EP2092909A1 - Device for storing and applying viscous substances - Google Patents

Abstract

An arrangement for storing viscous substances, comprises a film carrier (2) with a depression (3) on at least one side, into which the substance can be filled and then covered with a film (4) to form a chamber (5). The chamber has a threshold breakage point (8), which allows the viscous substance to flow out along a channel (9) when pressure is applied. The chamber contains an insert made of a stiff material arranged at an angle. The film consists of a thermoplastic.

Description

The invention relates to a device for storing and dispensing viscous substances. By viscous in this context are all flowable, i. understood liquid to pasty substances, which may, for example, be gel-like. The substances may be mixed in the application of at least two components. The components themselves may also be viscous, but not all, but only at least one.

The viscous substances are, for example, adhesives or sealing materials, as used in dental technology. In such applications, the individual components are currently stored separately, for example, in bottles. For use in the dental field are usually very small amounts, eg. Between 0.01 and 10 ml. The storage of the components to be mixed in the application in individual bottles and the subsequent mixing in a crucible or the like. Brings the disadvantage that The components are exposed to the environment prior to mixing and, for example, solvents can escape or - especially in light-curing substances - already before and / or during mixing curing begins. In addition, the dosage of such small amounts of substance is difficult, so that the desired mixing ratio is not accurate. The substances are, after they are mixed, for example. With a brush or the like. Auxiliaries applied to the application site, whereby in addition, the risk of contamination of the individual components stored in the bottles arises.

From the DE 37 17 512 A1 (Ivers-Lee) a liquid container in the form of an elongated, flat bag is known, which is divided into two compartments. In the first compartment two superimposed and separate chambers are housed, in the second compartment a single third chamber, which is separated from the first two chambers. The first two chambers are formed by two outer foils and a middle foil whose peripheral edges are sealed. The first two chambers are filled with different liquids. The third chamber, which adjoins directly to the first two chambers and is formed by the two outer films of the first two chambers, contains no liquid. The first two chambers merge into a tip facing the third chamber, the sealed edges of which have a lower bond strength than that of the sealed peripheral edges. The container allows the mixing of at least two liquids, possibly also with a non-liquid substance. At the end of the third chamber, which faces away from the first two chambers, a predetermined breaking point in the form of tear notches is provided in the edges of the two outer foils. By tearing off the end part of the third chamber at this point, the liquid content can escape from the third chamber. This known liquid container should, for example, be used in the pharmaceutical sector or in adhesives. No contamination of the liquids or non-liquid substances can take place in the container because the peripheral edges of the container are hermetically sealed. By these tightly sealed peripheral edges and no leakage of liquids can be done.

A disadvantage of the known liquid container on the one hand in the manufacture of the difficulty of introducing the components to be mixed together and on the other hand in the handling of the discomfort of emptying the third chamber, since the tearing off of its end part can cause difficulties or requires a tool, such as a knife or a pair of scissors and thereby brings with it the risk of splashing of the mixed liquid. In addition, two hands are required for emptying, since the container for discharging the liquid must be compressed flat, so that the liquid is not moved only within the container. In addition, metering the amount of liquid discharged from the container is almost impossible.

From the EP 0 895 943 A2 (Espe Dental) is a device for storing and applying substances, preferably liquids in small quantities, known which comprises a container formed by two heat-sealed together films, the films together a chamber for receiving the liquid and a pocket for receiving a brush form. Between the chamber and the pocket a predetermined breaking point is formed in the connection of the two films, which is released by pressure on the chamber, so that the liquid can be pressed out of the chamber into the pocket and the tip of the brush located there can be wetted. One of the two films may be a thermoforming film and the other film may be a cover film. Instead of a chamber, two chambers, a first and a second chamber, may be provided for separately receiving different substances which are to be brought into communication with one another via a passage area to be selectively opened.

In use, a connection to the second chamber is first made by pressure on the first chamber to mix the two components together. The mixture leaves much to be desired. Then, the part of the device containing the deflated chamber is bent onto the second chamber so that the chambers on the cover sheet are in contact with each other lie and after pressure on the second chamber, the brush is wetted with the liquid mixture.

This device also has the disadvantage that the second chamber must be so large that it can accommodate the volume of both components. This either suffers from the component contained in the second chamber, because it is exposed during storage of the air, or the space above the second component must be filled or evacuated with an inert gas, which increases the manufacturing cost. To ensure that the bending process takes place at the right place, the two foils are drawn in laterally in the area between the two chambers. Due to the arrangement of the two chambers in series, they must be expressed one after the other. For all alternatives, nothing is mentioned about the way the components are filled. Because of the use of a brush as an applicator handling when applying the flowable substance on the application site is also possible only with two hands. In addition, manufacturing and storage of the device is complicated because of the brush required for applying the liquid mixture.

Out DE 100 34 647 C1 (3M Espe) an analytical method and an apparatus for carrying out this method are known. For this purpose, the device has a pocket, an applicator and at least one chamber with an indicator substance and possibly another chamber with a buffer substance, wherein the first chamber with the pocket and the possibly existing second chamber each with the first chamber and / or the Bag can be connected via a selectively open passage area. There may also be a plurality of chambers which are connected in such a manner via selectively openable passage areas that all substances contained therein can be directed serially and / or in parallel - when necessary operation with two hands - be transferred into the bag.

Again, the need for a particular applicator affects the manufacturing process, the storage in terms of the required space and handling, which in turn, as mentioned, can only be done with two hands.

The DE 100 56 212 A1 (3M Espe) discloses a device for storing and dispensing a flowable composition having a first and a second foil, a dispensing area, a first chamber containing a first substance, and a second chamber containing a second substance, the chambers communicating with each other a selectively openable passage region are connectable, at least one of the films is deep-drawn in the region of the chambers, and at least one of the films in the region of the second chamber is preformed or moldable such that after activation of the device opening the passage region, the first substance below Completely convert volume increase of the second chamber. As a result, the storage and spreading of larger amounts of substance to be made possible without the mixing result is impaired.

The design of the second chamber in such a way that it can increase its volume, increases the production cost and requires the use of a film which can be deformed or stretched under the pressure on the second chamber.

