Connecting and container system

Abstract

A connecting system for providing a fluidic connection, preferably between containers, wherein the connecting system has at least two connecting arrangements configured to provide the fluidic connection, namely a first connecting arrangement and a second connecting arrangement, each of which is fluidically sealed in an initial state, wherein the first connecting arrangement has, in particular, an opening region that is deformable outside the opening region and is configured such that deformation causes the first connecting arrangement to open in the opening region.

Claims

1. A connecting arrangement comprising: a first connecting arrangement and a second connecting arrangement for providing a fluidic connection between containers, wherein the first connecting arrangement comprises a closure device which, in an initial state, is sealingly held on a holding portion of the first connecting arrangement by a frangible point or line, wherein the holding portion is deformable and is movable relative to the closure device by deformation of the holding portion, wherein the frangible point or line is adapted to tear when the holding portion deforms and the first connecting arrangement is openable by tearing the frangible point or line, wherein the holding portion has a piercing or cutting edge, and wherein the frangible point, or line or an area defined by the frangible point or line, is inclined relative to a central axis of the first connecting arrangement.

2. The connecting system according to claim 1, wherein the second connecting arrangement is adapted to deform the first connecting arrangement.

3. The connecting system according to claim 1, wherein the piercing or cutting edge is configured to open the second connecting arrangement as a result of an opening region of the second connecting arrangement being perforated or pierced by means of the piercing or cutting edge.

4. The connecting system according to claim 1, wherein the holding portion comprises a frame, wherein the cutting edge is attached to the frame or is formed in one piece with the frame.

5. The connecting system according to claim 4, wherein the closure device is inclined relative to the frame in an initial state.

6. The connecting system according to claim 1, wherein the closure device is held by means of the frangible point or line in such a way that the closure device is inclined during deformation of the holding portion.

7. The connecting system according to claim 1, wherein the holding portion is configured in the shape of a neck or collar.

8. The connecting system according to claim 1, wherein the holding portion is tubular with a flexibly deformable wall.

9. A connecting arrangement for providing a fluidic connection between containers, comprising: a first connecting arrangement having a holding portion, a closure device which, in an initial state, is sealingly held on the holding portion of the first connecting arrangement by means of a frangible point or line, wherein the holding portion is deformable and is movable relative to the closure device by deformation of the holding portion, wherein the frangible point or line is adapted to tear when the holding portion deforms, wherein the first connecting arrangement is openable by tearing of the frangible point or line, wherein the closure device comprises a reinforcement, and wherein the frangible point or line or an area defined by the frangible point or line is inclined relative to a central axis of the first connecting arrangement.

10. The connecting system according to claim 9, further comprising a second connecting arrangement that is adapted to deform the first connecting arrangement.

11. The connecting arrangement according to claim 9, wherein the reinforcement is formed by one or more ribs or an added thickness of material that provides mechanical stability.

12. The connecting arrangement according to 9, wherein the reinforcement has a ramp shape starting from the frangible point or line provided at an edge of the closure device.

13. The connecting system according to claim 9, wherein the holding portion comprises a frame, and wherein the closure device is inclined relative to the frame in an initial state.

14. The connecting system according to claim 9, wherein the holding portion is configured in the shape of a neck or collar.

15. The connecting system according to claim 9, wherein the holding portion is tubular with a flexibly deformable wall.

16. A connecting arrangement comprising: a first connecting arrangement and a second connecting arrangement for providing a fluidic connection between containers, wherein the first connecting arrangement comprises a closure device which, in an initial state, is sealingly held on a holding portion of the first connecting arrangement by a frangible point or line, wherein the holding portion is deformable and is movable relative to the closure device by deformation of the holding portion, wherein the frangible point or line is adapted to tear when the holding portion deforms and the first connecting arrangement is openable by tearing the frangible point or line, and wherein the holding portion has a piercing or cutting edge, and wherein the holding portion is not circular perpendicular to a central axis, so that as a result of the insertion of the holding portion into a deforming device of at least a complementary shape and subsequent rotation of the holding portion relative to the deforming device about the central axis deformation of the holding portion occurs.

17. The connecting system according to claim 16, wherein the second connecting arrangement is adapted to deform the first connecting arrangement.

18. The connecting system according to claim 16, wherein the piercing or cutting edge is configured to open the second connecting arrangement as a result of an opening region of the second connecting arrangement being perforated or pierced by means of the piercing or cutting edge.

19. The connecting system according to claim 16, wherein the holding portion is configured in the shape of a neck or collar.

20. A connecting arrangement for providing a fluidic connection between containers, comprising: a first connecting arrangement having a holding portion, a closure device which, in an initial state, is sealingly held on the holding portion of the first connecting arrangement by means of a frangible point or line, wherein the holding portion is deformable and is movable relative to the closure device by deformation of the holding portion, wherein the frangible point or line is adapted to tear when the holding portion deforms, wherein the first connecting arrangement is openable by tearing of the frangible point or line, wherein the closure device comprises a reinforcement, and wherein the closure device is held by means of the frangible point or line in such a way that the closure device is inclined during deformation of the holding portion.

21. The connecting arrangement according to claim 20, wherein the reinforcement is formed by one or more ribs or an added thickness of material that provides mechanical stability.

22. The connecting system according to claim 20, wherein the holding portion is configured in the shape of a neck or collar.

23. A connecting arrangement for providing a fluidic connection between containers, comprising: a first connecting arrangement having a holding portion, a closure device which, in an initial state, is sealingly held on the holding portion of the first connecting arrangement by means of a frangible point or line, wherein the holding portion is deformable and is movable relative to the closure device by deformation of the holding portion, wherein the frangible point or line is adapted to tear when the holding portion deforms, wherein the first connecting arrangement is openable by tearing of the frangible point or line, wherein the closure device comprises a reinforcement, and wherein the holding portion is not circular perpendicular to a central axis, so that as a result of the insertion of the holding portion into a deforming device of at least complementary shape and subsequent rotation of the holding portion relative to the deforming device about the central axis, deformation of the holding portion occurs.

24. The connecting arrangement according to claim 20, wherein the reinforcement is formed by one or more ribs or an added thickness of material that provides mechanical stability.

25. The connecting system according to claim 20, wherein the holding portion is configured in the shape of a neck or collar.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 shows a longitudinal section through a container system with the proposed connecting system and with the fluidic connection made;

(2) FIG. 2 shows a longitudinal section through the proposed connecting system in a first embodiment in a starting position;

(3) FIG. 3 shows a longitudinal section through the proposed connecting system of the first embodiment in a first connecting position;

(4) FIG. 4 shows a longitudinal section through a proposed connecting system of the first embodiment in a second connecting position;

(5) FIG. 5 shows a longitudinal section through a proposed connecting system in a second embodiment in a starting position;

(6) FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal section through the proposed connecting system in the second embodiment in a first connecting position;

(7) FIG. 7 shows a longitudinal section through the proposed connecting system in the second embodiment in a second connecting position with the connecting arrangements oriented with one another;

(8) FIG. 8 shows a longitudinal section through the proposed connecting system in the second embodiment in the second connecting position with the connecting arrangements rotated relative to one another about a common axis;

(9) FIG. 9 shows a schematic plan view of a first container with a first connecting arrangement for the proposed connecting system of the second embodiment;

(10) FIG. 10 shows a schematic plan view of a second container with a second connecting arrangement for the proposed connecting system of the second embodiment;

(11) FIG. 11 shows a schematic cross-section through the proposed connecting system in the second embodiment along the section line XI-XI from FIG. 7;

(12) FIG. 12 shows a schematic cross-section through the proposed connecting system in the second embodiment after partial rotation of the connecting arrangements relative to one another;

(13) FIG. 13 shows a schematic cross-section through the proposed connecting system in the second embodiment along the section line XIII-XIII from FIG. 8;

(14) FIG. 14 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a container with connecting arrangements according to the first embodiment on opposite sides;

(15) FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of a container with a second connecting arrangement of the proposed connecting system in the first embodiment;

(16) FIG. 16 shows a schematic longitudinal section through the proposed container system with the proposed connecting system according to the first embodiment in a transporting configuration;

(17) FIG. 17 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a first container with a first connecting arrangement covered in sterile or sterilizable manner;

(18) FIG. 18 shows a schematic longitudinal section through the first container according to FIG. 17 with the cover device removed;

(19) FIG. 19 shows a schematic longitudinal section through the first container held like a foot in the cover device according to FIG. 17;

(20) FIG. 20 shows a schematic longitudinal section through the second container with the closure partially removed;

(21) FIG. 21 shows a schematic longitudinal section through the proposed container system, indicating the direction of movement for providing the fluidic connection with the proposed connecting system;

(22) FIG. 22 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a container system according to a further embodiment in the connected state;

(23) FIG. 23 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a container of the container system according to FIG. 22 in the initial state;

(24) FIG. 24 shows a magnified detail of the schematic longitudinal section through a container from FIG. 23;

(25) FIG. 25 shows a schematic longitudinal section through the container according to FIG. 23 with the cover device removed;

(26) FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of the container according to FIG. 23 looking at the connecting arrangement thereof;

(27) FIG. 27 shows a schematic longitudinal section through the other container of the container system according to FIG. 22 in the initial state;

(28) FIG. 28 shows a magnified detail of the schematic longitudinal section through a container from FIG. 27;

(29) FIG. 29 shows a schematic longitudinal section through the container according to FIG. 27 with the cover device removed;

(30) FIG. 30 shows a perspective view of the container according to FIG. 27 looking at the connecting arrangement thereof;

(31) FIG. 31 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a container system according to FIG. 22 in the initial state;

(32) FIG. 32 shows a detail of a schematic longitudinal section through the container system according to FIG. 22 in a first connecting position;

(33) FIG. 33 shows a detail of a schematic longitudinal section through the container system according to FIG. 22 in a second connecting position;

(34) FIG. 34 shows a detail of a schematic longitudinal section through the container system according to FIG. 22 in a third connecting position;

(35) FIG. 35 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a container system with a proposed securing device in an initial position;

(36) FIG. 36 shows a detail of a schematic longitudinal section through the container system according to FIG. 35 with the securing device actuated;

(37) FIG. 37 shows a detail of a schematic longitudinal section through the container system according to FIG. 35 in a connecting position;

(38) FIG. 38 shows a perspective view of the securing device from the embodiment according to FIG. 35 in the initial position;

(39) FIG. 39 shows a schematic longitudinal section through a container system with a proposed securing device according to a second embodiment in an initial position;

(40) FIG. 40 shows a detail of a schematic longitudinal section through the container system according to FIG. 39 with the securing device actuated;

(41) FIG. 41 shows a detail of a schematic longitudinal section through the container system according to FIG. 39 in a connecting position; and

(42) FIG. 42 shows a perspective view of the securing device from the embodiment according to FIG. 39 in the initial position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(43) In the following description of preferred embodiments by reference to the drawings, the same or corresponding reference numerals (with or without an apostrophe) have been used for the same or similar components or parts, where similar or identical advantages and properties may be achieved even if the associated description has not been repeated.

(44) FIG. 1 shows in schematic section a proposed container system B with a first container B1 and a second container B2.

(45) The container system B preferably comprises a proposed connecting system 1. The connecting system 1 is preferably configured to produce a fluidic connection 2, preferably between the first container B1 and the second container B2 of the container system B.

(46) The connecting system 1 preferably comprises a number of connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, particularly a first connecting arrangement 3A which is associated with a first container B1 of the container system B and/or a second connecting arrangement 3B which is associated with the second container B2 of the container system B. Preferably, the first container B1 comprises the first connecting arrangement 3A and the second container B2 comprises the second connecting arrangement 3B or vice-versa.

(47) The containers B1, B2 are preferably used for storing substances S1, S2, particularly for storing a first fluid and a second fluid and/or different vaccines. In particular, the containers B1, B2 are wholly or partly filled with one or more different substances S1, S2 or vaccines. Alternatively or additionally the container or containers B1, B2 may also hold and/or store other substances S1, S2, preferably a solid. It is possible for only one substance S1, S2 to be a fluid, particularly a liquid. The fluid substance S1, S2 may be configured to form a solution or a suspension with the other substance S1, S2.

(48) The proposed container system B is preferably used to prepare a medicament, particularly a combined medicament, combined vaccine or the like. However, there are other possible and advantageous applications for the proposed container system B.

(49) Preferably, the first container B1 comprises a removal opening E1 and/or the second container B2 comprises a removal opening E2. Particularly preferably, both or at least two containers B1, B2 of the proposed container system B each comprise a removal opening E1, E2.

(50) A removal opening E1, E2 in the sense of the present invention is preferably configured to dispense or to make it possible to remove the contents of the respective container B1, B2.

(51) At least one and preferably several or all of the removal openings E1, E2 are preferably repeatedly useable, utilizable several times, re-sealable, re-usable and/or comprise a closure element V1, V2 which preferably allows opening and closing for the purpose of stepwise removal. This may be achieved by means of a septum.

(52) Preferably, the removal openings E1, E2 are closed or closable and/or are primary means for removing substance S1, S2 from the containers B1, B2.

(53) In the embodiment shown, preferably at least one of the removal openings E1, E2 and particularly both removal openings E1, E2 are closed off by so-called septa. A septum is a device with a rubber-shaped closure element V1, V2, particularly a rubber stopper or injection stopper, which is suitable for piercing by means of an injection needle for removal of its contents, the septum automatically closing the (respective) removal opening E1, E2 by elastic resilience after the injection needle has been removed. A septum, also referred to as a piercing membrane, preferably has a thin area, particularly in the center, this thin area being suitable for piercing in order to take up injection liquid using an injection needle. The injection stopper or the septum is preferably secured to the neck of the bottle or the removal opening E1, E2 by means of a flanged cap, preferably made of aluminium.

(54) Preferably, one, both or all the containers B1, B2 are (each) injection ampoules or vials, for example, so-called multi-dose containers, particularly for vaccinating a number of animals with one dose each.

(55) In the containers B1, B2, substances S1, S2 in the form of powdered medicaments, solutions or suspensions or vaccines may be transferred in this form.

(56) The containers B1, B2 may (each) have a capacity of more than 10 ml, preferably more than 50 ml, 100 ml or 200 ml and/or less than 2 litres, preferably less than 1.5 litres or 1 litre, particularly less than 750 ml (each or after connection).

(57) As shown in FIG. 1, the closure element V1, V2 is preferably sealingly connected to the respective removal opening E1, E2, preferably pressed on, particularly by means of a pressing ring or compression ring or a flanged cap. However, other solutions are also possible here, for example an adhesive bond, welded joint, a connection produced by injection molding or the like.

(58) It is certainly preferable that the containers B1, B2 of the proposed container system B should each have a removal opening E1, E2, but not all the containers B1, B2 of the container system B must have a removal opening E1, E2.

(59) Advantageously, the use of removal openings E1, E2 on a number of containers B1, B2 makes it possible to use the respective substance S1, S2 from the respective container B1, B2 independently of the use of the connecting system Advantageously, the container system B therefore allows both separate use of the containers B1, B2 and also their use in conjunction with the fluidic connection 2 provided by the connecting system 1.

(60) The containers B1, B2 are preferably fluidically connectable to one another so that the fluidic connection 2 between the volumes formed or held by the containers B1, B2 results in a joint interior being formed by the containers B1, B2 connected by the connecting system 1. The joint interior is particularly characterized in that the continuous fluidic connection 2 has a hydraulic cross section of more than 2 square millimetres, preferably more than 5 or 10 square millimetres, particularly more than 1, 2 or 3 square centimetres, or there is no constriction between the containers B1, B2, once the fluidic connection 2 has been made, which falls below such a hydraulic cross section or wherein the fluidic connection 2 has at least such a hydraulic cross section.

(61) The container or containers B1, B2 is or are preferably configured as bottles. Particularly preferably, the containers B1, B2 (each) comprise a bottle neck F1, F2 which forms the removal openings E1, E2 or is adjacent thereto. A bottle neck F1, F2 may, starting from a terminal edge or mouth of the removal opening E1, E2, encompass an enlargement of the (hydraulic) cross section by more than a factor 1.5, particularly by more than a factor 2 or 2.5. However, the removal openings E1, E2 may also be differently constructed.

(62) The containers B1, B2 preferably comprise the removal opening E1, E2 and the connecting arrangement 3A, 3B at different, opposite, diametrically opposed sides, ends, axial ends and/or in the neck region on the one hand and in the base region on the other hand. In particular, the removal opening E1, E2 is formed by the bottle neck F1, F2 and the connecting arrangement 3A, 3B is provided in the base region or at the opposite end from the bottle neck F1, F2. This has proved advantageous as it ensures that, when the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are used, the removal opening(s) E1, E2 remain(s) accessible and unaffected in its (their) function.

