriented, with a bottom surface 35 of the transport elements 3 facing the wall surface 20. In particular, the bottom surface 35 faces the wall surface 20, forming a gap. In embodiments, a cleaning station 4 for the transport device 1 according to Fig. 3 (not shown) is designed such that the bottom surface 35 facing the wall surface 20 can be cleaned at the cleaning station.

[0107] The enclosure 27 shown in Fig. 3 further comprises a wall surface 120 arranged between the first section 31 and the third section 33 of the transport elements 3. The wall surface 120 shown is vertically oriented. In some embodiments, a cleaning station 4 for the transport device 1 according to Fig. 3 (not shown) is designed such that an area of ​​the first section 31 facing the wall surface 120 can be cleaned at the cleaning station.

[0108] In various configurations, the underside 35 facing the wall surface 20 and the

[0109] The wall surface 120, facing the area of ​​the first section 31, is cleaned. Cleaning is carried out by at least two different cleaning devices. The cleaning devices are arranged in exactly one cleaning station and / or in several cleaning stations.

[0110] The rear side 30 facing wall surface 20 (as shown in Fig. 2), the underside 35 facing wall surface 20 (as shown in Fig. 3), and / or an area of ​​the first section 31 facing wall surface 120 are not exposed. The cleaning station 4 (see Fig. 1) and / or a cleaning device of the cleaning station 4 is specifically designed to clean, in particular to disinfect, decontaminate, and / or sterilize, areas of the transport element 3 that are located in the cleanroom area 11 that are not exposed.

[0111] Fig. 4 schematically shows a top view of a section of a transport device 1 similar to Fig. 1, comprising a transport track 2 with several drive actuators 24 and transport elements 3, wherein only one transport element 3 is shown in Fig. 4. The transport device includes a wall surface 20 arranged between the transport elements 3 and the drive actuators 24. In the illustrated arrangement of the transport device 1, the wall surface 20 is vertically oriented. The wall surface 20 at least partially delimits a drive compartment in which the drive actuators 24 are arranged. The transport element 3 shown schematically in Fig. 4 comprises four rollers 34. In particular, two guide rails 22 are provided, each forming a rolling surface for two rollers 34 of a transport element 3. In the arrangement shown in Fig.In the illustrated embodiment 3, the guide rails 22 are arranged outside the drive compartment bounded by the wall surface 20. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the guide rails 22 are arranged above and below the vertical wall surface 20 in the illustrated orientation of the transport device 1.

[0112] Fig. 5 shows a schematic, cutaway side view of a transport device 1 with a cleaning station 4. The transport device 1 is particularly similar to the transport device 1 according to Fig. 3 and has two guide rails 22, which are arranged transversely, in particular perpendicular to a transport direction, on both sides of a wall surface 20, above and below the wall surface 20 in the illustrated arrangement. In particular, the wall surface 20 is arranged between the transport elements 3 and drive actuators 24 (see Fig. 4) of the transport section 2. The wall surface 20 at least partially delimits a drive chamber 28 in which drive actuators 24 (not shown in Fig. 5) are arranged. In one embodiment of the illustrated exemplary embodiment, no drive actuators of the transport section 2 are provided in the area of ​​the cleaning station 4.In particular, a support device, for example a magnetic one, is provided in the area of ​​the cleaning station 4. This support device is designed to hold the transport element 3 within its range of motion and / or transversely to the direction of transport. Specifically, the support device is designed to hold the transport element 3 against the force of gravity, preventing it from falling downwards along the vertically oriented section due to gravity. For example, the support device comprises a magnet 44, in particular a permanent magnet, to hold the transport element 3. In embodiments such as those shown in Fig. 4, the magnet 44 is arranged on the travel sector, for example in the drive compartment 28 bounded by the wall surface 20, and the magnet 44 interacts with at least a magnetizable part of the transport element 3 to hold it in place.In certain embodiments, the transport element 3 includes a magnet as part of the support device, and the magnet interacts with at least a magnetizable part of the transport sector, for example, the metallic wall surface 20, to hold it in place. In some embodiments, the transport elements 3 are moved through the cleaning station 4 by drive actuators 24 (see also Fig. 6), which, viewed in the direction of transport of the transport elements 3, are arranged before and / or after the cleaning station 4, for example, as explained below in connection with Fig. 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide rails 22 extend over the cleaning station 4 and form a transfer path 6 for moving the transport elements 3 through the cleaning station 4.

