CONTAINER SYSTEM

Abstract

A container system having connection devices for establishing a fluid connection between the containers. In one aspect, a connection device comprises a thin point that, within its shape, has a tip between two at least substantially straight legs and wherein the other connection device has a ram with a splitting device that is designed and arranged such as to rupture said thin point by acting on the tip when the containers are coupled. In another aspect, the thin point surrounds the ram, and in a third aspect the connection devices have corresponding, similar thin points, closure elements and splitting devices. In further aspects, the connection devices are similar, and the connection devices are linearly guided.

Claims

1. Container system comprising: at least two containers each of which has an inner chamber, wherein a first of the at least two containers has an initially closed first connection device and a second of the at least two containers has an initially closed second connection device, wherein the first and second connection devices are constructed to form a coupling for coupling the first and second container together, the coupling producing a continuous fluid connection that is closed off from surrounding areas and interconnects the inner chambers of the first and second containers to enable contents in the inner chambers to be mixed, wherein the first connection device comprises a thin point that is rupturable by force applied by a ram of the second connection device for establishing the fluid connection, wherein the thin point has a shape that comprises a tip between two at least substantially straight legs, and wherein the ram comprises a splitting device that is constructed and arranged to rupture the thin point by acting on the tip when the coupling is produced.

2. Container system according to claim 1, wherein, once the coupling has been produced, a portion of the ram protrudes into an opening formed by the coupling.

3. Container system according to claim 1, wherein, apart from a region around the ram, the thin point has a polygonal shape.

4. Container system according to claim 3, wherein, apart from the region around the ram, the thin point has an odd number of corners.

5. Container system according to claim 3, wherein, apart from the region around the ram, the thin point has a substantially triangular shape or has a symmetry plane extending through the tip and bisecting an edge of the thin point opposite the tip.

6. Container system according to claim 1, wherein the thin point at least substantially fully surrounds a plate-shaped closure element, and the connection devices are configured such that, upon coupling, the ram of the second connection device acts on the plate-shaped closure element of the first connection device to cause the thin point to rupture along the two legs of the thin point starting from the tip.

7. Container system comprising: at least two containers, each of which form an inner chamber, wherein a first of the at least two containers has an initially closed first connection device and a second of the at least two containers has an initially closed second connection device, wherein the first and second connection devices are constructed to form a coupling for coupling the first and second container together, the coupling producing a continuous fluid connection that is closed off from surrounding areas and interconnects the inner chambers of the first and second containers to enable contents in the inner chambers to be mixed, wherein the first connection device comprises a thin point that is rupturable by force applied by a ram of the second connection device for establishing the fluid connection and a ram for acting on a thin point of the second connection device, the thin point of the first connection device comprising a portion that surrounds part of the ram of the first connection device, and wherein each of the rams comprises a splitting device that is constructed and arranged to rupture the respective thin point by acting on the tip when the coupling is produced.

8. Container system according to claim 7, wherein once coupling is complete, the portion of the ram that was originally surrounded by the respective thin point protrudes into an opening formed as a result of coupling of the containers.

9. Container system according to claim 7, wherein, apart from in the region around the ram, the thin points extend in a polygonal manner.

10. Container system according claim 9, wherein apart from in the region around the ram, the thin points have an odd number of corners.

11. Container system according claim 9, wherein, apart from in the region around the ram, each thin point extends in an at least substantially triangular manner or has a symmetry plane through the tip that bisects an edge of the thin point opposite the tip.

12. Container system according to claim 7, wherein each of the thin points are rupturable by the ram of the other connection device, as a result of which the fluid connection can be established between previously separately sealed containers.

13. Container system comprising: at least two containers, each of which form an inner chamber, wherein a first of the at least two containers has an initially closed first connection device and a second of the at least two containers has an initially closed second connection device, wherein the first and second connection devices are constructed to form a coupling for coupling the first and second container together, the coupling producing a continuous fluid connection that is closed off from surrounding areas and interconnects the inner chambers of the first and second containers to enable contents in the inner chambers to be mixed, wherein the first connection device comprises a thin point that is rupturable by force applied by a ram of the second connection device for establishing the fluid connection and wherein the connection devices comprise guides for guided coupling of the connection devices, the guides at least one of: allow the connection devices to be coupled only when they are in a predefined orientation relative to one another; or are configured for guiding the connection devices linearly during coupling.

14. Container system according claim 13, wherein the connection devices can only be coupled together by moving along a coupling axis forming a central axis of the connection devices when they are in the predefined orientation.