(63) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are preferably not intended for removal but for a one-time or irreversible provision of a durable fluidic connection 2, or are not reclosable.

(64) The present invention is explained by means of the particularly preferred use for connecting to containers B1, B2, particularly bottles. However, it is possible and advantageous to use the proposed connecting system 1 in other areas as well, for example for fluidically connecting a container B1, B2 to other systems, for example for the rapid removal of the substance S1, S2.

(65) FIG. 2 shows in longitudinal section a proposed connecting system 1 according to the first embodiment in a starting position or in the unconnected state.

(66) FIG. 3 shows in longitudinal section the proposed connecting system 1 according to the first embodiment in a first connecting position in which preferably the fluidic connection has not yet been made but one of the opening regions 4A, 4B has already been opened.

(67) FIG. 4 shows in longitudinal section a proposed connecting system 1 according to the first embodiment in a second connection position in which a fluidic connection 2 is produced. This is the position which is also shown in FIG. 1.

(68) The proposed connecting system 1 preferably comprises a plurality of connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, particularly preferably at least the first connecting arrangement 3A and the second connecting arrangement 3B, which are preferably configured to be at least partially complementary to one another or corresponding to one another.

(69) The first connecting arrangement 3A preferably comprises an opening region 4A. The second connecting arrangement 3B preferably comprises an opening region 4B.

(70) Preferably, the containers B1, B2 comprise the opening regions 4A, 4B or the opening regions 4A, 4B form a part of the respective connecting arrangement 3A, 3B which is associated with the respective container B1, B2 or forms a part thereof.

(71) Preferably, one or both opening regions, 4A, 4B are regions or portions of the respective connecting arrangement 3A, 3B which are configured to produce the fluidic connection 2 (durably and/or irreversibly), particularly by (irreversible) destruction thereof. For this purpose the opening region or regions 4A, 4B may have a (mechanical) weakened area or frangible point or may be configured as a weakened area or frangible point. The opening regions 4A, 4B, may be identical, similar or different in construction, particularly with respect to the reduced material and/or the shape of the opening regions 4A, 4B.

(72) In particular, the opening regions 4A, 4B are configured to be (mechanically) destroyed or pierced in order to provide the fluidic connection 2. For this purpose an opening region 4A, 4B according to the present invention may be configured to be destroyed, perforated and/or torn open under mechanical load in order to enable or produce the fluidic connection 2.

(73) In the embodiment shown, the opening regions 4A, 4B are formed by film-shaped or membrane-shaped wall portions of the respective connecting arrangement 3A, 3B. In particular, one or more of the opening regions 4A, 4B is or are sealing films. In principle, the opening regions 4A, 4B may, however, be formed by weakening the material that forms the respective connecting arrangement 3A, 3B and/or may be formed in one piece with the respective connecting arrangement 3A, 3B.

(74) The opening regions 4A, 4B are preferably configured as wall portions of the (respective) connecting arrangement 3A, 3B. The opening regions 4A, 4B are preferably regions of low wall thickness which have been weakened in some way by comparison with the adjacent regions. Preferably, the opening regions 4A, 4B have a material thickness which is less than a material thickness of the adjacent regions, particularly walls, of the (respective) connecting arrangement 3A, 3B. The (respective) opening regions 4A, 4B are thus preferably thinner, more film-shaped and/or membrane-shaped by comparison with the adjacent regions.

(75) The opening region or regions 4A, 4B preferably comprise or comprises one or more frangible points, particularly indentations, thin areas, brittle regions or portions. In particular, the second connecting arrangement 3B or its opening region 4B comprises a frangible point corresponding to the mouth-shaped portion 5A of the first connecting arrangement 3A. This assists with or favors the destruction or piercing of the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B, even if, by the use of the mouth-shaped portion 5A for this purpose, a severing force acting on the opening region 4B acts or is distributed over a larger area.

(76) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the opening regions 4A, 4B are each formed by sealing films which are welded, adhesively bonded, sealed or in some other way tightly connected, particularly in water-tight manner, to the respective connecting arrangement 3A, 3B, preferably the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5B thereof.

(77) Particularly preferably, the opening regions 4A, 4B are formed by a multilayer or laminar material, particularly a plastics/metal film composite or sandwich material. The opening regions 4A, 4B, however, may also be embodied differently, for example by the use of several layers and/or a brittle or porous material, so as to have only a limited elasticity, so that even under slight mechanical stress the opening regions 4A, 4B are torn or otherwise destroyed.

(78) The opening region or regions 4A, 4B are preferably configured to tear when mechanically stressed and thereby produce the fluidic connection 2. Preferably, the opening regions 4A, 4B have a material with a modulus of elasticity of more than 2000 N/mm.sup.2, preferably more than 4000 N/mm.sup.2, particularly more than 6000 N/mm.sup.2. Alternatively or additionally, the opening regions 4A, 4B may have a tensile strength of less than 100 N/mm.sup.2, preferably less than 80 N/mm.sup.2, more particularly less than 60 N/mm.sup.2. The modulus of elasticity and the tensile strength may be determined according to EN ISO 6892-1, ISO 6892, ASTM E 8, ASTM E 21, DIN 50154, DIN 50125 and/or ISO 527, ASTM D 638.

(79) It is also preferable that the opening region or regions should have a material thickness of less than 100 μm, preferably less than 70 μm, particularly less than 50 μm and/or more than 5 μm, particularly more than 10 μm.

(80) The first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ preferably comprises the first, particularly film-shaped, opening regions 4A, 4A′ and/or the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ preferably comprises a second, particularly film-shaped opening region 4B, 4B′. Advantageously, this simultaneously ensures secure closure 14 of the respective connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ and reliable and simple opening of the respective opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′.

(81) The first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ is preferably configured to open the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ by piercing or destroying the second opening region 4B, 4B′. Alternatively, or additionally the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ is preferably configured to open the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ by piercing or destroying the first opening region 4A, 4A′. Advantageously, the fluidic connection 2 may thus be produced manually or without the use of tools. The interiors of the containers B1, B2, B3 are preferably connectable by means of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ without any further aids or tools.

(82) Preferably, to produce the fluidic connection 2, the opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 4B, 4B′ may be pierced with the first connecting arrangement 4A, 4A′ and preferably the first opening region 4A, 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ may be pierced with the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′, particularly a severing element 7 thereof. The fluidic connection 2 may thus be produced by mutual perforation or piercing.

(83) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ preferably have mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′, which are formed such that the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′ of one of the first and second connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ may be aligned with the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′ of the other one of the first and second connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, so that preferably the opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ of the other one of the first and second connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ can be pierced and/or the other one of the first and second connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ can be opened.

(84) The opening region 4A preferably comprises the mouth-shaped portion 5A and/or the opening region 4B comprises the mouth-shaped portion 5B. The mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B preferably delimit the opening regions 4A, 4B. The mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B may be formed in one piece with and/or as a wall portion of the respective connecting arrangement 4A, 4B. Preferably, the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B have open edges or are formed in the shape of collars or necks, the respective opening region 4A, 4B preferably being surrounded or delimited by the respective mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B. The mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B or the open edges thereof preferably adjoin the opening regions 4A, 4B or delimit them, or vice-versa. Particularly preferably, an open edge of the respective mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5B forms a (circumferential) fixing portion for an opening region 4A, 4B which is more particularly film-shaped or formed by a film.

(85) The container system B, in another aspect of the present invention which may also be implemented independently, comprises a cover device 6 which is configured to hold one of the containers B1, B2, particularly to act as a foot for it. Advantageously, the cover device 6 may alternatively or additionally serve for, particularly sterile, covering of one of the containers B1, B2 and/or one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B. This aspect will be discussed in more detail hereinafter.

(86) The connecting arrangement 3A, 3B and the method for producing the fluidic connection therewith is explained in more detail hereinafter in a first embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 5.

(87) In the first embodiment the first connecting arrangement 3A is configured for opening the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B. It is particularly preferable that the mouth-shaped portion 5A of the first connecting arrangement 3A should be adapted to be inserted or pushed into the mouth-shaped portion 5B of the connecting arrangement 3B such that during the insertion or introduction the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B is opened.

(88) In the embodiment shown, the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ or the first mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′ is a preferably male coupling element and/or the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ or the second mouth-shaped portion 5B, 5B′ is a, preferably female, coupling element, particularly forming a fluid coupling.

(89) In particular, it is provided that one end or an open edge of the mouth-shaped portion 5A has an outer circumferential edge which can be arranged inside an inner circumferential edge of the mouth-shaped portion 5B.

(90) Preferably, the outer circumferential edge of the mouth-shaped portion 5A of the first connecting arrangement 3A corresponds to the inner circumferential edge of the mouth-shaped portion 5B of the second connecting arrangement 3B or resembles it, or vice versa. In particular, the mouth-shaped portion 5A of the first connecting arrangement 3A comprises, at least laterally or at a transition to the opening region 5A, an external diameter which is less than an internal diameter of the mouth-shaped portion 5B of the second connecting arrangement 3B, preferably at least at a terminal edge or at a transition to the opening region 5B. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5B is preferably neck-shaped and/or at least substantially round in cross section.

(91) Unless otherwise stated, the term cross-section in the sense of the present invention always refers to a section or a sectional representation at right angles to the longitudinal axis or axis of symmetry 9 of the respective container B1, B2 and/or the respective connecting arrangement 3A, 3B.

(92) The second connecting arrangement 3B of the first embodiment preferably comprises a severing element 7 which is preferably configured to pierce, sever, cut or generally destroy the opening region 4A of the first connecting arrangement 3A. In particular, the severing element 7 comprises or is formed by a piercing device, a point, a blade, a wedge or generally a cutting and/or severing device.

(93) The severing element 7 is preferably arranged and/or attached on the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement, particularly directly. The severing element 7 is preferably arranged on an outer side of the second connecting arrangement 3B or on a side or outer side remote from the interior of the container B2. The severing element 7 is preferably arranged so that by bringing the connecting arrangement 3B of the severing element 7 close to the opening region 4A of the first connecting arrangement the severing element 7 applies a force to the opening region 4A which leads to the destruction and opening of the opening region 4A, preferably without opening or destroying the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B.

(94) In particular, the severing element 7 is a device which concentrates a force acting on the opening region 4A or distributes a counter-force acting on the second connecting arrangement 3B or on the opening region 4A such that the opening region 3B of the second connecting arrangement 3B remains intact when the opening region 4A is opened by being destroyed by the severing element 7.

(95) In a variant (not shown) the severing element 7 is arranged on an inner side of the connecting arrangement, within or inside the interior of the container B1 or (viewed from outside) arranged behind the opening region 3B of the second connecting arrangement 3B. Preferably, the opening region 4A, 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A is destroyed by the severing element 7 as the mouth-shaped portion 5A is pushed into the mouth-shaped portion 5B of the second connecting arrangement 3B. For this purpose the severing element 7 is provided, particularly directly (on the inside or on the side remote from the first connecting arrangement 3A) behind the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B.

(96) Preferably, the severing element 7 is immovably arranged or fixed on the second connecting arrangement 3B, particularly (directly) on, in front of or behind the opening region 4A.

(97) FIG. 2 shows the proposed connecting system 1 in a starting position in which the opening regions 4A, 4B or the containers B1, B2 are closed or sealed. In particular they are (in each case) bottles or bottle-shaped containers B1, B2, the bottom opening regions 4A, 4B of which are closed in the starting position.

(98) As shown by the arrow 8 indicating movement, the first connecting arrangement 3A and the second connecting arrangement 3B may be moved towards one another or pushed into one another. For this purpose, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are preferably moved axially towards one another with respect to a central axis or axis of symmetry 9. The central axis or axis of symmetry 9 is preferably a central axis or axis of symmetry 9 of the mouth-shaped portion or portions 5A, 5B and/or of the opening region or regions 4A, 4B and/or of the container or containers B1, B2.

(99) The containers B1, B2, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, the opening regions 4A, 4B and/or the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B may thus be formed substantially symmetrically with respect to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9. An axially symmetrical and/or rotationally symmetrical construction of the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B is preferred, as this enables the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B to be used independently of their rotary position. However, other solutions are also theoretically possible, particularly ones in which the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B are rotationally asymmetrical or non-round and preferably a guide is provided which is configured to define a rotary position of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B relative to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9. This will be discussed in more detail in connection with the second embodiment.

(100) As can be seen in FIG. 3, as the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B come closer to one another the severing element 7 is applied to the opening region 4A, preferably with a point 7A and by further movement of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B towards one another, pushed through the opening region 4A. In this way the opening region 4A is destroyed or the connecting arrangement 3A and/or the container B1 is opened.

(101) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are preferably designed to be separate and/or independent of one another in a starting position (cf. also FIGS. 16 and 17). This advantageously enables common and also separate use of cavities or containers B1, B2, B3 which are connected to or connectable with the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′.

(102) In the starting position, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are preferably unconnected or fluidically separated from one another. As a result of the formation of the fluidic connection 2, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ move into a connecting position in which the fluidic connection 2 is made.

(103) A fluidic connection 2 between the containers B1, B2, B3 is preferably produced at least when the volumes or substances S1, S2, S3 enclosed by the containers B1, B2, B3 are able to be moved between the containers B1, B2, B3, by gravity and/or mixed with one another.

(104) The fluidic connection 2 is, in particular, a channel or a passage through which fluid substances S1, S2, S3, particularly liquids, can flow.

(105) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are preferably usable only once and/or are irreversibly openable; the fluidic connection 2 is preferably permanent and/or irreversible.

(106) The connecting system 1 is preferably configured for the provision of a non-releasable or non-separable connection, particularly with the non-separable connection taking place even before at least one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ has been opened. This prevents substances from escaping and advantageously prevents a partial mixing process from taking place.

(107) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ preferably comprise securing devices 10A, 10B for producing the non-releasable connection, which produce a non-releasable connection between the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ as a result of being fitted into one another and/or passed through one another by axial movement along their shared axis. In particular, the securing devices 10A, 10B comprise snap-fit hooks and/or are non-releasable or self-securing by means of snap-fit hooks or a snap-fit hook connection. In this way it is possible to ensure that the connection cannot be undone manually and/or without damage or destruction.

(108) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ can preferably be connected to one another non-releasably or inseparably by interlocking and/or frictional engagement, particularly by latching. In particular, different connecting positions, particularly latching positions, can be achieved by fitting one inside the other and/or inserting one inside the other by axial movement along the common axis.

(109) In particular, one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ comprises a latching means, particularly one or more latching lugs, arranged on portions located axially behind one another. Preferably, the latching means of one of the connecting arrangements are arranged such that one or more complementary latching means of the other connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, particularly one or more grooves or undercuts, latch into one another to form an engagement by being fitted into one another and/or inserted in one another with axial movement along the common axis. This enables the non-releasable or inseparable connection or the connecting position to be achieved.

(110) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are preferably configured so that when a first connecting position is reached the non-releasable or inseparable connection is made and/or none or only one of the first and second connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ is or has been opened. The fluidic connection 2 is thus preferably not yet or not entirely formed in the first latching position.

(111) When another, second connecting position is reached which is preferably after the first connecting position in location and/or time, the continuous fluidic connection 2 and/or the opening of the two connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ is preferably produced.

(112) By bringing the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ and the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ towards one another, preferably first of all only one of the first and second opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ is broken, particularly pierced, and only as the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are brought closer together or subsequently rotated relative to one another or pushed into one another, is the continuous fluidic connection 2 produced by the breakage of the other one of the first and second opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′.

(113) Preferably, the connecting system 1 has a first connecting position in which the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are connected to one another non-releasably, preferably by latching. For this purpose the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B may have securing devices 10A, 10B corresponding to another which produce a non-releasable connection between the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B as the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are brought close together.

(114) In the embodiment shown, the securing devices 10A, 10B are formed by corresponding or complementary undercuts, latching lugs or the like. In particular, individual latching lugs are formed on one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B and, in particular, annular beads and/or undercuts are formed on the other of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, which by co-operating provide a latching connection between the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B.

(115) Particularly preferably, the securing devices 10A, 10B are configured for connecting the connecting arrangement 3A, 3B non-releasably with one another in a first connecting position but allowing further movement of the connecting arrangement 3A, 3B towards one another.

(116) Moreover, the securing devices 10A, 10B are preferably configured so as to support a further, second connecting position in which the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are brought more closely together or pushed further into one another than in the first connecting position. Particularly preferably, a plurality of latching positions are provided, in which, in a first latching position, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are already non-releasably connected to one another. The proposed connecting system 1 is shown in this first connecting position in FIG. 3.

