Container device for storing a product, and metering arrangement having a container device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a container device (108) for storing, in a buffering manner, an in particular pulverulent pharmaceutical product, said container device comprising a container (130) comprising a wall (142) and an interior (144) for receiving the product, and at least one dispensing opening (152) formed on the container (130), through which the product can be dispensed to a metering element (110), wherein the container device (108) comprises an exciter device (154) which is coupled to the wall (142) and via which the wall (142) can be excited to vibrate. The invention also relates to a metering arrangement.

Description

[0001] Container device for storing a product and dosing arrangement with a container device

[0002] The present invention relates to a container device for buffering storage of a pharmaceutical product, in particular a powdered one, comprising a container with a wall and an interior for receiving the product and at least one dispensing opening formed on the container through which the product can be dispensed to a metering device.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a metering arrangement with a container device of the type described above and a metering element.

[0004] Such a dosing arrangement allows for the dispensing of a pharmaceutical product, particularly a powder, contained in a container. Typically, the product is placed in the container of the dispensing system (usually referred to in practice as the feed container) and passes through at least one dispensing opening to the dosing element. The dosing element comprises, for example, at least one inlet opening through which the product can enter a dosing chamber, from which it can then be dispensed into the pharmaceutical container.

[0005] Powdered pharmaceutical products can tend to clump and adhere to the container walls. Conventional container systems typically include a mechanical agitator to mix and circulate the product within the container, directing it towards the dispensing opening. The fill level in conventional systems is monitored by a capacitive sensor. Based on small areas within the container monitored by the sensor, the overall product level is inferred.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a container device of the type mentioned at the outset and a metering arrangement with a container device which, in a structurally simple design, has reliable functionality.

[0007] This problem is solved according to the invention in a generic container device by the container device comprising an excitation device coupled to the wall, allowing the wall to be vibrated. The present invention incorporates the consideration that the container device can be designed with a simple structure within the container by utilizing the excitation device. The wall can be excited to vibrate via the excitation device, which can be designed, in particular, as an ultrasonic device. In particular, the excitation device is positioned outside the container, thus eliminating the need for mechanically moving parts inside, such as agitators. Practical experience shows that exciting the wall effectively conveys powdered pharmaceutical products while simultaneously preventing clumping.

[0008] The excitation device can be activated and deactivated in a structurally simple design. It can also be provided that the excitation device can be controlled by a control unit.

[0009] Preferably, it is possible to control the type of excitation, for example depending on the product taken up inside.

[0010] Based on the above, it follows that the container system is advantageously free of an agitator (such as a stirrer or screw) for mixing and / or conveying the product inside. This simplifies the design of the container system.

[0011] As mentioned earlier, the excitation device can be, for example, an ultrasonic device. This can include a vibration transmission element that is connected to or in contact with the wall. The vibration transmission element can be set into vibration by an ultrasonic generator of the ultrasonic device, and these vibrations can be transmitted to the wall. In this way, the wall itself can be excited to vibrate.

[0012] The type of ultrasonic vibration can vary and is conveniently user-selectable. For example, continuous (CW) or pulsed excitation of the container can be used. The amplitude of the vibration can be constant or change over time. The excitation frequency can be fixed or variable. In practice, it proves advantageous if the excitation device is coupled to the bottom wall of the container. In this case, the excitation device preferably acts on the outside of the bottom wall.

[0013] The wall preferably includes a bottom wall oriented at an angle relative to the direction of gravity, forming a path for the product towards the at least one dispensing opening. In the intended use of the container, the bottom wall, which is preferably planar, is advantageously inclined at an angle relative to the direction of gravity. This allows the product to slide or glide on the bottom wall, which forms a path for guiding the product towards the at least one dispensing opening. The angle is, for example, approximately 30 to 70°, preferably approximately 40 to 60°.

[0014] The container device preferably includes at least one sensor device by means of which the presence of the product and, in particular, the fill level of the product inside can be determined.

[0015] Preferably, the presence of the product, and in particular its fill level, can be detected without contact, with the sensor device positioned outside the interior. This way, the flow of a powdered product inside the interior is not affected.

[0016] To achieve the above advantage, it is preferably provided that the at least one sensor device is optically designed, wherein at least one optical window is arranged in the wall and radiation from the at least one sensor device is directed through the window into the interior. For example, a laser-based sensor device is used, wherein a laser beam enters the interior through the window. Such a sensor device is preferably designed as a distance device with which the fill level of the product in the interior can be determined.