15. Container system according to claim 13, wherein the predefined orientation is such that the ram of the second connection device impinges the thin point of the first connection device when the connection devices are connected.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0090] FIG. 1 is a schematic section through the connection devices arranged relative to one another before the connection is established;

[0091] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a first connection device;

[0092] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a second connection device;

[0093] FIG. 4 is a schematic section through the connection devices arranged relative to one another after coupling and with the fluid connection established;

[0094] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cover cap for the first connection device;

[0095] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cover cap for the second connection device; and

[0096] FIG. 7 is a schematic section through the cover caps according to FIGS. 5 and 6 inserted into one another.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0097] In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar parts, and corresponding advantages and properties can be achieved even if the description thereof is not repeated.

[0098] Corresponding or matching parts and elements will be denoted by the same numeral in the following, but with either letter A or letter B. Therefore, unless specified otherwise, the same features and properties apply to such corresponding parts, even if this is not explicitly set out or mentioned. If, however, other parts are necessary and/or are described in certain aspects of the invention, this does not mean that corresponding parts or elements have to be implemented on both sides, though this is preferable.

[0099] FIG. 1 is a schematic section through a proposed container system 1 in an uncoupled state, comprising two containers 3A, 3B each forming inner chambers 2A, 2B.

[0100] The containers 3A, 3B each comprise a connection device 4A, 4B, specifically a first connection device 4A of a first container 3A and a second connection device 4B of a second container 3B. These connection devices 4A, 4B are shown in a perspective view in FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0101] In some cases in the following, mechanisms will be described for one connection device only or for opening only one of the connection devices 4A, 4B. It is possible to implement only the required components and effects and to omit other components, even if they are shown in the embodiment. For example, it is possible for just one of the containers 3A, 3B to be sealed and opened or able to be opened by a connection device 4A, 4B.

[0102] However, it is preferable for each connection device 4A, 4B to be designed in a corresponding manner and/or to achieve corresponding effects, even if this is not explicitly mentioned below. Therefore, corresponding explanations given below in relation to the first connection device 4A or parts thereof preferably also or accordingly apply optionally to the second connection device 4B and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. However, this does not mean that the connection devices 4A, 4B must be constructed in a corresponding or identical manner, even if this would be advantageous. It is thus fundamentally possible to implement only those features described in a specific context, even if the other connection device 4A, 4B does not have corresponding features.

[0103] The connection devices 4A, 4B can be coupled together such that the coupling produces a continuous fluid connection that is closed off from the surroundings and interconnects the inner chambers 2A, 2B of the containers 3A, 3B in such a way that contents that can be held in the inner chambers 2A, 2B can be mixed. In other words, when in an initial state, the containers 3A, 3B are preferably sealed in the region of the connection devices 4A, 4B such that no contents can escape, and the connection devices 4A, 4B can form a passage between the containers 3A, 3B by means of the coupling such that the inner chambers 2A, 2B are interconnected and contents can be exchanged between the containers 3A, 3B.

[0104] In principle, the container system 1 is designed to allow the containers 3A, 3B to be coupled by means of the connection devices 4A, 4B such that the inner chambers 2A, 2B of said containers are interconnected.

[0105] With reference to the embodiment according to FIG. 1, this is achieved by a relative movement of the connection devices 4A, 4B towards one another, one of the connection devices 4A, 4B comprising a thin point 5A, 5B on which the other, second connection device 4B acts by means of its ram 6B in order to rupture said point and thus establish the fluid connection.

[0106] In the examples shown, the connection devices 4A, 4B are designed at least substantially identically or similarly.

[0107] The each thin point 5A, 5B forms or delimits a region, in particular a wall portion of the container 3A, 3B, that initially seals the relevant container 3A, 3B but is designed to rupture the relevant thin point 5A, 5B in order to produce an opening through which the fluid connection is established or provided.

[0108] The connection device 4A preferably comprises a thin point 5A. As explained above, the thin point can be sufficiently fragile to be ruptured in order to obtain an opening. The thin point is thus in particular a predetermined breaking point or predetermined breaking line.

[0109] In its shape, the thin point 5A comprises a tip 7A that is arranged or formed between two at least substantially straight legs 14A. The tip 7A has proven advantageous for producing a region of the thin point 5A since the thin point 5A ruptures or tears in a preferable or particularly simple manner, thus making it simpler to open the first connection device 4A.

[0110] The tip 7A is preferably formed such that the thin point 5A undergoes a change in direction and/or an angle αA of less than 120° is formed between the straight legs. However, it is more preferable to have a directional change about more than 90° or an angle πA of less than 90° to be formed. In the example shown, the angle πA formed is less than 50° and/or more than 30°, in particular approximately 46°.

[0111] As explained above, the same preferably applies to a tip 7B of the second connection device 4B and/or to at least substantially straight legs 14B of the connection device 4B.

[0112] The ram 6B of the second connection device 4B comprises a splitting device 8B designed and arranged to rupture the thin point 5A of the first connection device by acting on the tip 7A when the coupling is produced.