[0113] In one embodiment of the illustrated model, drive actuators 24 of the transport section 2 are provided in the area of ​​cleaning station 4. In particular, the drive actuators 24 serve to drive the transport element and, for example, to hold the transport element 3.

[0114] The cleaning station 4 has a cleaning device 40, which is shown schematically. The cleaning device 40 comprises, for example, a mechanical cleaning element, in particular a brush, such as a rotating brush, and / or a wiping element, such as a cloth or a sponge. The cleaning element is arranged so that it touches the transport element 3 and / or is positioned within reach of the transport element 3 for cleaning, so that it touches the transport element for a cleaning process. In some embodiments, the cleaning element and the surface to be cleaned are moved relative to each other, with the transport element 3 and / or the cleaning element performing a movement for cleaning, depending on the application. For example, in some embodiments, the cleaning element is designed as a brush that rotates about an axis arranged parallel or transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the transport direction along the transport path.In some embodiments, cleaning is performed exclusively abrasively by the mechanical cleaning element. In other embodiments, the surface to be cleaned and / or the cleaning element is exposed to a cleaning medium. In some embodiments, but not limited to, the cleaning medium is selected from the group consisting of water, solvents, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and / or mixtures thereof. In particular, in some embodiments, the cleaning medium is selected to decontaminate, sterilize, and / or disinfect a surface of the transport element to be cleaned.

[0115] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, the cleaning device 40 is arranged on an outer surface of the wall 20 facing the transport elements 3. To enable the cleaning device 40 to be arranged on the outer surface of the wall 20, in some embodiments a section of the wall 20 in the area of ​​the cleaning station 4 is offset from the adjacent sections. In particular, in some embodiments a section of the wall 20 in the area of ​​the cleaning station 4 is offset towards a drive chamber 28 that is at least partially bounded by the wall 20.

[0116] In embodiments of the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the two parallel guide rails 22 are not suitable for securing the transport elements 3 on the transport track 2 when de-energized. As described above, in some embodiments, the illustrated cleaning station 4 includes at least one magnet 44, which is configured to hold the transport element 3 in position within the cleaning station 4 and / or to transport it through the cleaning station 4. In some embodiments, the at least one magnet 44 also serves as a support device for the transport elements 3 when de-energized within the cleaning station 4.

[0117] In some embodiments, support devices not shown in Figures 4 and 5 are provided to secure the transport elements 3 in a power-off state along the transport route 2 and / or at the cleaning station 4.

[0118] For example, in some configurations, an additional roller is provided as a support device, which provides support in the direction of gravity. In these configurations, additional magnets 44 in the cleaning station 4 can be omitted. Alternatively or additionally, permanent magnets are provided in some configurations, which are effective when de-energized.

[0119] Fig. 6 shows a top view of a section of a transport device 1 with a further embodiment of a cleaning station 4. The transport device 1 is particularly similar to the transport device 1 according to Fig. 4 and has two guide rails 22, which are arranged transversely, in particular perpendicular to a transport direction, on both sides of a wall surface 20, above and below the wall surface 20 in the arrangement shown. The wall surface 20 is arranged between the transport elements 3 and drive actuators 24 of the transport section 2 and at least partially delimits a drive compartment 28, which accommodates the drive actuators, from a cleanroom area 11. The cleaning station 4 shown in Fig. 6 comprises at least one cleaning device 41 designed as a nozzle. The nozzle is arranged to apply cleaning jets of a cleaning fluid to the rear side 30 of the transport elements 3.The cleaning fluid is selected, in certain embodiments but not limited to, from the group consisting of air, water, solvents, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and / or mixtures thereof. In particular, in certain embodiments, the cleaning fluid is applied to the surface to be cleaned under increased pressure and / or increased temperature, for example, as compressed air or in vapor form. Specifically, the cleaning fluid and / or its temperature and / or its pressure are selected to decontaminate, sterilize, and / or disinfect a surface of the transport element 3 to be cleaned. As schematically shown in Fig. 6, the transport section 2 is interrupted in the area of ​​the cleaning station 4 between a first section 25 and a second section 26 and has at least no drive actuators 24 in this section.As described above, the cleaning station in its various configurations includes a support device and / or a magnet to secure the transport element 3 in its position in the cleaning station 4.