From the US 5,240,415 A (Haynie) discloses a dental bleaching system for storage only, in which heated silica is to be used as the basis for the preparation of a paste with a hydrogen peroxide solution. The paste serves as a non-reactive carrier to control the delivery of the hydrogen peroxide solution to a tooth surface. The silica is initially contained in a predetermined amount in a mixing chamber, while the hydrogen peroxide solution in a predetermined volume taken in an ampoule. Both, the silica and the ampoule, are received in upwardly open recesses of a suitably deep-drawn support, which are covered for storage with a protective film.

From the US 4,534,509 (Holzner) a plastic packaging for the storage and delivery of active material is known, which has several departments, which are intended to receive liquid, solid or gelatinous material. The compartments are formed by the connection of two flexible polymeric sheets so that there is at least one sealed storage compartment which is impermeable to the active material and a sealed receiving compartment. At least one of the edges of the storage compartment is formed by a system which consists of an inner foam layer and adheres on its two outer surfaces to leak-proof flexible polymer films. External pressure on one of the compartments causes the foam layer to rupture without damaging the polymer sheets, thereby allowing the storage compartment to be emptied into the receiving compartment without exposing the active substance to the environment. This plastic packaging is particularly useful for ready mixes of different components just prior to their use. It is not said how the storage compartment is filled and the active mixture is released from the package.

From the DE 31 22 237 A1 (Klocke) is a package for liquid filling material, consisting of a deep-drawn part and the deep-drawn from above tightly sealed cover sheet known, in which there is a liquid medium and an insert for dispensing liquid in the space between the deep-drawn part and cover sheet. The packaging has a predetermined breaking point, which is laid out so that when breaking off one part of the packaging from the remaining part of the insert is exposed, so that liquid are discharged through a passageway from the liquid space through the insert can. This packaging is intended especially for use as disposable packaging or for samples. By suitable design of the insert (brush, sponge, dropper, stopper, etc.), the type and speed of the liquid delivery can be determined. This packaging is complicated in their production and requires two-handed operation.

From the EP 0 770 021 B1 (Fig. 16/17) (Centrix) is known a single-dose disposable multi-material dispenser comprising a flat container member and a complementary cover member, an applicator well formed in the flat container member and having an open end, and an applicator is disposed in the applicator well and of which a portion extends beyond the open end of the applicator well. In this case, a holding device is provided, which belongs to the Applikatormulde to hold the applicator in the applicator, a joint which connects the cover to the flat container element, at least two material wells, which are formed in the flat container element, a trough sealing ring, in the flat container element and surrounding each of the material wells, a complementary well seal formed in the cover member for each of the material wells, the complementary well seals engaging the corresponding blind gaskets to close off the material entering the material wells is filled.

Also, this dispensing device intended for pharmaceuticals is complicated to manufacture and cumbersome to handle, especially when two components are to be mixed, bring them with the applicator to a mixing area of the flat container and mix there.

From the DE 33 10 215 A1 (Flier) is a thin small plastic packaging for liquid substances with introduced metering known, which is characterized in that the filling substance is packaged in a edge-welded or edge-glued plastic bag, the lower wall of thick, the upper wall, however, consists of a thinner material. In this case, the thinner side of the bag is welded or glued to its welding or adhesive edge with a thicker foil strip; at the same time a cutting-profiled bar between the thinner bag side and the overlying foil strip is inserted freely, the other end is firmly connected to the continuing foil strip to train at Zugstück the film, which lies between the bag and the cut-outs, which the tear - Specify or separation point, is pulled out of the separating part and this under the pressure of the film, the thin-walled bag side slides across it sliding and creates an opening at the tear or separation point in the weld or adhesive seam between the film and bag, from which the filling contents dosed out by pressure on the bag, an opening which closes again due to the material elasticity of the film and the bag when pressure is released.

The WO 01/46037 A1 (Espe Dental) shows and describes a device for storing and dispensing a flowable substance from an upper and a lower foil, which form at least one chamber, a Ausbringbereich and the chamber and the Ausbringbereich connecting, selectively opening passage area, the films in the Peelable passage area and in the other areas are sealed together, and wherein at least in a partial region of the Ausbringbereiches by formation of waves in the upper and / or lower foil with course of the troughs along the flow direction surface enlargement is achieved. As a result, even larger amounts of substance can be targeted, easily and without spillage can be applied without further aids. In one embodiment of the device, two chambers arranged in parallel and separated by an intermediate wall are provided, which are parallel in the region of a chamber shoulder open into each other in a passage area. Each of the chambers is intended to receive a flowable substance and both chambers are separated from the dispensing area by a peelably sealed passageway. Furthermore, the peelbar sealed passageway also separates the chambers from each other. While the two chambers in the closed state of the device due to the sealed passage area have no connection with each other, a mixing of the two located in the chambers substances in the common dispensing area after opening of the passage area is possible. The weakening of the passage area to facilitate the opening is done by a rotation of the chambers in the region of the chamber shoulder against a wing in the longitudinal direction of the Ausbringbereiches. After turning back to the initial position of the passage area is weakened so that even by slight pressure on one or both of the chambers opening of the passage area and thus a connection between the respective chamber or two chambers and the dispensing area can be achieved. It is also possible, if necessary, to apply only a portion of the amount of substance in the chamber due to reduced pressure on one of the chambers. As a result, for example, the mixing ratio of the two substances to be applied can be influenced, which, however, requires a complicated handling. In particular, this device also requires a two-hand operation.

Next is from the DE 37 26 876 A1 a container for the separate storage of at least two products known which has two separate compartments and a foil that closes them. In one of the compartments, which is additionally closed by another inner foil spaced from the first foil, an annular insert is provided, which is provided with a row of teeth on its side facing the foils. To open the compartment, pressure is applied to the insert via the container wall so that the teeth of the ring sever the inner foil of the ring and seal the product in place the second compartment can be deployed. A plurality of through holes are provided in the insert so that a liquid received in the compartment can also flow through the annular insert into the second compartment where it is mixed with a base product. After removing the first film, which covers the entire container, the finished mixed product can be removed from the second container, for example. With an applicator. Even with this container, it is not possible to accurately meter the amount of liquid transferred from the first compartment to the second compartment.

The present invention has for its object to provide a device for storing and dispensing viscous substances as a functional packaging, which is easy to produce, save space and easy to use, in which even small amounts of substances safely stored, if necessary in the correct mixing ratio with each other mixed and easy - eg in the dental field - can be applied.