[0113] The ram 6B is preferably a ridge-like and/or protruding portion. The ram 6B is preferably designed to be pushed onto the thin point 5A of the first connection device 4A upon coupling and to perforate, pierce or cut open said point. In addition, the ram 6B is preferably designed to be arranged in the opening that is formed as a result. During the coupling process, the ram 6B thus preferably penetrates the region that was previously formed or closed by the thin point 5A of the first connection device 4A.

[0114] In the example shown, the splitting device 8B is preferably formed as a spike and/or a cutting edge. In the process, the splitting device 8B preferably corresponds, in particular in terms of shape and/or size, to the thin point 5A in the region of the tip 7A, is complementary thereto or formed in a corresponding manner.

[0115] The same preferably applies to a ram 6A or a splitting device 8A of the first connection device 4A, the splitting device 8A of the ram 6A of the first connection device 4A thus preferably being designed and arranged such that, when the coupling is produced, the thin point 5B of the second connection device 4B ruptures through the application of force on the tip 7B of the second connection device 4B.

[0116] Moreover, at least one of the connection devices 4A, 4B, for example the first connection device 4A, comprises a thin point 5A designed to rupture through the application of force by a ram 6B of the other, second connection 4B device, as a result of which the fluid connection can be established. Preferably, the same applies to the second connection device, which in the example shown also comprises a thin point 5B designed to rupture through the application of force by a ram 6A of the first connection device 4A, as a result of which the fluid connection can be established.

[0117] Particularly preferably, the connection devices 4A, 4B, the thin points 5A, 5B and/or the rams 6A, 6B are designed such that the connection devices reciprocally open during the coupling process, and specifically by the ram 6A, 6B of the connection device 4A, 4B acting on the thin point 5A, 5B of the other connection device 4A, 4B, causing it to rupture, as a result of which the two connection devices 4A, 4B are opened and a continuous fluid connection is obtained between the container inner chambers 2A, 2B.

[0118] The thin point 5A preferably surrounds, more preferably at least substantially completely surrounds, a preferably plate-like closure element 13A of the first connection device 4A.

[0119] In the process, the closure element 13A is preferably at least substantially dimensionally stable and/or rigid. The closure element 13A can be made of the same material as the thin point 5A, and in particular can be formed integrally with the thin point 5A, the thin point 5A being recessed with respect to the closure element 13A by means of a material weakness in the form of a reduced material thickness.

[0120] The same preferably applies to a preferably plate-like closure element 13B of the second connection device 4B.

[0121] The connection devices 4A, 4B are preferably designed such that, when the coupling is produced, the ram 6B of the second connection device 3B acts on the closure element 13A of the first connection device 4A such that the thin point 5A ruptures, in particular tears, along the legs 14A starting from the tip 7A. In addition, the thin point 5A is preferably first ruptured in the region of the tip 7A, preferably by the splitting device 8B, and the ram 6B then acts on the closure element 13A such that the opening is widened by the thin point 5A tearing open from the tip 7A. As a result, the closure element 13A is gradually detached and is moved such that the opening is formed or widened.

[0122] The same connection device 4A, 4B explained in more detail below on the basis of the first connection device 4A preferably comprises both the thin point 5A and a ram 6A for acting on a thin point 5B of the other or second connection device 4B. Therefore, in this aspect of the present invention, which can also be implemented independently, at least one of the connection devices 4A, 4B is provided with both the ram 6A, 6B and the thin point 5A, 5B, the other connection device 4A, 4B having at least the thin point 5A, 5B but not necessarily the ram 6A, 6B though this is preferred.

[0123] The thin point 5A of the first connection device 4A preferably comprises a portion 9A that surrounds part of the ram 6A of the first connection device 4A. Preferably, the ram 6A protrudes into the basic shape of the closure element 13A, although the thin point 5A follows the shape of the ram 6A and surrounds or encompasses the bottom region of the ram 6A as a result.

[0124] Preferably, the thin point 5A extends, in a straight manner in at least some portions, on different sides of the ram 6A and/or on a side of the closure element 13A opposite the tip 7A. Particularly preferably, aligned portions 10A, 11A of the thin point 5A adjoin the side of the ram 6A. These can directly adjoin the portion 9A surrounding the ram 6A. The portions 10A, 11A are preferably aligned with one another and are thus on a common straight line or axis in the space also referred to as the alignment 16A.

[0125] The aligned portions 10A, 11A of the thin point 5A preferably form a film hinge. This can be provided or carried out by the closure element 13A remaining hanging in the aligned portions 10A, 11A after the thin point 5A has ruptured, and being pivotally mounted or hinged by deforming the thin point 5A.

[0126] In the example shown, the thin point 5A tears along the legs 14A, starting from the tip 7A, only as far as to the corners 12 adjacent to the aligned portions 10A, 11A. However, the thin point 5A does not tear any further into the aligned portions 10A, 11A since a pressure exerted by the ram 6B, in particular on the closure element 13A, only leads to excessive shear stress in other regions, and in the aligned portions merely causes deformation, in particular warping, of the thin point 5A along a bending line bent transversely or perpendicularly to the shape of the thin point 5A.