[0120] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the guide rails 22 and the wall surface 20 each extend between the first track section 25 and the second track section 26. The cleaning device 41, designed as a nozzle, extends to the wall surface 20 and is arranged in an opening 202 on the wall surface 20. The nozzle is arranged in a sealing manner within the opening 202 on the wall surface 20. For example, the seal is designed to prevent or at least reduce the ingress of substances, such as product residues from a product transported with the objects, into the drive chamber bounded by the wall surface 20. The seal is also designed to prevent or at least reduce the escape of contaminants from the drive chamber 28 bounded by the wall surface 20, particularly into the cleanroom area 11.

[0121] In certain embodiments, the drive actuators 24 provided on transport track 2 can be energized to accelerate the transport element 3 to a speed sufficient to reach the first track section 25, either before or at the time it reaches the first track section 25, allowing the transport element 3 to pass through the cleaning station 4 and reach the second track section 26. During its movement through the cleaning station 4, at least the rear surface 30 is cleaned by the cleaning elements 41, which are designed as nozzles. After reaching the second track section 26, the drive actuators 24 can, in certain embodiments, be energized to accelerate the transport element 3 in the opposite direction to a speed sufficient to allow it to return to the first track section 25 via the cleaning station 4. The movement between the first track section 25 and the second track section 26 can be repeated until a defined cleaning target is reached.

[0122] Figures 7 and 8 show sectional views of a section of a transport device 1 with a further embodiment of a cleaning station 4. The transport device 1 is particularly similar to the transport device 1 according to Figure 4 and has two guide rails 22, which, in the illustrated arrangement, are arranged above and below a wall surface 20. The wall surface 20 is arranged between the transport elements 3 and the drive actuators 24 (not shown in Figure 4) of the transport section 2 and at least partially delimits a drive chamber that accommodates the drive actuators 24. Figure 6 shows a sectional view of a first cleaning section and Figure 7 a sectional view of a second cleaning section of the cleaning station 4. The cleaning station 4 according to Figures 6 and 7 has several cleaning devices 41, 42, each designed as a nozzle.

[0123] In this arrangement, at least one, and in particular at least two, of the cleaning devices 42, designed as nozzles, are configured to clean the transport elements from above and below, for example, to clean the top and / or bottom of the transport elements and / or the rollers 34, and / or to spray a cleaning fluid from above and / or below into the gap at the rear of the transport element 3. In the illustrated embodiment, these cleaning devices 42 for cleaning the rollers 34 are arranged above and below the transport elements 3 in the illustrated orientation of the transport device 1. The nozzle openings point towards the top or bottom of the transport element 3, in particular towards the rollers 34, with the axes of the nozzles being vertically oriented. However, the illustrated arrangement is merely an example.The cleaning devices 42 are arranged to be movable in the direction of transport, in particular following a movement of the transport element. In other embodiments, more than two cleaning devices 42 are provided for cleaning the rollers 34.

[0124] At least two of the cleaning devices 41, designed as nozzles, are arranged to clean the rear surface 30 of the transport elements 3. The cleaning devices 41, designed as nozzles, are specifically configured to decontaminate, sterilize, and / or disinfect the rear surface 30 with cleaning jets. The cleaning devices 41, designed as nozzles, each extend to the wall surface 20 and are each arranged in an opening on the wall surface 20, in a sealed manner.

[0125] As shown in Figs. 7 and 8, the cleaning devices 41 for cleaning the back side 30 are arranged such that in the two cleaning sections, the cleaning jets emerging from the nozzles are directed towards different areas of the back side 30 of the transport elements 3.

[0126] In the illustrated embodiment, the two cleaning devices 41 are offset in a direction transverse to a transport direction of the transport track, in particular in the direction of the axes of rotation of the rollers 34. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, in a first cleaning section shown in Fig. 7, an upper area of ​​the rear surface 30 can be cleaned with a cleaning device 41 designed as a nozzle using cleaning jets, in particular with compressed air or steam. In a second cleaning section shown in Fig. 8, the lower area of ​​the rear surface 30 can be cleaned with a cleaning device 41 designed as a nozzle using cleaning jets, in particular with compressed air or steam.