[0017] Advantageously, at least one sensor device is provided, the radiation of which is directed through the interior and through the at least one dispensing opening, or through the interior and onto an edge of the at least one dispensing opening. In this way, it can be checked, for example, whether the product, particularly in powder form, exits through the dispensing opening as desired. It is understood that two or more sensor devices may be provided, which are preferably identical in design.

[0018] The container device preferably includes at least one sensor device by means of which the presence of the product in one or more dosing chambers can be detected. Preferably, the presence of the product can be detected without contact, with the at least one sensor device preferably being optical. For example, a laser-based sensor device is used, wherein a laser beam is directed directly into the dosing chamber without passing into or through the container.

[0019] The wall is preferably made of a metal material, at least in an area coupled to the excitation device. The metal material is preferably pharmaceutical-grade, and may in particular be stainless steel. Due to its metal construction, the container has favorable cleaning properties and is preferably CIP (Cleaning-in-Process) or SIP (Sterilization-in-Process) capable.

[0020] Furthermore, it is advantageous that vibrations of the metal wall can be effectively absorbed and transmitted to the product.

[0021] Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous if the wall, at least in an area encompassing or forming the at least one dispensing opening, is made of a plastic material, in particular PEEK. Preferably, the plastic wall can be designed to create a seal at the dispensing element. For example, the dispensing element comprises a dispensing roller that rubs against the plastic material. In practice, it has been shown, for instance, that a separate sealing element can be omitted when the wall is made of PEEK.

[0022] Accordingly, it can be advantageous if the container device is free of a sealing element at the edge of the at least one dispensing opening and is sealed by contact of the wall with the metering device.

[0023] The container assembly advantageously includes, at one edge of the at least one dispensing opening, a cylindrical shell contour for gapless contact with the cylindrical shell of a metering element. If the metering element includes a metering roller, this roller can, for example, have a shell with inlet openings for the product, which has a cylindrical contour. Advantageously, the contour of the edge is adapted to the contour of the shell, thereby achieving gapless contact, particularly for sealing purposes, between the edge and the shell.

[0024] Advantageously, at least one scraper element is arranged or formed at one edge of the at least one dispensing opening, particularly for scraping the product from the metering element. This ensures that the product does not escape between the edge of the dispensing opening and the metering element. This prevents any contamination and helps to avoid product waste.

[0025] The at least one scraper element is preferably designed to be relatively hard, at least in sections, and includes or forms, for example, an edge or cutting edge to minimize friction on the metering element. For example, when the metering roller is rotating, the scraper element scrapes along the cylinder wall to remove product residue.

[0026] The at least one scraper element is preferably movably held or arranged at the edge of the at least one dispensing opening. In practice, for example, a pivotable scraper element proves advantageous.

[0027] The at least one scraper element can be part of the edge of the at least one dispensing opening.

[0028] It can be advantageous to have a scraper element arranged on opposite sections of the edge. With respect to the direction of rotation of a metering roller, for example, a front and a rear scraper element can be provided, whereby a predetermined area of ​​the metering roller first passes the front and then the rear scraper element during rotation, and the dispensing opening is located between the scraper elements.

[0029] In one embodiment of the invention, for example, a scraper element is provided which is pressed into the at least one dispensing opening by means of a pre-tensioning element. Upon contact with the metering device, the scraper element is forced out of the dispensing opening against the action of the pre-tensioning element due to a bearing force on the container assembly. "Pressed into the dispensing opening" in this context means, for example, that the pre-tensioning element exerts a force on the scraper element, thereby reducing the size of the dispensing opening. However, the bearing force on the metering device counteracts the pre-tensioning force, thus widening the dispensing opening. As a result of the pre-tensioning force, reliable contact of the scraper element with the metering device can be ensured. This scraper element is, in particular, the aforementioned front scraper element.The pre-tensioning element is, for example, a spring-loaded bracket that applies a compressive force to the wiper element.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, a scraper element can be provided which is pulled away from the dispensing opening by means of a pre-tensioning element and, upon contact with the metering device, is pressed into the dispensing opening against the action of the pre-tensioning element due to a contact force of the container assembly. "Pulled away from the dispensing opening" can be understood, for example, to mean that the pre-tensioning force moves the scraper element to enlarge the dispensing opening. However, due to the contact force, the scraper element is pressed into the dispensing opening against the pre-tensioning force with the aim of reducing its size. Effective contact of the scraper element with the metering device can also be ensured in this embodiment. The scraper element is, in particular, the aforementioned rear scraper element. The pre-tensioning element is, for example, a tension spring that exerts a tensile force on the scraper element.

[0031] The respective pre-tensioning element, if present, is advantageously arranged on the outside edge of the dispensing opening, so that the pre-tensioning element is free from contact with the product.

