DEVICE FOR METERING AND/OR PREPARING A MIXTURE, AND CONTAINER FOR HOLDING AT LEAST ONE FLUID

Abstract

Shown and described is a device (100) for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, the device (100) comprising: at least one first container (102), which is designed to receive at least one solid component, at least one first dosing device (104) for dosing the at least one solid component, the first dosing device (104) being connected to or can be connected to the first container (102), at least one fluid connection (110, 110′) to connect to at least one second container (103, 103′), which is designed to receive at least one fluid, and/or a fluid line for supplying a fluid, and at least one second dosing device (108, 108′) for dosing the at least one fluid, the second dosing device (108, 108′) being connected or connectable to the second container (103, 103′) or to the fluid line, respectively. the fluid line, wherein the at least one second container (103, 103′) and/or the at least one second dosing device (108, 108′) are replaceable and are developed as disposable articles, and/or wherein the at least one first container (102) and/or the at least one first dosing device (104) are replaceable and are developed as disposable articles.

Claims

1-64. (canceled)

65. Device (100) for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular, a medium or a buffer, comprising: at least one first container (102), which is designed to hold at least one solid component, at least one first dosing device (104) for dosing at least one solid component, wherein the first dosing device (104) is connected to or can be connected to the first container (102), at least one fluid connection (110, 110′) to connect to at least one second container (103, 103′), which is designed to hold at least one fluid, and/or a fluid line for supplying a fluid, and at least one second dosing device (108, 108′) for dosing at least one fluid, wherein the second dosing device (108, 108′) is connected to or can be connected to the second container (103, 103′) or the fluid line, wherein at least one second container (103, 103′) and/or at least one second dosing device (108, 108′) are replaceable and developed as disposable articles, and/or wherein at least one first container (102) and/or at least one first dosing device (104) are replaceable and developed as disposable articles.

66. Device according to claim 65, the device furthermore comprising: one preparation device (114), which is designed to accommodate a solid component dosed using the first dosing device (104) from the first container (102) and a fluid dosed using the second dosing device (108, 108′) from the second container (103, 103′) or the fluid line and to prepare a mixture of substances using these, preferably, the preparation device (114) furthermore comprising: one mixing chamber (112), wherein the mixing chamber (112) is designed to accommodate a solid component dosed from the first container (102) and a fluid dosed from the second container (103, 103′) or the fluid line and mix these, wherein the mixing chamber (112) is connected to or can be connected to a collection container (144) to enable to mixture of substances prepared by the mixing chamber (112) to be collected by the collection container (144), preferably, the preparation device (114) furthermore comprising: a stirrer element (146) for stirring or mixing the solid component and the fluid, and/or a vacuum connection (148) for generating a vacuum.

67. Device according to claim 66, wherein the preparation device (114) extends along a preparation device longitudinal axis (168) between a first end (170) and a second end (172), the preparation device (114) furthermore comprising: a retention element (174) that is arranged on the preparation device (114) and a filter that is arranged or can be arranged in the retention element (174).

68. Device according to claim 66, wherein the lid (138) features a cover plate (192) with a central opening (194), wherein the central opening (194) is designed to accommodate the stirrer element (146) in such a way that two opposite ends of a stirrer element shaft are arranged on two opposite sides of the lid (138) and the cover plate (192) surrounds the stirrer element shaft in a rotationally symmetric way, wherein, preferably, the lid (138) is formed as one piece with the stirrer element (146), and/or wherein, preferably, a first of the two opposite ends of the stirrer element shaft is designed as a drive end (152) that is connected to or can be connected to a stirrer element motor (162), and wherein a second of the two opposite ends is designed as a free end (154) that is connected to or can be connected to a stirrer (164).

69. Device according to claim 68, wherein the cover plate (192) comprises at least one additional opening (196, 198), preferably two additional openings, wherein at least one opening (196, 198) is arranged in a rotationally symmetric way to the central opening (194), wherein, preferably, the stirrer element (146) is connected to or can be connected to a lock washer (200) so that the lock washer (200) surrounds the stirrer element shaft in a rotationally symmetric way and closes or opens at least one additional opening (196, 198) in the cover plate (192) by turning or rotating the stirrer element (146).

70. Device according to claim 68, furthermore comprising a lifting device (202), wherein the lifting device (202) is designed to change the position of the preparation device (114) in relation to the position of the stirrer element motor (162).

71. Device according to claim 65, wherein the second dosing device (108, 108′) features at least one stroke system (1, 1′), the stroke system (1, 1′) comprising a piston pump (5) with a piston (7), so that the fluid from the second container (103, 103′) or fluid line is dosed through deflecting the piston (7), and/or wherein the housing (132) of the first container (102) and/or the housing (31) of the second container (103, 103′) comprise at least partially a flexible material or are formed from a flexible material, wherein, preferably, the housing (132) of the first container (102) and/or the housing (31) of the second container (103, 103′) comprise an aluminium composite film or are formed from an aluminium composite film.

72. Device according to claim 65, wherein the second dosing device (108′) comprises two stroke systems (1, 1′), wherein the stroke systems (1, 1′) are connected to or can be connected to the second container (103′) or fluid line, wherein, preferably, one of the stroke systems (1, 1′) is connected to or can be connected to a second opening (57) of the second container (103, 103′) or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, each of the stroke systems (1, 1′) comprises an outlet (59) with an outlet opening (61), through which the fluid is able to escape from the inside of the second container (103, 103′) or the fluid line, wherein the outlet (59) of at least one of the stroke systems (1, 1′) features a cross-section transverse to its outlet longitudinal axis, which is tapered towards the outlet opening (61).

73. Device according to claim 65, wherein at least one of the stroke systems (1, 1′) is designed to balance a dosing accuracy of another dosing device for dosing at least one fluid, and/or wherein the second dosing device (108, 108′) comprises at least one clamping element that is designed to dose the fluid from the second container (103, 103′) or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the second dosing device (108, 108′) features at least a variety of clamping elements that are designed to dose the fluid from the second container (103, 103′) or the fluid line.

74. Device according to claim 65, wherein the second dosing device (108,108′) comprises clamping elements, wherein the clamping elements are designed as brackets, wherein, preferably, one of the clamping elements is replaced by a temperature control (29) for controlling the temperature of the fluid to be dosed by the clamping elements, wherein, preferably, the temperature control (29) features a heating device, in particular, a heating plate, wherein the heating device is arranged at least in contact with the second container (103, 103′) or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the heating device at least partially adjoins or closely aligns the housing (31) of the second container (103, 103′).