This object can be achieved according to the invention according to a first embodiment z. B. be solved by a device for storing and dispensing viscous substances, which are to be mixed in the application of at least two components, with a z. B. foil-like carrier, in which at least three or four z. B. in a row juxtaposed, initially upwardly open recesses are formed, so that in each case one of the components in one of two middle, ie adjacent and substantially equidistant from a bending line arranged recesses inserted from above and then the two middle Recesses with a cover so outwardly to form a respective chamber are closed, that between each middle chamber and at least one adjacent outer recess remains under pressure application to the respective middle chamber via a predetermined breaking point to at least one outer recess opening connecting channel and so in the two middle chambers located components in a third chamber and / or even in the interconnected connecting channels are miscible, which third chamber is formed by a folding up of the two interconnected via the bending line carrier sections of the at least one or the two thus coming to cover outer recesses, said after Aufeinanderfalten the two carrier sections and the third chamber to the outside - z. B. by heat sealing or gluing - is closed, preferably in such a way that between the third chamber and the edge of the carrier at a pressure application to the at least two components containing third chamber via a predetermined breaking point opening dispensing channel remains and so from the two Components mixed and emerging from the dispensing channel viscous substance can be applied to the application site.

The compact, as relatively short device according to the invention has the particular advantage that the components of the two central chambers, once they are folded on one another, both simultaneously and jointly expelled by pressure application - eg. Between the thumb and forefinger of a single hand - in the third chamber can be and thus with simple operation an extremely good mixing of the two components takes place, especially if mixing already takes place in the connecting channels.

The device according to the invention can be used for viscous substances whose individual components are likewise viscous, but need not all be. Thus, for example, viscous components can each be accommodated in the two middle chambers, and a pulverulent component can be accommodated in the third chamber, so that when mixed together a viscous substance is produced which can be expelled from the dispensing channel.

The film-like carrier may consist of a self-supporting thermoplastic deep-drawn part, while the cover film may be a relatively thin flat material, which is easily and hermetically sealed or glued to the carrier. The predetermined breaking points can be created, for example, by the fact that in their area the covering film can be more easily released from the carrier than in the edge area the connection between the covering film and the carrier.

The device according to the invention is easy to produce by introducing the corresponding components into the upwardly open central recesses of the carrier before applying the covering film to the carrier. The device according to the invention permits precise metering of the components when mixing the viscous substance, wherein the third chamber in which the components are intended to mix has such a volume or assumes that all the components to be mixed can be accommodated in it. The two middle chambers, on the other hand, only need to have such a capacity to accommodate a single component.

Another advantage of the device according to the invention is that it can be used directly as an applicator.

Obviously, several -. B. powdery and / or liquid - components, as long as they do not react with each other, are stored in one of the chambers until use. Also, a plurality of juxtaposed central chambers may be similarly linked to each other and / or to one or more third chambers.

It will be readily understood that the embodiment discussed above may be modified simply by the fact that the carrier does not consist of two carrier sections connected via a bending line, but the carrier sections In any case, initially separated and after the introduction of the components in each chamber of a support section and close with one or a common cover the two carrier sections can be placed on top of each other reversed, so that on the one hand the two filled with components first chambers and, if each support section another Well, the two other empty wells, which then form the mixing chamber are brought to coincide. If only one of the carrier sections has a further depression, this forms the mixing chamber when the carrier sections are placed one on top of the other.

In the last-mentioned embodiment, the covering films with which the two compartments filled with components can be closed by forming a chamber, can be formed as a single film, with which the two initially separate support sections are connected to one another and which then forms a kind of hinge joint over which the two carrier sections can be folded on each other.

In all the aforementioned embodiments, in the folded, stacked or mutually folded position, the two covering films or, when formed in one piece, foil sections which close the two first chambers, lie directly against each other.

In all of the aforementioned embodiments, it is also advantageous if the two first chambers are substantially congruent with each other after folding, stacking or folding the two support sections, as well as possibly the two wells, which together form a mixing chamber to a high operability to back up. At least the one deepening should completely cover the opposite one.

It is also advantageous if the predetermined breaking points after opening allow the respective components only in one direction of the Ausbringkanals. In this way, a backflow of the individual components is reliably prevented.

While the depressions formed in the carrier are normally karlottenförmig, the emptying of the components in the direction of the mixing chamber when pressure application and in particular the complete emptying of the storage chambers can be facilitated and the backflow of the components or their mixture can be prevented if in at least one of, preferably two of the mating recesses in which one of the components is inserted and stored, or the components are mixed, an inlay of substantially unyielding material with a plane or oblique surface is or are arranged.

The intermediate space between two associated inserts can advantageously be conical in the initial position, wherein the greater distance of the surfaces of the deposits is in each case on the side of the connecting channel to the mixing chamber and the Ausbringkanals to the edge of the carrier. After complete compression of the associated first chambers (storage chambers) and the third chamber (mixing chamber), the surfaces of the deposits are then substantially parallel to each other, so that a complete squeezing of the substances present in the respective chamber is ensured.

If the deposits, arranged in particular in the mixing chamber, can be successively fed to one another, a very precise dosing is possible when the mixture is applied to the application site.

Since all equipped with such deposits chambers allow accurate dosing, this inventive concept is alone suitable for the application of one-component systems.

The mixture of the individual components can be improved in a common connecting channel and / or the common dispensing channel by providing a mixing device for mixing the components flowing through it during and due to their conveyance in the respective channels themselves. Such a mixing device can be, for example, a static mixer, an inserted mixer helix, a Kennex mixer or a labyrinth mixer.

Thus, the viscous substance can be applied in a simple manner to the application point after mixing the individual components, it is also proposed that the discharge channel to its outlet end tapering like a canula or funnel-like and / or the mixture of the components receiving chamber as a vial Applicator is designed to achieve a high dosing accuracy and order security.

It is further advantageous if the walls of the vial-like applicator are at least partially elastically yielding. As a result, a kind of pumping effect can be achieved in order to ensure high dosing accuracy.