[0032] The container can, for example, comprise a first container section and at least one second container section, which are connected to each other at at least one opening for the product, wherein the at least one second container section includes the at least one dispensing opening, and the product passes from the first container section into the second container section. For example, the product is filled into the first container section via a filling opening, from where it passes through the opening into the second container section to the dispensing opening.

[0033] Two or more second container sections and two or more passage openings can be provided, with each second container section having a passage opening assigned to it.

[0034] The container assembly can, for example, include at least one partition wall in the interior of the first container section, which is positioned upstream of a connection area between the first and a respective second container section, as well as the respective through-opening. This partition wall can act as a diverter for the product, allowing it to pass either to the left or right of the partition wall to reach the respective second container section.

[0035] The first container section preferably widens to prevent bridging in the case of a powdered product. The second container section is preferably arranged at the bottom of the first container section.

[0036] The excitation device is preferably coupled to the first container section.

[0037] The wall of the first container section is preferably made of a metal material. In the second container section, the wall is preferably, at least partially, made of a plastic material.

[0038] The first container section and the at least one second container section are advantageously detachably connected and, in particular, connectable. For example, it is provided that the first container section can be detached from the second container section in order to rectify a malfunction, such as clumping of the product and / or adhesion to the inner wall.

[0039] It is advantageous if the first container section can be detached from the second container section without tools and / or manually. For example, the container sections are magnetically connected.

[0040] It can be advantageous if the container assembly includes a sealing element and / or a damping element for vibration decoupling between the container sections. Ideally, the first container section is excited by the excitation device to convey the product, while the at least one second container section is vibration-decoupled to prevent the transmission of vibrations to the metering device. The sealing element and / or damping element is, for example, made of a silicone material and arranged at the edge of the at least one through-opening.

[0041] The container device advantageously includes at least one shut-off element which, in a shut-off position, allows sections of the interior to be separated from one another, preventing the product from passing through towards the at least one dispensing opening. In a release position of the shut-off element, the interior is sufficiently open to allow the product to reach the at least one dispensing opening.

[0042] For example, the shut-off element is arranged on at least one second container section, for example at or near the at least one passage opening.

[0043] The at least one shut-off element is, for example, a slide that blocks the cross-section of the interior for the product.

[0044] For example, the shut-off element can be operated manually and / or without tools.

[0045] The container system may include two or more dispensing openings arranged side by side.

[0046] For example, the container assembly is designed to include or form a partition wall in the interior of the first container section, with the respective through-openings positioned in front of it. The product can be moved laterally past the partition wall to one side or the other to reach the respective dispensing opening.

[0047] The container advantageously includes a filling opening for filling with the product, preferably formed on a top surface of the wall, wherein, in particular, a feeding aid is arranged at the filling opening, for example in the form of a funnel. The filling opening is, for example, arranged on the first section of the container.

[0048] For mounting the container assembly, it can, for example, include at least one retaining element by which the container can be held on a support structure, in particular suspended from the support structure. Advantageously, the at least one retaining element and / or the support structure is designed in such a way that vibration decoupling occurs and vibrations from the excitation device are not transmitted to other components of the support structure. For example, it is provided that the container assembly is suspended from a retaining element of the support structure by means of a hook-shaped retaining element, which is made, for example, of a plastic material for vibration decoupling.

[0049] Advantageously, at least one retaining element is arranged on one side of the container assembly at an offset from the center of gravity line, in which the at least one dispensing opening is also located. When suspended, the container assembly is subjected to a tilting moment, pressing the edge of the at least one dispensing opening against a metering device. This allows for a reliable contact between the container assembly and the metering device to be ensured in a structurally simple manner. The container assembly is mounted in a suspended manner in a structurally simple way. A vertical line through the center of gravity is arranged at an offset from the suspension point. This results in the container assembly experiencing a tilting moment, which presses the edge of the at least one dispensing opening against the metering device.

[0050] As mentioned at the outset, the present invention also relates to a metering arrangement. A metering arrangement according to the invention, which solves the aforementioned problem, comprises a container device of the type described above and a metering element, which is designed as a metering roller rotatable about an axis of rotation or comprises a metering roller, wherein the metering roller has at least one inlet opening for the product, and wherein the at least one dispensing opening is aligned with or covers the at least one inlet opening depending on a rotational position of the metering roller.

[0051] The effects and advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the container device according to the invention can also be achieved with the metering arrangement according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the metering arrangement result from advantageous embodiments of the container device according to the invention. Reference is made to the preceding explanations in each case.

