Bottle filling device

Abstract

The container filling device comprises a pipe (2, 2') adapted to convey within it, along an axial direction (A), a substance to be dispensed, a support element (3, 3') forming a channel (6, 6') along the axial direction (A), suitable for the axial insertion and removal of the pipe (2, 2'), a connection element (4, 4'), fixed in an assembled state to the support element (3, 3') and forming a passage (7, 7') for the axial insertion of the support element (3, 3'), and an attachment element (5, 5'), connected in the assembled state to the connection element (4, 4'), designed for attaching a supply tube for the substance to be conveyed through the pipe (2, 2'), and forming an axial cavity (8, 8') aligned in the assembled state with the pipe (2, 2') for dispensing the substance.

Description

[0001] 2

[0002]

[0003] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0004] Description

[0005] BOTTLE FILLING DEVICE

[0006] Technical Field

[0007]

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for filling containers, in particular bottles for pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, or chemical products.

[0008] Prior Art

[0009]

[0002] It has long been recognized, particularly in the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, chemical, cosmetic, and food industries, that there is a need to fill containers — such as ampoules, bottles, vials, or syringes — with metered quantities of substances, ensuring adequate dosing precision, the preservation of the physical and chemical properties of the dispensed substances, and the required sterility. In particular, especially for pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical substances, there is a strong need to perform filling under conditions of adequate sterility.

[0010]

[0003] In these sectors, therefore, apparatus is known that fills containers with metered quantities of substances, particularly liquids or semi-liquids. Such apparatus generally comprises a plurality of needle-shaped filling devices, designed to engage respective containers, which are fed along a supply line, to introduce the aforementioned metered quantities.

[0011]

[0004] Each filling device thus serves to convey the metered substance into the container through a respective channel formed within it.

[0012]

[0005] These devices can be used for multiple production cycles, following sterilization, or for a single cycle, in which case they are disposable.

[0013]

[0006] The former, generally used for dispensing non-aggressive substances, are preferably made of steel and, therefore, require washing or exposure to sterilizing gases to be sterilized.

[0014]

[0007] Cleaning operations are particularly crucial in reusable devices, as it is necessary to ensure that no residue of the dispensed substance remains inside the dispensing channel and contaminates the subsequent production cycle.

[0015]

[0008] An example of a filling device is illustrated in patent DE 19928902.

[0016]

[0009] The second type of devices, on the other hand, are generally preferred for the dispensing of biopharmaceuticals, for example in the production of antibodies, vaccines, and cell and gene therapies, where high flexibility and minimal cross-contamination are required. Furthermore, single-use devices can be employed when production quantities are limited, such as for clinical trials or the production of personalized medicines. Single-use devices, which are disposed of after use, simplify cleaning operations and do not require validation of stainless steel systems. Additionally, single-use technologies allow for rapid changeovers without the risk of contamination, particularly in facilities that produce multiple products. They also do not require fixed piping or complex CIP (cleaning-in-place)2

[0017]

[0018] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0019] or SIP (sterilization-in-place) systems, thereby reducing initial investment costs. Disposable systems are typically supplied pre-sterilized, thus reducing the risk of microbial contamination. These disposable systems are flexible, as they can be used in facilities without requiring substantial modifications.

[0020]

[0010] Finally, single-use systems may be suitable for dispensing chemically aggressive substances, such as acids or caustics, as they are made of chemically inert plastics. In fact, they are made, for example, of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), PEEK (polyetheretherketone), PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride), PFA (perfluoroalkoxy).

[0021]

[0011] These plastic materials allow for effective sterilization, particularly pre-sterilization, through exposure to gamma rays.

[0022]

[0012] Single-use devices are typically manufactured as a single piece using specialized CNC machines, configured to form a needle portion and a tube connection portion from the plastic material, for the delivery of the substance supplied to the filling apparatus.

[0023]

[0013] However, the production of such single-use devices presents certain challenges, caused by the fact that it is difficult to form the internal channel for dispensing the substance beyond certain dimensional limits. More precisely, the ratio between the length of the channel and its internal diameter has an upper limit, beyond which the part becomes unmanufacturable or fragile or excessively flexible and, therefore, unusable.