The problem underlying the invention can be solved, for example, by a device for storing and dispensing viscous substances according to a further embodiment, the z. B. foil-like carrier, in which at least one unilaterally open recess is formed, so that at least one substance in the at least one recess insertable and then with a cover so outward to form at least a chamber is closable, that remains under application of pressure to at least one of the chambers via a predetermined breaking point dispensing channel and thus emerging from the dispensing passage viscous substance can be applied to an application site, wherein in the chamber an insert of substantially rigid, unyielding material and / or the at least one depression opposite a layer of substantially rigid, unyielding material is arranged. In this case, the insert may have a flat, stepped, curved or inclined surface for dispensing the viscous substance. The emptying of a substance from the normally dome-shaped depression can be facilitated by the provision of the insert or the stiff layer, at the same time the backflow of the substance is prevented. Upon compression of the recess between two fingers, this bulges locally, wherein the surface of the insert of the cover is approximated. The use of an insert in the recess thus ensures that the chamber can be completely emptied by pressurizing the insert disposed in the recess. The alternatively provided in addition to the liner rigid layer serves as an abutment for the pressure applied to the depression and thus also facilitates the emptying of the chamber.

Preferably, the insert is secured in the chamber, for example, glued to this, that the surface of the insert, ie the side facing the cover, forms an acute angle with this. For this purpose, the insert can have an inclined surface or be arranged obliquely within the depression. The greater distance of the surface of the insert to the cover sheet lies on the side of the discharge channel, so that for emptying the chamber, the surface of the insert must be brought into a substantially parallel alignment with the cover film. At the same time, it is ensured that the insert does not hinder the dispensing of the substance, for example by blocking the dispensing channel.

A very accurate dosing when applying the substance to the point of use is made possible by the fact that the surface of the insert has one or more stages which extend transversely to the direction of the Ausbringkanals. The surface of the insert is thereby deliverable stepwise in the direction of the cover. By suitable choice of the step size can be adjusted in this way, the discharged in each individual Ausbringschritt from the chamber amount of the substance. Thus, a constant dosage amount of the substance with each stage can be achieved by decreasing the length of the stages in dependence on their distance from the cover film.

In the same way, the insert can be defined gradually approached to the cover when the insert has a locking rod. Such a locking rod may, for example, be a rod with locking elements about which the insert is pivotable in defined steps. However, the locking bar may also be formed as protruding from the surface of a first insert pin with locking elements on its circumference, which engages in a corresponding recess of an example. The first insert opposite second insert to approach the two deposits gradually. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide projections and recesses in opposing inserts, which engage with one another or engage in one another when approaching the two inserts.

In order to store a larger amount of a single substance or several different substances in the device according to the invention, a plurality of depressions for forming chambers can be provided next to one another or behind one another in the carrier. The chambers can either be interconnected via interconnecting channels, each having a predetermined breaking point opening under pressure to the respective chamber. In the same way, the individual chambers can over one or a plurality of connecting channels to be connected to a common discharge channel. Furthermore, it is also possible to discharge the substances at the same time or in succession through discharge channels parallel to one another. The chambers are thus arranged either for the parallel (simultaneous) or serial (staggered) discharge of substances. In the case of the serial arrangement of two chambers, each chamber is preferably sealed by a covering film, so that when a first substance is dispensed, it does not mix with a second substance accommodated in the second chamber. In principle, individual or all chambers can be sealed by a common covering film or separate sections of a covering film. If only a few chambers are sealed with a cover, the remaining chambers can be closed by sealing this cover sheet on the unclosed chambers or folded over.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that recesses associated with one another are folded over one another in such a way that the covering foils covering the chambers or the depressions in the carrier essentially lie on one another. Also, the channels for discharging the substances from the chambers are possibly after the folding of the chambers one above the other and can open into a common mixer or dispensing channel. In this way, the chambers formed by the mutually associated recesses can be emptied simultaneously by the chambers are pressed against each other. Thus, by a single pressure on the two chambers of the device according to the invention either a larger amount of a single substance can be discharged or different substances are simultaneously discharged from the device.

If the cover, which closes the chambers, is formed of a rigid material, the pressure is at two folded chambers Applying a substance from one chamber is not transferred to the other chamber. By acting as an abutment rigid material, the chambers open almost simultaneously, if, for example. By thumb and forefinger pressure is applied to them. The same effect can also be achieved by inserting a rigid plate between two optionally elastic covering foils, which is supported on the carrier. It is not absolutely necessary that an insert is provided in one or both chambers.

It is preferred if, independently of the features described above, an optionally attachable and / or insertable mixing device or an applicator for dispensing and applying the substances is provided in or on the dispensing channel. On the one hand, such a mixing device can bring about uniform mixing of two different substances received in the device or else serve to achieve a desired consistency of a single substance.

In a further development of the inventive concept is provided, the mixing device or the applicator with an attachable to the dispensing channel, z. B. tubular portion to be provided in the inside of which two opposing radial grooves are introduced. The dimensions of the grooves correspond to those of the wearer. In this way, for example, the regions of the carrier folded onto one another can be introduced jointly into the grooves of the mixing device and thus preferably held together in an interference fit. The mixing device is thereby substantially liquid-tight with the device for storing and dispensing viscous substances connectable.

A particularly good mixing result can be achieved if the mixing device has a mixer helix. Such a mixing device is also inexpensive to produce in series. Alternatively, the mixed helix or a Applicator, such as a brush, a Aufbringröhrchen or the like. Be provided directly in the dispensing channel.

A production-technically simple solution for the device according to the invention is achieved in particular when the carrier and the cover film are strip-shaped, wherein the carrier is preferably formed from a possibly thermoplastic material and the cover of an aluminum composite film.

In this case, a plurality of carriers and / or cover films can be detached in a chain, z. B. due to weakening lines and / or perforations, be interconnected, such as film-like joints, so that several individually juxtaposed bearing and dispensing devices of the invention space-saving, z. B. can be wound into a roll or folded in meanders.

Other objects, features, advantages and applications of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing. All described and / or illustrated features alone or in any combination form the subject matter of the invention, regardless of their summary in individual claims or their dependency.