[0052] In this metering arrangement, the at least one inlet opening is moved over the at least one dispensing opening by the rotation of the metering roller. For example, the dispensing opening may be larger than the inlet opening. It is possible for the dispensing opening to cover multiple inlet openings. The product, particularly in powder form, can pass through the dispensing opening and the inlet opening into a metering chamber of the metering roller. After rotation of the metering roller, the product can be dispensed from the metering chamber to fill a container.

[0053] Advantageously, the relative arrangement of the container and the metering device is selected such that the at least one inlet opening, when aligned with or covered by the at least one dispensing opening, is located below the highest point of the metering roller's rotation, relative to the direction of gravity and during intended use of the metering device. For example, in this case, the angle of rotation from the dispensing opening to the highest point of the rotation is approximately 70° to 20°, for example, 60° to 40°. Filling the metering chambers not directly from above is advantageous, particularly filling from an oblique angle above. While, for example, in the prior art, filling powder from above at high pressure from above poses a risk of lump formation, in the present embodiment the powder flows into the metering chambers without clumping.

[0054] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, in conjunction with the drawing, serves to explain the invention in more detail. The drawing shows:

[0055] Figure 1: a perspective view of the dosing arrangement according to the invention in a preferred embodiment, comprising a preferred embodiment of the container device according to the invention;

[0056] Figure 2: a sectional view of the dosing arrangement in Figure 1;

[0057] Figure 3: a sectional view along line 3-3 in Figure 2;

[0058] Figure 4: an enlarged partial view of detail A in Figure 1, wherein the container device has a distance to a metering roller of the metering arrangement; and

[0059] Figure 5: a partial representation corresponding to Figure 4, with the container device resting against the metering roller.

[0060] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an advantageous embodiment of the dosing arrangement according to the invention, designated by reference numeral 100. The dosing arrangement 100 is used in a system for processing pharmaceutical containers 102. By way of example, Figure 2 shows a container 102 in the form of a vial 104.

[0061] By means of the dosing arrangement 100, a pharmaceutical product, which is in particular in powder form, is filled into the containers 102 in the system, which are moved, for example, by a transport device 106 of the system in a timed manner or continuously past the dosing arrangement 100.

[0062] The metering arrangement 100 comprises a preferred embodiment of the container assembly 108 according to the invention and a metering element 110. The product is stored in the container assembly 108 and dispensed to the metering element 110. From the metering element 110, the product is again dispensed into the containers 102. In the present embodiment, the metering element 110 comprises a metering roller 112. The metering roller 112 comprises a roller base 114, which is essentially cylindrical with respect to an axis 116. The roller base 114 comprises a shell 118 with an outer surface 120. In the outer surface 120, inlet openings 122 are formed in the circumferential direction of the axis 116 and in the axial direction.

[0063] The inlet openings 122 are openings of metering chambers 124, which are formed in the roller base body 114.

[0064] The metering roller 112 can be rotated about the axis 116 by means of a drive device 126. An arrow 128 indicates the direction of rotation.

[0065] During operation of the metering arrangement 100, the powder enters the metering chambers 124 through the inlet openings 122, as explained below. The rotation of the metering roller 112 moves the product-filled metering chambers 124 towards the containers 102. When a metering chamber 124 aligns with a container 102, the product contained in the metering chamber 124 is discharged through the inlet opening 122, thereby filling the container 102.

[0066] The container assembly 108 serves to buffer the product before it enters the metering roller 112. For this purpose, the container assembly 108 comprises a container 130. The container 130 is held on a support device 132 of the metering arrangement 100 and is, in particular, detachably held in this position.

[0067] The support structure 132, for example, has support elements 134 on which a retaining member 136 is arranged. The retaining member 136 is rod-shaped and extends between the support elements 134. Preferably, the retaining member 136 is made of a vibration-damping or vibration-absorbing material, for example, a plastic material.

[0068] The container assembly 108 comprises at least one retaining element 138. In this case, two retaining elements 138 in the form of hooks are provided. The container assembly 108 can be suspended from the support structure 132 by means of the retaining elements 138, with the hooks engaging the retaining member 136. The container assembly 108 is pivotably mounted on the retaining member 136. The container assembly 108 is designed such that the retaining element 138 has a lateral offset relative to a center of gravity line 140 of the container assembly 108. This allows the container assembly 108 to pivot relative to the support structure 132 due to gravity, in this case being arranged between the support elements 134. The container assembly 108 pivots with a lower section in the direction of the metering roller 112.

[0069] The container 130 comprises a wall 142 and an interior 144. For filling the interior 144 with the product, the container 130 includes a filling opening 146. The filling opening 146 is located at the top and is formed in a ceiling wall 148 of the wall 142. To facilitate filling the container 130, the container assembly 108 has a filling aid 150 in the form of a funnel.