[0024] Disclosure

[0025]

[0014] The objective of the present invention is to solve the aforementioned problems by devising a container filling device that is easy to manufacture, as well as easy to assemble and replace, for the dispensing of substances of any type, in particular pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, chemical, cosmetic, and food substances.

[0026]

[0015] Within the scope of this objective, a further purpose of the present invention is to provide a container filling device that meets sterilization requirements and reduces the risk of crosscontamination.

[0027]

[0016] A further objective of the invention is to provide a device that ensures a high degree of sterility for the parts intended to come into contact with the substances to be dispensed.

[0028]

[0017] Another objective of the invention is to provide a container filling device that is easily assembled, replaceable, and interchangeable.

[0029]

[0018] A further objective of the invention is to provide a container filling device that can be manufactured without geometric or dimensional constraints.

[0030]

[0019] A further objective of the invention is to provide a device for filling bottles with reduced environmental impact.

[0031]

[0020] A further objective of the invention is to provide a container filling device of simple construction and function, featuring reliable operation, versatile use, and relatively low2

[0032]

[0033] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0034] cost.

[0035]

[0021] The aforementioned objectives are achieved, according to the present invention, by the container filling device of claim 1.

[0036]

[0022] The container filling device comprises a pipe adapted to convey a substance to be dispensed through its interior along an axial direction.

[0037]

[0023] The pipe preferably has a needle-like shape.

[0038]

[0024] The device further comprises a support element forming a channel along the aforementioned axial direction, suitable for the axial insertion and removal of the pipe. In other words, in an assembled state, the support element is detachably connected to the pipe, allowing for rapid replacement of the latter. The pipe is preferably freely inserted and thus easily removable from the support element.

[0039]

[0025] The support element, preferably made of a rigid material, particularly steel, performs a supporting function, maintaining the pipe in a substantially straight configuration. This function is particularly advantageous when the ratio of the pipe’s length to its cross- sectional dimension is high and the pipe therefore tends to bend, deviating from the straight configuration, to a greater or lesser extent depending on the material.

[0040]

[0026] The pipe is made of plastic, suitable for single-use, easily sterilizable, and relatively inexpensive.

[0041]

[0027] The pipe is preferably made of one of the following plastic materials: PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), PEEK (polyetheretherketone), PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate), PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride), PFA (perfluoroalkoxy).

[0042]

[0028] Preferably, it is made of PEEK or PTFE.

[0043]

[0029] The aforementioned materials allow the pipe to be manufactured easily, precisely, and in any dimensional ratio between length and diameter.

[0044]

[0030] These materials, particularly PEEK, generally allow for effective sterilization by irradiation, specifically with gamma rays or X-rays. Sterilization by irradiation of these materials offers a high guarantee of sterility, higher than for materials such as steel. Therefore, the pipe can be pre-sterilized for first use, with a high guarantee of sterility.

[0045]

[0031] The device according to the invention further comprises a connection element, constrained in the assembled state, fixed or integral with the support element.

[0046]

[0032] The connection element preferably forms a passage for the insertion, particularly axial insertion, of the support element.

[0047]

[0033] The device further comprises an attachment element, connected in the assembled state to the connection element. This attachment element is adapted for the attachment of a supply tube for the substance to be conveyed and forms a cavity, particularly an axial one, preferably aligned, in the same assembled state, with the pipe, for the delivery of the2

[0048]

[0049] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0050] substance.

[0051]

[0034] The pipe extends along the aforementioned channel defined by the support element and, preferably, is protruding from it, so as to protect the support element from contact with the substance. After use, it can be quickly removed from the aforementioned channel, preferably to be replaced.

[0052]

[0035] The pipe preferably engages at least the aforementioned channel of the support element and the aforementioned passage of the connection element — which are preferably aligned in the assembled state — thereby effectively protecting them from contact with the substance to be dispensed.

[0053]

[0036] In any case, the pipe acts as a barrier, preventing any contamination between the substance and at least the support element. Preferably, it also acts as a barrier for the connection element.