Fig. 1

im vertikalen Längsschnitt eine die Erfindung aufweisende Lager- und Ausbringvorrichtung gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform der Erfindung,

Fig. 2

im vertikalen Längsschnitt die Lager- und Ausbringvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 1 nach dem Aufeinanderfalten der beiden an eine mittlere Biegelinie angrenzenden Trägerabschnitte,

Fig. 3

ebenfalls in einem vertikalen Längsschnitt eine zweite Ausgestaltung einer erfindungsgemäßen Lager- und Ausbringvorrichtung, bei welcher die Misch- und Ausbringkammer als phiolenartiger Applikator mit elastisch nachgiebigen Wandungen ausgebildet ist,

Fig. 4

eine Vorrichtung nach einer dritten Ausführungsform der Erfindung mit einer einzelnen Kammer,

Fig. 5

eine Vorrichtung nach einer vierten Ausführungsform der Erfindung mit zwei Kammern,

Fig. 6

eine Vorrichtung nach einer fünften Ausführungsform der Erfindung mit zwei Kammern und einer Mischeinrichtung,

Fig. 7

eine Vorrichtung nach einer sechsten Ausführungsform der Erfindung mit zwei Kammern und einer Mischeinrichtung,

Fig. 8

eine Mischeinrichtung gesehen in Richtung des Pfeils V in Fig. 7,

Fig. 9

eine Vorrichtung nach einer siebten Ausführungsform der Erfindung mit vier Kammern und einem Applikator,

Fig. 10

eine Seitenansicht der Vorrichtung nach Fig. 9,

Fig. 11

eine Vorrichtung nach einer achten Ausführungsform der Erfindung mit zwei Kammern,

Fig. 12

eine Vorrichtung nach einer neunten Ausführungsform der Erfindung mit zwei Kammern und

Fig. 13

eine Vorrichtung nach einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung mit vier Kammern.

They show schematically:

Fig. 1

in vertical longitudinal section of a bearing and dispensing device according to the invention according to a first embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 2

in vertical longitudinal section of the storage and dispensing device according to Fig. 1 after folding the two adjacent to a middle bending line carrier sections,

Fig. 3

likewise in a vertical longitudinal section, a second embodiment of a storage and dispensing device according to the invention, in which the mixing and dispensing chamber is designed as a vial-like applicator with elastically yielding walls,

Fig. 4

a device according to a third embodiment of the invention with a single chamber,

Fig. 5

a device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention with two chambers,

Fig. 6

a device according to a fifth embodiment of the invention with two chambers and a mixing device,

Fig. 7

a device according to a sixth embodiment of the invention with two chambers and a mixing device,

Fig. 8

a mixer seen in the direction of the arrow V in Fig. 7 .

Fig. 9

a device according to a seventh embodiment of the invention with four chambers and an applicator,

Fig. 10

a side view of the device according to Fig. 9 .

Fig. 11

a device according to an eighth embodiment of the invention with two chambers,

Fig. 12

a device according to a ninth embodiment of the invention with two chambers and

Fig. 13

a device according to another embodiment of the invention with four chambers.

In the in the Fig. 1 and 2 illustrated embodiment of a storage and dispensing device 1, a carrier 2 has initially four in series and mirror-symmetrically arranged to a bending line 7 wells 3a, 3b; 4a, 4b. In the production of the storage and dispensing device 1, the components to be mixed with each other are introduced into the two central recesses 3a, 3b. Also, only these central recesses 3a, 3b are closed with a film 5 to form two central chambers 3a ', 3b'. The closing takes place in such a way that in each case a connecting channel half 8 'remains free by engaging a predetermined breaking point 14 or 15 to the adjacent recesses 4a, 4b.

Between the two middle chambers 3a ', 3b', the strip-like carrier 2 has the already mentioned transverse to the longitudinal extent of the carrier 2 extending bending line 7. About this, the in Fig. 1 Right support section 2b on the in Fig. 1 left support portion 2a can be folded so that it assumes a position as shown in FIG Fig. 2 is shown, in which the two halves of the two recesses 3a, 3b common cover 5 lie on each other. The chambers 3a ', 3b' on the one hand and the depressions 4a, 4b are not only arranged at equal distances from the bending line 7, but also designed and dimensioned according to Fig. 2 almost completely coincide or at least one depression completely covers the other. In the folding up, a third arises from the depressions 4a, 4b Chamber 4 '. In the in Fig. 2 shown position, the two support portions 2a, 2b at their edges or the halves of the cover 5 then connected to each other, for. B. glued or welded, that the two channel halves 8 'form a common channel 8 and on the opposite side of the chamber 4' an outlet channel 9 connects, which leads to the outside, but is initially closed by a predetermined breaking point 10. Otherwise, the chambers 3a, 3b ', 4' are hermetically sealed.

In the described device between the thumb and forefinger of one hand pressure on the two superimposed chambers 3a 'and 3b' are exercised so that at the same time the components contained therein on the opening predetermined breaking points 14, 15 and the channel 8 with mixing in the Chamber 4 'are transferred.

Obviously, instead of the predetermined breaking points 14, 15 or in addition to these in the common channel 8, a further (not shown) predetermined breaking point can be provided, which opens upon exertion of pressure on the two chambers 3a ', 3b'.

Both in the connecting channel 8 and in the discharge channel 9 may additionally be provided a mixing device. The size of the chamber 4 'is sized or expandable to accommodate all components from the chambers 3a' and 3b '. If all the components are in the chamber 4 ', pressure can be applied to them in the same manner as described above, between the thumb and forefinger of one hand, so that the predetermined breaking point 10 opens and the finished viscous substance from the dispensing channel 9 opens immediately the application site can be expelled.

In order to achieve that the components in the chambers 3a ', 3b' are transferred as completely as possible into the chamber 4 ', in the depressions 3a and 3b as shown in FIG Fig. 2 Inserts 6 arranged with conically extending planar surfaces so that the space between the surfaces to the channel 8 expands. The surfaces pivot at the common pressure on the chambers 3a ', 3b' towards each other, so that they finally abut against the respective side of the likewise folded over film 5.

In Fig. 1 is indicated at the recess 4b by dashed line that this depression can also be omitted. Then the depression 4a forms the mixing chamber 4 'when the carrier sections 2a, 2b are folded on one another.

In the Fig. 3 illustrated embodiment corresponds largely to those in the Fig. 1 and 2 is shown. One difference, however, is that on the one hand the dispensing channel 9 tapers towards its outlet end as a cannula-like applicator 4 "and that a mixing device 13 in the form of a chicane is shown within the dispensing channel 9. The chamber 4 'in which inserts 6 correspond FIG. 2 can be arranged, thereby forming a kind of vial, by means of which a precisely metered application of the multicomponent mixture is possible. The walls of the applicator 4 "may consist of elastically yielding material, so that a pumping effect can be achieved.