75. Device according to claim 65, wherein the first dosing device (104) comprises a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing (116), wherein the screw conveyor, preferably in its full length, is inserted into the screw conveyor housing (116) and arranged within it as rotatable, so that the screw conveyor and screw conveyor housing (116) extend around a shared screw conveyor longitudinal axis.

76. Device according to claim 75, wherein the screw conveyor housing (116) features an outer wall (130) with a plurality of ribs (128), wherein the ribs (128) preferably extend at least partially in an axial direction between a first end and a second end, and/or wherein the ribs (128) essentially extend in a radial direction away from the outer wall (130), wherein, preferably, two of the ribs (128) limit the outlet opening on opposite sides in a circumferential direction to the outer wall, and wherein, preferably, two more of the ribs (128) limit the outlet opening on opposite sides in an axial direction to the outer wall.

77. Device according to claim 65, wherein the device (100) comprises a container mounting area for mounting the first container (102), wherein the container mounting area is preferably arranged over a dosing device mounting area, wherein a first guiding element and a second guiding element are arranged between the container mounting area and the dosing device mounting area, wherein the guiding element extends from an open front to a rear wall and/or wherein the guiding elements extend away from the sidewalls of the device, and/or wherein the device is connected or can be connected to an analysis system, and wherein a dosing of at least one solid component and/or dosing of at least one fluid take place depending on data determined or transmitted by the analysis system.

78. Container (102) for holding at least one solid component comprising: a housing (132) with an interior space for holding at least one solid component; and an outlet (134) in fluid connection with the interior space, wherein the outlet (134) can be connected to an inlet (136) of a dosing device (104), wherein the dosing device (104) features an outlet so that the actuation of the dosing device (104) dispenses a dosage of at least one solid component through the outlet, wherein the dosing device (104) is connected to or can be connected to the container (102), and wherein the container (102) and/or the dosing device (104) are exchangeable and designed as disposable articles.

79. Container (102) according to claim 78, wherein the container (102) is deliverable pre-filled with a solid component, and/or wherein the container (102) is designed for insertion into a device (100) for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular, a medium or a buffer, as a first container (102) and to be held by this, and/or wherein the dosing device (103) comprises a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing (116), wherein the screw conveyor, preferably in its full length, can be inserted into the screw conveyor housing (116) and arranged within it as rotatable, so that the screw conveyor and screw conveyor housing (116) extend around a shared screw conveyor longitudinal axis, and wherein the inlet (136) of the dosing device (104) is arranged in or on the screw conveyor housing (116), and/or wherein the outlet of the container (102) is firmly connected to the inlet (136) in the screw conveyor housing (116), preferably bolted or glued, and/or wherein the screw conveyor housing (116) is integrated into the container (102).

80. Container (103, 103′) comprising a housing (31) with an interior space for holding at least one fluid, wherein the container (103, 103′) is designed to be connected or can be connected to a dosing device (108, 108′) for dosing the fluid, wherein the container (103, 103′) and/or the dosing device (108, 108′) are exchangeable and designed as disposable articles.

81. Container according to claim 80, wherein the container (103, 103′) is deliverable as pre-filled with a fluid and/or wherein the container (103, 103′) is designed for insertion into a device (100) for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular, a medium or a buffer, as a second container (103, 103′) and being held by these, and/or wherein the second dosing device (108, 108′) features at least one stroke system (1, 1′), the stroke system (1, 1′) comprising a piston pump (5) with a piston (7), and wherein the piston (7) can be deflected so that a fluid from the container (103, 103′) can be dosed through the deflection of the piston (7), wherein, preferably, the container (103, 103′) comprises at least one opening (17, 57) in fluid connection to the interior space, wherein the stroke system (1, 1′) is connected or can be connected to at least one opening (17, 57) of the container (103, 103′).

82. Container according to claim 81, wherein the second dosing device (108, 108′) features at least a first stroke system (1) and a second stroke system (1), wherein each of the stroke systems (1, 1′) comprises a piston pump (5) with a piston (7), and wherein the pistons (7) can be deflected so that a fluid from the container (103, 103′) can be dosed through the deflection of the pistons (7), and/or wherein the container (103, 103′) comprises a first opening (17) and a second opening (57) in fluid connection to the interior space, wherein the first stroke system (1) is connected or can be connected to the first opening (17) of the container (103, 103′) and wherein the second stroke system (1′) is connected or can be connected to the second opening (57) of the container (103, 103′).

83. Container according to claim 81, wherein the container (103, 103′) comprises a third opening, wherein, preferably, the container (103, 103′) comprises a lid for covering the third opening, and/or wherein each of the stroke systems (1, 1′) comprises an outlet (59) with an outlet opening (61), through which the fluid is able to escape from the inside of the second container (103, 103′), wherein the outlet (59) of at least one of the stroke systems (1, 1′) features a cross-section transverse to its outlet longitudinal axis, which is tapered towards the outlet opening (61).

84. System comprising one device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular, a medium or a buffer, according to claim 65, at least one first container (102) for holding at least one solid component comprising: a housing (132) with an interior space for holding at least one solid component; and an outlet (134) in fluid connection with the interior space, wherein the outlet (134) can be connected to an inlet (136) of a dosing device (104), wherein the dosing device (104) features an outlet so that the actuation of the dosing device (104) dispenses a dosage of at least one solid component through the outlet, wherein the dosing device (104) is connected to or can be connected to the container (102), and wherein the container (102) and/or the dosing device (104) are exchangeable and designed as disposable articles, and/or at least one second container (103, 103′) for holding at least one fluid and comprising a housing (31) with an interior space for holding at least one fluid, wherein the container (103, 103′) is designed to be connected or can be connected to a dosing device (108, 108′) for dosing the fluid, wherein the container (103, 103′) and/or the dosing device (108, 108′) are exchangeable and designed as disposable articles.