(117) In the first connecting position, one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B may already have been opened. Alternatively or additionally, the first connecting position may also be characterized in that a non-releasable connection has indeed been made between the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B but none of the opening regions 4A, 4B has yet been opened or is being opened.

(118) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, in the first connecting position, the first connecting arrangements 3A are connected to the second connecting arrangement 3B in non-releasable manner by latching and the first opening region 4A has already been opened or destroyed by the severing element 7.

(119) FIG. 4 shows the proposed connecting system 1 in the second connection position, particularly a further latching position, in which the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B have been further brought together and/or pushed further inside one another, particularly at least substantially completely, compared with the first connecting position. In the second connecting position the first opening region 4A of the first connecting arrangement 3A has been opened by the second connecting arrangement 3B and furthermore the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B has been opened by the first connecting arrangement 3A.

(120) In order to open the second connecting arrangement 3B with or by means of the first connecting arrangement 3A, preferably the mouth-shaped portion 5A of the first connecting arrangement 3A is pushed through the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B, thereby destroying said opening region 4B. This is preferably done as the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are moved from the first connecting position into the second connecting position.

(121) The securing devices 10A, 10B are preferably configured to prevent (axial) movement of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B away from one another, both in the first connecting position and in the second connecting position. Thus it is envisaged, in particular, that the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are movable further into the second connecting position from the first connecting position but not in an opposite direction. It is also preferable that the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B in the second connecting position (cf. FIG. 4) cannot be moved back into the first connecting position.

(122) Preferably, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B abut on one another, particularly sealingly, in the first connecting position. This prevents substances S1, S2 from escaping.

(123) According to an aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently, during or as a result of the opening of the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B by the mouth-shaped portion 5A of the first connecting arrangement 3A, a seal is formed relative to the environment. In particular, the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B forms a sealing system with the mouth-shaped portion 5B of the second connecting arrangement 3B. Alternatively or additionally, the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B may have a sealing action by bearing against one another, while the opening region 4B acts sealingly or provides a seal, particularly at the edges and/or in the transitional area to the mouth-shaped portion 5B. However, there are also other possible solutions, for example using an additional or separate rubber seal, sealing lip or the like.

(124) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3B or the connecting system 1 is or are preferably formed without threads. It has been found that systems known from the prior art which use threads to move a cutting tool in order to open containers are more prone to defects and require greater expense in order to create an opening or fluidic connection. Advantageously, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B of the present connecting system can be connected to one another by a simple linear or axial movement and/or by moving directly towards one another (without the need for any additional rotation through several revolutions relative to one another). This has proved advantageous for rapid and comfortable production of the fluidic connection 2.

(125) In this connection it is also advantageous that the proposed connecting system 1 comprises one or more connecting positions, particularly preferably in the form of latching positions. This has the particular advantage over interlocking threads that a non-releasable connection can be produced between the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B. On the other hand, with a threaded connection, dismantling and contamination are possible.

(126) Theoretically, however, it is also possible to combine aspects of the present invention with connecting arrangements 3A, 3B which are connected or connectable by interlocking threads or in which the fluidic connection 2 can be produced by interlocking threads and a rotational movement relative to one another.

(127) FIGS. 5 to 13 hereinafter illustrate a proposed connecting system 1 according to a second embodiment. Only the special features and differences from the embodiments described above will be discussed and therefore the foregoing remarks also apply in a supplementary manner to the second embodiment unless specifically stated to the contrary or obvious to the person of ordinary skill.

(128) FIG. 5 shows in a starting position a first connecting arrangement 3A′ and a second connecting arrangement 3B′ according to the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, preferably none of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ has a severing element. In particular, the connecting system 1 according to the second embodiment is free from cutting tools, severing mechanisms and/or free from sharp edged projections or portions for opening.

(129) In the second embodiment, mouth-shaped portions 5A′ and 5B′ of the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ are preferably configured to be rotationally non-symmetrical or non-round, non-circular or oval with respect to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9. Preferably, the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B are configured to correspond to one another and/or to be similar in relation to a circumferential line, so that they can be arranged one inside the other and/or one can be pushed into one another. Moreover, for supplementary information, reference may be made to the explanations of the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B in the first embodiment.

(130) FIG. 6 shows the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ in the first connecting position in which they are connected to one another, preferably non-releasably. For this, the securing devices 10A, 10B may be used as explained hereinbefore.

(131) The connecting mean 3A′, 3b′ preferably comprise opening regions 4A′, 4B′ which correspond to or resemble the opening region in 4A, 4B of the first embodiment. In the first connecting position according to FIG. 6, the opening regions 4A′, 4B′ abut on one another or are directly adjacent to one another. Alternatively, in the first connecting position, the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ may, however, also already have been opened, as explained hereinafter in connection with FIG. 7.

(132) For opening or penetrating the second opening region 4B′, the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ is pressed through the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ as already explained in connection with the opening of the opening region 4B of the first embodiment. Preferably, the opening region 4B′, particularly a sealing film or a film-shaped portion of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ is destroyed or opened, particularly by pushing part of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ through the opening region 4B′ so that the opening region 4B′ is opened or the film or the film-shaped portion which forms the opening region 4B′ is pierced or destroyed. The result is shown in FIG. 7, in which, as a result of reaching the second connecting position, the second connecting arrangement 3B has been opened in the manner described.

(133) By contrast with the first embodiment, the method for providing the fluidic connection 2 in the second embodiment begins with the step of opening the second connecting arrangement 3B′ by means of the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ or destroying the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ using the mouth-shaped portion 5A′.

(134) It is also envisaged in the second embodiment that the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are rotatable relative to one another or about the (common) central axis or axis of symmetry 9 in their connected state, particularly in the second connecting position. As a result, preferably the other of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3b′, i.e. the first connecting arrangement 3A′, in particular, is opened, as explained in detail hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 8 to 13.

(135) In one aspect it is preferable that the first opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ of the first connecting arrangement 4A, 4A′ can be opened by deformation by means of the second connecting arrangement 4B, 4B′. The opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ can also be mutually opened by mutual deformation. Opening by deformation preferably does not require any shearing edges or severing elements, which is advantageous in terms of a simple manufacturing process with reduced use of materials.

(136) The second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ is preferably configured to open the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, while the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ is preferably configured to open the opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ of the first connecting arrangement 4A, 4A′ by deformation of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′.

(137) Particularly preferably, in this aspect, the deformation is initiated by rotating the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′ relative to one another, particularly about the common axis 9, and/or opening the opening regions 4A, 4A′ 4B, 4B′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′.

(138) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ preferably have non-round, particularly oval or at least substantially elliptical portions corresponding to one another which can be inserted in one another and/or cause deformation and/or opening when rotated relative to one another.

(139) The deformation preferably brings about a tensioning of the opening region 4A, 4A′, at least substantially radially or transversely with respect to a central axis or axis of symmetry 9 or along the opening region of the opening region 4A, 4A′, as a result of which the opening region 4A, 4A′ is torn, broken or detached and/or the opening region 4A, 4A′ is opened.

(140) At the same time, the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ may have an, in particular film-shaped, brittle and/or unstable opening region 4B, 4B′, preferably with the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ being configured for opening the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′. In particular, the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ is configured to open the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ by breaking through the opening region 4B, 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′.

(141) The first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ preferably comprises a mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′ which adjoins the opening region 4A, 4A′ or surrounds the opening region 4A, 4A′, the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′ being deformable so that the opening region 4A, 4B can be opened by the deformation.

(142) The mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′ is preferably in the form of a web, a neck, a wall, a thin wall, or it is elastic and/or flexible, and/or the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′ is more elastic, more flexible and/or more stable than the opening region 4A, 4A′, which is preferably opened on deformation of the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′ the opening region 4A, 4A′, particularly by tearing, breaking or detaching.

(143) The second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ is preferably configured for deforming the mouth-shaped portion of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, so that the deformation causes the opening region 4A, 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ to open.

(144) The mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′ is preferably non-round, particularly oval, at least essentially elliptically and/or polygonal in cross section, while the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ has a corresponding cross section, so that rotating the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ relative to one another causes deformation and/or opening of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ in their opening region 4A, 4A′.

(145) Both connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′ 3B, 3B′ preferably have mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′ which can be arranged in oriented manner inside one another or can be pushed into one another, while rotation of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ or of the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′ relative to one another brings about deformation of the first and, preferably, the second mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′.

(146) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ can be connected to one another by a bayonet-type connection or they may comprise connectors or guides 18A, 18B, which are configured to form a bayonet-type connection. For this purpose, the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′ may initially be pushed or capable of being pushed (only) in the axial direction into one another and only afterwards may they be rotated or rotatable relative to one another, while preferably the fluidic connection 2 is not formed until they are rotated relative to one another. The guides 18A, 18B may thus be designed for a bayonet-type connection. For this purpose a (purely) axially extending guide may be adjacent to a (purely) radial guide.

(147) Preferably, by rotating the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ relative to one another while the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ is arranged in the mouth-shaped portion 5B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′, the opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ is mechanically stressed, particularly tensioned by the deformation of the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ to such an extent that it tears.

(148) To improve the understanding of the opening mechanism for opening the first opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ from the second embodiment, FIGS. 9 and 10 each show a plan view of a connecting arrangement 3A′ 3B′. The second connecting arrangement 3B′ shown in FIG. 9 preferably has a mouth-shaped portion 5B′ which resembles the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ shown in FIG. 10 in shape and/or outline, but is larger in its dimensions, diameters, longitudinal extent and/or transverse extent (at right angles to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9).

(149) In particular, the second connecting arrangement 3B′ comprises an inner circumferential edge 15—indicated by dashed lines in the plan view in FIG. 9—which resembles an outer circumferential edge 16 of the mouth-shaped portion 5A′, corresponds thereto and/or is configured so that the outer circumferential edge 16 can be accommodated by the inner circumferential edge 15. Preferably, a maximum diameter of the inner circumferential edge 15 is greater than a maximum diameter of the outer circumferential edge 16 and/or a minimum diameter of the inner circumferential edge 15 is greater than a minimum diameter of the outer circumferential edge 16, preferably by more than 2% or 3% and/or less than 40%, preferably less than 30%, more particularly less than 20%, 15% or 10%. This enables the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5 B′ to be simply pushed one inside the other while at the same time reliably opening the opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′.

(150) The mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ can preferably be arranged inside one another or pushed into one another with play. As a result of the arrangement of the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ a gap 17 or a spacing is formed (at least partially) between the inner circumferential edge 15 and the outer circumferential edge 16.

(151) In the embodiment shown, which relates to a particularly preferred variant, the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ are each oval in cross section, particularly at least substantially elliptical. Theoretically, however, other shapes are possible, for example at least substantially square or other polygonal shapes. In theory it is preferable that the extent of the cross section in the main axial direction or the maximum extent in the secondary axial direction (centrally and transversally or perpendicularly to the main axial direction) exceeds or the minimum extent of the cross section by a factor of more than 1.2, preferably 1.3, particularly 1.5, and/or at least or at least substantially by a factor root of 2. This allows sufficiently strong deformation during rotation of the connecting arrangements relative to one another so that the opening of the opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ can take place reliably.

(152) In FIGS. 11 to 13 the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are shown in different rotational positions relative to one another, preferably in the second connecting position.

(153) Preferably, the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ can be turned or rotated through more than 45° and/or less than 200°, particularly less than 135° and/or at least substantially through 90°, in their (non-releasably) connected state or with the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ inserted in one another, about the (common) central axis or axis of symmetry 9. This ensures deformation of one or both mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ and/or opening of an opening region 4A′, 4B′, particularly of the opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′.

(154) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ are similar, particularly with reference to a circumferential line radially of the central axis or axis of symmetry 9, particularly so that after the first mouth-shaped portion 5A′ has been inserted or pushed into the second mouth-shaped portion 5B′ they rest loosely or with play on one another or at least partially abut directly on one another particularly at least at two points which are opposite one another in respect of the central axis or axis of symmetry 9 and/or at least 20%, preferably at least 50% of the respective circumferential line.

(155) Because of the rotationally asymmetrical or non-round form of the mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5B, the rotation indicated by the rotation arrows 11 results in force which has a deforming effect on the first connecting arrangement 3A′, particularly the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ thereof. In the embodiment shown, the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ are oval in cross section. This has proved particularly advantageous as it ensures that during rotation the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ slide past one another without snagging and ensures at least substantially continuous deformation of the mouth-shaped portion 5B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ during the rotation of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ relative to one another. However, other rotationally asymmetrical or non-round cross sections are also possible, such as rectangles, polygons, triangles or the like.

(156) FIG. 12 shows, in a schematic section through the connecting system 1, particularly in the second connecting position, the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ in a position rotated through about 45° to one another. The respective mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ generate forces on one another so as to produce deformation of the mouth-shaped portion 5B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ and, preferably at the same time, a, particularly corresponding, deformation of the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′. As indicated by the broken lines 12, the deformation of the mouth-shaped portion 5B′ leads to tensile and/or pressure stresses on the opening region 4B′ and, preferably, as a result, leads to fracture or opening.

(157) FIG. 13 shows a schematic section through the connecting system 1 as proposed, in which the first connecting arrangement 3A′ has been rotated through at least substantially 90° relative to the second connecting arrangement 3B′. Compared with the rotation through about 45° as shown in FIG. 12, the increasing rotation of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ relative to one another increases the tension or pressure and/or tensile stress on the opening region 4B′ such that the opening region 4B′ tears, breaks, becomes detached (at the edges) or opens in some other way.

(158) The connecting system 1 according to the second embodiment preferably comprises a guide 18A, 18B (cf. FIGS. 9 and 10) for connecting the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ in a rotationally oriented position or for determining a rotational position during the connection thereof. In particular, a sliding guide or the like is provided by means of which the connecting arrangements 4A′, 4B′ or the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ can only be fitted, placed or pushed into one another in certain rotational positions (with respect to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9), preferably such that the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ are similarly oriented.

(159) The mouth-shaped portion 5A′, 5B′ are similarly oriented particularly when main axes, longitudinal axes, transverse axes, ends, corners and/or the like coincide with one another at least substantially, particularly such that the first mouth portion 5A′ can be pushed into the second mouth portion 5B′ at least substantially without any deformation of the mouth portions 5A′, 5B′.

(160) The guide 18A, 18B is preferably configured such that in the (second) connecting position or after the attachment of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ or after the mouth-shaped portions 5A′, 5B′ have been inserted or pushed into one another, it is possible to rotate these relative to one another, particularly about the central axis or axis of symmetry 9. In particular, the guide 18A, 18B comprises a slide or a portion which extends axially or parallel to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9 and, thereafter, has a radially extending portion, resulting in the rotational movement described above. However, other solutions are also possible.

(161) The aspects of the first and second embodiment can also be combined with one another. Thus, it is additionally possible for the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ to comprise a severing element 7 which at least partially opens the opening region 4A, 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ when the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are placed inside one another. The mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′ can then be used to open, particularly to pierce, the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3A, 3B′. Rotation of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ relative to one another about the central axis or axis of symmetry 9 then leads to deformation of one or both mouth-shaped portions 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′. This leads to tensioning of the opening region or regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′. In this way, further breaking and/or tearing of the opening region or regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ can advantageously be achieved, as a result of which the fluidic connection 2 can be improved or the hydraulic cross section of the fluidic connection 2 can be enlarged.

(162) The connecting arrangements 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ are preferably configured for mutual opening and/or to complement and/or correspond to one another, so that the continuous fluidic connection 2 can be produced.

(163) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are preferably configured in order to produce a hydraulic cross section of more than 0.5 cm.sup.2, preferably more than 1 cm.sup.2 when producing the fluidic connection 2. This permits rapid and total mixing.

(164) The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are preferably adapted to be axially inserted in one another, fitted into one another and/or formed without threads. This allows rapid and simple production of the fluidic connection 2.

(165) By the production of the fluidic connection 2, the fluidic connection 2 preferably forms a passage between the containers B1, B2, B3 which is sealed off from the environment. This prevents the ingress of foreign substances or germs.

(166) The second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ is preferably configured to open the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ by breaking through the first opening region 4A, 4A′ and/or the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ is configured to open the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ by breaking through the second opening region 4B, 4B′. By mutual destruction of the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ it is advantageously possible to produce an irreversible fluidic connection 2 of large enough diameter to allow rapid mixing.

(167) The connecting system 1 is preferably self-sealing, as a result of the production of the fluidic connection 2, in particular with at least one of the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ having a sealing action as a result of or after the production of the fluidic connection 2, so that the continuous fluidic connection 2 forms a passage sealed off from the environment. Preferably, the production of the fluidic connection 2 forms a fluidic passage which is sealed off from the environment, particularly in fluid-tight, germproof and/or gas-tight manner.