[0054]

[0037] The barrier effect provided by the pipe is highly advantageous. In fact, as mentioned, after use, the pipe can be easily disassembled and separated from the other components of the device, which remain fixed. In particular, it can be quickly detached from the support element and just as quickly replaced with a new pipe, preferably already pre-sterilized and ready for a new production cycle.

[0055]

[0038] The support element, as well as, if applicable, the connection element and the attachment element, can remain in their respective positions on the dispensing apparatus after the production cycle, without requiring any treatment and without compromising the sterility of the entire system. Therefore, these elements can be made of materials, such as steel, which, to be sterilized to adequate safety standards, would require more complex and costly operations than irradiation alone, since such operations are not necessary for the reuse of the elements in question.

[0056]

[0039] Consequently, the simple replacement of the pipe in the device according to the invention significantly reduces downtime between one production cycle and the next, particularly when the substance to be dispensed changes.

[0057]

[0040] The use of the aforementioned plastic materials for manufacturing the pipe also has an anti-condensation effect when dispensing low-temperature liquid substances. These materials, in fact, have low thermal conductivity and thus protect the outer surface of the connection element — preferably made of a metal with higher thermal conductivity — from the formation of condensation droplets. The outer surface of this connection element therefore remains dry.

[0058]

[0041] According to the invention, therefore, the pipe can be supplied pre-sterilized, for example together with the supply tubes, easily disassembled after use, and just as easily and quickly replaced.

[0059]

[0042] The remaining components, on the other hand, can be reused for multiple cycles, as they2

[0060]

[0061] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0062] are not contaminated by the dispensed substance. It is therefore not necessary to remove them from the apparatus, saving time in this regard as well.

[0063]

[0043] Preferably, the pipe is secured by or to the attachment element to ensure proper and stable positioning.

[0064]

[0044] For example, the pipe can be effectively bonded to the attachment element. In this case, replacing the pipe requires replacing the attachment element.

[0065]

[0045] The attachment element may be made of plastic, preferably PEEK, or of steel. In any case, pre-sterilization of this element is straightforward even if the component is joined to the pipe, through irradiation alone in one case, and through washing and / or gas, in addition to irradiation, in the other.

[0066]

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the pipe may be interposed and locked between the connection element and the attachment element when the connection element and the attachment element are mutually constrained. For example, the pipe may comprise an end flange, designed to be housed in a corresponding housing recess formed on the connection element or the attachment element, in a mutual connection zone. The flange is thus intended to be locked, for example by compression, between the respective surfaces of the connection element and the attachment element.

[0067]

[0047] The connection element and the attachment element can advantageously be coupled in a detachable manner, so as to allow both easy assembly and disassembly, particularly for rapid replacement of the pipe.

[0068]

[0048] Usefully, the connection element and the attachment element may be coupled via a quickrelease snap-fit connection.

[0069]

[0049] The connection element and the attachment element may be coupled via a threaded connection.

[0070]

[0050] The support element is preferably made of a metal element, such as steel, to axially guide the pipe, supporting it, and keep it in a straight alignment.

[0071] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0072]

[0051] The details of the invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the container filling device according to the invention, illustrated for illustrative purposes in the attached drawings, wherein:

[0073] Figures 1 and 2 show, respectively, a perspective view and a side view of a first embodiment of the container filling device of the invention;

[0074] Figure 3 shows an axial section of the same device;

[0075] Figures 4 and 4a, 5 and 5a, 6 and 6a, 7 and 7a show, respectively, a side view and an axial section view — in the case of Figure 7a, an enlargement of a respective partial section — of respective components of the same container-filling device of the invention; Figures 8, 9, and 10 show, respectively, a perspective view, a front view, and an axial2

[0076]

[0077] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0078] section view of the device for filling containers according to the invention in a second embodiment;

[0079] Figure 10a shows an enlarged view of a detail of the device illustrated in Figure 10;

[0080] Figures 11, 13, and 14 show, respectively, an axial section of the respective components of the container filling device illustrated in Figure 8;

[0081] Figures 12 and 12a show, respectively, a rear view and an axial section view of a further component of the same device.