Description

[0351] The present invention is explained below with reference only to preferred embodiment drawings, wherein

[0352] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a preparation device, a first container for a solid component, a second container for a fluid, and another second container for a fluid, and a lifting device,

[0353] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the components from FIG. 1,

[0354] FIG. 3 shows a stroke system for dosing a fluid from a second container,

[0355] FIG. 4 shows a schematic drawing of a stroke system connected to a second container,

[0356] FIG. 5A shows a perspective side view of a first embodiment of a second container with a stroke system,

[0357] FIG. 5A view of the second container with a stroke system shown in FIG. 5A from below,

[0358] FIG. 5C shows a perspective side view of the stroke system connected to the second container of FIG. 5A,

[0359] FIG. 6A shows a perspective side view of a second container with a stroke system and a temperature control,

[0360] FIG. 6A top view of the container shown in FIG. 6A with a stroke system and a temperature control,

[0361] FIG. 6C shows a side view of the container shown in FIG. 6A with a stroke system and a temperature control,

[0362] FIG. 7 shows a sectional drawing of a second embodiment of a second container having a first stroke system and a second stroke system,

[0363] FIG. 8 shows an enlarged view of the first stroke system and the second stroke system of FIG. 7,

[0364] FIG. 9A shows a top view of a first container and a second container,

[0365] FIG. 9B shows a perspective view of the first and second containers of FIG. 9A,

[0366] FIG. 10A shows a first side view of the first container and the second container of FIG. 9A,

[0367] FIG. 10B shows a second side view of the first container and the second container of FIG. 9A,

[0368] FIG. 11 shows a cross-section of the preparation device shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 along the longitudinal axis of the preparation device,

[0369] FIG. 12A shows a lid of the preparation device of FIG. 11 in the open position,

[0370] FIG. 12B shows the lid of the preparation device from FIG. 11 in the closed position,

[0371] FIG. 13 shows the preparation device in the state inserted into a preparation receiving device,

[0372] FIG. 14 shows the filter element or hopper element in the state not inserted into the preparation receiving device,

[0373] FIG. 15 shows the filter element or hopper element in the state inserted into the preparation holder,

[0374] FIG. 16A shows a perspective view of a hopper element inserted into the preparation device receiving apparatus and connected to a vacuum generator,

[0375] FIG. 16 shows a side view of the hopper element shown in FIG. 16A and inserted into the preparation device receiving device, which is connected to the vacuum generator,

[0376] FIG. 17 shows an enlarged view of two interconnected vacuum connections, and

[0377] FIG. 18 shows a preparation device receiving area in the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, into which the preparation device receiving device is inserted.

[0378] First, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, an embodiment example of a device 100 for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, is explained.

[0379] The apparatus 100 comprises at least one first container 102 which is designed to hold at least one solid component, and at least one first dosing device 104 for dosing the at least one solid component, wherein the first dosing device 104 is connected to or can be connected to the first container 102. The apparatus 100 comprises at least one second container 103, 103′ configured to receive at least one fluid. In the embodiment example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the second container 103′ may be a container for a fluid, for example ultrapure water. The second container 103 may be a container for a fluid, for example sodium bicarbonate (NaBi). The apparatus 100 comprises at least one second dosing device 108, 108′ for dosing the at least one fluid, the second dosing device 108, 108′ being connected or connectable to the second container 103, 103′. The apparatus further comprises at least one fluid connector 110, 110′ for connecting the at least one second container 103, 103′ to the second dosing device 108, 108′. According to the invention, the at least one second container 103, 103′ and/or the at least one second dosing device 108, 108′ are interchangeable and are disposable, and/or the at least one first container 102 and/or the at least one first dosing device 104 are interchangeable and are disposable.

[0380] With reference to FIGS. 3 to 7, a possible design form of the at least one second container 103, 103′ for a fluid, as well as a possible design form for the second dosing device are first described in more 108 detail.

[0381] FIGS. 3 and 4 show an embodiment in which the second dosing device 108 comprises a stroke system 1 for dosing a fluid

[0382] FIG. 3 shows the stroke system 1 for dosing a fluid from a second container 103 (not shown in FIG. 3). The stroke system 1 comprises a piston pump 5 with a piston 7 and a turntable 9, wherein the piston 7 can be deflected by means of the turntable 9, so that a fluid can be dosed from a second container 103 (not shown in FIG. 3) by this deflection of the piston 7. It is also conceivable that a fluid can be dosed from a fluid line for supplying a fluid by means of the stroke system 1.

[0383] The stroke system 1 further comprises a motor 11, wherein the turntable 9 is connected or connectable to the motor 11. The motor 11 is used to drive the turntable 9, so that pressure can be exerted on the piston 7 by means of the turntable 9. The turntable 9 is connected or connectable to the piston pump 5 by means of a connecting element, for example a lever or a lever arm. The piston 7 can thus be deflected or moved by the turntable 9, and through this deflection or movement, the fluid can be pumped from the container 103 and properly dosed. The piston pump 5 and the turntable 9 may be replaceable or disposable.

[0384] The stroke system 1 further comprises a sensor 13, by means of which the level of the fluid in the at least one second container can be determined. 103

[0385] FIG. 4 shows a schematic drawing of the stroke system 1 connected to the container 103. The stroke system 1 is arranged below the container 103 in the direction of gravity 15. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the stroke system 1 is connected to an first opening 17 of the container 103. The first opening 17 corresponds to the outlet container opening 103 to which the stroke system 1 is connected, for example glued or welded. For this purpose, the stroke system may comprise a pipeline or hose 19 which projects into the first opening 17 and through which the fluid inside the container 103 may be pumped out. The tubing or hose 19 may be replaceable or disposable.

[0386] The stroke system 1 is connected or connectable to a container or beaker 21, for example via a pipe or hose system 23. The container or beaker 21 can, for example, be a mixing chamber 112 of a preparation device 114 of the device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, into which the fluid dosed by means of the stroke system 1 is filled via the pipe or hose system 23.

[0387] It should be noted that the tube or hose system 23 is optional. It is also conceivable that the fluid is filled gravimetrically into the container or beaker 21. The container or beaker 21 is arranged in the direction of gravity 15 below the stroke system 1 connected to the second container or fluid container 103. Thereby, the stroke system 1 is arranged or positioned between the container or beaker 21 and the second container or fluid container 103 in the direction of gravity 15. Thus, the fluid can be easily guided from the second container 103 in the direction of the stroke system 1 by gravity and pumped from the second container 103 into the container or beaker 21. The stroke system 1 has a piston pump 5 with a piston 7 (not shown in FIG. 4) and a turntable 9, which is designed as a cam. The cam is mounted on a shaft whose center lies outside the shaft axis (not shown in FIG. 2). In the example shown in FIG. 4, the piston 7 is arranged above the cam and its shaft axis in the direction of gravity 15. The cam is connected to the motor 11. In this way, a rotational movement 25 of the cam can be converted into a translational movement 27 of the piston 7 or into the piston stroke in an advantageous manner.

[0388] FIGS. 5A to 5C show a first embodiment of a second container 103 coupled to the previously described stroke system 1. FIGS. 6A to 6C show the second container 103 of FIGS. 5A to 5C, which can be coupled to a temperature control 29.