(168) For this purpose, one of the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ or a device forming the respective opening region, after being perforated or otherwise destroyed as a sealing element, particularly a sealing lip, may extend between the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ and in this way seal the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ with one another or relative to one another.

(169) The connecting system 1 is preferably self-sealing in sterile or sterilizable manner as a result of the production of the fluidic connection 2. In particular, the production of the fluidic connection 2 produces a seal which prevents the ingress of germs.

(170) Preferably, in order to seal the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ relative to one another, a seal, particularly a sealing ring or sealing lip, is provided.

(171) Particularly preferably, in order to seal the fluidic connection 2, preferably from the environment, or to seal off the fluidic passage, at least one opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′, preferably the second opening region 4B, 4B′, acts as a seal, as a result of or after the formation of the fluidic connection 2.

(172) In particular, it is envisaged that the at least one opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′, preferably the second opening region 4B, 4B′, has a sealing effect or acts as a seal at least at the edges or forms the sealing ring or the sealing lip when the fluidic connection 2 has been made. Alternatively, or additionally, it may be envisaged that the at least one opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′, preferably the second opening region 4B, 4B′, sealingly abuts on a connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, preferably the first or a corresponding connecting arrangement, particularly the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′ thereof, when it has been pierced with the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′ in order to produce the fluidic connection 2.

(173) At least one opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′, preferably the at least one opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′, is preferably constructed to inhibit cracking around the edges and/or to form a seal and/or it has a material construction or layered structure in the edge region, which differs by comparison with a central portion, so that the edge region is more stable and/or acts as a seal after the edge region has been opened.

(174) The containers B1, B2, B3 of the proposed container system B in the initial state have preferably been produced separately from one another and can be used separately and/or fluidically separated from one another. The connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are preferably each fluidic ally sealed independently of one another in the initial state. After the fluidic connection 2 has been formed between the containers B1, B2, B3, these containers are preferably inseparably or non-releasably connected.

(175) FIG. 14 shows another container B3, which may also be or form part of the container system B. The container system B preferably comprises the container B3. This has two different, corresponding and/or complementary connecting arrangements 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′. As a result, this container B3 may serve as an adaptor between two other containers B1, B2 and/or may be connected to different containers B1, B2 and/or may allow more than two substances S1, S2, S3 to be mixed.

(176) The container B3 comprises both the first connecting arrangement 3A and the second connecting arrangement 3B on different, preferably opposite, sides. The container B3 thus preferably comprises the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, on a first side, and the second of the connecting arrangements 3B, 3B′ on a second side remote from the first side. This container is preferably free from removal openings E1, E2.

(177) Moreover, the further container B3 is configured to produce a fluidic connection 2 on both sides by means of the proposed connecting system 1. The further container B3 may comprise or encompass an additional, further substance S3 different from the previous substances S1, S2, particularly a dry or freeze-dried substance (lyophilisate).

(178) A plurality of containers B3 may be joined to one another and/to the first and/or second container B1, B2. In this way, more than three substances S1, S2, S3 may be mixed and/or a combination of more than 3 containers B1, B2, B3 may be formed and/or more than three containers B1, B2, B3 may be fluidically connected to one another.

(179) As already explained in conjunction with FIG. 1, the proposed connecting system 1 is preferably used for fluidically connecting bottles or bottle-shaped containers B1, B2, particularly for the pharmaceutical sector. It is particularly preferable that the opening regions 4A, 4B, 4A′ 4B′ should be adapted to be covered in sterile manner for transportation.

(180) FIG. 15 shows a schematic perspective view of a first connecting arrangement 3A with a severing element 7 arranged on the opening region 4A. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15 the severing element 7 has four or (in dashed lines) three legs, but may also have more legs 19. The legs 19 are preferably wedge-shaped at least partially or in areas or have cutting edges remote from the opening region 4A. The severing element 7 preferably has a point 20 which is directed away from the opening region 4A. The point 20 preferably adjoins the legs 19 or vice versa. By means of the point 20 and/or the legs 19, shear forces can be increased and the destruction or perforation of the opening region 3B can be facilitated. However, other alternative embodiments for the severing element 7 are theoretically possible.

(181) In the embodiment shown, the severing element 7 comprises preferably foot-shaped connecting portions 21 with the opening region 4B. These may be configured to derive or distribute a force exerted by the severing element 7, particularly the point 20 or the legs 19, onto the opening region 4A. Alternatively or additionally, the connecting portions 21 may be provided and arranged so that when the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B are pushed inside one another the mouth-shaped portion 5B comes to bear on the connecting portions 21 or in the vicinity thereof, as a result of which the shear forces acting on the opening region 4B can be generated or increased. This assists with the opening of the opening region 4A.

(182) The severing element 7 is preferably arranged and/or configured for piercing, severing, cutting or destroying the opening region 4A, 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′.

(183) The severing element 7 is preferably arranged and/or fastened on the opening region 4B, 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′, particularly directly. Alternatively, or additionally, the severing element 7 is configured to concentrate a force acting on the opening region 4A, 4A′ and/or to distribute a force or counter-force acting on the opening region 4B, 4B′ such that the opening region 3B of the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ remains intact when the opening region 4A, 4A′ is opened by destruction thereof by means of the severing element 7.

(184) In another aspect it is envisaged that the severing element 7 comprises one or more connecting portions 21 to which or with which the severing element 7 is connected, preferably by material engagement, with the opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′.

(185) The connecting portions 21 preferably form frangible points for the opening region 4B, 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′. Preferably, the connecting portions 21 are arranged to correspond to the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, particularly the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′ thereof. Moreover, the connecting portions 21 are preferably configured so that forces acting on the opening region 4B, 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ are concentrated by the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′. This makes it easier to destroy and/or open the opening region 4B, 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ by means of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, particularly the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5A′ thereof.

(186) FIG. 16 shows the proposed container system in a transporting position or orientation. The containers B1, B2, B3 are preferably releasably connectable to one another for transporting as a result of a portion or bottle neck F1, F2 of a container B1, B2, B3 that forms the removal opening being adapted to be held by the holding device of the cap-shaped cover device 6.

(187) The first container B1 is preferably provided with the cover device 6 or the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ is covered by the cover device 6. The second container B2 is received and/or held by the cover device 6, preferably in or by means of the region of its removal opening E2 or its bottle neck F2. In this way or by some other means, the containers B1, B2 of the container system may form a kit or a combination which associates the containers B1, B2 with one another. This advantageously makes it possible to avoid unintended combinations of containers B1, B2 or substances S1, S2.

(188) The cover device 6 can preferably be held on the first container B1 and is configured to hold both the region of the removal opening E1, E2 or the bottle neck F1, F2 of the first container B1 and also of the second container B2. In this way the cover device 6 has a triple function, namely for providing a (sterile) cover, for forming a transport combination and as a support foot. The latter will be discussed further hereinafter.

(189) FIG. 17 shows the first container B1 in longitudinal section, the first connecting arrangement 3A being covered, preferably in sterile manner, by the cover device 6. The cover device 6 may be removably held on the container B1 by means of or using one of the securing devices 10A, 10B or by some other means on the first container B1.

(190) One or both opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ are preferably covered in sterile or sterilizable manner One of the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ is preferably separated from the environment in sterile manner by the cap-shaped cover device 6. An (another) opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ is preferably separated from the environment in sterile or sterilizable manner by a removable, detachable, tear-off and/or film-shaped closure 14.

(191) A double closure may be formed by the respective opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ and the respective sterile or sterilizable cover. In this way a sterile or sterilizable or sterile sealed region or space or cavity can be formed between the sterile or sterilizable cover and the respective connecting arrangement 3A, 3A, 3B, 3B′.

(192) The sterile or sterilizable cover is preferably removable. This makes it possible to produce a (sufficiently) sterile fluidic connection 2 through the connecting system 1, by removing the covers and using the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ arranged in the sterile area to form the fluidic connection 2.

(193) In the embodiment shown, the cap-shaped cover device 6 forms a sterile cover for the first opening regions 4A, 4A′ and/or the closure 14 forms a sterile cover for the second opening region 4B, 4B′ by means of a sealed or welded-on or otherwise tightly applied film. Theoretically, however, the sterile covering may also be provided by other means, for example by replacing the film with a cap or a (screw) closure, optionally with a seal or the like, and/or by constructing the cover device 6 without holding means or with a different holding device.

(194) Sterile in the sense of the present invention denotes, in particular, at least substantially germ-free or aseptic. A sterile or sterilizable cover is preferably a device designed to prevent the penetration of germs, particularly by forming a germproof barrier.

(195) From the construction point of view, a sterile or sterilizable cover is preferably tightly applied or connected to the respective connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ so as to form a germproof barrier.

(196) A cover is sterilizable particularly when the cover uses materials, or the sterile or sterilizable cover comprises or is formed from materials, which are suitable for the use of at least one method of sterilization known in the prior art for destroying germs. For example, such materials may be sterilized by one of the known sterilization methods without being damaged thereby or losing their function as a barrier against the ingress of germs. The known sterilization methods include irradiation, particularly with gamma rays or an electron beam, gassing, treatment with hot air or autoclaving. Preferably, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are also sterile or sterilizable.

(197) The opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ are preferably produced independently of one another or separately from one another in an initial state and/or are covered in sterile or sterilizable manner separately from one another. This enables the containers B1, B2, B3 to be used separately.

(198) Between the opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ and the sterile or sterilizable cover or means for sterile covering, particularly the cover device 6 and/or the closure 14, a space is preferably formed which is sterilized, sterilizable and/or sealed in sterile manner in an initial state or sealed off to be airtight and/or germproof.

(199) According to another aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently, a substance, particularly an active substance, vaccine and/or adjuvant is arranged, attached and/or immobilized in the space. In particular, the substance is arranged in a lattice in the space and/or held by the severing element 7.

(200) In a preferred aspect the severing element 7 or another part of one of the connecting arrangements can be dissolved, solubilized and/or suspended within the space. In this way, after the fluidic connection 2 has been made, the substance from the space may form part of the mixture of substances S1, S2, S3.

(201) The substance arranged in the space may be dissolved and/or solubilized and/or suspended on the connecting arrangement 3A, 3B, 3A′, 3B′ or on the opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ by means of one of the substances S1, S2, S3.

(202) In a preferred aspect, a lyophilisate is dried onto or otherwise applied to the opening region. The lyophilisate as well as one or more of substances S1, S2, S3 may contain vaccine, active substance, and/or adjuvant for preparing a vaccine or combined vaccine. In this way, after the production of the fluidic connection 2, the substance arranged in the space may form a component of a substance mixture, particularly a combined vaccine.

(203) The means for sterile covering, particularly the cover device 6 and/or the closure 14, are preferably removable or detachable, particularly manually or without the use of tools, so that the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ are accessible for producing the fluidic connection 2.

(204) One of the containers B1, B2, B3 preferably comprises, on a side remote from the removal opening E1, E2, the removable cap-shaped cover device 6 which in a starting position closes off the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, preferably in sterile manner.

(205) The cap-shaped cover device 6 preferably comprises a holding device for a removal opening E1, E2 or a bottle neck F1, F2. A holding device, particularly the receptacle 13, is preferably configured for holding a portion of a container B1, B2, B3, particularly the bottle neck F1, F2, forming the removal opening E1, E2, E3.

(206) The cover device 6 preferably comprises a holding portion which is shaped like a shoulder and/or to correspond to or complement a shoulder region of the container B1, B2 adjacent to the removal opening E1, E2.

(207) In the embodiment shown the cover device 6 preferably comprises the receptacle 13 which is configured to receive and/or retain, preferably by interlocking or latching engagement, the bottle neck F1, F2 of the container or containers B1, B2.

(208) The cover device 6 is preferably embodied as a holder or stand for the container or containers B1, B2. For this purpose the removal opening E1, E2 or the bottle neck F1, F2 can preferably be inserted in the cover device 6. In particular, the receptacle 13 is configured for clamping and/or latching and/or releasably holding the container or containers B1, B2, preferably in the region of the removal opening E1, E2 and/or the bottle neck F1, F2. This advantageously allows reliable operation as a foot or stand and/or for holding or forming the kit or combination of containers B1, B2, particularly bottles, of the container system B.

(209) The cover device 6 preferably serves as a base or standing surface for one of the containers B1, B2, particularly the first container B1, if its opening region 4A is covered by the cover device 6. It may be provided that the receptacle 13 is arranged at the bottom in a starting position and/or is accessible from outside. This has the additional advantage that the containers B1, B2 can be stacked by placing the first container B1 comprising the cover device 6 with the receptacle 13 onto the second container B2 in such a way that its removal opening E2 or bottle neck F2 is pushed into the receptacle 13 and preferably held, particularly by latching and/or clamping. In this way a kit can be produced in which the containers B1, B2 are releasably joined together, thus helping to prevent incorrect packing and erroneous mixing of substances using the connecting system 1.

(210) For using the proposed connecting system 1 it may be envisaged that first of all the cover device 6 is separated or removed from the first container B1 (cf. FIG. 18).

(211) As shown in FIG. 19, by way of example, the first container B1 (or alternatively the second container B2) is then preferably inserted with the removal opening E1, E2 or the bottle neck F1, F2 or a part thereof in the receptacle 13 of the cover device 6. For this purpose the cover device 6 may be used with the opening of the receptacle 13 directed upwards in the position of use, the removal opening E1, E2 or the bottle neck F1, F2 being pushed into the receptacle 13 at least partially from above in the position of use. Theoretically, however, it is also possible to insert the container B1, B2 into the receptacle 13 in other positions. Preferably, the cover device 6 is then used as a holder or foot or at the bottom in the position of use. Thus the first connecting arrangement 3A or its opening region 4A is accessible from above in the position of use.

(212) The cover device 6 can be used as a standing foot for the container B1, B2, B3 if the container B1, B2, B3 is held by the holding device or receptacle 13 with the portion forming the removal opening E1, E2 or the bottle neck F1, F2.

(213) The cover device 6 thus preferably forms a holder or foot for the container B1, B2 which is held by the cover device 6. The dual function of the cover device advantageously saves space and material and additionally using the cover device 6 as a holder or foot advantageously prevents contamination of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′.

(214) The cover device 6 is preferably of cap-shaped formation and in a starting or transporting position it forms a tight seal with the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, so as to produce a sterile or sterilizable closure.

(215) The cover device 6 preferably comprises the receptacle 13 and a holding portion for holding onto the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3b, 3B′ on different sides, particularly opposite sides. The holding portion may have a region which is releasably fixed or fixable to the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3b, 3B′ by a clamping and/or latching action. For this purpose the cover device 6 in the holding portion and the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3b, 3B′ may be of complementary or corresponding construction.

(216) The cover device 6 is preferably made of plastics or contains plastics. The cover device 6 is preferably a thermoformed part or an injection molded part and/or a shaped part produced from a sheet material. The cover device 6 preferably has a wall thickness of more than 1 mm and/or less than 2 mm. However, other solutions are also possible here.

(217) In the embodiment shown, the cover device 6 is essentially in the shape of a W or U in longitudinal section, with an indentation in the curve of the U which forms the receptacle 13. In principle, however, the cover device 6 may also be formed differently for the dual function of a sterile closure on the one hand and a holding device on the other.

(218) FIG. 20 shows the second container B2 in which the opening region 4B is closed off, particularly in sterile manner, by the closure 14, particularly a removable cover, film, sealing film or the like. Preferably the closure 14 is removable, particularly by pulling off, in order to use the proposed connecting system 1. The closure 14 may have a tab for this purpose.

(219) At least one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, specifically the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ in the embodiment shown, preferably has a receptacle for another one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ which may preferably be formed by a collar-shaped portion 22 or alternatively or additionally by some other means. The collar-shaped portion 22 may assist with fitting the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ into one another, guide the required movement and/or protect the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ at the sides. It preferably comprises the securing devices 10A, 10B or parts thereof.

(220) Preferably, one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, particularly the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′, is surrounded by the collar-shaped portion 22 in the (first and/or second) connecting position.

(221) The collar-shaped portion 22 preferably serves to receive the (respectively) other connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ or to form a receptacle and/or guide, preferably a linear guide for this purpose, particularly in the direction of the central axis or axis of symmetry 9.

(222) In the embodiment shown the collar-shaped portion 22 is provided on or around the second connecting arrangement 4B, 4B′ or on the second container B2. Alternatively or additionally, however, the collar-shaped portion 23 may also be provided around the first connecting arrangement 4A, 4A′ or on the first container B2.

(223) The collar-shaped portion 22 is preferably fixedly, rigidly and/or non-rotationally connected to a or the associated connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, preferably by interlocking engagement, particularly by latching, and/or by frictional engagement, particularly by clamping, and/or by material connection, particularly by adhesive bonding or injection molding, but alternatively also by being formed in one piece with one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ or containers B1, B2.