[0082] Description of embodiments of the invention

[0083]

[0052] With particular reference to these figures, the container filling device according to the invention is collectively indicated by 1.

[0084]

[0053] Device 1 comprises a pipe 2 adapted to convey a substance, in particular a liquid or semiliquid, into a container, such as a bottle, a vial, an ampoule, or a syringe.

[0085]

[0054] Device 1 also comprises a support element 3 forming an axial channel 6, suitable for the axial insertion of pipe 2.

[0086]

[0055] The device 1 further comprises a connection element 4, fixed in use — that is, in the assembled state — to the support element 3, and an attachment element 5, connected in use to the connection element 4 and designed for the attachment, specifically the connection, of a tube for supplying the substance to be dispensed through the device 1 itself.

[0087]

[0056] The pipe 2 is essentially needle-shaped to allow the passage and precise dosing of the substance to be dispensed. The pipe 2 extends in particular along an axial direction A.

[0088]

[0057] The pipe 2 is made of a suitable plastic material to allow for easy sterilization, preferably by irradiation, for example using gamma rays or X-rays. Furthermore, this material is generally chemically inert, thus allowing safe contact with any type of substance, including acidic or caustic ones. In this way, the substance to be dispensed can flow effectively inside pipe 2 without leaving unwanted residues or reacting with the material of which the inner wall of pipe 2 itself is made.

[0089]

[0058] Furthermore, pipe 2 is preferably made of a material resistant to corrosion and high temperatures, so that it can be used in a wide range of chemical processes.

[0090]

[0059] The pipe 2 is made of a plastic material, such as PTFE or PEEK, which are chemically inert, resistant to high temperatures, and corrosion-resistant. Alternatively, the pipe 2 may be made, for example, of PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate), PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride), or PFA (perfluoroalkoxy).

[0091]

[0060] Since the pipe 2 is made of plastic, it can be more flexible the greater the ratio of its longitudinal length to its cross-sectional dimension.

[0092]

[0061] The support element 3 therefore serves to support the pipe 2, giving it the straight alignment along the axial direction A required for delivery.2

[0093]

[0094] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0095]

[0062] In use, the pipe 2 is therefore inserted axially into the support element 3, which ensures its correct alignment for delivery. The pipe 2 is mounted inside the support element 3 in a removable manner, specifically so that it can be easily withdrawn.

[0096]

[0063] To this end, the support element 3 forms the axial channel 6 that runs through it from one end to the other, to allow the insertion of the pipe 2 into it.

[0097]

[0064] When assembled, the pipe 2 extends within the axial channel 6, acting as a barrier between the internal cavity — through which the substance to be dispensed passes — and the inner wall of the support element 3.

[0098]

[0065] The pipe 2 is therefore contaminated by the dispensed substance and must be replaced at the end of the cycle or, if necessary, sterilized, while the support element 3 is effectively protected and can therefore be reused for multiple production cycles.

[0099]

[0066] Support element 3 is made of a substantially rigid material, such as a metallic material, preferably steel, and in particular stainless steel. Alternatively, the support element 3 may be made of a rigid plastic material, such as the aforementioned PEEK. In the first case, cleaning of the support element 3, particularly prior to its first cycle of use, may be performed by washing and / or gas treatment, while in the second case by irradiation, preferably with gamma rays.

[0100]

[0067] When assembled, the pipe 2 advantageously protrudes from the support element 3 by a predetermined length L (see Figure 1).

[0101]

[0068] The support element 3 is designed to be effectively coupled to the connection element 4.

[0102]

[0069] More specifically, the support element 3 may form a coupling zone 30, for example at the end, opposite the end from which the pipe 2 is designed to be protruding during use, and designed to be removably connected to, or conversely, not removable from, the connection element 4.