[0127] In the example shown, the aligned portions 10A, 11A are provided both on the side of the closure element 13A opposite the tip 7A and adjacently to the side of the ram 6A. However, it is also conceivable in principle in an alternative not shown for the aligned portions 10A, 11A to be arranged, regardless of the position of the ram 6A, on a side of the closure element 13A opposite or facing away from the tip 7A or corner 12, or on the basic shape formed by the thin point 5A.

[0128] It is also conceivable to provide just one aligned portion 10A, 11A, which can be formed by the aligned portions 10A, 11A or replaces them. Preferably, however, the aligned portions 10A, 11A are separated from one another by the ram 6A or the portion 9A surrounding the ram 6A.

[0129] In the example shown, in the direction of a plane formed by the thin point 5A at the tip 7A, the tip 7A of the thin point 5A has a width or extension that is larger than the rest of the thin point 5A. The thin point 5A thus has an increased surface area at the tip 7A. As a result, it is simpler to split the thin point 5A in the region of the tip 7A.

[0130] In the region of the tip 7A, the closure element 13A comprises a chamfer that extends at a shallower angle to the thin point 5A than in other regions in which the closure element 13A adjoins the thin point 5A. This makes it possible for the splitting element 8B to be formed in the shape of a wedge, without it colliding with the closure element 13A during the coupling. As a result, sufficient stability in the splitting element 8B or ram 6B can be achieved.

[0131] The legs 14A are preferably at least substantially the same length. The basic shape of the thin point 5A or closure element 13A can thus be a triangle or polygon of which the legs 14A are the same length starting from the tip 7A.

[0132] It is also preferable for the closure element 13A to be symmetrical in relation to a plane formed by the tip 7A and the ram 6A perpendicularly to the main plane of extension of the closure element 13A.

[0133] The basic shape of the closure element 13A or basic shape formed by the thin point 5A apart from the portion 9A surrounding the ram 6A, preferably comprises a planar side that is opposite the tip 7A and forms the film hinge or the aligned portions 10A, 11A.

[0134] In the example shown, the ram 6 is formed by an elongate, planar or plate-like ridge. This is advantageous in that a sturdy construction can be produced with efficient use of materials. However, other solutions are also conceivable in principle.

[0135] The ram 6A preferably has an elongate cross section, the longitudinal axis 15A of which extends transversely to the alignment 16A of the aligned portions 10A, 11A. In other words, the ram 6A is preferably plate-like having a main extension along the longitudinal axis 15A along which it preferably protrudes into the basic shape of the closure element 13A or thin point 5A. The ram 6A preferably projects or protrudes transversely thereto, preferably relative to a surface or plane in which the closure element 13A or thin point 5A extends.

[0136] The ram 6A thus preferably extends on a side facing away from the inner chamber 2A and in a direction facing away from the inner chamber 2A. As a result, the ram 6B can act on the thin point 5B of the other connection device 4B when the connection devices 4A, 4B move relative to one another in order to establish the fluid connection.

[0137] The ridge forming the ram 6A preferably has an open end face, preferably on the side facing away from the inner chamber 2A, 2B of the container 3A, 3B that comprises the respective connection device 4A, 4B. In the example shown, the connection devices 4A, 4B each form a base of the container 3A, 3B. The ram 6A, 6B is formed such as to protrude externally from the base, in particular is formed by the aforementioned ridge.

[0138] The open end face of the ram 6A, 6B preferably forms a V-shaped contour having two open ends that form the splitting device 8A, 8B at one end and, at the other end, a pressure surface 17A, 17B for pushing open the closure element 13A, 13B of the other connection device 4A, 4B.

[0139] FIG. 1, which is a section through the rams 6A, 6B, clearly shows the shape, the section being taken, in relation to the perspective views from FIGS. 2 and 3, along a sectional plane in which the longitudinal axes 15A, 15B are located and which extends transversely or perpendicularly to the alignment 16A, 16B.

[0140] According to the drawing, starting from the splitting element 8B, the ram 6B is in the shape of a wedge and transitions into a groove which separates the splitting element 8A, 8B from the pressure surface 17A, 17B. However, other solutions are also possible in this respect, for example implementing the pressure surface 17A, 17B and the splitting element 8A, 8B separately or in a different shape.

[0141] Preferably, however, the shape of the ram 6A, 6B adjacent to the splitting element 8A, 8B is wedge-shaped such that the corresponding transition of the closure element 13A, 13B to the thin point 5A, 5B makes it possible for the splitting element 8A to directly strike the thin point 5A, 5B during the coupling process, without being supported previously on the closure element 13A, 13B.