(224) The collar-shaped portion 22 preferably projects beyond the mouth-shaped portion 5A, 5B, 5A′, 5B′ and/or extends at least partially parallel thereto or in the same direction and preferably thereby forms the receptacle or linear guide for the other one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′.

(225) The collar-shaped portion 22 or the receptacle that may be formed by it preferably at least partially comprises the guide 18A, 18B, particularly the slide, a guide pin or the like.

(226) An open edge of the collar-shaped portion 22 preferably forms a stop for those of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ which it does not surround in the separated state of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ and/or for the container B1 connected thereto. Preferably in the second connecting position the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ abut on one another in the region of the stop.

(227) The collar-shaped portion 22 is preferably closed off, particularly in sterile manner, at one end or on an open side by the closure 14, particularly a film applied as a seal.

(228) FIG. 21 shows by way of example how the containers B1, B2 can be fluidically connected to one another by the proposed connecting system 1. For this purpose the closure 14 is preferably removed from the second container B2 and the second container B2 is then placed with the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ onto the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ from above. In the embodiment shown the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ extends into the receptacle formed by the collar-shaped portion 22.

(229) Then the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ are opened. By combining the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, which form, in particular, base regions of the bottles or bottle-shaped containers B1, B2, the fluidic connection 2 can be produced, as already explained in relation to FIGS. 2 to 8. FIG. 21 shows the first embodiment but the same also applies to the second embodiment and the combination of embodiments.

(230) According to another aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently, the connecting system 1 or the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, 3A′, 3B′ are specific to a particular size of container.

(231) In particular, a proposed container system B comprises containers B1, B2, B3 of different sizes, volumes and/or with specific quantities of substance S1, S2, S3 for producing a desired mixing ratio. For this it is preferable for the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, 3A′, 3B′ to be selectively configured (mechanically) such that containers B1, B2, B3 with compatible contents can be connected and containers B1, B2, B3 with incompatible contents, or containers B1, B2, B3 which would lead to an undesirable or unsuitable mixing ratio if a fluidic connection 2 were produced, have connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, 3A′, 3B′ which are mechanically incompatible with one another.

(232) Particularly preferably, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, 3A′, 3B′ may be constructed selectively with respect to one another, particularly according to the lock and key principle. This can be achieved using guides 18A, 18B, guiding slides, diameters or the like which are compatible or incompatible with one another, respectively.

(233) The aspects of the present invention described in connection with FIGS. 16 to 21 may be advantageous on their own and in various combinations, preferably wholly or partially or in certain details in the sequence of the explanations. In particular, the cover device 6 is preferably removed and used as a holder or foot before the second connecting arrangement 3B is opened or unsealed, particularly by removal of the closure 14.

(234) Moreover, FIGS. 16 to 21 show the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B of the first embodiment. Instead of these, however, it is also possible to use the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ of the second embodiment or a combination of the first connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′ and the second connecting arrangements 3B, 3B′. The aspects explained then apply accordingly.

(235) The fluidic connection 2 may thus alternatively or additionally be produced by deformation. In this case the severing element 7 is optional and the collar-shaped portions 22 are preferably non-round in cross section, so that when the connecting arrangements 3A, 3B, 3A′, 3B′ are rotated relative to one another the fluidic connection 2 is produced by shaping or deformation. In the interests of clarity, the corresponding procedure will not be repeated here.

(236) Further aspects of the present invention which may be implemented separately and combined with one another and/or may be implemented with aspects and features of the present invention as explained hereinbefore and which are advantageous will be described in more detail hereinafter.

(237) An aspect of the present invention which can be implemented independently, or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects, relates to a connecting system 1 for producing a fluidic connection 2, preferably between containers B1, B2, B3, wherein the connecting system 1 comprises at least two connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ configured to form the fluidic connection 2, namely a first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ and a second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′, which, in an initial state, are each fluidically sealed and are sealed independently of one another, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ being capable of insertion in one another and/or being adapted to be inserted in one another by a preferably at least substantially linear and/or axial movement along a common axis, by means of which at least one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ can be opened.

(238) In particular, the fluidic connection 2 is formed by an insertion process. This is advantageously carried out, for example, by producing the fluidic connection 2 particularly quickly and reliably, in particular without the need for repeated rotation of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ by means of a helical line with a number of turns or by means of a thread.

(239) The insertion of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ into one another also allows the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ to be brought together in a manner oriented with one another in relation to the position of rotation about the (common) axis of symmetry or central axis 9, which is particularly advantageous if the mouth portions 5A, 5A′, 5B, 5B′ of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are non-round in cross section or the opening of at least one of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ is produced by deformation and the resultant tensioning of an opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′.

(240) An aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects relates to a connecting system 1 for producing a fluidic connection 2, preferably between containers B1, B2, B3, wherein the connecting system 1 comprises at least two connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ configured to produce the fluidic connection 2, namely a first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ and a second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′, which are fluidically sealed off in a starting state, the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ having an in particular film-shaped, brittle and/or unstable opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′, being deformable outside the opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ and being configured so that the deformation causes opening of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ in the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′.

(241) An aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently, or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects, relates to one or more containers B1, B2, B3 or vessels which comprise connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ in each case.

(242) An aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects relates to a connecting system 1 for producing a fluidic connection 2, preferably between containers B1, B2, B3, the connecting system 1 having at least two connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ configured to produce the fluidic connection 2, the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ each comprising an opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ which is fluidically closed in a starting state, particularly in the manner of a film, or is brittle, fragile and/or unstable, the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ each being covered in sterile or sterilizable manner.

(243) In particular, the opening or formation of the fluidic connection 2 is thus achieved by the fact that the opening region 4A, 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ is or forms a frangible point, so that deformation of the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, particularly by tensioning, leads to tearing or breaking of the opening region 4A, 4A′. This has the particular advantage that no point or other severing element is required for this opening process. Severing elements 7 usually have to be sharp-edged and stabilized to allow the opening up of an opening region 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′. Consequently, by avoiding such a severing element, the manufacturing process can use gentler materials and/or be simpler. As already explained hereinbefore, however, a combination of the above aspects using a severing element 7 is also possible, while the present aspect is advantageous for enlarging or expanding an opening or the fluidic connection 2.

(244) The sterile or sterilizable covers of the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ advantageously make it possible to produce the fluidic connection 2 while excluding germs or other foreign substances, particularly in the pharmaceutical/medical sector. Alternatively or additionally, the sterile or sterilizable covering of the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ offers the possibility of using containers B1, B2, B3 with the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ separately from one another in this environment and optionally in combination with one another.

(245) One aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects relates to a container system B with at least two containers B1, B2, B3, preferably bottles, and the connecting system 1, wherein the containers B1, B2, B3 for providing a fluidic connection 2 between the containers B1, B2, B3 in each case comprise at least one connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ of the connecting system 1.

(246) In this connection, the use of the proposed connecting system 1 for connecting containers B1, B2, B3 has proved advantageous particularly because it is possible to produce a non-releasable and/or irreversible fluidic connection 2 between the containers B1, B2, B3, thus ensuring complete mixing of the contents of the containers B1, B2, B3.

(247) Another aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects relates to a container system B with at least two containers B1, B2, B3, preferably bottles, each of which comprises a removal opening E1, E2, preferably each closed off by a septum, while preferably the containers B1, B2, B3 comprise, on a side remote from the respective removal opening E1, E2, particularly on the base of the respective bottle, a connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ for providing a fluidic connection 2 between the containers B1, B2, B3 and/or are configured for providing a fluidic connection 2 between the containers B1, B2, B3.

(248) The use of two containers B1, B2, B3, each of which comprises a removal opening E1, E2 and a connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, is particularly advantageous because the containers B1, B2, B3 can also be used separately from one another, but at the same time, in the event of joint use by means of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, a fluidic connection with a relatively large cross-section is made possible for the rapid or accelerated mixing of the contents of the containers B1, B2, B3.

(249) Another aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects relates to a method for providing a fluidic connection 2 between connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ and/or containers B1, B2, B3 by means of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, wherein in an initial state the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are in each case fluidically sealed, wherein a first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ is opened by another, second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ and the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ is opened by the [omission], thus producing a continuous fluidic connection 2 between the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′.

(250) This results in corresponding advantages, i.e. in particular a rapid and reliable formation of the fluidic connection 2 or mixing of the substances S1, S2, S3.

(251) Another aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects relates to a use of a container system B, wherein a first container B1 holds a first substance S1, particularly a first vaccine against a first disease, while a second container B2 holds a second substance S2, particularly a second vaccine against a second disease different from the first, for the preparation of a mixture of substances, particularly for the preparation of a combined vaccine for simultaneous immunization against different diseases, wherein the containers B1, B2, B3 are fluidically connected to one another by means of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, so that the substances are mixed together, particularly to form the combined vaccine.

(252) The use of the proposed connecting system 1 or container system B for the preparation of combined vaccine is advantageous for example because the vaccines may be used individually or in combination, as desired. The proposed connecting system 1 or container system B offers the flexibility of deciding on the spot whether the substances S1, S2, S3 or vaccines are to be administered individually or in combination. This advantageously avoids subjecting animals to stress by an unnecessarily large number of separate injections or unnecessarily always having to vaccinate them with a combined vaccine, even when there is no need for one of the vaccines to be given, because of an existing immunity. In this way, the present invention can save materials and costs.

(253) Another aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects relates to a method for providing a fluidic connection 2 between connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ and/or containers B1, B2, B3 by means of connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ of the connecting system 1, wherein preferably the means for sterile covering, particularly the cover device and/or the closure 14, is removed from the opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ in each case and the still closed opening regions 4A, 4A′, 4B, 4B′ thus exposed are opened up to form the fluidic connection 2.

(254) Another aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently or in conjunction with one or more of the preceding aspects relates to a method for providing a fluidic connection 2 between connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ and/or containers B1, B2, B3 by means of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, wherein in an initial state the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ are in each case fluidically sealed, while a first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′ is opened by another second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ and the second connecting arrangement 3B, 3B′ is opened by the first connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, thus producing a continuous fluidic connection 2 between the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′.

(255) In another aspect which may thus be implemented independently, the present invention relates to a kit with two proposed containers B1, B2, B3 or with containers B1, B2, B3, which can be fluidically connected to one another by means of the connecting system 1, so that a mixture of the substances S1, S2, S3 contained in the containers B1, B2, B3 can be formed. This prevents other, incompatible substances S1, S2, S3 from being mixed.

(256) A kit in the sense of the present invention is particularly a combination and/or system comprising the first container B1 and the second container B2, which form the components of the kit. The kit may also comprise the third container B3 and/or further containers or components.

(257) The components of the kit are preferably marketed as a set, particularly in a joint pack or the like. However, it is also possible for the components to form a loose combination to be used together. A common or connecting component may be provided, for example a common set of instructions for use, handling recommendations, information in the text on one or more of the components of the kit or the like.

(258) Preferably, the containers B1, B2, B3 form a kit by being held together, particularly preferably by means of the cover device 6 or the receptacle 13.

(259) The containers B1, B2, B3 are preferably designed for the preparation of a combined vaccine for simultaneous immunization against different diseases, preferably by making the containers B1, B2, B3 capable of fluidic connection to one another by means of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, so that substances S1, S2, S3 located in the containers B1, B2, B3 are mixed together to form the combined vaccine, while in particular the substances S1, S2, S3 can be removed through the removal opening E1, E2 separately from one another and then used, particularly before or without forming the fluidic connection 2.

(260) Preferably, at least one of the containers B1, B2, B3 comprises a removal opening E1, E2, preferably closed off with a septum, while the container B1, B2, B3 is preferably configured, on a side remote from the removal opening E1, E2, particularly on the bottom of the bottle, for providing a fluidic connection 2 between the containers B1, B2, B3 and/or comprises the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′.

(261) The containers B1, B2, B3 are preferably fluidically connected to one another by means of the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, so that the substances are mixed together, preferably forming a combined vaccine.

(262) In another aspect which may thus be implemented independently, the present invention relates to the use of a connecting system 1, kit or container system B as proposed, for the preparation or provision of medicaments for live animals, preferably mammals, and/or for medical uses.

(263) In another aspect which may thus be implemented independently, the present invention relates to the use of a connecting system 1, kit or container system B as proposed, for the preparation and/or provision of a vaccine, particularly for immunizing against the disease(s) Porcine Circovirus Disease “PCVD” and/or Enzootic Pneumonia “EP” or infections with Porcine Circovirus and/or infection with bacteria of the Mycoplasma strain, particularly Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, preferably for immunizing against the diseases Porcine Circovirus Disease “PCVD” and Enzootic Pneumonia “EP” or against infections with Porcine Circovirus and/or infection with bacteria of the Mycoplasma strain, particularly Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae.

(264) For this purpose a first proposed container B1 contains as the first substance S1 a first reactant and a second proposed container B2 contains as the second substance S2 a second reactant. The reactants may be vaccines against different diseases or the educts may contain vaccines against different diseases.

(265) It is particularly preferable for the first reactant to contain only a first one of the components Mycoplasma vaccine or Mycoplasma antigen and Circovirus vaccine or Circovirus antigen (and optionally other substances). The first reactant may thus contain either Mycoplasma vaccine, or one or more Mycoplasma antigens or alternatively Circovirus vaccine or one or more Circovirus antigens. The first reactant is preferably stored separately from the second reactant, particularly if the reactants are not stable in the long term together. The second reactant preferably contains only the other one of the components Mycoplasma vaccine or one or more Mycoplasma antigens and Circovirus vaccine or one or more Circovirus antigens (and optionally other substances). If the first reactant thus contains Mycoplasma vaccine or one or more Mycoplasma antigens, the second reactant contains Circovirus vaccine or one or more Circovirus antigens, or vice versa.

(266) The Mycoplasma vaccine may contain attenuated and/or inactivated bacteria, fragments of bacteria or recombinantly prepared parts of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, but at least one or more Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae antigens. Preferably, the Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae antigen originates from the Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae J-strain or the inactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae bacteria are those of the J-strain. Moreover, the Mycoplasma vaccine may be one of the following vaccines or the Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae antigen may be the antigen or antigens contains in one of the following vaccines: Ingelvac®MycoFlex (Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc, St Joseph, Mo., USA), Porcilis M. hyo, Myco Silencer® BPM, Myco Silencer® BPME, Myco Silencer® ME, Myco Silencer® M, Myco Silencer® Once, Myco Silencer® MEH (all from Intervet Inc., Millsboro, USA) Stellamune Mycoplasma (Pfizer Inc., New York, N.Y., USA), Suvaxyn Mycoplasma, Suvaxyn M. hyo, Suvaxyn MH-One (all formerly Fort Dodge Animal Health, Overland Park, Kans., USA (now Pfizer Animal Health).

(267) The Circovirus vaccine may contain attenuated and/or inactivated porcine Circovirus, preferably type 2, particularly type 2 ORF2 protein. It is particularly preferable to use recombinantly expressed ORF2 protein of the Porcine Circovirus type 2, preferably expressed in and obtained from in vitro cell culture. Examples of ORF2 proteins of the Porcine Circovirus type 2 are described inter alia in International Patent Application WO2006-072065. These have proved particularly advantageous for effective vaccination. Moreover, the Circovirus vaccine may be one of the following vaccines, or the Circovirus antigen may be the antigen or antigens contained in one of the following vaccines: Ingelvac®CircoFLEX, (Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc, St Joseph, Mo., USA), CircoVac® (Merial SAS, Lyon, France), CircoVent (Intervet Inc., Millsboro, Del., USA), or Suvaxyn PCV-2 One Dose® (Fort Dodge Animal Health, Kansas City, Kans., USA).

(268) The Circovirus vaccine, if it contains the ORF2 protein, preferably contains between 2 μg and 150 μg, preferably between 2 μg and 60 μg, more preferably between 2 μg and 50 μg, more preferably between 2 μg and 40 μg, more preferably between 2 μg and 30 μg, more preferably between 2 μg and 25 μg, more preferably between 2 μg and 20 μg, more preferably between 4 μg and 20 μg, more preferably between 4 μg and 16 μg of ORF2 protein per dose to be administered. The Circovirus vaccine is preferably prepared or formulated so that 1 ml of the vaccine corresponds to a dose of 1. In particular, the Circovirus vaccine may contain ORF2 protein in amounts of more than 2 μg/ml, preferably more than 4 μg/ml and/or less than 150 μg/ml, preferably less than 60 μg/ml, 50 μg/ml, 40 μg/ml, 30 μg/ml or 25 μg/ml, particularly less than 20 μg/ml. This contributes to reliability of administration.