[0103]

[0070] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 through 7, for example, the coupling zone 30 comprises threaded means for a removable connection — and thus a disconnectable connection — to the connection element 4. For example, the coupling zone 30 may comprise internal or external threads on the support element 3. In the example illustrated, the support element features an end sleeve 31 within which the coupling zone 30 is formed as an internal thread, at a portion of the aforementioned channel 6, for removable connection to the connection element 4. In particular, at the same portion affected by the aforementioned sleeve 31, channel 6 has an enlarged section that allows the passage of pipe 2 and receives, externally to pipe 2, a portion of connection element 4, as described in detail below.

[0104]

[0071] The connection element 4 serves to connect the support element 3 to the attachment element 5, configured for the application of a respective supply tube.

[0105]

[0072] The connection element 4 also allows the passage of the pipe 2 along the axial direction2

[0106]

[0107] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0108] A.

[0109]

[0073] The connection element 4 has a tubular shape, thus featuring an axial passage 7 designed to also allow the insertion of the pipe 2.

[0110]

[0074] The connection element 4 further comprises a first coupling portion 40 to the support element 3, at the aforementioned coupling zone 30, and a second coupling portion 41 to the attachment element 5.

[0111]

[0075] The first coupling portion 40 may comprise detachable coupling means, such as in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 through 7, preferably of a threaded type. More specifically, the first coupling portion 40 may form a threaded zone on a respective outer surface, designed to be coupled to the coupling zone 30 of the support element 3 (see Figures 4a and 5a, in particular).

[0112]

[0076] The second coupling portion 41, located at an opposite end of the connection element 4 with respect to the first coupling portion 40, comprises detachable connection means, such as to preferably allow both rapid assembly and disassembly from the attachment element 5, for example for maintenance or replacement purposes, particularly of the pipe 2.

[0113]

[0077] Such detachable connection means may be associated with elastic means, such as to provide a quick, reliable, and secure connection — in particular a snap-fit connection — which is in itself well-known.

[0114]

[0078] The second coupling portion 41 may therefore comprise an internal seat 42, at one end, for receiving a corresponding portion of the attachment element 5. The seat 42 may be formed, at the respective end of the connection element 4, in the form of a recess, preferably cylindrical in shape, accessible for connection to the attachment element 5.

[0115]

[0079] Between the first portion 40 and the second portion 41, the connection element 4 may further include a shoulder 43, designed to act as a stop for the assembly of the connection element 4 relative to the support element 3.

[0116]

[0080] The connection element 4 is preferably made of a rigid material, such as a metallic material, for example steel, particularly stainless steel.

[0117]

[0081] The attachment element 5 has a tubular shape to allow the passage of the substance to be dispensed.

[0118]

[0082] The attachment element 5 preferably has an axial cavity 8, into which the pipe 2 is inserted during use.

[0119]

[0083] In use, the axial cavity 8, the passage 7, and the channel 6 are therefore preferably aligned axially for the insertion of the pipe 2.

[0120]

[0084] Preferably, the attachment element 5 is made of steel or plastic, such as PEEK.

[0121]

[0085] The attachment element 5 comprises, preferably at its opposite ends, a connection section 50 for the second coupling portion 41 of the connection element 4 and an insertion2

[0122]

[0123] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0124] nozzle 51 for a supply tube, for example a flexible tube, preferably made of plastic, rubber, or PTFE.

[0125]

[0086] The connection section 50 is shaped so as to be coupled to the second coupling portion 41 of the connection element 4.

[0126]

[0087] Preferably, as mentioned above, the coupling between the connection section 50 and the second portion 41 is of the quick-release type, easily lockable and releasable. This facilitates the disconnection of the respective components, for example to allow for the rapid replacement of disposable parts, such as the pipe 2, or their disassembly to allow for cleaning and sterilization operations.

[0127]

[0088] To ensure a seal between the connection element 4 and the attachment element 5, sealing means 9 — for example, in the form of a sealing ring — may be provided, interposed in use between the respective components (see Figure 3). In particular, either of the two components may include a respective housing for such means. In the illustrated case, for example, the attachment element 5 comprises an annular seat 52, provided in a central area of its longitudinal extension (see Figures 6a).

[0128]

[0089] The attachment element 5 also preferably serves to secure the pipe 2, thereby ensuring its positioning relative to the components of the device 1.