[0389] The second container 103 comprises a flexible material and is formed from an aluminium composite foil. However, it is also conceivable that the second container 103 comprises is comprised of at least partially a shape-retaining material or is formed from a shape-retaining material. The second container 103 may be made of a bioplastic or bioplastic or a bio-based plastic. The second container 103 includes a housing 31 having an interior for receiving a fluid, wherein the first opening 17 is in fluid communication with the interior of the second container 103. The second container 103 may be supplied pre-filled with a fluid by the manufacturer. The second container 103 may also be configured such that the consumer cannot open the second container 103, or such that the consumer cannot remove the stroke system 1. The second container 103 extends along a longitudinal container axis 33 between a first end 35 and a second end 37, wherein as viewed in the direction of gravity 15, the first end 35 corresponds to a lower end 35 and the second end 37 corresponds to an upper end 37. Adjoining or adjacent to the lower end 35, the container 103 has a lower region 39. Adjoining or adjacent to the upper end 37, the container 103 has an upper region 41.

[0390] The first opening 17 is arranged at the lower end 35 of the second container 103, with the longitudinal container axis 33 extending through the first opening 17. The lower portion 39 of the second container, as viewed transversely to the longitudinal container axis 33, has a cross-section whose cross-sectional area decreases toward the lower end 35. That is, the cross-section tapers or tapers towards the lower end. The container 103 has a first side edge 43 and a second side edge 45 on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis 33 of the container, each connecting a front side 47 and a rear side 49 of the container 103. The first opening 17 is substantially the same distance from the first side edge 43 as it is from the second side edge 45.

[0391] The first opening 17 of the second container 103 is connected to the stroke system 1. The second container 103 may also include a third opening (not shown in FIGS. 3A to 3C and FIGS. 4A to 4C). The third opening may be arranged opposite the first opening 17 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 33 of the container. For example, the third opening may be disposed in the upper portion 41 or adjoining or adjacent to the upper end 37 of the container 103. This arrangement of the second opening allows fluid to be replenished to the interior of the container 103 in a particularly simple manner, even when connected to the stroke system 1. The container 103 may further comprise a closure element, for example a lid for covering the third opening, with which the third opening can be closed again after the fluid has been filled in.

[0392] The stroke system 1 connected to the container 103 further comprises the temperature control 29, which is configured to control the temperature of the fluid to be dispensed by means of the stroke system 1. Like the motor 11 and the turntable 9, the temperature control 29 can be designed as a reusable article. However, it is also conceivable that the motor 11, the turntable 9, and the temperature control 29, like the container 103 and the piston pump 5, are designed as disposable articles and are thus interchangeable. The temperature control 29 comprises a heating plate 51, wherein the heating plate 51 is arranged at least partially in contact with the connected container 103, and wherein the heating plate 51 at least partially adjoins or contacts the housing 31 of the container 103. The heater plate 51 includes at least one substantially planar external surface or contact surface 53 configured to contact the housing 31 of the container 103. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5A-5C and FIGS. 5A-5C, the contact surface 53 at least partially contacts the rear surface 49 of the container 103.

[0393] The housing 31 of the container 103 features a contact surface 55 that is designed in such a way that the container 103 is at least partially in contact with the temperature control 29 of the stroke system 1. The temperature control 29 at least partially adjoins or closely aligns the contact surface 55. In particular, the temperature control 29 is arranged with the container 103 and the stroke system 1 in such a way that the contact surface 53 of the heating plate 51 at least partially adjoins or closely aligns the contact surface 55, which is arranged on the rear side 49 of the container 103.

[0394] The contact surface 55 extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis 33 of the container between the lower region 39 or lower end 35 of the container 103 and the upper region 41 or upper end 37 of the container 103 as viewed in the direction of gravity 15 when the container 103, the stroke system 1 and the temperature control 29 are connected or coupled together.

[0395] The contact surface 55 extends in a region of the rear side 49 of the container 103 adjoining or adjacent to the longitudinal axis 33 of the container and is spaced from the opposing first and second side edges 43 and 45. The second container 103 is thus in contact with the temperature control 29 and the contact surface 53 of the heating plate 51, respectively, such that the first side edge 43 and second side edge 45 are not in contact with the temperature control 29 and the heating plate 51, respectively, but are spaced from the temperature control 29. contact surface 53 of the heating plate 51 such that the first side edge 43 and second side edge 45 are not in contact with the temperature control 29 and the heating plate 51, respectively, but are spaced from the temperature control 29 and the heating plate 51, respectively, when the container 103 is coupled to the temperature control 29 of the stroke system 1. This embodiment is particularly advantageous for a container 103 welded at the first side edge 43 and second side edge 45. For reasons of thermal engineering, contact of the container 103 at these points is disadvantageous and should be avoided, since due to the lack of fluid as a heat-conducting medium there is a risk that the welded side edges 43, 45 will be melted and thus irreversibly damaged, so that fluid can escape from the interior of the second container 103. However, it would also be conceivable that the second container 103 is configured such that the entire rear side 49 of the second container 103 is formed as a contact surface 55 and the heating plate 51 contacts the contact surface 55 with the entire contact surface 53, wherein the first side edge 43 and second side edge 45 are in contact with the temperature control 29 and with the heating plate 51, respectively (not shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C). This would increase the contact of the second container 103 with the temperature control 29, allowing for particularly effective temperature control of the fluid inside the second container 103.

[0396] However, it is also conceivable that the temperature control 29 comprises a cooling plate or a temperature control plate which can both heat and cool (not shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C and FIGS. 6A to 6C). In this case, the heating plate 51 can be replaced by a cooling plate. However, it is also conceivable that the cooling plate is arranged opposite the heating plate 51 so that the cooling plate contacts another contact surface extending on the front side 47 of the second container 103 along the longitudinal container axis 33 between the lower region 39 or lower end 35 of the second container 103 and the upper region 41 or upper end 37 of the second container 103.

[0397] The temperature control 29 can have a fixing element with which the second container 103 can be fixed or connected to the temperature control, the fixing element having at least one magnet (not shown in FIGS. 3A to 3C and FIGS. 4A to 4C). Furthermore, a control and regulating device for controlling or regulating the temperature of the temperature control 29 or heating plate 51 and/or cooling plate may be provided (not shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C and FIGS. 6A to 6C).

[0398] FIG. 7 shows a second embodiment example of a second container 103′, which is also shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The second embodiment example of the second container 103′ differs from the first embodiment example of the second container 103 in that the second container 103′ is configured to be connected or connectable to a further, second stroke system 1′. The second container 103′ thus comprises a first stroke system 1 and a second stroke system 1′, which are arranged at the first, lower end 35 of the second container 103′. FIG. 8 shows an enlargement of the first stroke system 1 and the second stroke system 1′ from FIG. 7.