(269) The Mycoplasma vaccine, if it contains inactivated Mycoplasma bacteria, preferably inactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae bacteria, preferably contains between 10.sup.3 and 10.sup.9 colony forming units (CFU), preferably between 10.sup.4 and 10.sup.8 (CFU), more preferably between 10.sup.5 and 10.sup.6 (CFU) per dose to be administered, the corresponding CFU being adjusted before the inactivation of the bacteria. The Mycoplasma vaccine is preferably prepared or formulated so that 1 ml of the vaccine corresponds to a dose of 1. In particular, the Mycoplasma vaccine may contain more than 10.sup.3 CFU/ml, preferably more than 10.sup.4 CFU/ml, particularly more than 10.sup.5 CFU/ml and/or less than 10.sup.9 CFU/ml, preferably less than 10.sup.8 CFU/ml, particularly less than 10.sup.7 CFU/ml or 10.sup.6 CFU/ml of inactivated Mycoplasma bacteria, preferably inactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae bacteria, particularly before the inactivation of the bacteria.

(270) At least one of the reactants and/or the vaccine or combined vaccine may contain an adjuvant, preferably a polymeric adjuvant, particularly carbomer. Preferably at least or precisely one of the two reactants, preferably both reactants, contain a quantity of adjuvant of 500 μg to 5 mg, preferably from 750 μg to 2.5 mg, more preferably about 1 mg of adjuvant per dose to be administered. The reactants are preferably prepared or formulated so that 1 ml of the respective reactant corresponds to a dose of 1. The use of an adjuvant, preferably a polymeric adjuvant, such as carbomer, for example, has proved advantageous in relation to the efficiency of immunization or the duration of the effect. However, the use of alternative and/or additional adjuvants is not ruled out.

(271) According to another aspect of the present invention, the first and/or the second and/or the combination of the first and second container B1, B2, B3 with the fluidic connection 2 provided may be configured for use in or with an injection device, and/or used therein. In particular, it is an injection device which can be reused repeatedly, for example an injection gun, a pressure injector and/or a self-filling syringe, of the kind used for vaccinating large herds of animals, for example.

(272) The kit or container system B according to the invention may comprise such an injection device or may be associated with one. In particular, the removal opening E1, E2 or another opening, a flange or other connecting or closing element of at least one of the containers B1, B2 and/or of both containers B1, B2 may be configured so as to allow direct use in or with the injection device. Moreover, the removal device, the opening, the flange or other connecting or closing element may be configured specifically for connection to a particular injection device. This can reduce the probability of incorrect use, particularly the wrong amounts of active substance or methods of administration.

(273) An aspect of the present invention which may also be implemented independently further relates to an injection device with an inserted combination of at least two of the proposed containers B1, B2, B3, which are fluidically connected to one another with the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ according to the present invention. In particular, by means of the fluidic connection 2, a mixture of the substances S1, S2, S3 from the containers B1, B2, B3 is formed and the injection device is set up for injecting the mixture of substances S1, S2, S3.

(274) Further aspects of the present invention will be explained hereinafter with reference to another embodiment, detailing only the differences and special features compared with the embodiments described hereinbefore. The aspects can therefore be combined with the aspects described previously, and vice versa, unless this is specifically ruled out. Moreover, reference will be made to the previous explanations and definitions.

(275) The embodiment described hereinafter with reference to FIG. 22 ff. preferably relates to the variant described above in which the first connecting arrangement 3A′ is deformable outside the opening region 4A′ and is configured so that the deformation causes the first connecting arrangement 3A′ to open in the opening region 4A′. For further details, reference may be made to FIGS. 5 to 13 and the related explanations.

(276) According to an aspect of the present invention which can also be implemented independently, the first connecting arrangement 3A′ comprises a preferably rigid, stiff and/or dimensionally stable closure device 23, particularly a closure plate. The closure device 23 is preferably sealingly attached to a holding portion 25 by means of a fragile frangible point 24, particularly a thin point. The opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ may thus be formed with or by the closure device 23 and/or frangible point 24.

(277) The aspects explained previously in connection with the fragility of the opening region 4A′, particularly with regard to the material thickness and the like, can preferably be applied to or transferred to the frangible point 24. The difference thus lies particularly in the fact that the opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ additionally comprises the closure device 23 which stabilizes or reinforces the opening region 4A′ in a central portion or a portion surrounded by a film-shaped, brittle, unstable and/or fragile region in the form of the frangible point 24.

(278) The holding portion 25 preferably corresponds to the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ and/or the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ comprises the holding portion 25. The related explanations in connection with the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ may therefore be applied to the holding portion 25 as well, in an alternative or supplementary capacity. If necessary, the holding portion 25 can therefore also be designated a mouth-shaped portion 5 A′ or be wholly or partially formed thereby or vice versa.

(279) Particularly preferably, the holding portion 25 is movable by deformation relative to the closure device 23, so that the first connecting arrangement 3A′ can be opened by tearing the frangible point 24. It has advantageously been found that the use of a closure device 23 and the concomitant concentration of the force applied by the deformation on a fragile area (frangible point 24) surrounding the closure device 23 makes it possible to achieve a particularly reliable and simpler opening by means of deformation.

(280) FIG. 22 shows an overview of the container system B, in which the containers B1, B2 are fluidically connected to one another by means of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′. For this purpose, the first connecting arrangement 3A′ or its opening region 4A′ and the second connecting arrangement 3B′ or its opening region 4B′ are shown open in each case.

(281) For the following explanations, reference is additionally made to FIGS. 23 to 26, while FIG. 23 shows a longitudinal section through the first container B1 with the first connecting arrangement 3A′ in an initial state with the opening region 4A′ closed. FIG. 24 shows a magnified detail of a partial region of the closure device 23 and of the holding portion 25 with the frangible point 24 between them. In the embodiment shown according to FIG. 23 the opening region 4A′ is covered by a preferably cap-shaped cover device 26. The cover device 26 has been removed in the embodiment shown in FIG. 25. FIG. 26 shows a perspective representation of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ as part of the first container B1 without the cover device 26.

(282) The closure device 23 is preferably configured and/or held by means of the frangible point 24 such that the closure device 23 is inclined as the holding portion 25 is deformed.

(283) Preferably, the frangible point 24 or a surface or plane 27 formed or defined by the frangible point 24 is inclined relative to the central axes or axes of symmetry 9. This enables or facilitates pushing, rotation and/or further inclination of the closure device 23 during the opening process or prevents blockade of the closure device 23 relative to the holding portion 25.

(284) During the opening process the closure device 23 may slide over the holding portion 25 as a result of the deformation of the holding portion 25, particularly while being inclined or tilting.

(285) The holding portion 25 preferably comprises a frame 28 or is of a frame-shaped construction. The closure device 23 is preferably inclined relative to the frame 28 in the initial state. As a result, the frame 28 and the closure device 23 are each partially offset from one another, with the result that an offset directly adjacent the frangible point 24 may form this or an offset region. The offset is preferably aligned in opposite directions on opposite sides. The advantage of the offset is that during deformation of the holding portion 25 the closure device 23 is able to slide along the frame 28 or tuck in behind it. This makes the opening process easier because blocking of the deformation of the holding portion 25 by the closure device 23 is prevented and as a result the opening of the opening region 4A′ is made easier.

(286) Preferably, particularly as a result of the step-shaped offset of the frame 28 relative to the edge of the closure device 23 adjacent the frangible point 24 and/or as a result of the inclination of the closure device 23 and/or the frangible point 24 relative to the central axis 9, a shearing action of the closure device 23 relative to the frame 28 is made possible, or is achieved during deformation. Such a shearing action advantageously makes it possible to apply a strong mechanical stress to the frangible point 24, in relation to the degree of deformation of the holding portion 25, particularly by producing tensile and/or shear stresses, thus making the severing or tearing of the frangible point 24 easier. Overall, this provides a comfortable and reliable method of opening the opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′.

(287) According to a further aspect of the present invention the closure device 23 is formed in a ramp shape starting from the frangible point 24 provided on the edge thereof. This may be achieved by increasing the material thickness, preferably in relation to a surface or plane 27 defined by or extending through the frangible point 24. Alternatively, or additionally the closure device 23 is formed in a ramp shape starting from the offset region. In this way it is possible to incline the closure device 23 increasingly as the deformation of the holding portion 25 progresses. The ramp-shaped portion of the closure device 23 can slide along the holding portion 25 and thereby produce an increasing inclination.

(288) The closure device 23 itself preferably comprises a reinforcement 29, in the embodiment shown in the form of ribs or some other added material or added thickness of material that will improve mechanical stability. This reinforcement 29 may be formed at the edge of the closure device 23 or may be configured like a ramp, starting from the frangible point 24 provided at the edge, particularly such that the closure device 23 is increasingly inclined as deformation progresses.

(289) As may be seen for example in the perspective view in FIG. 26, the holding portion 25 is preferably non-round perpendicularly to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9, particularly oval in shape, as explained previously in connection with FIGS. 5 to 13. The same also applies alternatively or additionally to the frangible point 24 and/or an encircling edge of the closure device 23 or such an edge adjoining the frangible point 24 and/or to the frame 28.

(290) The frangible point 24, particularly the thin point, is preferably so fragile that deformation of the holding portion 25 can cause tearing of the frangible point 24 and hence opening of the connecting arrangement 3A′.

(291) In the embodiment shown the frangible point 24 is only ten microns thick, preferably less than 300 microns, more preferably less than 200 microns or less than 150 microns. The distance between the holding portion 25 and the closure device 23, which is tightly bridged by means of the frangible point 24, is preferably less than 3 mm, particularly preferably less than 2 or 1 mm, in the embodiment shown less than 0.5 mm. It is also preferable if the distance between the closure device 23 and holding portion 25 or the length of the frangible point 24 does not exceed, or only slightly exceeds, corresponding values in the entire area surrounding the closure device 23. The frangible point 24 thus preferably has an at least substantially constant length and/or material thickness in its extent around the closure device 23. The frangible point 24 thus preferably surrounds the closure device 23 at least substantially completely.

(292) The holding portion 25 is preferably deformable by insertion in a deforming device 30 of at least a substantially complementary shape and subsequent rotation of the holding portion 25 relative to the deforming device 30 about the central axis and/or axis of symmetry 9. In particular, the holding portion 25 is radially deformable in relation to and/or in the direction of the central axis and/or axis of symmetry 9.

(293) FIG. 27 shows a section through a second container B2 with the second connecting arrangement 3B′ and FIG. 28 shows a magnified detail thereof. FIG. 29 shows the second container B2 with the cover device 6 removed and FIG. 30 shows a perspective view of the second connecting arrangement 3B′.

(294) The deforming device 30 is particularly preferably formed by the second connecting arrangement 3B′, particularly its mouth-shaped portion 5B′. For this, reference is made to the corresponding explanation in connection with FIGS. 5 to 13 and to the following explanations of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ from the embodiment shown in FIG. 22 ff.

(295) The holding portion 25 of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ is preferably in the shape of a neck, collar and/or tube with, and in particular by means of, a flexible deformable wall 31. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 22 ff. the wall 31 forms a preferably at least substantially conical shape converging towards the frame 28, which may form the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ in the present case. However, other solutions are also theoretically possible here.

(296) It is also preferable that the holding portion 25, particularly the frame 28, has a piercing and/or cutting edge 32 or other severing element 7. The piercing and/or cutting edge 32 is preferably attached to the frame 28, formed by the frame 28, particularly in one piece and/or by molding on. The piercing and/or cutting edge 32 is preferably formed by an at least substantially axially extending strip preferably forming a point.

(297) The piercing and/or cutting edge 32 is preferably configured to open the second connecting arrangement 3B′, particularly as a result of the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ being perforated or pierced by means of the piercing and/or cutting edge 32. Preferably, during an axial movement of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ to one another, the opening region 4B of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ is first of all pierced by the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 projecting axially outwards relative to the opening region 4A′, particularly of the closure device 23, and only afterwards can the opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ be opened by the rotation of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ relative to one another in the manner described. By comparison with the embodiment in FIGS. 5 to 13, however, in the present case the holding portion 25 or the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ is configured to pierce the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′. In this respect, reference is made to the previous explanations for supplementary information.

(298) In the present embodiment, by comparison with the previous embodiment, the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 is provided on the mouth-shaped portion 5A′, as is also possible in the previous embodiment and advantageous for easier opening of the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′.

(299) In the present embodiment, the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ is closed off by an, in particular, at least substantially rigid, dimensionally stable and/or plate-shaped closure device 33, particularly a closure plate or disc, which is preferably sealingly held on the mouth-shaped portion 5B, particularly by means of a frangible point 34. Other constructions are also theoretically possible here, for example as described in connection with FIG. 7. The use of the closure device 33, in a similar manner to the closure of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ with the closure device 23, however, makes it easier to open the second connecting arrangement 3B′ in the opening region 4B′.

(300) The piercing and/or cutting edge 32 preferably corresponds in its orientation and position to the frangible point 34 of the second connecting arrangement 3B′, such that bringing the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ together leads to the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 being applied to the frangible point 34, as a result of which the frangible point 34 can be severed, starting at the initial point of application of the piercing and/or cutting edge 32. Preferably, the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are correspondingly guided to one another.

(301) The frame 28 and/or the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 preferably has a rounded and/or chamfered portion, so that when the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 acts on the frangible point 34 the frangible point 34 is partially spared, so that preferably an intact part of the frangible point 34 still holds the closure device 33 against the mouth-shaped portion 5B′ after opening, particularly in the manner of a film hinge. This ensures that the closure device 33 is not detached and prevents blockage of one of the removal openings E1, E2.

(302) In the embodiment shown, in the initial state, the closure device 33 is aligned with the mouth-shaped portion 5B′ at least substantially perpendicular to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9. It is certainly possible to have an inclined alignment, as with the closure device 23 of the first connecting arrangement 3A′, but this is not absolutely necessary, as the second connecting arrangement 3B′ is preferably opened primarily by the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 and not by deformation of the mouth-shaped portion 5B′.

(303) The mouth-shaped portion 5B′ is preferably sufficiently stable in its construction and hold so that when the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are rotated after being inserted in one another, deformation takes place at least substantially or in any case predominantly in the region of the mouth-shaped portions 5A′ or in the holding portion 25. A certain deformation of the mouth-shaped portion 5B′ and/or the deforming device 30, of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ is possible, however.

(304) According to a further aspect of the present invention the container(s) B1, B2 is or are (each) formed from a container blank BR1, BR2 and the respective connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′. The same may also apply to the previous embodiment.

(305) In the embodiment shown the container blanks BR1, BR2 are upper container or bottle parts, configured for connection to the respective connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ on a side or end remote from or opposite to the removal opening E1, E2. In particular, they are container blanks BR1, BR2 without bases, the resulting open region being closed off during manufacture by means of the respective connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ to form the respective container B1, B2.

(306) Container blanks BR1, BR2 are thus particularly structures with a removal opening E1, E2 and another open point which can be closed off by the respective connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′.

(307) Preferably, the respective connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ is tightly connected to a wall of the container blank BR1, BR2 by material engagement, particularly preferably by welding, adhesive bonding, injection molding or by some other method. The connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B may consequently be used in all kinds of containers B1, B2 or may also be used independently of containers B1, B2, for example in order to fluidically connect a container B1, B2 to another structure such as a pipe, a connector or the like. However, the connection of containers B1, B2, B3 to one another is particularly preferred.

(308) Preferably, the (respective) connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ is configured to be connected to the container blank BR1, BR2 so that a container B1, B2 is formed. It is also preferable that the container blank BR1, BR2 should have a wall 35A′, 35B′ with an open edge 36A′, 36B′, forming a receptacle for the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′, into which the respective connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ can be inserted and tightly connected to the container blank BR1, BR2.

(309) In another aspect the present invention relates to a connecting system 1 with the first connecting arrangement 3A′ comprising the holding portion 25 and the frangible point 24 and a second connecting arrangement 3B′ comprising the deforming device 30 corresponding to the holding portion 25, wherein the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ can be inserted sealingly into one another and, as the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are rotated relative to one another, as a result of the deformation of the holding portion 25 by the deforming device 30, the first connecting arrangement 3A′ can be opened in order to produce the fluidic connection 2.

(310) In another aspect which may also be implemented independently, the present invention further relates to one or more containers B1, B2, B3, particularly bottles (each) having a connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ according to the present invention, preferably on a side or end remote from a container opening or removal opening E1, E2, another connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ or a base.

(311) In another aspect which may also be implemented independently, the present invention further relates to a container system B with at least two containers B1, B2, B3, wherein a first container B1 comprises the first connecting arrangement 3A′ and a second container B2, B3 comprises the second connecting arrangement 3B′, which corresponds to the first connecting arrangement 3A′.