[0129]

[0090] For example, the pipe 2 may be secured to the attachment element 5 by bonding. In particular, one end of the pipe 2 may be bonded to the inner walls of the axial cavity 8. Preferably, the aforementioned axial cavity 8 may include a locking portion 80, preferably at the end, with transverse dimensions sufficient to ensure a secure bond between the surfaces to be bonded. For example, in the illustrated case, this locking portion 80 may constitute a narrowing of the axial cavity 8 (see Figure 6a).

[0130]

[0091] Preferably, the bonding is achieved by applying a suitable adhesive layer. The application of the adhesive material is preferably preceded by a treatment of the relevant surfaces with isopropanol to allow for the precise fixation of the pipe 2.

[0131]

[0092] Alternatively, the pipe 2 can be secured, for example, by welding or by forced coupling.

[0132]

[0093] The stable connection between pipe 2 and attachment element 5 allows for complete sterilization of the assembly in any case, ensuring adequate sterility for single-use applications. In fact, if both components are made of plastic, preferably PEEK and / or PTFE, the sterilization of pipe 2 attached to attachment element 5 can be performed via gamma or X-ray irradiation. If, on the other hand, the attachment element 5 is made of steel, sterilization can still be performed easily by adding a washing step and / or the application of a specific gas to ensure the cleanliness of the steel part, since this material is not penetrable by gamma rays or X-rays. These rays, in fact, effectively penetrate the thin wall of the plastic pipe 2, but are unable to penetrate steel in the same way.

[0133]

[0094] The operation of device 1 for filling containers is clear from the preceding description.2

[0134]

[0135] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0136]

[0095] During assembly, the pipe 2 is inserted into the axial cavity 8 of the attachment element 5 and secured to it at the end portion 80, for example by gluing.

[0137]

[0096] The connection element 4 is connected to the support element 3, for example by screwing the first coupling portion 40 into the respective coupling zone 30 of the support element 3.

[0138]

[0097] The pipe 2, joined to the attachment element 5, is then easily inserted into the interior of the support element 3 connected to the connection element 4, through the passage 7 and the channel 6. The pipe 2 is then locked in an axial position by means of the coupling, for example a snap-fit coupling, between the second coupling portion 41 and the connection section 50 of the attachment element 5.

[0139]

[0098] Finally, a supply tube is connected to the supply nozzle 51 of the attachment element 5 to connect the device 1 to a filling apparatus configured to dispense a substance in metered quantities.

[0140]

[0099] It is important to note that when the substance is fed through device 1, it comes into contact only with pipe 2, while there is no contact between the substance itself, support element 3, or connection element 4. Pipe 2, therefore, effectively protects these components from direct contact with the dispensed substance, acting as a barrier between them and the dispensed substance. This is very important, if only because it simplifies cleaning operations prior to use, limiting them at most to the pipe 2 alone or to the pipe 2 and the element attached to it. Similarly, this ensures that after use, the remaining components remain uncontaminated and can therefore be safely reused.

[0141]

[0100] Furthermore, this barrier effect is particularly beneficial when the dispensed substance is corrosive or has chemical and physical properties that cause it to adhere and form deposits along the passage walls. After use, only pipe 2 needs to be replaced, while the rest of the system can be safely reused.

[0142]

[0101] The support element 3 and the connection element 4 can thus be effectively protected from contamination and wear, and therefore safely reused.

[0143]

[0102] The attachment element 5, which may be made of steel or plastic, is also substantially protected from direct contact with the dispensed substance. More specifically, the inner wall of the axial cavity 8 is completely protected from direct contact with the substance.

[0144]

[0103] Preferably, at the end of the production cycle, the pipe 2 can be directly disposed of and promptly replaced with a new pipe 2 for a new production cycle.

[0145]

[0104] To this end, it is sufficient to disassemble the pipe 2, which is attached to the attachment element 5, from the connection element 4, by engaging the respective connection, for example via a snap-fit mechanism. In particular, by applying pressure to the connection element 4 in the direction away from the attachment element 5, it is possible to separate the two components.