[0399] In addition to the first opening 17, the second container 103′ comprises a second opening 57 to which the second stroke system 1′ is connected or connectable, for example glued or welded. The first opening 17 and the second opening 57 are arranged on opposite sides of the longitudinal container axis 33. Thus, the longitudinal container axis 33 does not extend through any of the openings 17, 57.

[0400] The at least one further, second stroke system 1′ is configured substantially like the first stroke system 1 and thus has at least one sensor for determination or detection of the level of the fluid in the interior of the second container 103′ (not shown in FIGS. 7 and 8). Further, each of the stroke systems 1, 1′ comprises an outlet 59 with an outlet opening 61 through which the fluid is able to escape from the inside of the second container 103′. The outlet 59 of at least one of the stroke systems 1, 1′ has a cross-section transverse to its outlet longitudinal axis 63, which is tapered towards the outlet opening 61. The outlet longitudinal axis 63 of each of the stroke systems 1, 1′ each extends in a plane which is parallel to the plane of the longitudinal container axis 33. The second container 103′ or the housing of the second container 103′ is connected or connectable to the stroke systems 1, 1′ by means of a connecting element 75. For this purpose, the connecting element 75 preferably has two through-holes 77, so that the stroke systems 1, 1′ can be guided through the through-holes 77, and can be connected to the first and second container openings 17, 57, 103′. The connection element 75 or fluid connection 75 enables a particularly secure connection or connection of the second container 103′ and/or a fluid line (not shown in FIGS. 7 and 8) to the two stroke systems 1, 1′.

[0401] The outlet 59 of the first stroke system 1 extends along the longitudinal outlet axis 63 between a first end 65 and a second end 67. The outlet 59 extends in a substantially tubular manner along the longitudinal outlet axis 63. The outlet opening 61 of the first stroke system 1 is thus arranged or adjacent to the second end 67.

[0402] In the second, further stroke system 1′, the outlet 59 has a pipette-like configuration. The outlet 59 has a first outlet portion 69 extending between the first end 65 and the second end 67 as previously described in connection with the first stroke system 1. Adjoining or adjacent to the second end 67, the outlet 59 has a second outlet section 71 that also extends along the longitudinal outlet axis 63 between the second end 67 and a third end 73.

[0403] The outlet 59 of the second stroke system 1′ has a cross-section in the second outlet section 71 that tapers toward the third end 73. The outlet opening 61 is located at the third end 73 and has a cross-sectional area (as viewed transversely to the longitudinal outlet axis) adjoining or adjacent to the third end 73 that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the outlet 59 at any location of the first outlet section 69. At least one of the stroke systems 1, 1′ of the second dosing device 108′, preferably the stroke system 1′ having the pipette-like outlet, is designed to balance a dosing inaccuracy of another second dosing device 108 for dosing the at least one fluid from the second container 103.

[0404] Both of the previously described containers 103, 103′ may be available pre-filled with a fluid and/or may be disposable.

[0405] The stroke system 1 described above for dosing a fluid can be used in the biochemical field in the preparation of a liquid medium or a buffer. In particular, the stroke system 1 may be as part of the second dosing device 108, 108′ of the device 100 for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. The previously described stroke system 1 for dosing a fluid from a second container 103, 103′ can be coupled to the second container 103, 103′ in such a way that a fluid can be correctly dosed from the container 103, 103′ by means of the stroke system 1. Because the stroke system 1 has a temperature control 29, the fluid dosed by means of the stroke system 1 can be temperature controlled simultaneously or immediately before or after dosing. The stroke system 1 thus enables simplified and correct dosing of fluid. Due to the additional temperature control option by means of the temperature control 29, the stroke system 1 enables particularly efficient and time-saving work. Particularly in the field of biochemistry, for example in the preparation of media and buffers, longer downtimes are thus avoided and efficient work is made possible.

[0406] It is conceivable that at least one of the at least one second dosing device 108, 108′ comprises, instead of the stroke system 1, 1′, at least one clamping element which is designed for dosing the fluid from the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the second dosing device 108, 108′ has at least a plurality of clamping elements which are designed for dosing the fluid from the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line (not shown in the figures). The second dosing device 108, 108′ comprises up to six clamping elements, wherein two of the six clamping elements are arranged in one level and on opposite sides of the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line, respectively. The clamping elements may be configured as clamps, wherein preferably one of the clamping elements is replaced by the temperature control 29 for tempering the fluid to be dosed by means of the clamping elements. The temperature control 29 may comprise a heating device, in particular a heating plate, wherein the heating device is arranged at least partially in contact with the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line, wherein, preferably, the heating device at least partially adjoins or contacts the housing 31 of the second container 103, 103′.

[0407] FIGS. 9A and 9B, and FIGS. 10A and 10B, show an embodiment of the first container 102 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, which is connected or connectable to the first dosing device 104. Furthermore, FIGS. 9A and 9B, and FIGS. 10A and 10B, show the previously described second container 103 with the second dosing device 108, which comprises a stroke system 1. The temperature control 29 is further arranged on the second container 103. The second container 103 may be connected to the temperature control 29 as previously described. FIGS. 9A and 9B, and FIGS. 10A and 10B, show examples of how the first container 102 and the second container 103 may be arranged relative to each other in the apparatus 100.

[0408] The first dosing device 104 comprises a screw conveyor housing 116 and a screw conveyor, wherein the screw conveyor is inserted, preferably in its full length, into the screw conveyor housing 116 and is arranged within it as rotatable so that the screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing 116 extend around a shared screw conveyor longitudinal axis. The screw conveyor is thus disposed inside the screw conveyor housing so that it is not visible in FIGS. 9A and 9B, and 10A and 10B.

[0409] A coupling device 118 extends in the longitudinal axis direction from a drive end of the screw conveyor or the screw conveyor housing 116, wherein the coupling device 118 is designed to interact, in particular to intervene in a coupling manner with the actuation and/or drive unit 120. The actuation and/or drive device 120 comprises a motor 122, wherein the motor 122 is configured to drive the first dosing device 104. The motor 122 comprises a first gear 124 arranged relative to a second gear 126 of the coupling device 118 such that the gear 124 of the motor 122 comes into contact with the gear 126 of the coupling device 118 of the auger and the auger is driven.