[0142] The pressure surface 17A is arranged and designed such that force can be applied to the opposite closure element 13B of the other closure device 4B in a more central manner than would be possible using the splitting element 8A. The pressure surface 17A is thus preferably arranged more centrally than the splitting device 8A, meaning that the splitting device 8A can produce the initial rupture to the thin point 5B and the pressure surface 17A applies the force to the closure element 13B during the further opening process, thereby lifting the closure element 13B off the splitting device 8A.

[0143] The ram 6A is preferably stationary. In particular, the ram 6A is held in a stationary manner on a side of the thin point 5A facing away from the closure element 13A. In other words, the ram 6A is preferably rigidly connected to the base or wall of the container 3A. As a result, the ram does not move relative to the wall of the container 3A during the coupling process. This leads to stability that allows for the necessary pressure for opening the connection devices 4A, 4B.

[0144] Once coupling is complete, the ram 6A, which was previously surrounded by the portion 9A of the thin point 5A, preferably protrudes into the formed opening 19A. This is explained in more detail below on the basis of FIG. 4, which is a schematic section through the proposed connection devices 4A, 4B after the coupling process has been completed. In this case, the closure devices 13A, 13B have each been pushed open by the ram 6A, 6B of the other or opposite connection device 4A, 4B, thereby forming the openings 19A, 19B. Consequently, a continuous fluid passage between the inner chambers 2A, 2B of the containers 3A, 3B is produced.

[0145] The coupling process starts from the position of the containers 3A, 3B or connection devices 4A, 4B as shown in FIG. 1, in that the connection devices 4A, 4B are moved linearly towards one another and/or into one another axially or along a coupling axis 20A, 20B. In this case, the coupling axis 20A, 20B preferably corresponds to central axes or axes of symmetry of the containers 3A, 3B and/or of the connection devices 4A, 4B.

[0146] As explained above, the aforementioned aspects preferably also apply to the other connection device 4A, 4B. Specifically, the connection devices 4A, 4B are preferably formed so as to be complementary to one another and/or are similar.

[0147] In this case, therefore, the two connection devices 4A, 4B each have a thin point 5A, 5B and a ram 6A, 6B, the thin points 5A, 5B each being designed to rupture or be ruptured through the application of force by the ram 6A, 6B of the other connection device 4A, 4B, as a result of which the fluid connection can be produced by opening the two containers 3A, 3B, which were previously sealed separately.

[0148] The closure elements 13A, 13B, thin points 5A, 5B and/or rams 6A, 6B therefore preferably have at least substantially the same shape and each act in a reciprocal manner on corresponding points of the other connection device 4A, 4B during the coupling process. As a result, the containers 3A, 3B open simultaneously and reciprocally in the region of the connection devices 4A, 4B during the coupling process.

[0149] The connection devices 4A, 4B preferably have thin points 5A, 5B that extend in a similar manner, and rams 6A, 6B at corresponding positions, such that the splitting devices 8A, 8B act on the tip 7A, 7B of the thin point 5A, 5B of the other connection device 4A, 4B, meaning that the two thin points 5A, 5B both rupture at least substantially simultaneously in the region of the tip 7A, 7B. The opening process for the connection devices 4A, 4B thus takes place by means of relative movement at least substantially simultaneously with and identically to corresponding, identically formed means, by the connection devices 4A, 4B reciprocally applying force to one another.

[0150] Preferably, the connection devices can only be coupled together by moving along the coupling axis 20A, 20B, which, as mentioned, preferably forms a central axis of the containers 3A, 3B and/or a central axis of the connection devices 4A, 4B, when they are in a predefined orientation relative to one another. For this purpose, the connection devices 4A, 4B preferably comprise complementary or corresponding guides 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B which allow the containers 3A, 3B to be coupled together only when they are in a or the predefined orientation relative to one another and do not allow them to be coupled together when they are oriented differently.

[0151] By way of example, and as can be seen particularly clearly in FIGS. 2 and 3, grooves are provided as guides 21A and ridges as guides 21B; these correspond to one another such that an orientation of the connection devices 4A, 4B relative to one another is fixed.

[0152] In the example shown, corresponding grooves and ridges are each located on the periphery of the connection devices 4A, 4B on the outer peripheral line of the second connection device 4B in the example. These grooves and ridges, or other fundamentally possible orientation devices, constrain the aforementioned orientation. In this orientation, the splitting elements 8A, 8B strike the tips 7A, 7B of the thin points 5A, 5B during a coupling movement. In addition, the rams 6A, 6B are preferably located in a common plane in terms of their main extensions, but they do not collide with one another during a coupling movement along the coupling axis 20A, 20B. In addition, the thin points 5A, 5B preferably extend in a mirror image or inverse to one another.