Of course, it is also possible to apply the multicomponent mixture to the application site with the aid of a dispensing channel 9, or an applicator channel following it, eg a brush-like applicator. In this case, for hygienic reasons, the applicator should be welded in a foil or enclosed by a cap. Only when using the inventive Device is then torn open this protective cover, for example. Via a perforation.

In the Fig. 4 in a vertical longitudinal section schematically illustrated device 101 for storing and dispensing a viscous substance not shown in the figures is formed from a first foil-like carrier 102 having a recess 103 which is open at the top in the figure. A cover film 104 is applied to the carrier 102 in a liquid-tight manner, so that the depression 103 in the carrier 102 forms a closed chamber 105 with the cover film 104.

In the recess 103 of the carrier 102, an insert 106 is attached from a substantially unyielding material, for example. By gluing. The flat surface of the insert 106 is aligned obliquely to the cover 104 and forms an acute angle with this.

The hermetic connection between the cover film 104 and the carrier 102 takes place, for example, by welding and gluing in the edge region of the carrier and the film, as indicated by reference numeral 107. On the right side in the figure, the connection area between the cover film 104 and the carrier 102 is provided with a predetermined breaking point 108 that this opens under increased internal pressure in the chamber 105 and a discharge channel 109 between the carrier and the cover releases. This can be z. B. in the described device 101 in such a way that the recess 103 of the carrier 102 and the recess 103 opposite region of the cover 104 between the thumb and forefinger of one hand are pressed against each other, so that the insert 106 is pressed against the cover 104 , As a result, the pressure of the viscous substance contained in the chamber 105 increases such that the predetermined breaking point 108 can pierce and the substance can escape from the dispensing channel 109. The insert 106 causes the substance contained in the chamber 105 as completely as possible is discharged through the discharge channel 109, wherein the liner 106 pivots during the emptying of the chamber 105 in a position in which its surface is aligned substantially parallel to the cover 104.

At the in Fig. 5 schematically illustrated in vertical longitudinal section device 101, two recesses 103a and 103b of different sizes are formed in the carrier 102, which together with the cover 104, which closes both recesses 103a and 103b, a first chamber 105a and a second chamber 105b form. The cover film 104 is hermetically connected to the carrier 102 by a seal 107, wherein a predetermined breaking point 108 is provided in the connection region between the cover film 104 and the carrier 102 in the region of the dispensing channel 109. The two chambers 105a and 105b communicate with each other via a connection channel 110 formed between the cover film 104 and the carrier 102. The connecting channel 110 can also be closed with a predetermined breaking point 108, which can be broken by applying pressure to the substances contained in the chambers 105a and 105b, not shown in the figure.

In the right-hand chamber 105b in the figure, an insert 106 'is arranged, which is provided with steps 111a and 111b such that the otherwise flat surface of the insert 106' extends at different angles to the cover film 104. In the recess 103 a, which forms the chamber 105 a, an insert 106 is introduced, the flat surface of which extends substantially parallel to the cover film 104. A substance contained in the chamber 105a, which may be different or equal to the substance contained in the chamber 105b, can be transferred into the chamber 105b in the manner described above, for example by pressing on the forefinger and thumb of one hand Recess 103a and the recess 103a opposite portion of the cover 104 is applied. For dispensing substances from the chamber 105b, pressure is exerted in the same way on the depression 103b and the region of the cover film 104 opposite the depression 103b. In this case, the insert 106 'is initially only so far pivoted against the cover film 104 until the first stage 111 a is applied to the cover 104. In this way, a predeterminable depending on the design of the stages amount of the substance contained in the chamber 105b can be discharged. Upon further compression of the depression 103b against the covering film 104, the insert 106 'pivots further in the direction of the covering film 104, until initially the second step 111b and then also the region of the insert 106' which lies on the right in the figure lies against the covering film 104 and the chamber 105b is thus largely emptied. The substances mixed with one another are discharged together from the device 101 via the dispensing channel 109, with the predetermined breaking point 108 being broken.

Also at the in Fig. 6 In the illustrated embodiment, two recesses 103a and 103b of substantially the same size and shape are provided in the sheet-like carrier 102. At a weakened bending line 112, for example, two regions 102a and 102b of the carrier 102 can be folded on one another in such a way that the depressions 103a and 103b are substantially opposite one another. One or both of the recesses 103a and 103b can thereby be closed by preferably two covering films or two sections of a common covering film folded over one another or, as shown in the figure, by a single, common covering film 104, in order to accommodate two mutually opposite chambers 105a and 105b form. On the right side of the device 101 in the figure, the two regions 102a and 102b form therebetween a dispensing channel 109, which is closed by a predetermined breaking point 108. In the recesses 103a and 103b, inserts 106 are respectively arranged such that their surfaces form an acute angle to each other and to the cover film 104. The surfaces of the inserts 106 thereby move away from each other in the direction of the discharge channel 109. To this In the same way, the substances contained in the chambers 105a and 105b can be simultaneously discharged from the device 101 through the dispensing passage 109 when pressure is applied to the two opposing depressions 103a and 103b in the carrier 102. In order to achieve a thorough mixing of, for example, different substances of the chambers 105a and 105b, a mixing device 113 with an inner mixing helix 113a is attached to the dispensing channel 109. The mixing device serves at the same time as an applicator for applying the substance (s). Alternatively, the mixed helix can also be inserted into any applicator deviating from the figure or directly into the dispensing channel 109.

Fig. 7 Figure 3 shows schematically in vertical longitudinal section another embodiment of the device 101 for storing and dispensing viscous substances, in which two recesses 103a and 103b of substantially equal size and shape are formed in the carrier 102. Along a crease line 112, two support sections 102a and 102b are folded towards each other. The depressions 103a and 103b are hermetically sealed by a seal 107 via a respective cover film 104a or 4b, so that two chambers 105a and 105b form in the depressions 103a and 103b. Between the covering foils 104a and 104b and the carrier 102, a dispensing passage 109 extending from the chambers 105a or 105b in the direction of the bending line 112 is formed, which is closed by predetermined breaking points 108. The cover foils 104a and 104b abut one another in the region of the bending line 112 such that the two discharge passages of the chambers 105a and 105b are continued to the left between the cover foils 104a and 104b in the figure. On the discharge channel 109 and the cover sheets 104a and 104b, a mixing device 113 (applicator) with a Mischhelix 113a is inserted or plugged.