(312) The connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are preferably configured as described hereinbefore. In particular, it is preferable for the first connecting arrangement 3A′ to have the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 by means of which the second connecting arrangement 3B′ can be opened.

(313) Alternatively, or additionally the second connecting arrangement 3B′ comprises the mouth-shaped portion 5B′ or the deforming device 30, for opening the first container B1 by means of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ by deformation of the holding portion 25 or of the mouth-shaped portion 5A′.

(314) It is also preferable that the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ should enable the formation of the fluidic connection 2 by mutual opening, the first connecting arrangement 3A′ opening the second connecting arrangement 3B′ and the second connecting arrangement 3B′ opening the first connecting arrangement 3A′, thus forming the fluidic connection 2.

(315) In another aspect of the present invention which may also be implemented independently, the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are used to prepare a mixture of substances, preferably a medicament, particularly a vaccine or combined vaccine, to produce a fluidic connection 2 and/or to mix starting materials or substances S1, S2 which have been stored separately.

(316) The invention further relates to a method, which may also be implemented independently, for producing one of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ or the connecting system 1 and/or a container B1, B2, B3, in which the closure device 23, 33, the frangible point 24, 34 and the holding portion 25 or the mouth-shaped portion 5A′, 5B′ are injection molded in a common step. This has proved advantageous in terms of reliable production of the frangible point 24, 34.

(317) In the method, it is also preferable if, in a container blank BR1, BR2 having an open end, particularly a bottle blank with a removal opening E1, E2 in addition to the open end, the open end is sealed off by the separately produced connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′.

(318) The connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ preferably comprises a collar-shaped and/or tubular portion 37A′, 37B′ which delimits the (respective) connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ radially outwards and corresponds to the wall 35A′, 35B′ of the respective container B1, B2 or container blank BR1, BR2, in order to be inserted therein and connected to the container blank BR1, BR2.

(319) Another aspect of the present invention which may also be implemented independently relates to the sealing concept, based on a combination of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ with one another, or of one of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ with a preferably cap-shaped cover device 6, 26.

(320) It is provided that a container B1, B2, B3 is provided with a connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ for producing a fluidic connecting arrangement 2 of the container B1, B2, B3 with another container B1, B2, B3. In an initial state the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ may be fluidically sealed in an opening region 4A′, 4B′ and can be opened in order to form the fluidic connection 2. The opening region 4A′, 4B′ is covered with a cap-shaped cover device 6, 26 and/or another connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′. This aspect thus relates particularly to an individual container B1, B2, B3 or a connecting arrangement therefor, of the container system B combined with the cap-shaped cover 6, 26 and/or the (corresponding) connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′.

(321) In another aspect which may also be implemented independently, it is envisaged that the cover device 6, 26 or the other connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ is sealingly held on the proposed container B1, B2, B3, thus forming a sealed chamber 38A, 38B, 38C. Moreover, the proposed container B1, B2, B3 comprises a sealing arrangement 39 surrounding the opening region 4A′, 4B′ thereof, which seals off a volume 40A, 40B, 40C of the chamber 38A, 38B, 38C in direct contact with the opening region 4A, 4B′. Particularly preferably, the sealing arrangement 39 seals off the inner volume 40A, 49B, 40C from an outer volume 41A, 41B, 41C of the chamber 38A, 38B, 38C. This advantageously covers the opening region 4A′, 4B′, particularly by means of a double closure. This enhances the barrier preventing the ingress of substances, particularly germs.

(322) It is provided, in particular, that foreign substances can only reach the inner volume 40A, 40B, 40C by passing through the outer volume 41A, 41B, 41C. The sealing arrangement 39 is preferably mechanically decoupled from the environment by an outer seal of the cover device 6, 26, so that any force acting on the cover device 6, 26 may affect the tight seal of the outer volume 41A, 41B, 41C, but the inner volume 40A, 40B, 40C will remain sealed even in such a case, preferably in airtight manner, particularly in germproof or bacteria-proof manner. In this way it is possible to guarantee a sterile environment at the opening region 4A′, 4B′.

(323) Alternatively, or additionally the sealing arrangement 39 seals off the inner volume 40A, 40B, 40C surrounding the opening region 4A′, 4B′ by means of the cover device 6, 26 or the other connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ when there is uninterrupted movement of the cover device 6, 26 or the other connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ relative to the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ of the proposed container B1, B2, B3. In this way, during the process of inserting the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ into one another and/or during the assembly or removal of the cover device(s) 6, 26, the opening region 4A′, 4B′ can be protected from the ingress of foreign substances, particularly germs.

(324) It is particularly preferable to combine the two aspects, i.e. to form the chamber 38A, 38B, 38C, which is divided by the sealing arrangement 39 into an inner volume 40A, 40B, 40C and an outer volume 41A, 41B, 41C, the sealing arrangement 39 being configured to prevent the ingress of foreign substances, particularly germs, into the inner volume 40A, 40B, 40C, during, in particular, axial movement of the cover device 6, 26 or other connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′.

(325) The sealing arrangement 39 preferably comprises sealing portions 42A, 42B, 43A, 43B corresponding to one another, a first sealing portion 42A, 42B being associated with the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ and a second sealing portion 42A, 42B, 43A, 43B being arranged on the cover device 6, 26 and/or on the other connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′, particularly being formed in one piece therewith.

(326) The sealing portions 42A, 42B, 43A, 43B preferably comprise sealing surfaces 44A, 44B, 45A, 45B corresponding to one another, which abut closely on one another when the cover device 6, 26 is placed on the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ or the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are fitted into one another.

(327) The sealing surfaces 44A, 44B, 45A, 45B preferably have a similar shape in cross-section (perpendicular to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9) and/or are round and/or rotationally symmetrical to the common axis of symmetry and/or central axis 9.

(328) Preferably, the sealing portions 44A, 44B, 45A, 45B are configured and/or correspond to one another such that it is possible to rotate the cover device 6, 26 and/or the other connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ relative to the container B1, B2, B3.

(329) Preferably, one of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ comprises a sealing surface 44A, 44B, which corresponds to both the sealing surface 44A, 44B of the other connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ and to the sealing surface 45A, 45B of the cover device 6, 26 corresponding to the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′. The sealing arrangement 39 may thus be formed on the basis of a connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ both with the corresponding cover device 6, 26 and with the other connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′. In this way it is possible to obtain a seal over the cover device 6, 26 during transporting and over the other connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ during use, using the same means or re-using the same means.

(330) Another aspect of the present invention which may also be implemented independently relates to the connecting system 1 for producing the fluidic connection 2 between the containers B1, B2, B3 and/or a container B3, the connecting system 1 or the container B3 having at least two connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ configured to produce the fluidic connection 2, namely a first connecting arrangement 3A′ and a second connecting arrangement 3B′, which are each fluidically sealed in an initial state or fluidically close off the container B1, B2, B3 and can be opened in an opening region 4A′, 4B′ in order to produce the fluidic connection 2.

(331) In another aspect it is provided that the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ form the sealed chamber 38C and comprise the sealing arrangement 39, while a volume 40C in direct contact with the opening regions 4A′, 4B′ is sealed off from a volume 41C of the chamber 38C separated from the opening regions 4A′, 4B′ by means of the sealing arrangement 39.

(332) Alternatively or additionally the connecting system 1 comprises a sealing arrangement 39 which uninterruptedly seals off a volume 40C in direct contact with the opening regions 4A′, 4B′ as the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are moved relative to one another.

(333) It is also preferable if the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ comprises at least two positions for connection to one another, which are occupied one after the other in terms of time and location when the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are pushed or fitted into one another. In the first connecting position a non-releasable connection is made between the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ and the fluidic connection 2 is only produced, or able to be produced, in the second connecting position. For further details, reference may be made to the previous embodiments.

(334) It is particularly preferable that the sealing arrangement 39 seals or closes off the inner volume 40C without interruption in the first connecting position, in the second connecting position and between the first and second connecting positions and/or seals or separates the inner volume 40C from the outer volume 41C without interruption.

(335) For further details of the connecting system 1 in connection with the sealing arrangement 39, reference is made to the previous discussion in particular with regard to the sterile or sterilizable covering in connection with, e.g., FIGS. 16, 17 and 20 and/or in connection with the proposed container B1, B2, B3 with the sealing arrangement 39.

(336) Another aspect of the present invention which may also be implemented independently relates to a connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ and/or a container B1, B2, B3 having this connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′, wherein the opening region 4A′, 4B′ of the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ is fluidically closed in an initial state and can be opened to form the fluidic connection 2. In this aspect the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ comprises a cover device 6, 26, which can preferably be latched to the container B1, B2, B3 or the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ and/or is in the form of a cap and/or is removable, and which covers the opening region 4A′, 4B′.

(337) The cover device 6, 26 according to this aspect preferably comprises a support portion 46 which corresponds to the opening region 4A′, 4B′ and is directly or so closely adjacent to the opening region 4A′, 4B′ that a force FS acting on the opening region 4A′, 4B′ in the direction of the support portion 46 is absorbed by the contact of at least part of the opening region 4A′, 4B′ on the support portion 46 such that opening of the opening region 4A′, 4B′ is prevented.

(338) In the embodiment according to FIG. 23 the cover device 26 closes off the connecting arrangement 4A′ in corresponding manner. The support portion 46A here is arranged directly adjacent the closure device 23. When a force FS acts on the closure device 23 from the interior of the container B1, for example when the container B1 flies open in the region of the cover device 26 in the event of being overturned or the like, and thus, the substance S1 present in the container suddenly exerts the force FS on the opening region 4A′, particularly the closure device 23, the closure device 23 can be supported by the support portion 46A, while the force FS is in any case partially absorbed, caught and/or diverted by the support portion 46A. In this way the opening region 4A′ is protected from accidental opening, particularly by impact or overturning.

(339) A corresponding mechanism of activity is preferred with reference to FIG. 27 by means of the support portion 46B of the cover device 6 combined with the opening region 4B′ or the closure device 33. In addition, the protection against opening provided by the support portion 46A, 46B as described can also be applied to the previous embodiments and aspects, by correspondingly replacing the cover device 6 or the closure 14 with cover devices 6, 26 which have a support portion 46A, 46B.

(340) The support portion 46 is preferably at least substantially held, or capable of being held, on a wall of the container B1, B2, B3 and/or on the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′. In this way it is possible to divert a force FS introduced into the support portion 46A, 46B. Particularly preferably, the support portion 46A is at least substantially rigidly connected to the mouth-shaped portion 5A′, 5B′ or holding portion 25 by means of the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ and/or the container B1, B2, B3, by virtue of its construction or by mechanical means.

(341) The opening region 4A′, 4B′ is thus preferably held on the container B1, B2, B3 or on the wall of the container B1, B2, B3 via the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ or the holding portion 25 and the support portion 46A, 46B is held at least substantially rigidly on the same container B1, B2, B3 or on the same wall of the container B1, B2, B3. Thus, the force FS directed onto the opening region 4A′, 4B′ or the closure device 23, 33 in the direction of the support portion 46A, 46B or outwardly in relation to the container volume can be absorbed and diverted by the support portion 46A, 46B. As a result, the force FS does not have to be diverted through or via the frangible point 24, 34, or not solely through or via the frangible point 24, 34. By removing the load from the frangible point 24, 34 in the event of any forces FS being exerted, the respective connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ is prevented from accidental opening.

(342) The support portion 46A, 46B preferably corresponds to the closure device of the respective opening region 4A′, 4B′, in particular to the respective closure device 23, 33, and/or is arranged adjacent thereto. The support portion 46A, 46B may form a plateau which is configured and/or aligned to be at least substantially parallel and/or corresponding to a side of the closure device 23, 33 facing the support portion 46A, 46B. It is also preferable that a movement of the closure device 23, 33 towards the support portion 46A, 46B leads to flat contact and/or contact that counteracts an inclination of the closure device, particularly in connection with forces exerted on the closure device by impact or inversion.

(343) The support portion 46A, 46B is preferably formed by the base of an indentation 47 or receptacle 13 of the cover device 6, 26, which is accessible from outside when mounted on or connected to the container B1, B2, B3 or the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′. With regard to the receptacle 13 reference is also made to the description of the previous embodiments, for supplementary information. In particular, it may be envisaged that the receptacle 6, indentation 26 or recess corresponds to a removal opening E1, E2 or a bottle neck F1, F2 of the container B1, B2, B3, so that the latter can be accommodated in the receptacle 6, the indentation 26 or the recess, particularly for transporting and/or as a support foot.

(344) The cover device 6 preferably comprises rib-shaped reinforcing elements 48, which preferably assist with the supporting of the support portion 46B or stabilize the support portion 46B. Alternatively or additionally the reinforcing elements 48 correspond to the bottle neck F1, F2 so as to accommodate, hold and/or stabilize it. In principle, the cover device 26 may also comprise corresponding or similar reinforcing elements 48, even though they are not provided in this embodiment.

(345) The support portion 46A, 46B is preferably supported by a sloping or at least substantially conical strip 49 against movement or deformation in axial directions or directions along the central axis or parallel thereto and/or the axis of symmetry 9.

(346) It is also preferable that the cover device 6, 26 is sealed onto the container and/or the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ by means of the sealing arrangement 39. The sealing device 39 preferably closes off a side of the support portion 46A, 46B facing the opening region 4A′, 4B′. Alternatively or additionally the sealing arrangement 39 is provided on a wall of the container B1, B2, B3 provided, in addition to the sealing and/or latching mounting of the cover device 6, 26. In this way, a chamber 38A, 38B, the inner volume 40A, 40B and/or volumes 40A, 40B, 41A, 41B separated from one another may be formed within the cover device(s) 6, 26 that are, or may be, attached to the container B1, B2, B3 or the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′.

(347) In another aspect which may also be implemented independently, the present invention further relates to the cap-shaped cover device 6, 26 as such and/or a combination thereof with a connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ in order to form a fluidic connection 2, particularly between containers B1, B2, B3, the cover device 6, 26 having a side wall 50A, 50B and a base MA, MB which adjoins the side wall 50A, 50B.

(348) On the side wall 50A, 50B is provided a holding device for releasably holding the cover device 6, 26 by interlocking and/or frictional engagement. In particular, this is one or more regions configured to seal and/or otherwise attach by interlocking and/or frictional engagement one or more, preferably one, encircling connection to the container B1, B2, B3, particularly without interruption, in the form of a bead or by some other means.

(349) Preferably, the base 50 comprises a receptacle 13, indentation 47 or recess into which a bottleneck-shaped removal opening E1, E2 of the container B1, B2, B3 can be inserted.

(350) Alternatively or additionally, a base region of the receptacle 13, indentation 47 or recess directed to the opening of the cover device 6, 26 comprises a plateau-shaped support portion 46A, 46B for supporting an opening region 4A′, 4B′ of a connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′, a container B1, B2, B3 or a part thereof.

(351) Alternatively or additionally the base 51A, 51B of the cover device 6, 26 comprises an encircling strip-shaped sealing portion 43A, 43B which is configured to form a plurality of closed-off volumes 40A, 40B, 40C, 41A, 41B, 41C and/or to subdivide a chamber 38A, 38B and/or to support the base 51A, 51B.

(352) The support portion 46A, 46B is preferably supported or strengthened by, in particular, rib-shaped reinforcing elements 48, preferably so that the cover device 6, 26 is stiffened for diverting a force FS acting on the support portion 46A, 46B into a wall of the container B1, B2, B3.

(353) In another aspect which may also be implemented independently the invention relates to the use of the cap-shaped cover device 6, 26 comprising the support portion 46A, 46B, which is arranged immediately adjacent to or at such a small spacing from an opening region 4A′, 4B′ of a container B1, B2, B3 that a force FS acting on the opening region 4A′, 4B′ in the direction of the support portion 46A, 46B is absorbed by the flat contact of at least part of the opening region 4A′, 4B′ with the support portion 46A, 46B, in order to protect against accidental opening under the effect of external forces, preferably forces of acceleration, particularly as a result of impact on or overturning of the container B1, B2, B3 that is or may be connected to the cover device 6, 26, and/or connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′, which is provided for the container B1, B2, B3 or forms a part thereof.

(354) With reference to FIGS. 31 to 34 it will be explained once again, in connection with the present embodiment, how the containers B1, B2, B3 are connected to one another by means of the first and second connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ shown by way of example in FIG. 26 and FIG. 30 in order to form the fluidic connection 2. The procedure corresponds at least substantially to the procedure already described in connection with FIGS. 5 to 13 or vice versa.

(355) Preferably, first of all the cover devices 6, 26 are taken off, thereby exposing the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′. A cover device 6 may act as a stand.