[0153] In other words, in the predefined orientation, projections of the thin points 5A, 5B extend along the coupling axis 20A, 20B in a mirror image to one another and/or projections of the rams 6A, 6B are offset from one another along the coupling axis 20A, 20B so as to not be in contact at least substantially. During a coupling movement of the connection devices 4A, 4B towards one another, the rams 6A, 6B thus slide past one another without touching, at least until an opening is formed or the fluid connection is established.

[0154] The connection devices 4A, 4B can preferably be inserted into one another exclusively linearly or axially. In this case, the connection devices 4A, 4B or containers 3A, 3B comprising said devices can be inserted or slid into one another along the coupling axis 20A, 20B shown in FIG. 1.

[0155] In this case, the rotational orientation of the containers 3A, 3B or connection devices 4A, 4B relative to one another in relation to the coupling axis 20A, 20B is preferably pre-set by the guide means 21A, 21B. Additional guide means 22A, 22B are implemented in the form of ridges comprising a curved portion that is concentric with the coupling or central axis, and a second portion extending at least substantially radially.

[0156] These additional guide means 22A, 22B of the connection devices 4A, 4B are preferably arranged and designed such that, during the coupling process, the additional guide means 22A, 22B abut one another and are thus brought together. The radially extending portions can be designed to prevent the connection devices 4A, 4B from moving towards one another along the coupling axis 20A, 20B when in an orientation that is rotated 180° about the coupling axis 20A, 20B compared with the pre-set orientation or predefined orientation.

[0157] Furthermore, the containers 3A, 3B in the example shown are formed as bottles, particularly preferably as vials. This is advantageous in that the mixture, formed by the connection devices 4A, 4B, of the substances S1, S2 that are held in the inner chambers 2A, 2B of the containers 3A, 3B and mixed once the fluid connection is established can be removed in the conventional manner.

[0158] At least one of the containers 3A, 3B preferably has a removal opening 23A, 23B, which is formed by a septum in the example shown. In the example shown, the two containers 3A, 3B are each provided with a removal opening 23A, 23B in addition to the connection devices 4A, 4B. This is not compulsory, however. It is also possible for different removal openings 23A, 23B to be provided.

[0159] For example, a septum in the form of a sealed removal opening 23A, 23B can be pierced by means of an injection needle not shown in order to remove the contents, i.e. the mixture of the contents of the containers 3A, 3B, in particular in part or gradually dose by dose.

[0160] In one variant, the removal openings 23A, 23B can be suitable for being inserted into an injector, such as an autoinjector or a self-filling syringe, the mixture of the contents of the containers 3A, 3B being removed automatically through at least one removal opening 23A, 23B.

[0161] The connection devices 4A, 4B are preferably designed to create a seal that is tight with respect to the surroundings, particularly preferably an air-tight, liquid-light and/or sterile seal, in particular a bacteria-tight seal.

[0162] In the example shown, the connection devices 4A 4B are suitable for forming, during the coupling, a passage that is suitably tight with respect to the surroundings due to sealing devices 24A, 24B that match one another, in particular sealing portions of the connection devices 4A, 4B that are formed integrally with the base 18A, 18B, the thin point 5A, 5B and/or the closure element 13A, 13B. In the example shown, the sealing devices 24 are wall portions, peripheral sealing surfaces, sealing lips and/or preferably peripheral ridges that correspond to one another such that a suitable seal is produced when they are slid into one another. Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible to provide other sealing means, such as sealing rings, that are placed or arranged between the connection devices 4A, 4B during the coupling such that the connection devices 4A, 4B are sealed with respect to one another, as a result of which a passage that is tight with respect to the surroundings is formed or provided between the containers 3A, 3B or the inner chambers 2A, 2B thereof.

[0163] In the region of the sealing devices 24A, 24B, the connection devices 4A, 4B preferably comprise securing means for holding the connection devices 4A, 4B against one another during or after coupling. In particular, these securing means are latching means for latching the connection devices 4A, 4B together as a result of the coupling, preferably in an unreleasable manner.

[0164] FIG. 4 shows clearly the sealing devices 24A, 24B that tightly abut one another around the periphery. It can also be seen that a double seal is preferably produced by outer walls sealingly abutting one another when in the connected state, and additionally by a second sealing plane being formed by annular, abutting sealing collars 25A, 25B. The sealing collars 25A, 25B are preferably formed by at least substantially annularly about the coupling axis 20A, 20B. The sealing collars 25A, 25B are preferably formed by at least substantially annularly about the coupling axis 20A, 20B. The sealing collars 25A, 25B preferably each form part of one of the connection devices 4A, 4B. In addition, the sealing collars 25A, 25B are designed such that, during coupling, the radially inner side of one of the sealing collars 25A, 25B comes into contact with or abuts the radially outer side of the other sealing collar 25A, 25B in such a way as to produce a seal. The sealing collars 25A, 25B can preferably be slid into one another in the manner of a sleeve, said collars being designed such that, when they completely abut one another peripherally, a space that is surrounded by the sealing collars 25A, 25B and preferably forms the passage once the opening is produced is sealed. The sealing collars 25A, 25B are preferably each formed integrally with the base 18A, 18B, the thin point 5A, 5B and/or the closure element 13A, 13B.