[0410] The screw conveyor housing 116 features an outer wall 130 with a plurality of ribs 128, the ribs 128 preferably extend at least partially in an axial direction between a first end and a second end opposite the first end in a longitudinal axis direction of the screw conveyor housing 116. The ribs 128 essentially extend in a radial direction away from the outer wall 130 of the screw conveyor housing 116. Two of the ribs 128 limit the outlet opening of the screw conveyor housing 116 on opposite sides in a circumferential direction to the outer wall 130 (not shown), and two more of the ribs 128 limit the outlet opening on opposite sides in an axial direction to the outer wall 130. The apparatus 100 may include a container receiving region for receiving the first container 103, wherein the container receiving region may preferably be disposed over a dosing device receiving region for receiving the first dosing device 104 and/or wherein one or more side walls of the container receiving region include a plurality of ribs extending away from the one or more side walls (not shown). A first guiding element and a second guiding element may be arranged between the container mounting area and the dosing device mounting area, wherein the guiding elements may extend from an open front to a rear wall of the device 100 and/or wherein the guiding elements extend away from the sidewalls of the device 100 (not shown). The guide elements may be oriented substantially in a plane parallel to an upper limitation and/or to a lower limitation of the device 100, and the guide elements may preferably be inclined toward the front out of the plane toward the container receiving region (not shown).

[0411] The container 103 for holding at least one solid component comprises a housing 132 with an interior space for holding at least one solid component, and an outlet 134 in fluid connection with the interior space (see FIG. 10A). The outlet 134 can be connected to an inlet 136 of the first dosing device 104 or the screw conveyor housing 116. The first dosing device 104 or the screw conveyor housing 116 features an outlet (not shown in FIGS. 9A to 10B), so that the actuation of the first dosing device 104 dispenses a dosage of at least one solid component through the outlet. The outlet 134 of the first container 103 is connected or can be connected to, preferably screwed or bonded, to the inlet 136 in the screw conveyor housing 116. However, the screw conveyor housing 116 may also be formed as one piece with the first container 103. The dosing device 104 is connected to or can be connected to the first container 103, and the first container 103 and/or the first dosing device 104 are exchangeable and designed as disposable articles.

[0412] The first container 103 is deliverable pre-filled with a solid component. The first container 103 is designed for insertion into a device 100 for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, as a first container and to be held by this.

[0413] The first container 103 may include an inlet opening (not shown), the inlet opening is preferably and essentially arranged opposite the outlet 134 and/or an outlet opening in the outlet 134. The inlet opening can be closed by means of a closing element, preferably by means of a zipper.

[0414] The housing 132 of the first container 103 may at least partially comprise a flexible material or be formed from a flexible material. The housing 132 of the first container 103 may comprise an aluminium composite foil or may be formed from an aluminium composite foil. The housing 132 of the first container 103 may at least partially comprise a shape-retaining material or be formed from a shape-retaining material.

[0415] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 11, the preparation device 114 is described below as part of the device 100 for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances.

[0416] The preparation device 114 is configured to receive a solid component dosed from the first container 103 by means of the first dosing device 104 and a fluid dosed from the second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line by means of the second dosing device 108, 108′ and to prepare a mixture of substances therefrom.

[0417] In addition to the mixing chamber 112, the preparation device 114 includes a lid 138, a hopper element 142, and a collection container 144. The lid 138 may be connected or connectable to the hopper and/or hopper element 142 such that the lid 138 may be twisted open.

[0418] The mixing chamber 112 is configured to receive and mix the solid component dispensed from the first container 102 and the fluid dispensed from the at least one second container 103, 103′ or the fluid line. The mixing chamber 112 is connected or connectable to the collection container 144, such that the mixture of materials prepared by the mixing chamber 112 is collectable by the collection container 144. The collection container 144 is arranged below the mixing chamber 112 so that the mixture of substances can be fed gravimetrically or by gravity alone to the collection container, in particular fluid-tightly.

[0419] The preparation device 114 further comprises a stirrer element 146 for stirring or mixing the solid component and the fluid, and/or a vacuum connection 148 for creating a vacuum.

[0420] The stirrer element 146 extends along a stirrer element longitudinal axis 150 between a drive end 152 and a free end 154. At the drive end 152, a coupling device 156 extends in the stirrer element longitudinal axis direction towards the free end 154, the coupling device 156 being configured to interact in a coupling manner with an actuation and/or drive device 158. The actuation and/or drive unit may include a drive shaft 160 that is connected to, and thus driven by, a motor 162 or stirrer element motor 162.

[0421] At the free end 154, the agitating element 146 includes a stirrer 164 or propeller. The agitating element 146 and the mixing chamber 112 extend along the same longitudinal axis. Drive from the motor 162 causes the agitating element 146 to rotate so that the fluid and the solid component in the mixing chamber are mixed by the stirrer 164 to form a mixture of materials.

[0422] By means of the vacuum connection 148, a vacuum can be generated in the mixing chamber 112 and/or in the collection container 144. The vacuum connection 148 is connected or connectable to a vacuum generator 166 by means of a line 165. The vacuum connection 148 is arranged on the collection container 144, in particular on the upper region thereof, adjoining or adjacent to the mixing chamber 112. Conceivably, the vacuum connection 148 is disposed on the filter element 142 or below the filter. However, the vacuum connection 148 can also be arranged in the wall of the mixing chamber 112 or in the wall of the hopper element 142. Thus, a vacuum can be created in the receiving vessel 144 by means of the vacuum generator 166 so that the prepared mixture of substances can be supplied to the receiving vessel 144 under sterile conditions. The preparation device 114 extends along a preparation device longitudinal axis 168 between a first end 170 and a second end 172.

[0423] FIGS. 13 to 15 show that the preparation device 114 includes a retention element 174 disposed on the preparation device 114, and a filter disposed or disposable in the retention element 174. The hopper element 142 may be connected or connectable to the retention element 174. The retention element 174 is designed to hold the preparation device 114, wherein the retention element 174 is configured to be inserted into a preparation device receiving device 176. The preparation device receiving device 176 may be connected or connectable to a housing of the device 100 for dispensing and/or preparing a mixture of substances (not shown).

[0424] The lid 138 has a peripheral limitation area 214 or edge area 214 that faces away from the lid plate 192 at an angle of substantially 45° to the lid plate 192, and thus protrudes. When the lid 138 is placed on or closes the mixing chamber 112, the inside of the edge area 214 may contact or be adjacent to the outside of the mixing chamber 112. The rim portion 214 of the lid 138 surrounds the exterior of the mixing chamber 112 at one of the ends of the mixing chamber 112. The rim portion 214 serves to facilitate lifting or gripping of the lid 138 and/or the stirrer element 146 associated with the lid 138. Further, it allows the lid 138 to be spaced apart from or float above the hopper. Primarily, the edge is there to prevent contaminants or airborne microbes from entering the hopper when the lid is hovering above the unit during mixing.

[0425] The preparation device receiving device 176 is configured to receive the preparation device 114. The preparation device receiving device 176 is configured as a planar element having a first surface 178 and an opposing second surface 180.