[0070] Position and orientation information, such as "top", "bottom" or the like, refers here to the intended use of the dosing arrangement 100.

[0071] The product is dispensed from container 130 through at least one dispensing opening 152. In the present example, two dispensing openings 152 are provided.

[0072] The dispensing openings are located on the underside of container 130 (152).

[0073] The container assembly 108 further comprises an excitation device 154. The wall 142 can be vibrated via the excitation device 154. For this purpose, the excitation device 154 is coupled to the wall 142. The excitation device 154 serves to vibrate the wall 142 in such a way that the product stored in the interior 144 is also set into vibration. This serves to convey the product towards the dispensing opening 152. In addition, product adhesion to the wall 142 is prevented or removed. Lump formation, especially in the case of a powdered product, is prevented by the vibration excitation.

[0074] In the present embodiment, the excitation device 154 is an ultrasonic device 156. The ultrasonic device 156 comprises an ultrasonic generator 158 and a vibration transmission element 160. The ultrasonic device 156 is arranged outside the container 130. The vibration transmission element 160 is in contact with a bottom wall 162 of the wall 142 and is preferably connected to it. Accordingly, the container 130 is excited at the bottom wall 162.

[0075] The base wall 162 is planar in this case and oriented at an angle 164 relative to the direction of gravity 166. The magnitude of the angle 164 is approximately 45° in this example.

[0076] As a result of the excitation by the ultrasonic device 156, the product can be reliably conveyed towards the dispensing opening 152. The bottom wall 162 forms a track, a kind of "slide", for the product.

[0077] The excitation device 154, located outside the interior 144, eliminates the need for an agitator, such as a stirrer or screw, located inside the interior 144. This allows for a simpler design of the container assembly 108. Problems associated with an agitator, such as adhesion and clumping, can be effectively avoided. Assembly and disassembly of the container assembly 108 are relatively straightforward. Cleaning the container assembly 108, and especially the container 130, is also simple.

[0078] In the present embodiment, the container 130 is equipped with multiple parts, and the wall 142 is composed of several segments. In particular, the container 130 comprises a first container section 168 and at least one second container section 170. In this instance, two second container sections 170 are provided. However, this number is not limiting for the present invention. It would also be possible to provide only one second container section 170, or more than two second container sections 170.

[0079] The first container section 168 forms the upper section of container 130. The second container sections 170 form the lower section of container 130. The filling opening 146 is formed on the first container section 168, and a discharge opening 152 is formed on each of the second container sections 170. The first container section 168 has that area of ​​the bottom wall 162 to which the excitation device 154 is coupled. Accordingly, container 130 is excited at container section 168.

[0080] The retaining parts 138 are fixed to the first container section 168.

[0081] The wall 142 of the first container section 168 is made of a metal material. This is preferably a pharmaceutical-grade material, in particular stainless steel.

[0082] This gives the first container section 168 preferred cleaning properties both inside and out. Advantageously, container section 168 is suitable for CIP (Cleaning-in-Place) and / or SIP (Sterilization-in-Place) cleaning.

[0083] The shape of container section 168 can be described, for example, as an approximately prismatic section is attached to an upper, roughly cuboidal area at the bottom. However, the cross-section of container section 168 widens downwards at the cuboidal area. This widening geometry can, for example, counteract bridging in the case of powdered product.

[0084] The second container sections 170 are identically designed in this case, so only one second container section 170 will be discussed below.

[0085] In the present example, the second tank section 170 is essentially shaft-shaped. Tank sections 168 and 170 are connected to each other at a connection point 172. For this purpose, the first tank section 168 includes a flange 174. The second tank section 170 also includes a flange 176.

[0086] For connection purposes, magnetic elements 178 and 180 are provided on the container sections 168 and 170, respectively. Figure 3 shows the magnetic elements 180 on the second container section 170. The contour of the magnetic elements 178, which are held on the flange 174, is also shown in Figure 3.

[0087] The magnetic elements 178 and 180 can each be permanent magnets. It is conceivable that only one of the magnetic elements 178 or 180 is a permanent magnet. The connection of the container sections 168 and 170 via magnetic elements 178 and 180 is only an example. Other connection types are conceivable, for example, a screw connection.

[0088] The magnetic connection proves advantageous, however, as it allows the container sections 168 and 170 to be easily separated from each other. For example, it is possible to separate the first container section 168 from the second container section 170 to rectify any malfunctions, such as a blockage in the interior 144.