[0165] Another aspect of the present invention relates to one or more caps 26A, 26B for covering or closing, preferably in a sterile manner, the each connection device 4A, 4B.

[0166] The caps 26A, 26B is/are preferably formed so as to complement the connection devices 4A, 4B such that the same sealing devices 24A, 24B are used at least in part in order to sealingly connect the cap 26A, 26B to the connection device 4A, 4B such as to prevent a combination of thin point 5A, 5B, ram 6A, 6B and/or closure element 13A, 13B.

[0167] The caps 26A, 26B thus each comprise sealing surfaces 26A, 26B that preferably complement the sealing devices 24A, 24B and/or sealing collars 25A, 25B.

[0168] The caps 26A, 26B preferably comprises guide devices 28A, 28B that are formed so as to match or complement the guides 22A, 22B of the connection devices 4A, 4B in such a way that, when the cap 26A, 26B is placed on, the cap 26A, 26B can be levered off by rotation relative to the connection device 4A, 4B.

[0169] In the specific example, this is achieved by the guide devices 28A, 28B being ridges that are designed to abut, on their end face, a guide surface 29A, 29B of the connection devices 4A, 4B. On their end faces, the guides 22A, 22B preferably comprise the guide surfaces 29A, 29B, which interact with the guide devices 28A, 28B during rotation such as to lever off the cap 26A, 26B by rotation relative to the connection device 4A, 4B about the coupling axis 20A, 20B or a central axis shared by the cap 26A, 26B and the connection device 4A, 4B.

[0170] Together with the guide surfaces 29A, 29B, the guide devices 28A, 28B thus preferably forms a lever mechanism for levering off the cap 26A, 26B by rotating the cap 26A, 26B relative to the connection device 4A, 4B.

[0171] FIG. 7 shows the caps 26A, 26B in this case without the connection devices 4A, 4B as inserted into one another when being transported. For this purpose, the caps 26A, 26B optionally comprise end plug elements 30A, 30B that match one another and allow the caps 26A, 26B to be held against one another at their bases, preferably in a clamped and/or latched manner. In this way, the connection devices 4A, 4B or containers 3A, 3B can be held against one another, for transport and before the fluid connection is established, by means of caps 26A, 26B placed thereon. As a result, confusion is prevented, for example, if more than one container system 1 is being used at the same time.

[0172] In the example shown, the guide devices 28A, 28B are formed so as to complement or match the additional guides 22A, 22B, in particular the radially extending portions thereof, such that the additional guides 22A, 22B, in particular the radially extending portions thereof, limit a rotational movement of the each cap 26A, 26B so as to prevent collision with the rams 6A, 6B. In particular, the each additional guide 22A, 22B forms a stop for the each guide device 28A, 28B.

[0173] In an aspect that can also be implemented independently, the present invention also relates to a container 3A, 3B for a proposed container system 1. In an initial state, i.e. before coupling, the containers 3A, 3B of the container system 1 are preferably separate, provided separately or can at least be separated from one another. In this context, the present aspect relates to one of the containers 3A, 3B.

[0174] Another aspect of the present invention that can also be implemented independently relates to the use of the proposed container system 1 for producing a medicinal product, in particular a combination vaccine.

[0175] In this case, the first container 3A comprises a first substance S1 in its inner chamber 2A, in particular a first vaccine against a first illness, and a second container 3B of the container system 1 comprises a second substance S2, in particular a second vaccine against a second illness different from the first. Furthermore, the two containers 3A, 3B each comprise a connection device 4A, 4B which is used in the proposed use for establishing a fluid connection between the containers 3A, 3B, thereby interconnecting the inner chambers 2A, 2B of the containers 3A, 3B for fluid communication so as to mix the substances S1, S2. As a result, if the two substances S1, S2 are both vaccines, a combination vaccine can be formed.

[0176] It is also preferable for at least one substance S1, S2 arranged in the inner chamber 2A, 2B to comprise a pharmaceutical active ingredient and for a drug to be formed by the substances S1, S2 being mixed as a result of the transfer of the substances S1, S2 through the fluid connection. In this way, a medicinal product, in particular a combination vaccine, can be produced immediately before it is used, which is particularly advantageous in cases where the result, i.e. the mixed substances, is not stable for long periods of time.