[0426] The preparation device receiving device 176 includes a recess 182 extending from a side edge or edge of the sheet-like element to the interior of the sheet-like element. This recess 182 is configured to receive the hopper element 142. Thus, the hopper element 142 can be inserted into the recess 182 and held by the preparation device receiving device 176 by having bearing surfaces of two protrusions 184, 186 of the retention element 174 bear on the first surface 178 of the preparation device receiving device 176.

[0427] A recess 188 is disposed between the first protrusion 184 and the second protrusion 186 of the retention element 174 at a first end of the hopper element 142. This recess 188 is disposed relative to the first protrusion 184 and the second protrusion 186 at an angle of 45° about a longitudinal filter element axis. This recess 188 is configured to be received by a protrusion 190 on one of the first surfaces 178 of the preparation device receiving device 176. This protrusion 190 extends away from the first surface 178 of the preparation device receiving device 176. The protrusion 190 and the recess 182 may engage after the hopper element 142 has been inserted into the preparation device receiving device 176.

[0428] Referring to FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 13, the lid 138 designed to cover one end of the mixing chamber 112 is described in more detail. The lid 138 features a cover plate 192 with a central opening 194, wherein the central opening 194 is designed to accommodate the stirrer element 146 in such a way that two opposite ends of the stirrer element shaft 146 are arranged on two opposite sides of the lid 138 and the cover plate 192 surrounds the stirrer element shaft in a rotationally symmetrically way. The lid 138 is formed as one piece with the stirrer element 146.

[0429] The lid 138 can thus be placed on the first end of the mixing chamber 112 together with the stirrer element 146. Thus, the at least one solid component and the at least one fluid can be mixed together inside the mixing chamber 112 by means of the stirrer element 146. The cover plate 192 includes a first additional opening 196 and a second additional opening 198, which are arranged rotationally symmetrically with respect to the central opening 194. The first additional opening 196 and second additional opening 198 allow the at least one solid component and/or the at least one fluid to be introduced into the mixing chamber 112 without removing the lid 138 and/or the stirrer element 146 from the mixing chamber 112.

[0430] The stirrer element 146 is connected to or can be connected to a lock washer 200 so that the lock washer 200 surrounds the stirrer element shaft in a rotationally symmetric way and closes or opens the first additional opening 196 and the second additional opening 198 in the lid plate 192 by turning or rotating the stirrer element 146. FIG. 12A shows the lid 138 with the closure plate 200 rotated to an open position. FIG. 12B shows the lid 138 with the lock washer 200 rotated to a closed position.

[0431] The hopper element 142 and/or the lid 138 and/or the stirrer element 146 and/or the retention element 174 and/or the collection container 144 and/or the filter are exchangeable and designed as disposable articles. The stirrer element 146 is made of plastic or glass. The filter (not shown) is formed of plastic or cellulose. Ideally, the stirrer element 146 is formed in one piece with the lid 138.

[0432] The preparation device 114, preferably the mixing chamber 112 and/or the collection vessel 144, comprise at least one sensor, wherein the sensor is configured to measure pH and/or conductivity (not shown).

[0433] The apparatus 100 for dispensing and/or preparing a mixture of substances furthermore comprises a lifting device 202, wherein the lifting device 202 is designed to change the position of the preparation device 114 in relation to the position of the stirrer element motor 162.

[0434] The lifting device 202 is arranged below the preparation device 114. The lifting device 202 comprises a lifting platform 204 on which the collection container 144 of the preparation device 114 is placed. Furthermore, the lifting device 202 comprises a first stroke element 206 and a second stroke element 208 by means of which the position of the lifting platform 204 and thus the position of the preparation device 114 on the lifting platform 204 can be changed. Each of the stroke elements 206, 208 comprises a stroke element motor 210, 212. By means of the lifting device 202, the position of the preparation device 114 described above can be changed relative to the stirrer element motor 162.

[0435] The lifting device 202 may include a lifting bracket or stroke clamp, wherein the lifting clamp or lifting bracket or stroke clamp is connected to or can be connected to a sensor or set of scales (not shown). The lifting platform 204 can be moved upward and downward, particularly relative to the stirrer element motor 162. Thus, by actuating the lifting platform 204, the vacuum connection 148 can also be moved up or down.

[0436] FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B show the hopper element 142 inserted into the preparation device receiving device 176 and connected to the vacuum generator 166 by the line 165. The vacuum connection 148 is connected to the hopper element 142. The preparation device receiving device 176 includes another port or vacuum connection 216. The vacuum connection is disposed adjoining or adjacent to the protrusion 190.

[0437] The protrusion 190 includes a through hole 218. The through bore 218 is configured to insert and receive the additional vacuum connection 216. The additional vacuum connection 216 extends along a longitudinal vacuum axis between a first end 220 and an opposite second end 222. The peripheral wall of the additional vacuum connection 216 is adapted to match the inner wall of the through hole 218. In particular, the peripheral wall of the additional vacuum connection 216 has a diameter transverse to the longitudinal vacuum axis that is smaller than the diameter of the inner wall transverse to the longitudinal through-hole axis along which the through-hole extends.

[0438] The first end 220 of the additional vacuum connection 216 is configured to be connected to the line 165 to the vacuum generator 166, in particular in a sealed or fluid-tight manner. The second end 222 of the additional vacuum connection 216 is configured to be connected to the first vacuum connection 148, in particular in a sealed or fluid-tight manner, which in turn is connected to the hopper element 142.

[0439] Between the first end 220 and the second end 222, the additional vacuum connection 216 has a channel 224 extending along the longitudinal vacuum connection axis (see FIG. 17). The first vacuum connection 148 also has a channel 226 along its central longitudinal axis. Thus, by means of the vacuum generator 166, a vacuum can be created in the line 165 adjacent the first end 220 of the additional vacuum connection 216 such that air is exhausted from the hopper element 142 and/or the mixing chamber 112 connected to the hopper element 142 and/or the collection container 144 connected to the hopper element 142, through the second opening 222 and the channel 224, and into the line 165 and toward the vacuum generator 166. The line 165 can be a hose so that the height differences of the individual components, i.e., the preparation device 114 with hopper element 142 and the vacuum generator 166 can be managed. Furthermore, the lifting platform 204 can be moved up and down, with the preparation device 114 connected to the vacuum generator 166 by means of the line or hose.

[0440] FIG. 17 shows that the channel 224 includes a channel section 228 adjacent to the second end 222 of the additional vacuum connection 216, the channel section 228 configured to insert and receive the first vacuum connection 148.