(356) The connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are then brought axially closer to one another and inserted in one another, as shown by way of example in FIGS. 31 to 33.

(357) Optionally, a preliminary latching stage shown in FIG. 32 is reached as the first connecting position, in which the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ or their opening regions 4A′, 4B′ still are or remain closed, the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ or containers B1, B2, B3, however, are already held on one another, particularly by interlocking engagement, particularly non-releasably. For details of this, reference may be made to corresponding explanations of the previous embodiments.

(358) FIG. 33 shows how the first connecting arrangement 3A opens the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′, in this case preferably with the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 or some other severing element 7. For this, the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 is applied axially to the frangible point 34 which holds the closure device 33. As movement continues, the frangible point 34 is severed, particularly cut by means of the piercing and/or cutting edge 32 or torn. This therefore initially opens the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′.

(359) In the following step the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ or containers B1, B2, B3 are rotated relative to one another about the common central axis or axis of symmetry 9, as a result of which the holding portion 25 or the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ of the first connecting arrangement 4A′ is deformed and consequently the opening region 4A′ of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ is also opened, as shown in FIGS. 22 and 34 in a final opening position.

(360) The connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are preferably connectable to one another by a bayonet-type action, in which an at least substantially or purely axial movement along the central axis or axis of symmetry 9 after the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ have been pushed one inside the other is supplemented by a rotational movement of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ to one another about the central axis or axis of symmetry 9.

(361) This bayonet-type movement is preferably guided by the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′. In particular, as can be seen for example in the perspective representations of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ in FIG. 26 and the second connecting arrangement 3B′ in FIG. 30, corresponding guide devices or guides 18A, 18B are provided, which preferably guide the bayonet-type movement described above. In particular, the first connecting arrangement comprises a strip-shaped guide device or guide 18A, which preferably extends at least substantially in or along a plane perpendicular to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9. The guide device or guide 18 B of the second connecting arrangement 3B′ is preferably of corresponding, preferably complementary construction. It may comprise a guide groove in which the corresponding guide device or guide 18A can be guided.

(362) The guide devices or guides 18A, 18B may also be configured to pre-define an alignment about the central axis or axis of symmetry 9 as the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are brought towards each other. This alignment is preferably selected so that the opening regions 4A′, 4B′, which are oval, for example, in the embodiments shown, correspond to one another or are located in a similar orientation to one another.

(363) The guide means or guides 18A, 18B are preferably configured to prevent rotation of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ about the central axis or axis of symmetry 9 by interlocking engagement while the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are being moved towards one another. As soon as the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ have been inserted in one another, particularly thereby opening the opening region 4B′ of the second connecting arrangement 3B′, the guide devices 57A, 57B enable rotary movement of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ relative to one another about the common central axis or axis of symmetry 9. This rotation leads to the above-mentioned deformation of the mouth-shaped portion 5A′ or holding portion 25 of the first connecting arrangement 3A′ and consequently to the opening of the opening region 4A of the first connecting arrangement 3A, thus forming the fluidic connection 2.

(364) The guide devices or guides 18A, 18B are preferably also embodied to block the relative position of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ in the axial direction, i.e. in the direction of the central axis or axis of symmetry 9, particularly by interlocking engagement, by or after rotation of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ relative to one another.

(365) Alternatively or additionally, securing means may be provided which prevent reverse rotation. This ensures that after the fluidic connection 2 has been produced the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ cannot be moved apart again, particularly in order to guarantee the sterility of the fluidic connection 2.

(366) In another aspect which may also be implemented independently the invention relates to a container system B with two containers B1, B2, B3, B4 which are fluidically separated from one another in an initial state and are fluidically connectable to one another by a movement of the containers B1, B2, B3, B4 relative to one another, while in an initial state a securing device 52 blocks the, in particular, partially and/or initially axial movement of the containers B1, B2, B3, B4 or their connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ relative to one another.

(367) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 35 a first container B1 is shown by way of example with a further container B4 and a securing device 52. The further container B4 has only one possible access, in the embodiment shown, which is formed by the second opening device 4B′. However, other solutions are also possible, for example using the containers B2, B3 described hereinbefore.

(368) FIG. 35 shows the securing device 52 in the initial state, in which the containers B1, B4 are not connected to one another. In this initial state the securing device 52 prevents movement of the containers B1, B4 relative to one another, as required for opening or production of the connection between the containers B1, B4. In the present instance, the securing device 52 braces the containers B1, B4 against one another, thus preventing the containers from moving axially towards one another.

(369) FIG. 36 shows a magnified detail from the embodiment according to FIG. 35, in which the securing device 52 is activated or actuated. In this state the containers B1, B4 are free to move relative to one another so that the fluidic connection 2 can be formed. For this it is particularly preferable for the opening regions 4A, 4B, 4A′, 4B′ to be opened on the basis of the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ described hereinbefore by an initially axial or transitory and then rotary movement of the containers B1, B4 relative to one another.

(370) FIG. 37 shows magnified detail from the embodiment according to FIG. 35 in a state after the relative movement has taken place.

(371) FIG. 38 shows the securing device 52 in perspective view.

(372) For the present aspect it is preferable if the containers B1, B4 can be connected to one another by means of the proposed connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′. In principle, however, other connecting methods may also be considered.

(373) The container system B preferably comprises a receptacle 53, particularly a pocket, for the securing device 52, into which the securing device 52 can be received, particularly by pushing it in, as a result of or during the relative movement.

(374) In the embodiment shown, in order to open the second connecting arrangement 3B′, in particular, the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ are moved axially relative to one another. This relative axial movement is prevented by the securing device 52 in an initial state and can be permitted by the securing device 52.

(375) The receptacle 53 is preferably provided behind a wall 35A′, 36A′ of one of the containers B1, B4 and/or behind a collar-shaped and/or tubular portion 37A′, 37B′ of one of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′, viewed from the outside. In the embodiment shown this wall is a wall of the container B1, which preferably forms a tubular or collar-shaped extension of a wall of the container B1 delimiting the inner chamber, more particularly is aligned therewith.

(376) In the embodiment shown the receptacle 53 is formed between the wall 35A′, 36A′ or collar-shaped portion 37A, 37B and the mouth-shaped portion 5A′, 5B′ or opening region 4A′, 4B′ of the container B1. Alternatively, or additionally, however, this may also be the case with other containers B2, B3, B4.

(377) The container system B is preferably configured so that, during or as a result of or after actuation, the securing device 52 can protrude into or be aligned with the receptacle 53 in the axial direction based on the central axis and/or axis of symmetry 9 of the container system B.

(378) It is also preferable that the securing device 52 is arranged in the starting position between edges 36A′, 36B′ of the containers B1, B2, B3, B4 or connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′, that are, in particular, opposite one another or correspond to one another, such that the edges 36A′, 36B′ are supported on one another by means of the securing device 52.

(379) The securing device 52 is preferably at least partially deformable, as a result of which the relative movement can be allowed. In particular, it is provided that by actuation of the securing device 52 an interlocking engagement can be undone, so that the containers B1, B2, B3, B4 are no longer supported on one another, thus allowing relative movement to take place.

(380) In the embodiment shown the securing device 52 is ring-shaped or annular, particularly formed by a ring, particularly a securing ring, or comprises one such, which is at least partially deformable or deformable in certain areas to release the connection. However, this is not essential and can also be achieved by some other method, although the use of a ring has advantages from the point of view of manufacturing and assembly.

(381) The securing device 52 preferably comprises at least one, preferably flap-shaped or wing-shaped, blocking member 54 or is formed thereby. In a starting position the blocking member 54 blocks the movement of the connecting arrangements 3A′, 3B′ relative to one another by interlocking engagement. Moreover, the blocking member 54 is preferably deformable and/or depressible, so as to release the blockade and permit the relative movement.

(382) In the embodiment shown the blocking member 54 or the blocking members 54 comprise(s) an edge 55 that forms the interlocking engagement and is movable, preferably deformable, at least substantially in the radial direction (with respect to or in the direction of the central axis or axis of symmetry 9) in order to release the blockade. In particular, the blocking member 54 is molded on at one end, formed in one piece with the securing device 52 and/or of wing-shaped configuration.

(383) The receptacle 53 preferably corresponds to the shape of the securing device 52 or vice versa, and may thus comprise, or be formed by, a cavity or a pouch, which is particularly also ring-shaped or annular, in complementary manner to the securing device 52. This cavity or pouch preferably comprises an opening towards the securing device 52 or towards the connecting arrangement 3A′, 3B′ opposite the receptacle 53.

(384) The securing device 52 is preferably formed of plastics, particularly a thermoplastic material. The securing device 52 may thus be a plastics ring. The blocking members 54 are preferably elastically deformable. Alternatively, release may also be effected by plastic deformation of the blocking members 54.

(385) In the initial state the securing device 52 is preferably arranged between the containers B1, B2, B3, B4 in such a way that relative movement in the axial direction in relation to the central axis and/or axis of symmetry 9 of the container system B is blocked and by partial deformation of the securing device 52 radially in the direction of the central axis and/or axis of symmetry 9 of the container system B the relative movement can be freed up.

(386) The securing device 52 preferably cannot be taken off and/or removed. Instead, the securing device 52 is received in the receptacle 53 during or after actuation and advantageously therefore does not result in a separate part that has to be disposed of separately, thus improving the handling and operational reliability.

(387) In the embodiment shown the securing device 52 is rotatable, particularly mounted to be rotatable about the central axis and/or axis of symmetry 9. The securing device 52 is held on a tapered portion and/or by interlocking engagement on the container system B.

(388) In another aspect which may also be implemented independently the invention relates to a method of preparing a mixture of substances, particularly a vaccine, in which starting substances in the form of a first substance S1 and a second substance S2 are provided separately from one another in two fluidically connectable containers B1, B2, B3, B4 and the containers B1, B2, B3, B4 are fluidically connectable by movement relative to one another, preferably an axial relative movement with respect to a central axis and/or axis of symmetry of the container system B.

(389) Preferably, during the process, the receptacle 53 is provided and the securing device 52 is arranged or formed between the containers B1, B2, B3, B4, blocking the movement of the containers B1, B2, B3, B4 relative to one another in the initial state. In the process the securing device 52 is actuated and the securing device 52 is pushed into the receptacle 53 as a result of the actuation and/or the relative movement.

(390) In the embodiment shown the securing device 52 is arranged, by way of example, between the first container B1 and the fourth container B4. However, these may theoretically also be replaced by other types of container, particularly as described hereinbefore. Thus, during the formation of the receptacle 53, the securing device 52 can theoretically also be used in the first connecting position according to FIG. 32 in the same way as in the embodiment according to FIGS. 22 to 33.

(391) FIG. 37 shows a magnified detail in the region of the securing device 52 and the receptacle 53, in which the relative movement has taken place. As a result, the securing device 52 or the blocking member 54 or the blocking members 54 have each been pushed partially or at least substantially into the receptacle 53. In particular, the edge 55 has been pushed into the receptacle 53. Preferably, this prevents the securing device 52 from entering into another interlocking engagement. In the embodiment shown the securing device 52 is arranged in the receptacle 53 between a tubular or apron-shaped extension of the wall 35A′ of the first container B1 and the first connecting arrangement 3A′.

(392) FIG. 38 shows a schematic perspective view of the proposed securing device 52 on its own. This Figure clearly shows the wing-shaped blocking members 54 which are formed in the manner of film hinges or are hinged to the securing device 52 by means of a film hinge-shaped connection. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 39, the pivot axis of the blocking member 54 is at least substantially in a plane formed by the securing device 52.

(393) FIG. 39 shows the schematic section through a container system B with a securing device 52 according to a second embodiment. The second embodiment functionally resembles the first embodiment and therefore reference is made to the foregoing description relating to FIGS. 35 to 38 for further details. Therefore, only the differences from the previous embodiment will be explained hereinafter.

(394) FIG. 39 shows the container system B or the securing device 52 in a starting or blocking position. In this position, the blocking member 54 acts between the containers B1, B4, so that they are supported on one another and in this way prevent the relative movement.

(395) FIG. 40 shows the container system B with the securing device 52 actuated, while the relative movement is enabled. For this, the blocking member or members 54 are deformed or displaced such that they or the securing device 52 can be accommodated in the receptacle 53, particularly by pushing them into it.

(396) FIG. 41 shows the container system B during or after the relative movement or a part thereof, in the course of which, or as a result of which, the securing device 52 has been pushed into the receptacle 53.

(397) FIG. 42 shows the securing device 52 of the second embodiment in perspective view on its own. One or more blocking members 54 are of wing-shaped configuration. The blocking members 54 in the initial state project at least substantially tangentially along a circumferential line of the securing device 52 or container B1, B4. In other words the blocking member 54 can be bent about one or more axes extending at least substantially parallel to the central axis or axis of symmetry 9 and/or can be deformed by winding it into a shape which corresponds to the shape of the receptacle 53 or permits the relative movement.

(398) The objective in both embodiments is to achieve unlocking by forming the blocking member 54 into a shape and/or bringing it into a position in which the securing device 52 corresponds to the receptacle 53 and in which relative movement is made possible, so that the securing device 52 can be pushed into the receptacle 53 as a result of or during the relative movement.

(399) In the embodiments according to FIGS. 35 to 42 the securing device 52 is realized as a distinct part separately from the connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ and/or containers B1, B2. Hereby, the securing device 52 can be arranged between the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ or the containers B1, B4 during assembly if required.

(400) Alternatively, or additionally, it is possible that securing arrangement 52 is formed by the container B1, B4 and/or by the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ or is connected to it in a fixed and/or permanent manner.

(401) In this case, the receptacle 53 and the securing device 52, in particular the one or more blocking members 54, are provided at different containers B1, B4 or connecting arrangements 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, preferably opposing one another. By this measure the securing device 52 and/or the one or more blocking elements 54 can be shifted into the receptacle 53 during or after activation of the securing device 52.

(402) The securing device 52, in particular the one or more blocking members 54, can be connected to the container B1, B4 or the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ by positive locking, frictional connection and/or bonding or can be formed integrally herewith. Particularly preferably the securing device 52 and/or the blocking members 54 are fitted, injected and/or formed in a common production step with the container B1, B4 or the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′, in particular by injection molding. However, it is possible that the securing device 52 is hold by snap fitting or by other measures at the container B1, B4 or the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′.

(403) The blocking members 54 preferably are held at the container B1, B4 and/or the connecting arrangement 3A, 3A′, 3B, 3B′ in a film hinge like manner. Alternatively, or additionally, the blocking members 54 can be configured and/or fixed deformably. This lunables operation of the blocking members 54 also without a separately realized securing device 52. Here, the blocking members 54 can be configured like depicted in FIGS. 38 and/or 42 or differently.

(404) In another aspect which may also be implemented independently, the invention relates to the use of the connecting arrangements and/or containers for mixing viscous liquids, particularly vaccines, preferably with a dynamic viscosity at 23° C. and a shear rate of 1 s.sup.−1 (particularly measured in the Brookfield viscometer RVT with spindle no. 4) of more than 1.5 or 2 Pa.Math.s, preferably more than 4 Pa.Math.s, particularly more than 6 Pa.Math.s or 10 Pa.Math.s, and/or less than 100 Pa.Math.s, particularly less than 70 Pa.Math.s, preferably less than 50 Pa.Math.s, and/or in the range from 1 Pa.Math.s to 100 Pa.Math.s, particularly from 2 Pa.Math.s to 70 Pa.Math.s, preferably from 5 Pa.Math.s to 50 Pa.Math.s. The viscosities specified above within the scope of the present invention may be determined in particular by the method according to EN ISO 2884-1:2006. Viscous liquids in particular benefit from the large hydraulic minimum cross-section of the connection compared with the known solutions.

(405) The aspects of the present invention can be combined with one another. In particular, aspects of the embodiments from FIGS. 1 to 20 may also be used accordingly in the embodiment according to FIGS. 21 to 37 and vice versa.

(406) For example, the aspects relating to the sealing arrangement 39 and/or the support portion 46A, 46B may also be present in the cover device 6 from the embodiments in FIGS. 1 to 20. The cover devices 6, 25 may make it possible to obtain an, in particular, repeated or multi-stage sterile and/or sterilizable closure, while the aspects explained in connection with FIG. 17 can be combined with the aspects concerning the sealing arrangement 39, which were described in connection with FIGS. 22 to 34. Alternatively or additionally, the aspects relating to the deformation-based opening as explained in connection with FIGS. 6 to 15 can be combined with aspects relating to the closure device 33 or vice versa. These examples make it clear that there are numerous preferred combinations of aspects which may form the subject of the present invention even if the combination is not expressly described.