[0089] A passage opening 182 at the connection area 172 allows the product to pass from the interior 144 on the side of container section 168 into the interior 144 on the side of container section 170. In this context, it can be understood that container sections 168 and 170 are connected to each other at the passage opening 182.

[0090] A sealing element 184 is arranged at the edge of the through-opening 182, which in this case also acts as a damping element. The sealing element 184 seals between the container sections 168 and 170. Furthermore, the sealing element 184 serves to ensure vibration decoupling between the container sections 168 and 170. The vibrations transmitted via the excitation device 154 on the first container section 168 are thereby prevented from being transmitted to container section 170 and from there to the metering roller 112.

[0091] The wall 142 of the second container section 170 is made, at least partially, of a plastic material. This is preferably a pharmaceutical-grade plastic, in particular PEEK. Furthermore, the use of plastic material eliminates the need for a sealing element between the container 130 and the metering roller 112 at the edge of the dispensing opening 152 (Figures 1 and 5).

[0092] At the edge 186 of the dispensing opening 152, the wall 142 has two sections 188 (Figure 1) and 190 (Figures 4 and 5) spaced axially apart from each other with respect to the axis 116. The sections 188 and 190 are made of the plastic material and have a cylindrical contour 192 on the side facing the metering roller 112 (Figure 4). The contour 192 is adapted to the contour of the shell 118. As a result, the edge 186 is joined to the shell 118 without a gap during the intended use of the metering arrangement 100. It is not necessary to position an additional sealing element between the container 130 and the metering roller 112. As can be seen particularly from Figures 4 and 5, the container assembly 108 further comprises two scraper elements 194, 196 at its edge 186. With respect to the direction of rotation 128 of the metering roller 112, scraper element 194 is the front scraper element and scraper element 196 is the rear scraper element.During the rotational movement, areas of the metering roller 112 first pass the scraper element 194, then the scraper element 196.

[0093] The scraper elements 194, 196 are arranged on opposite sections of the edge 186 and are located between the sections 188, 190.

[0094] The scraper element 194 comprises a hard edge 198, for example in the form of a cutting edge. The edge 198 is fixed to a pivot member 200, which is pivotably held on the wall 142 about an axis 202. The scraper element 194 is subjected to a preload force by means of a preload element 204, in this case designed as a spring-loaded bracket 206.

[0095] As can be seen particularly from Figures 4 and 5, the preload force is directed such that the scraper element 194 is pressed into the dispensing opening 152 (Figure 4). Upon contact with the shell 118 of the metering roller 112, the scraper element 194 is forced out of the dispensing opening 152 against the action of the preload element 204 due to the bearing force of the container device 108 (Figure 5).

[0096] The same applies to the stripping element 196, except that in this case a preload force acts in the opposite direction. The stripping element 196 comprises a hard edge 208, for example in the form of a cutting edge, and a pivot member 210 to which the edge 208 is fixed.

[0097] The pivoting element 210 is pivotably mounted on the wall 142 about an axis 212. The axes 202 and 212 are aligned parallel to the axis 116.

[0098] The container assembly 108 includes a further preloading element 214. A preload force can be exerted on the scraper element 196 via the preloading element 214, in this case designed as a tension spring 215. The preload force is directed such that the scraper element 196 is pulled away from the dispensing opening 152 (Figure 4). Upon contact with the shell 118, however, the scraper element 196 is pivoted against the preload force of the preloading element 214 and pressed into the dispensing opening 152 (Figure 5). This occurs as a result of the bearing force of the container assembly 108 on the shell 118. In the intended use of the metering arrangement 100, the container assembly 108 is suspended from the support structure 132. Due to the offset of the support element 138 relative to the center of gravity line 140, the container assembly 108 experiences a tilting moment.As a result of this tilting moment, a bearing force is exerted on the container 130, in particular on the container sections 170, when the container 130 rests against the shell 118. Consequently, the scraper elements 194, 196 are pivoted as described above. Under the action of the preload elements 204, 214, the edges 198 and 208 rest against the shell 118 without gaps. This creates a seal between the container 130 and the shell 118 at the discharge opening 152, which is completed by the sections 188, 190, also resting against the shell. Any product adhering to the shell 118 is scraped off by the scraper elements 194, 196.

[0099] In this example, the dispensing openings 152 are dimensioned such that they each cover two of the inlet openings 122 on the jacket 118. This fills two metering chambers 124, which are arranged axially next to each other, with the product.

[0100] Filling occurs when the metering chambers 124 are located below a top point 218 of the rotational movement (Figure 2). The metering chambers are not filled directly from above, as in the prior art involving high pressure on the product, but rather from an oblique angle above. Particularly when filling with powder, this avoids the clumping caused by gravity that is associated with prior art. Instead, the powder flows into the metering chambers 124 without clumping.