[0146]

[0105] Detaching the connection element 4 from the attachment element 5 bearing the pipe 2 is2

[0147]

[0148] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0149] very quick and easy, thanks to the provision of the aforementioned interposed elastic means.

[0150]

[0106] Preferably, the pipe 2 attached to the attachment element 5 can be replaced.

[0151] Alternatively, the two components can also be re-sterilized, as indicated above.

[0152]

[0107] A different embodiment of the container filling device is illustrated in Figures 8 through 14.

[0153] This embodiment of the container filling device T represents a variation from what was previously described, in the way the components of the device itself are interconnected. Otherwise, this variant is functionally and structurally similar to the first embodiment described. The following describes the aspects that distinguish this further embodiment from the previous one, with the understanding that the remaining aspects of the latter already described may be individually included where possible.

[0154]

[0108] The pipe 2’ of device T has a needle-like shape along the axial direction A, as in the previous embodiment, but also forms a terminal flange 20’, which allows for its correct positioning relative to the other components.

[0155]

[0109] The support element 3’ has a substantially cylindrical tubular shape extending along the axial direction A so as to guide the pipe 2’ within it. The longitudinal extension of the support element 3’ is such as to allow the pipe 2’ to protrude from it, as described above.

[0156]

[0110] The support element 3’ has a terminal portion, opposite the portion intended to allow the pipe 2’ to be protruding, designed to serve as a coupling zone 30’ for connection to the connection element 4’ at the respective first coupling portion 40’, as described in detail below.

[0157]

[0111] The connection element 4’ has a substantially cylindrical hollow body, from which a shaped member 44’ protrudes radially, for example in the form of a suitably shaped plate. This shaped member 44’ is configured to allow coupling to a respective housing seat in the dispensing apparatus.

[0158]

[0112] The connection element 4’ also comprises the second coupling portion 41’ intended for connection to the attachment element 5’, in this case formed as a sleeve having an external threaded surface. Correspondingly, the attachment element 5’ includes the coupling section 50’, featuring a threaded inner wall, for connection to the second coupling portion 41’. Obviously, even in this embodiment, it should be noted that alternative means may be used for the removable connection between the connection element 4’ and the attachment element 5’, provided they are suitable for the purpose of allowing the connection and disconnection of the two components.

[0159]

[0113] The connection element 4’ also forms a housing 45’, for example in the form of a transverse annular shoulder, specifically perpendicular to the axial direction A, to receive the flange 20’ of the pipe 2’. In practice, when the coupling section 50’ of the attachment element 5’ is screwed onto the second coupling portion 41’ of the connection element 4’,2

[0160]

[0161] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0162] the flange 20’ is securely locked between the two components, specifically clamped, and is thus safely positioned (see Figure 10a).

[0163]

[0114] Sealing means 9’ may be interposed between the connection element 4’ and the attachment element 5 (see Figure 10a).

[0164]

[0115] The attachment element 5’ comprises the nozzle 51 ’ for connecting the supply tube, which can connect the device 1 ’ to the supply means of the dispensing apparatus.

[0165]

[0116] The pipe 2’ is inserted into the support element 3’ during use, which in turn is interposed between the body of the connection element 4’ and the pipe 2’ itself.

[0166]

[0117] Preferably, the support element 3’ is welded, for example by laser welding, inside the connection element 4’, at the respective first coupling zone 40’, to ensure its stable positioning within it.

[0167]

[0118] More specifically, the support element 3’ is secured inside the connection element 4’, extending longitudinally to the housing seat 45’ of the flange 20’ of the pipe 2’, so as not to obstruct the positioning of the latter.

[0168]

[0119] The operation of the device according to this variant is clear from the preceding description.

[0169]

[0120] In an initial assembly step, the support element 3’ is positioned and welded inside the connection element 4’.

[0170]

[0121] The pipe 2’ is then inserted into the support element 3’ along the channel 6’, so that it is protruding from it by a portion L’ (see Figure 8).

[0171]

[0122] The flange 20’ is then securely seated on the housing seat 45’ formed at the head of the connection element 4’.