Now, the support portions 102a and 102b are further pivoted toward each other, so that the recesses 103a and 103b, in each of which a deposit 106, abut one another, the predetermined breaking points 108 in the discharge channel 109 are pierced by the pressure building up in the chambers 105a and 105b, so that the substances contained in the chambers 105a and 105b, respectively, through the discharge channel 109 and the mixing device 113 from the Device 101 are discharged. In the mixing helix 113a of the mixing device 113, the substances discharged from the chambers 105a and 105b, respectively, which may be identical or different, are mixed together.

The mixing device 113 is, as shown schematically in the enlarged sectional view of Fig. 8 represented, formed of a cylindrical body with a central through-hole 113b, in which also the Mischhelix 113a is received. Further, in the mixing device 113, two opposed radial grooves 114 are provided, which extend from the edge of the bore 113b to near the outer wall of the mixing device. The dimensions of the grooves 114 and the throughbore 113b are selected so that in each case two superimposed portions of the carrier 102 or the cover 104 can be received in each of the grooves, while the discharge channel 109 is preferably held sealingly in the through hole 113b. In this way, it is avoided that the substances discharged from the chambers 105a or 105b flow out at the end of the mixing device 113 facing the bend line 112. Rather, the entire volume of the discharged from the two chambers substances via the discharge channel 109 is fed directly to the mixing helix 113 a and mixed with each other at the tip of the mixing device 113 facing away from the bending line 112.

The configuration and arrangement of the inserts 106 or 106 'in the depressions 103, 103a or 103b of the device 101 can be adapted as a function of the requirements for the application of the substances contained in the chambers 105, 105a or 105b. So it is, for example, possible, all deposits 106 with their surface obliquely or parallel to the cover 104 to align. Furthermore, one or more steps 111 may also be provided in the insert 106 'in order to dispense defined quantities of the viscous substances out of the chambers.

For applying the substances to a point of application, as in the FIGS. 9 and 10 shown, in the discharge channel 109 or arranged following this, a z. B. brush-type applicator 115 may be provided. For hygienic reasons, the applicator is welded in a foil or enclosed by a cap 116 which is separable from the carrier 102 along a perforation 117. Only when using the device according to the invention then serving as a protective cover cap 116 is opened or closed, so that the exiting the Ausbringkanal 109 substance with the applicator 115, for example, can be applied to a tooth. As in the FIGS. 9 and 10 As shown, the support portions 102a and 102b may be folded along the lines of weakness 118 such that the recesses 103a and 103b rest on the recesses 103c and 103d, respectively. In this case, between the recesses 103b and 103d two in Fig. 9 Roughened hatched illustrated cover sheets 104 arranged 104, while the recesses 103 a and 103 c form a common chamber.

Another embodiment of the inserts 106 is shown in FIG FIG. 11 shown schematically. In two mutually opposite chambers 105a, 105b cooperating inserts 106a, 106b are provided, one of which is provided with a locking bar 119 with locking elements 119a and the other with a corresponding bore 120. If the inserts 106a, 106b are pressed against each other, a resistance is to be felt or a noise is heard when engaging the locking elements 119a in the bore 120, so that the user recognizes that a defined amount of the substance has been discharged. In this way, a dosage of even very small amounts of substance to be delivered is possible, as is required, for example, in the case of dental bleaching material.

Alternatively to the in FIG. 11 shown formation of the deposits can this, as in FIG. 12 also be provided with a plurality of projections 119 'and corresponding recesses 120' to facilitate the dosing of the substance to be discharged. Also in this embodiment, upon engagement of the projections 119 'in the recesses 120', a resistance is felt or a sound is heard, so that the user recognizes that a defined amount of the substance has been discharged. The projections 119 'in the recesses 120' are preferably arranged to each other such that between the engagement of two adjacent projections 119 'in the wells 120', the same volume is discharged.

The chambers 105a and 105b may be used in the embodiments according to FIGS 11 or 12 be separated from each other by one or more cover sheets, not shown. These cover sheets are pierced by the locking bar 119 and the projections 19 'when the inserts 106a, 106b are pressed against each other.

In Fig. 13 a further embodiment is shown, which has four recesses 103a to 103d and correspondingly four chambers 105a to 105d in two carrier sections folded along the bending line 112. The chambers are closed by cover films 104a and 104b, which are each sealed by a peripheral seal 107 with predetermined breaking points 108 relative to the support sections. If in the chambers 105b and 105d z. B. viscous substances are added, they can be introduced by pressure in the serving as a mixing chamber chamber 105 a. In this case, the predetermined breaking points 108 of the seal 107 are severed, so that a connecting channel 110 is formed between the chambers 105a, 105b and 105d. On the in the Figure lower side of the cover 104b is provided in the seal 107 no predetermined breaking point, so that the chamber 105c remains sealed against the connecting channel 110.

In the chamber 105a, a mixing ball 121 is provided, with which the substances can be mixed by shaking. In order to be able to discharge the substances mixed together completely out of the chamber 105a through the dispensing channel 109, the chamber 105c opposite this chamber 105a is designed such that the mixing ball 121 can be pressed into the chamber 105c by the covering film. Alternatively to the in Fig. 13 This embodiment of the chamber 105c shown may also be substantially the size of the remaining chambers 105a, 105b and 105d and be provided with an insert, in which the mixing ball 121 can be accommodated when the chamber 105a is to be emptied. In the chamber 105a, a plurality of mixing balls 121 may be provided. The chamber 105c or an inlay arranged in this case is then preferably designed to receive a plurality of balls.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Storage and discharge device

2

carrier

2a, 2b

support sections

2c

Edge of the carrier 2

3a, 3b

wells

3a ', 3b'

Chambers (storage chambers)

4 '

Chamber (storage and / or mixing chamber)