[0101] In the present example, the respective discharge opening 152 covers the inlet opening 122 when they are arranged approximately 40° to 60° below the uppermost point 218 with respect to the rotational movement.

[0102] The container assembly 108 includes a shut-off element 220 at each container section 170. In the present example, the shut-off element 220 is designed as a slide gate that can be moved through the wall 142 into the interior 144. The slide gate 222 can be operated manually and without tools.

[0103] In a release position (Figure 2), sections of the interior 144 can communicate with each other, allowing the product to reach the dispensing opening 152. Conversely, the slide 222 can assume a blocking position (Figures 1, 4, 5). In the blocking position, the sections of the interior 144 are separated from each other, preventing the product from passing through towards the dispensing opening 152.

[0104] The container assembly 108 includes a sensor assembly 224. The sensor assembly 224 is optically designed and emits radiation, in particular a laser beam 226, through an optical window 228 into the interior 144. The window 228 is located in the ceiling wall 148, and a sensor element 230 is positioned outside the container 130. The laser beam 226 is directed, in particular, towards the bottom wall 162 (Figure 2).

[0105] The presence of the product and, in particular, its fill level in the interior 144 can be determined via the sensor device 224.

[0106] Furthermore, the container assembly 108 comprises additional sensor assemblies 232, each with a sensor element 230, with one sensor assembly 232 assigned to every second container section 170. The sensor assemblies 224 and 232 are identical in this case.

[0107] Optical windows 228 are arranged on the wall 142 of the second container section 170. Radiation in the form of a laser beam 226 is emitted through the windows 228, through the interior 144 and, in this example, through the dispensing opening 152 (Figure 2). This allows it to be determined whether product is present in the dispensing opening 152 on the casing 118.

[0108] Signals from the sensor devices 224, 232 can be fed to a control unit 234 of the dosing arrangement 100. The control unit 234 can be used to control, in particular, the excitation device 154 and / or the drive device 126.

[0109] It is also conceivable that, for example as part of the sensor device 232, or alternatively or additionally to it, a sensor device is provided in which the presence of the product in the dosing chamber 124 can be checked by means of a sensor element 230. Figure 2 schematically illustrates this with dashed lines for a dosing chamber 124, where several sensor elements 230 may be present. The laser beam is directed directly into the dosing chamber 124 without passing into or through the container 130. In the example shown, the laser beam is directed into the dosing chamber 124 from above. As can be seen from Figure 2, the container device 108 includes a partition 236 in the interior 144 at the first container section 168.The partition 236 is positioned upstream of the connection area 172 and the through-openings 182 and serves as a diverter for the product, which can optionally pass to the left or right of the partition 236 to reach the respective second container section 170. The partition 236 can be part of the wall 142 or connected to it. Reference numeral list.

[0110] Dosing arrangement

[0111] container

[0112] Vial

[0113] Transport equipment, container equipment

[0114] Dosing device

[0115] Metering roller

[0116] Roller body

[0117] axis

[0118] Coat

[0119] Surface area

[0120] Entrance opening

[0121] Dosing chamber

[0122] drive unit

[0123] Arrow

[0124] container

[0125] Support device

[0126] Support element

[0127] retaining element

[0128] Retaining part

[0129] Main focus

[0130] wall

[0131] interior

[0132] Filling opening

[0133] ceiling wall

[0134] Filling aid

[0135] Drop-off opening

[0136] Excitation device, ultrasound device, ultrasound generator, vibration transmission element, base wall

[0137] angle

[0138] Direction of gravity

[0139] first tank section, second tank section, connection area, flange

[0140] Flange magnetic element magnetic element through-hole sealing element

[0141] edge

[0142] Section

[0143] Section

[0144] Contour wiper element wiper element

[0145] edge

[0146] Swivel joint

[0147] Axle preload element bracket

[0148] edge

[0149] Swivel joint

[0150] Axle preload element tension spring

[0151] top point, shut-off element, slide, sensor device, laser beam

[0152] optical window sensor element sensor device control device

[0153] partition

Claims

1. PATENT CLAIM 1. Container device (108) for buffering storage of a pharmaceutical product, in particular a powdered one, comprising a container (130) with a wall (142) and an interior (144) for receiving the product, and at least one dispensing opening (152) formed on the container (130) through which the product can be dispensed to a metering device (110), characterized in that the container device (108) comprises an excitation device (154) which is coupled to the wall (142) and via which the wall (142) can be excited by vibration.