[0441] The inner wall of the channel section 228 includes a first groove 230 and the outer wall of the first vacuum connection 148 includes a second groove 232. The two grooves each have a rectangular cross-section and form a closed space 234 when the vacuum connections 148, 216 are connected together. The closed space 234 is configured to receive one or more balls 236. The balls 236 are disposed in the second groove 232. Further, the closed space 234 is configured to receive at least one spring element, preferably two or more spring elements 238. The spring elements 238 are arranged in the first groove 230 Thus, the at least one spring element 238 can be used to exert a spring force on at least one ball 236 so that the two vacuum connections 148, 216 are fixed or clicked together.

[0442] FIG. 18a preparation device mounting area 240 as part of the device for dispensing and/or preparing a mixture of substances. The preparation device mounting area 240 is configured to receive the preparation device receiving device 176 and a preparation device 114 inserted into the preparation device receiving device 176. The preparation device mounting area 240 includes a rear wall from which two opposing side walls extend away. When inserted into the preparation device mounting area 240, the preparation device mounting area 176 may contact, be adjacent to, or be connectable to the back wall and/or the side walls.

[0443] An opening is provided in the rear wall (not shown). This opening is arranged relative to the through hole 218 in the protrusion 190 of the preparation device receiving device 176, such that the line 165 or hose between the additional vacuum connection 216 and the vacuum generator 166 can pass through the opening in the rear wall. Thus, the preparation device 114 inserted into the preparation device mounting area 240 by means of the preparation device mounting area 176 may be disposed in the preparation device mounting area 240, and the vacuum generator 166 may be disposed outside the device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances.

[0444] The device or system described above, comprising a device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or buffer, at least one first container for holding at least one solid component and/or at least one second container for holding at least one fluid, can be used for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer. The device or the system can be used for the preparation of a mixture of substances, which in particular is not a food, further in particular not baby food, coffee, or tea.

[0445] The system described above comprises a device 100 for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances, in particular a medium or a buffer, at least one first container 102 for holding at least one solid component and at least one second container 103, 103′ for holding at least one fluid, so that the mixture of substances can be prepared by means of this system. For this purpose, the first container 102 is configured for receiving and dosing a solid component. The first container 102 may be configured for receiving and interacting with the device 100 for preparing a mixture of substances. The second container 103, 103′ is configured to receive and dispense fluid. The second container 103, 103′ may be configured to receive and interact with the device 100. By means of the first dosing device 104, the solid component can be dosed from the first container 102 and by means of the second dosing device 108, 108′, the fluid can be dosed from the second container 103, 103′, wherein the solid component and the fluid are introduced in the correct mixing ratio into the mixing chamber 112 of the preparation device 114 and are mixed there to form a mixture of substances, which can then be filled into a collecting container 144 through the hopper element or filter element 142. In that the second container 103, 103′ and/or the second dosing device 108, 108′ and/or the first container 102 and/or the first dosing device 104 and/or the fluid line and/or the lid 138 are exchangeable and developed as disposable articles, cleaning of the respective components can be dispensed with. The components can simply be discarded after a period of time and replaced with new components. This simplifies the manufacturing process of the medium or buffer. The device 100 thus enables a simplified and correct preparation of a mixture of substances.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0446] 1, 1′ Stroke system [0447] 5 Piston pump [0448] 7 Piston [0449] 9 Turntable [0450] 11 Motor [0451] 13 Sensor [0452] 15 Direction of gravity [0453] 17 First container opening [0454] 19 Pipeline or hose [0455] 21 Container or beaker [0456] 23 Pipe or hose system [0457] 25 Rotational movement of cam [0458] 27 Translational movement of piston [0459] 29 Temperature control [0460] 31 Housing [0461] 33 Longitudinal container axis [0462] 35 First, lower end of container [0463] 37 Second, upper end of container [0464] 39 Lower area of container [0465] 41 Upper area of container [0466] 43 First side edge of container [0467] 45 Second side edge of container [0468] 47 Front of container [0469] 49 Back of container [0470] 51 Heating plate [0471] 53 External surface or contact surface [0472] 55 Contact surface [0473] 57 Second container opening [0474] 59 Outlet [0475] 61 Outlet opening [0476] 63 Outlet longitudinal axis [0477] 65 First end of outlet [0478] 67 Second end of outlet [0479] 69 First outlet section [0480] 71 Second outlet section [0481] 73 Third end of outlet [0482] 75 Connection element [0483] 77 Through holes [0484] 100 Device for dosing and/or preparing a mixture of substances [0485] 102 At least one first container [0486] 103, 103′ At least a second container [0487] 104 At least one first dosing device [0488] 108, 108′ At least one second dosing device [0489] 110, 110′ At least one fluid connection [0490] 112 Mixing chamber [0491] 114 Preparation device [0492] 116 Screw conveyor housing [0493] 118 Coupling device [0494] 120 Actuation and drive unit [0495] 122 Motor [0496] 124 First gear [0497] 126 Second gear [0498] 128 Plurality of ribs [0499] 130 Outer wall [0500] 132 Housing of first container [0501] 134 Outlet of first container [0502] 136 Inlet of the screw conveyor housing [0503] 138 Lid [0504] 142 Hopper element [0505] 144 Collection container [0506] 146 Stirrer element [0507] 148 Vacuum connection [0508] 150 Stirrer element longitudinal axis [0509] 152 Drive end [0510] 154 Free end [0511] 156 Coupling device [0512] 158 Actuation and/or drive unit [0513] 160 Drive shaft [0514] 162 Motor [0515] 164 Stirrer [0516] 165 Line [0517] 166 Vacuum generator [0518] 168 Preparation device longitudinal axis [0519] 170 First end [0520] 172 Second end [0521] 174 Retention element [0522] 176 Preparation device receiving device [0523] 178 First surface [0524] 180 Second surface [0525] 182 Recess [0526] 184 Protrusion [0527] 186 Protrusion [0528] 188 Recess [0529] 190 Protrusion [0530] 192 Cover plate [0531] 194 Central opening [0532] 196 First additional opening [0533] 198 Second additional opening [0534] 200 Lock washer [0535] 202 Lifting device [0536] 204 Lifting platform [0537] 206 Stroke element [0538] 208 Stroke element [0539] 210 Stroke element motor [0540] 212 Stroke element motor [0541] 214 Limitation area or edge area [0542] 216 Additional vacuum connection [0543] 218 Through hole [0544] 220 First end of the additional vacuum connection [0545] 222 Second end of the additional vacuum connection [0546] 224 Channel [0547] 226 Channel [0548] 228 Channel section [0549] 230 First groove [0550] 232 Second groove [0551] 234 Closed space [0552] 236 One or more balls [0553] 238 Spring elements [0554] 240 Preparation device mounting area