4 '

vial-like applicator

4a, 4b

wells

5

cover

6

insoles

7

elastic line

8, 8a, 8b

connecting channels

8c

partition

8th'

channel halves

9

dispensing channel

9 '

channel halves

10

Breaking point

13

mixing device

14

Breaking point

15

Breaking point

101

Storage and discharge device

102

carrier

102a, 102b

support sections

103, 103a-103d

wells

104, 104a, 104b

cover

105, 105a-105d

chamber

106, 106 ', 106a, 106b

inlay

107

sealing

108

Breaking point

109

dispensing channel

110

connecting channel

111

step

112

fold line

113

mixing device

113a

mixing helix

113b

Through Hole

114

groove

115

applicator

116

cap

117

perforation

118

weakening line

119, 119 '

Locking bar (projection)

119a

locking element

120, 120 '

Bore (depression)

121

mixing ball

Claims (15)

Apparatus for storing and dispensing viscous substances to be mixed in use of at least two components, comprising a carrier (2, 102) in which at least three or four recesses (3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 103a , 103b, 103c, 103d), so that in each case one of the components is arranged in one of two middle recesses (3a, 3b, 103b, 103d), which are arranged adjacent to one another and substantially equidistant from a bending line (7; insertable from above and thereafter the two central recesses (3a, 3b; 103b, 103d) with a cover (5, 104, 104a, 104b) outwardly to form a respective chamber (3a ', 3b', 105a, 105b, 105c 105d), that between each middle chamber (3a ', 3b'; 105b, 105d) and at least one adjacent outer depression (4a, 4b; 103a, 103c) is pressurized to the respective middle chamber (3a ', 3b ', 105b, 105d) via a predetermined breaking point (14a, 14b, 108) to w at least one outer recess (4a, 4b; 103a, 103c), and thus the components located in the two central chambers (3a ', 3b', 105b, 105d) remain in a third chamber (4 ', 105a) and / or already in FIG The third chamber (4 ', 105a) can be mixed by folding the two support sections (2a, 2b, 102a, 102b) connected to one another via the bending line (7; at least one or two characterized reversed coming to cover the outer recesses (4a, 4b; 103a, 103c) is formed, wherein after Successive folds of the two carrier sections (2a, 2b; 102a, 102b) and the third chamber (4 '; 105a) can be closed to the outside. Apparatus for storing and dispensing viscous substances to be mixed in the application of at least two components, with two support sections (2a, 2b), of which at least two initially upwardly open recesses (3a, 3b, 4a, 4b) and the another at least one upwardly open recess (3a, 3b), so that in each case one of the components in each one recess (3a, 3b) of the two support sections (2a, 3b) inserted from above and then the components containing recesses (3a, 3b ) with one or a common covering film (5) in such a way to the outside, each forming a first chamber (3a ', 3b') are closable, that between each of the first chamber (3a ', 3b') and the respective adjacent further recess ( 4a, 4b) remains under pressure application to the respective first chamber (3a ', 3b') via a predetermined breaking point (14a, 14b) opening connecting channel (8a, 8b) remains and so in the two first chambers (3a ', 3b' ) located K Components in a third chamber (4 ') and / or already in the interconnected connection channels (8a, 8b) are miscible, which third chamber (4') by stacking the two support sections (2a, 2b) with their tops and at least one or both of the two further recesses (4a, 4b) coming in the opposite direction to cover thereby is formed, wherein after the stacking or unfolding of the two carrier sections (2a, 2b) the third chamber (4 ') can also be closed on the outside. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the two first chambers (3a ', 3b'; 105b, 105d) are substantially congruent to one another after the two carrier sections (2a, 2b; 102a, 102b) are folded on one another or placed one on top of the other. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the predetermined breaking points (14; 14a, 14b; 108) after their opening allow the delivery of the respective components only in the direction of the discharge channel (9; 109). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in at least one of, preferably two of the mutually associated recesses (3; 3a, 3b; 4, 4a, 4b; 103a, 103b, 103c, 103d) into which one of the components or inserting the component mixture receiving chamber (4 ', 105a), a liner (6) or liners (6, 106, 106', 106a, 106b) of substantially unyielding material having a flat or oblique surface is or are. Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the inserts (6; 106, 106 ', 106a, 106b) arranged in mutually associated depressions (3; 3a, 3b; 4a, 4b; 103a, 103b, 103c, 103d) have their planes Surfaces parallel or conical to each other. Device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the inserts (6; 106, 106 ', 106a, 106b) arranged in mutually associated recesses (3; 3a, 3b; 4a, 4b; 103a, 103b, 103c, 103d) have Their surfaces are gradually adjustable towards each other. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a mixing device (13; 113a) is provided in the connecting channel (8; 8a, 8b; 110) and / or the dispensing channel (9; 109) for the substances flowing therethrough. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispensing channel (9; 109) is tapered like a cannula towards its outlet end and / or the chamber of the components receiving chamber (4 ') vial-like as applicator (4 ") is formed. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the walls of the vial-like applicator (4 ") are formed at least partially elastically yielding. Device, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, for storing and dispensing viscous substances with a carrier (102) in which at least two unilaterally open recess (103, 103a, 103b, 103c, 103d) are formed, so that at least one substance in the Recesses (103, 103a, 103b, 103c, 103d) insertable and then with a cover (104) outwardly to form chambers (105, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d) is closed, that under pressure application to at least one the chambers (105, 105a, 105b, 10c, 105d) via a predetermined breaking point (108) opening Ausbringkanal (109) remains and so from the discharge channel (109) passing viscous substance can be applied to an application site, characterized in that in or on the delivery channel (109) is provided a mixing device (113) for the substances flowing therethrough. Device according to Claim 11, characterized in that the mixing device (113) has a tubular region (113b) which can be pushed onto the dispensing channel (109), in the inside of which two radial grooves (114) which are opposite to one another are inserted whose dimensions correspond to those of the carrier ( 102) and / or the cover film (104, 104a, 104b) are adapted. Apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the mixing device (113) has a mixer helix (113a). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier (2; 102) or the carrier sections (2a, 2b; 102a, 102b) are strip-shaped. Arrangement of devices for storing and dispensing viscous substances according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of carriers (2; 102) or carrier sections (2a, 2b; 102a, 210b) and / or covering films (5; 104, 104a, 104b ) chain-like and detachable, z. B. due to weakening lines and / or perforations, are connected to each other, about film-like joints.

Images