2. Container device (108) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that The container assembly (108) is free of an agitator for mixing and / or conveying the product inside (144).

3. Container device (108) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that the excitation device (154) is an ultrasound device (156) and comprises a vibration transmission element (160) that is connected to or contacts the wall (142).

4. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the excitation device (154) is coupled to a bottom wall (162) of the wall (142).

5. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wall (142) comprises a bottom wall (162) which is oriented at an angle (164) relative to the direction of gravity (166) and forms a path for the product in the direction of the at least one discharge opening (152).

6. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container device (108) comprises at least one sensor device (224, 232) by means of which the presence of the product and in particular a fill level of the product in the interior (144) can be determined.

7. Container device (108) according to claim 6, characterized by the fact that the at least one sensor device (224, 232) is optically designed, wherein at least one optical window (228) is arranged in the wall (142), through which radiation from the at least one sensor device (224, 232) is directed into the interior (144).

8. Container device (108) according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that at least one sensor device (224, 232) is provided, the radiation of which is directed through the interior (144) and the at least one discharge opening (152) or towards an edge (186) of the at least one discharge opening (152).

9. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wall (142) is made of a metal material at least in one area coupled with the excitation device (154) and / or the wall (142) is made of a plastic material, in particular PEEK, at least in one area comprising or forming the at least one discharge opening (152).

10. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container device (108) is free of a sealing element at the edge (186) which is at least one dispensing opening (152) and is sealed by contact of the wall (142) with the metering device (110).

11. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The container device (108) comprises at least one dispensing opening (152) and a contour (192) of a cylindrical shell for gapless attachment to a cylindrical shell of a metering element (110).

12. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one scraper element (194, 196) is arranged or formed on an edge (186) of the at least one dispensing opening (152), in particular for scraping the product from the metering element (110), wherein the at least one scraper element (194, 196) is preferably movably held on the edge (186).

13. Container device (108) according to claim 12, characterized by the fact that at least one of the following applies: A scraper element (194) is provided which is pressed into the at least one dispensing opening (152) by means of a pretensioning element (204), wherein the scraper element (194) is pressed out of the dispensing opening (152) against the action of the pretensioning element (204) upon contact with the metering device (110) as a result of a bearing force of the container device (108); a scraper element (196) is provided which is pulled away from the dispensing opening (152) by means of a pretensioning element (214) and, upon contact with the metering device (110), is pressed into the dispensing opening (152) against the action of the pretensioning element (214) as a result of a bearing force of the container device (108).

14. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container (130) comprises a first container section (168) and at least one second container section (170) which are connected to each other at at least one through-opening (182) for the product, wherein the at least one second container section (170) comprises the at least one dispensing opening (152) and the product passes from the first container section (168) into the second container section (170), wherein in particular two second container sections (170) and two through-openings (182) are provided.

15. Container device (108) according to claim 14, characterized by the fact that the excitation device (154) is coupled to the first container section (168) and / or the first container section (168) and the at least one second container section (170) are detachably connected to each other.

16. Container device (108) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized by the fact that the container assembly (108) comprises a sealing element (184) and / or a damping element for vibration decoupling between the container sections (168, 170).

17. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the container device (108) includes at least one shut-off element (220) with which, in a shut-off position, sections (188, 190) of the interior (144) can be separated from each other to prevent the product from passing through in the direction of the at least one dispensing opening (152).

18. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the container device (108) comprises two or more dispensing openings (152) arranged side by side.

19. Container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that The container device (108) comprises at least one holding part (138) by which the container (130) can be held on a support device (132), in particular suspended on the support device (132).

20. Container device (108) according to claim 19, characterized by the fact that the at least one retaining part (138) is arranged on one side of the container device (108) with an offset to a center of gravity line (140) on which the at least one dispensing opening (152) is also arranged, wherein the container device (108) is subjected to a tilting moment when suspended to press an edge (186) of the at least one dispensing opening (152) against a metering element (110).

21. Dosing arrangement (100), comprising a container device (108) according to one of the preceding claims and a metering device (110) which is designed as a metering roller (112) rotatable about an axis of rotation or comprises a metering roller (112), wherein the metering roller (112) has at least one inlet opening (122) for the product, and wherein the at least one dispensing opening (152) is aligned with or covers the at least one inlet opening (122) depending on a rotational position of the metering roller (112).

22. Dosing arrangement (100) according to claim 21, characterized by the fact that a relative arrangement of the container device (108) and the metering device (110) is selected such that the at least one inlet opening (122), when it is aligned with or covered by the at least one outlet opening (152), is arranged below a top point (218) of the rotational movement of the metering roller (112), with respect to the direction of gravity (166).

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