[0127] In the embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 8, no drive actuators for the transport section 2 are provided in the area of ​​the illustrated cleaning station 4. The illustrated cleaning station 4 comprises at least two magnets 44, which are arranged to hold the transport element 3 in position within the cleaning station 4. The positioning of the two magnets 44 in the embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 8 is such that, during cleaning of the rear side 30 of the transport elements 3 in the first cleaning section, as shown in Figure 7, the transport elements 3 are held by a first magnet 44, and during cleaning of the rear side 30 of the transport elements 3 in the second cleaning section, as shown in Figure 8, the transport elements 3 are held by a second magnet 44. The magnets 44 are arranged offset from the cleaning devices 41. However, the arrangement of the magnets 44 is merely exemplary.In other embodiments, for example, the housings of the cleaning devices 41 are designed as magnets and / or magnets are arranged around the cleaning devices 41.

[0128] The configurations of cleaning stations 4 shown in Figures 5 to 8, located in areas where the transport path 2 is interrupted and / or along a transport path 2, are merely exemplary, and numerous variations are conceivable. For example, in some configurations, the cleaning station comprises more than two cleaning sections and / or both mechanical cleaning devices and cleaning devices designed as nozzles. In other configurations, the cleaning station includes a movable cleaning device that is movable within the cleaning station 4 to clean different areas of a transport element 3 in different cleaning sections.

[0129] Fig. 9 shows a top view of a transport device 1 and another alternative design of a cleaning station 4 comprising a cleaning unit 41. In some embodiments, the cleaning unit 41 is designed as a nozzle, as shown by way of example in Fig. 9. In other embodiments, the cleaning unit 41 is designed as a mechanical cleaning unit. The transport device 1 is particularly similar to the transport device 1 according to Fig. 4 and has two guide rails 22, which are arranged transversely, in particular perpendicular to a transport direction, on both sides of a wall surface 20, above and below the wall surface 20 in the arrangement shown. The wall surface 20 is arranged between the transport elements 3 and drive actuators 24 of the transport section 2 and at least partially delimits a drive compartment that accommodates the drive actuators. In contrast to the design according to Fig.In Figures 1 to 8, the cleaning station 4 according to Fig. 9 is spatially separated from the transport track 2, and the transport element 3 to be cleaned is fed to the cleaning station 4 by a handling unit 7. The handling unit 7 shown is designed as a multi-axis system, in particular as a serial mechanism, for example as an industrial robot. However, the illustration is only exemplary. The handling unit 7 is designed in particular to receive the transport element 3 to be cleaned for movement into the cleaning station 4 such that the rear side 30, which faces the transport track 2 for movement along the transport track 2, is exposed for cleaning. In various embodiments, the handling unit 7 allows the transport element 3 to be positioned and / or moved in different positions and / or orientations relative to the cleaning device 41 in order to clean different areas of the transport element 3.Figure 10 shows a top view of a transport device 1 with a further embodiment of a cleaning station 4 similar to Figure 9, wherein, in contrast to the embodiment according to Figure 9, several, in particular three, cleaning devices 41 are provided at the cleaning station 4. The three cleaning devices 41 are designed as nozzles. In other embodiments, more than three or fewer than three cleaning devices 41 are provided, wherein the cleaning devices are designed identically or differently. In particular, in one embodiment, a cleaning device for mechanical cleaning of at least a part of the transport elements 3 is provided at a cleaning station 4 shown in Figures 9 or 10.

[0130] Fig. 11 shows a top view of another embodiment of a transport device 1 with a cleaning station 4. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 11, the cleaning station 4 comprises a handling unit 47 with a cleaning device 41. The cleaning device 41 is, for example, designed as a nozzle. In other embodiments, a mechanical cleaning device, for example comprising a cloth and / or a sponge and / or a brush, and / or another cleaning device for cleaning, in particular for decontaminating and / or sterilizing and / or disinfecting at least one section of a transport element 3, is provided alternatively or additionally.

[0131] In some embodiments, the handling unit 47 is part of a cleaning station spatially separated from the transport section 2. In other embodiments, a transfer section (not shown in Fig. 11), for example comprising a second handling unit, is provided, wherein transport elements 3 can be transported through the transfer section to the handling unit 47 with the cleaning device 41 for cleaning. The two handling units can be moved in a coordinated manner to clean at least one area of ​​the transport element 3.

[0132] Alternatively or additionally, in certain embodiments, a cleaning station 4, indicated by a dashed line in Fig. 11, is provided in the area of ​​the transport track 2. In these embodiments, the transport elements 3 remain on the transport track 2 for cleaning. The handling unit 47 with the cleaning device 41 is configured to clean a transport element 3 located on the transport track 2. In certain embodiments, the cleaning station 4 includes a collection device 48, shown schematically in Fig. 11, for example, a collection basin, in which any cleaning medium and / or separated contaminants generated during cleaning can be collected. In certain embodiments, the collection device has an outlet to safely discharge the generated cleaning medium and / or the separated contaminants.