[0172]

[0123] Finally, the attachment element 5’ is connected to the connection element 4’, for example by screwing the respective threaded portions together.

[0173]

[0124] A connection tube can then be attached to the nozzle 51 of the attachment element 5, and the device 1 can be used effectively and precisely for dispensing any substance.

[0174]

[0125] In particular, in this case as well, the pipe 2’ acts as a useful barrier, preventing contact with both the support element 3’ and the connection element 4’.

[0175]

[0126] Therefore, at the end of use, the pipe 2’ can be easily detached from the support element 3’ simply by disconnecting the connection element 4’ from the attachment element 5’, as well as easily replaced with a new pipe 2’ for a new production cycle.

[0176]

[0127] The device according to the invention thus allows for the precise and effective dispensing of any substance, protecting the reusable components from contamination, in particular the support element 3, 3’.

[0177]

[0128] Furthermore, the device according to the invention prevents the formation of condensation on the exterior when used for dispensing low-temperature liquid products. This result is achieved through the use of a material with low thermal conductivity, preferably PEEK or2

[0178]

[0179] 39.120.PC.26 EN II

[0180] PTFE or other materials mentioned above, to construct the pipe 2, 2’. Consequently, the outer surface of the connection element 3, 3’, preferably made of a metal with higher thermal conductivity, remains dry, i.e., free of condensation droplets.

[0181]

[0129] The device described by way of example is subject to numerous modifications and variations depending on different requirements.

[0182]

[0130] In the practical implementation of the invention, the materials used, as well as the shape and dimensions, may be any as required.

[0183]

[0131] Where the technical features mentioned in each claim are followed by reference numerals, such reference numerals have been included solely for the purpose of enhancing the understanding of the claims and, consequently, they have no limiting effect on the scope of each element identified by way of example by such reference numerals.

Claims

239. 120.PC.26 EN IIClaims1. A device for filling containers, comprising a pipe (2, 2’) adapted to convey a substance to be dispensed through its interior along an axial direction (A), a support element (3, 3’) forming a channel (6, 6’) along said axial direction (A), into which said pipe (2, 2’) is adapted to be freely inserted, such that it can be removed, a connection element (4, 4’), which in an assembled state is constrained or integrally formed to said support element (3, 3’), and an attachment element (5, 5’), connected in said assembled condition to the connection element (4, 4’), for attaching a supply tube for the substance to be conveyed through the pipe (2, 2’), and forming a cavity (8, 8’) for the delivery of said substance, said pipe (2, 2’) extending in said assembled condition along said channel (6, 6’), so as to protect said support element (3, 3’) from contamination with said substance, said pipe (2, 2’) being made of plastic material, preferably one selected from PEEK, PTFE, PE, PP, PVC, EVA, PVDF, PFA, preferably PEEK or PTFE.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein said pipe (2, 2’) engages said channel (6, 6’) and a passage (7, 7’) defined axially within said connection element (4, 4’), aligned in said assembled condition, protecting them from contact with said substance.

3. The device of any one of the previous claims, wherein said pipe (2, 2’) is locked in position by or to said attachment element (5, 5’).

4. The device of claim 3, wherein said pipe (2) is bonded to said attachment element (5, 5’).

5. The device of claim 3, wherein said pipe (2’) is interposed and locked between said connection element (4’) and said attachment element (5’) when said connection element (4’) and said attachment element (5, 5’) are mutually engaged.

6. The device of any one of the previous claims, wherein said connection element (4) and said attachment element (5) are detachably coupled.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein said connection element (4) and said attachment element (5) are coupled by means of a quick-release snap-fit connection.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein said connection element (4’) and said attachment element (5’) are coupled by means of a threaded connection.

9. The device of any one of the previous claims, wherein said support element (3, 3’) is made of a rigid material, such as metal, preferably steel, to maintain said pipe (2, 2’) aligned along said axial direction (A).

10. The device of any one of the previous claims, wherein said support element (3) in said assembled condition is constrained to said connection element (4) in a detachable manner, or said support element (3’) in said assembled condition is constrained to said connection element (4’) in a non-detachable manner, being preferably welded thereto.

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