[0133] In configurations with a cleanroom setup, the handling device 7, 47 is, for example, arranged in the cleanroom area. In particular, this allows the transport elements 3 to be cleaned of product residues in the cleanroom area.

[0134] Fig. 12 schematically shows an embodiment of a transport device 1 comprising a travel sector designed as a transport surface 200, a transport element 3, and a cleaning station 4. The transport surface 200 includes a plurality of drive actuators 24, which can be energized to move the transport element 3 with at least three degrees of freedom on the transport surface 200, in particular without contact. Preferably, movement with six degrees of freedom is achieved.

[0135] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 12, the cleaning station 4 is arranged outside the transport area 200. A transfer section 6, shown schematically, is provided for moving the transport element 3 to the cleaning station 4 located outside the transport area 200. In certain configurations, the transport element 3 is fed to the cleaning station 4 along the transfer section 6 such that the underside of the transport element 3 facing the transport area 200 is exposed for cleaning.

[0136] In another embodiment, the transport surface 200 has a break, with the cleaning station 4 being located in the area of ​​the break. In some embodiments, the underside of the transport element 3 is exposed at the break for cleaning.

[0137] In further embodiments of the exemplary embodiment with a driving sector designed as a transport surface 200, a cleaning station 4 with features as explained in connection with Figures 1 to 11 is provided. In particular, the cleaning station 4 has a cleaning device 40, 41, 42, which is designed, for example, mechanically and / or with a nozzle. In further embodiments, a handling device 7, 47 is provided, in particular with features as described above.

[0138] The illustrated and described embodiments are merely examples, and numerous variations are conceivable for realizing a transport device 1 with a cleaning station 4 for the transport elements 3, wherein the transport elements 3 can be fed to the cleaning station 4 for cleaning at least semi-automatically.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Transport device for transporting objects (5), in particular containers, in a plant, in particular a filling and / or packaging plant, comprising a travel sector, several transport elements (3) for transporting the objects and several drive actuators (24) for driving the transport elements (3), wherein the drive actuators (24) for driving the transport elements (3) and the transport device (1) for controlling the drive actuators (24) are configured so that the transport elements (3) can be moved independently of one another simultaneously relative to the travel sector and in a movement range along the travel sector, characterized in that the transport device (1) comprises a cleaning station (4) which is configured to clean the transport elements (3), wherein the transport elements (3) can be moved to the cleaning station (4) at least semi-automatically, in particular fully automatically.

2. Transport device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the following is provided: that the travel sector is a transport track (2) and / or a transport surface; and / or that at least some drive actuators (24) are arranged on the travel sector; and / or that a transport element has a drive actuator (24); and / or that the transport elements are movable in a speed- and / or position-controlled manner; and / or that the transport elements (3) are driven by the drive actuators without contact; and / or that the transport elements (3) are driven electromagnetically by the drive actuators.

3. Transport device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the cleaning station (4) has a cleaning device (40, 41, 42), wherein in particular at least one of the following is provided: - that the cleaning equipment (40, 41, 42) is designed to disinfect, decontaminate and / or sterilize at least some transport elements; and / or - that the cleaning device (40, 41, 42) is designed to include transport elements to clean at least semi-automatically; and / or - that the cleaning device (40, 41, 42) is designed to clean at least some transport elements (3) in the cleaning station (4) with the cleaning device (40, 41, 42) with a cleaning medium, in particular with compressed air or with steam, and / or mechanically, in particular by wiping or brushing, and / or fluidically, in particular by washing or ultrasonic cleaning, and / or with solvents, and / or chemically, in particular by caustic soaking and / or thermally, in particular by flame treatment or cleaning annealing, and / or that the cleaning device comprises at least one of the following: - a mechanical cleaning element, for example a wiping element and / or a brush; and / or - a nozzle for the cleaning medium, for example for applying the cleaning medium as a cleaning jet to the transport element to be cleaned and / or for applying the cleaning medium to a cleaning element.

4. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device (40, 41) and / or the cleaning station (4) is configured to clean, in particular disinfect and / or decontaminate and / or sterilize, an area of ​​the transport elements which faces the driving sector and / or a wall surface adjacent to the driving sector, in particular on a rear side (30) and / or on an underside of the transport elements (3).

5. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning station (4) has at least two cleaning sections, wherein the cleaning device (40, 41, 42) and / or the cleaning station (4) is configured so that different areas of the transport elements (3) can be cleaned in different cleaning sections, in particular different areas of the rear (30) or underside of the transport elements (3) facing the driving sector.

6. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning station is arranged outside the driving sector.

7. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport device comprises a transfer section (6) arranged between the driving sector and the cleaning station, wherein the Transport elements (3) are movable along the transfer route, - in particular, the driving sector and the transfer track are interconnected so that the transport elements can be transferred directly or indirectly from the driving sector to the transfer track, and / or - in particular, the transfer track and the cleaning station are connected so that the transport elements can be transferred directly or indirectly from the transfer track to the cleaning station, and / or - wherein in particular the transfer section is arranged in the cleaning station, in particular that the transport elements are movable via the transfer section from an entrance of the cleaning station to an exit of the cleaning station.

8. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport device (1) comprises a handling unit (7) arranged between the travel sector and the cleaning station (4), wherein the handling unit (7) is configured to move the transport elements (3) at least sectionally between the travel sector and the cleaning station (4), wherein in particular the handling unit (7) is configured to move the transport elements (3) from the travel sector to the transfer section and / or from the transfer section to the cleaning station and / or from the travel sector to the cleaning station (4).

9. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the travel sector is designed at least partially as a transport surface (200), wherein the transport elements (3) are movable on the transport surface (200), wherein in particular the transport surface (200) is designed as a planar motor transport surface comprising drive actuators (24), wherein drive actuators (24) are arranged and operable to drive the transport elements (3) on the transport surface, in particular to drive them contactlessly and / or electromagnetically. 0.Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the travel sector is designed as a transport track (2), in particular as a circulating transport track, wherein the transport elements (3) are movable along the transport track (2), wherein in particular the transport track (2) is designed as a linear motor transport track comprising drive actuators (24), wherein drive actuators (24) are set up and operable to move the transport elements (3). to drive along the transport route, in particular to drive without contact and / or electromagnetically.

11. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the travel sector, in particular the transport section (2), has an interruption between a first section (25) and a second section (26), wherein the cleaning station (4) is arranged between the first section (25) and the second section (26), so that the transport elements (3) can be moved from the first section (25) via the cleaning station (4) to the second section (26) and / or from the second section (26) via the cleaning station (4) to the first section (25).

12. Transport device according to claim 11, characterized in that the drive actuators (24) are set up and operable to drive the transport elements (3) on the travel sector, in particular the transport track (2), so that the transport elements (2) can be moved at least section by section from the first track section (25) via the cleaning station (4) to the second track section (26) and / or from the second track section (26) via the cleaning station (4) to the first track section (25).

13. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the travel sector, in particular the transport track (2), comprises a guide rail (22), wherein the transport elements (3) are mounted at least sectionally along the travel sector, in particular the transport track (2) and / or between the first track section and the second track section on the guide rail (22) in a manner movable, in particular slidable and / or movable by means of rollers (34).

14. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport elements have a holding element for at least one object.

15. Transport device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two transport elements form a transport unit for the transport of at least one object, in particular of several objects, wherein at least one of the at least two transport elements is a Holding element for the at least one object, wherein in particular both of the at least two transport elements have a holding element for the at least one object and the at least one object can be clamped between the holding elements.

16. Machinery, in particular a filling and / or packaging plant, especially for pharmaceutical, sensitive and / or highly potent products and / or substances and / or for pharmaceutical products, genetically modified organisms, foodstuffs, in particular baby powder, cosmetics, and / or medical devices, for example wound dressings, with a transport device according to one of the preceding claims for transporting objects, in particular containers. 7.Machine system according to claim 16, characterized in that the machine system comprises a cleanroom structure with a housing, wherein a cleanroom condition is created in a cleanroom area of ​​the housing of the cleanroom structure for carrying out process steps at least partially under cleanroom conditions, wherein in particular at least the transport elements and / or the movement area of ​​the transport device is arranged within the cleanroom area of ​​the cleanroom structure and / or wherein the cleaning station is designed such that the transport elements can be cleaned in the cleanroom area of ​​the cleanroom structure, in particular at least semi-automatically and / or fully automatically.