[0177] Another aspect of the present invention that can also be implemented independently relates to the use of a preferred proposed container system 1 for producing and/or providing a vaccine, in particular for immunizing against porcine circovirus disease PCVD and/or enzootic pneumonia EP, or infections with porcine circovirus and/or infection with bacteria of the mycoplasma strain, in particular Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, preferably for immunizing against the porcine circovirus disease PCVD and enzootic pneumonia EP or against infections with porcine circovirus, in particular porcine circovirus type 2, and infection with bacteria of the mycoplasma strain, in particular Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae.

[0178] For this purpose, a first proposed container 3A can comprise a first starting material as a first substance S1 and a second proposed container 3B can comprise a second starting material as a second substance S2. The starting materials can be vaccines against different illnesses or the starting materials can comprise vaccines against different illnesses.

[0179] It is particularly preferable for the first starting material to comprise just one first component out of mycoplasma vaccine or mycoplasma antigen and circovirus vaccine or circovirus antigen and optionally additional substances. The first starting material can thus comprise mycoplasma vaccine or one or more mycoplasma antigens, or alternatively comprise circovirus vaccine or one or more circovirus antigens. The first starting material is preferably separated from the second starting material, in particular if the starting materials are not stable for long periods of time when together. The second starting material merely comprises the other component out of mycoplasma vaccine or one or more mycoplasma antigens and circovirus vaccine or one or more circovirus antigens and optionally additional substances. Therefore, if the first starting material comprises mycoplasma vaccine or one or more mycoplasma antigens, the second starting material comprises circovirus vaccine or one or more circovirus antigens, or vice versa.

[0180] The mycoplasma vaccine may comprise attenuated and/or deactivated bacteria, bacteria fragments or recombinant portions of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, but comprises at least one or more Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae antigens. Preferably, the Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae antigen originates from strain J Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, or the deactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae bacteria are J strain bacteria. In addition, the mycoplasma vaccine can be one of the following vaccines, or the Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae antigen can be the antigens contained 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.

[0181] The circovirus vaccine may comprise attenuated and/or deactivated porcine circovirus, preferably type 2, in particular the OFR2 protein of type 2. It is particularly preferable to use recombinantly expressed OFR2 protein of porcine circovirus type 2, preferably expressed in and obtained from in vitro cell culture. Examples of OFR2 proteins from porcine circovirus type 2 are described in International Patent Application Publication WO 2006/072065 A2, as well as in other documents. These proteins have proven particularly advantageous for effective vaccination. In addition, the circovirus vaccine can be one of the following vaccines, or the circovirus antigen can be the 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.

[0182] If it contains the OFR2 protein, the circovirus vaccine 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 OFR2 protein per dose to be administered. The circovirus vaccine is preferably produced and prepared such that 1 ml of the vaccine corresponds to a dose of 1. In particular, the circovirus vaccine can comprise OFR2 protein in amounts greater than 2 μg/ml, preferably greater 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, in particular less than 20 μg/ml. This is conducive to reliable application.

[0183] If it contains deactivated mycoplasma bacteria, preferably deactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae bacteria, the mycoplasma vaccine 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 appropriate CFU level being set before the bacteria are deactivated. The mycoplasma vaccine is preferably produced and prepared such that 1 ml of the vaccine corresponds to a dose of 1. In particular, the mycoplasma vaccine can comprise more than 10.sup.3 CFU/ml, preferably more than 10.sup.4 CFU/ml, in particular more than 10.sup.5 CFU/ml and/or less than 10.sup.9 CFU/ml, preferably less than 10.sup.8 CFU/ml, in particular less than 10.sup.7 CFU/ml or 10.sup.6 CFU/ml deactivated mycoplasma bacteria, preferably deactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae bacteria, in particular before the bacteria are deactivated.

[0184] At least one of the starting materials and/or the vaccine or combination vaccine can comprise an adjuvant, preferably a polymer adjuvant, in particular carbomer. Preferably, at least or precisely one of the two starting materials, preferably both starting materials, contains an amount of adjuvant of from 500 μg to 5 mg, preferably from 750 μg to 2.5 mg, more preferably from approximately 1 mg adjuvant per dose to be administered. The starting materials are preferably produced and prepared such that 1 ml of the starting material corresponds to a dose of 1. The use of an adjuvant, preferably a polymer adjuvant such as carbomer, has proven particularly advantageous in relation to immunization efficacy and duration of action. However, it is possible use alternative and/or additional adjuvants.

[0185] In a further embodiment shown in the FIGS. 1 to 4 using dashed lines, alternative or additional rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″, having pressure surfaces 17A′, 17B′, 17A″, 17B″, can be provided for pushing the closure element 13A, 13B of the opposite connection device 4A, 4B facing away from the alternative or additional rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ in an opening direction.

[0186] The function of said alternative or additional rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ or alternative or additional pressure surfaces 17A′, 17B′, 17A″, 17B″ is similar to that of previously described rams 6A, 6B such that reference is made to the previous description. However, the alternative or additional rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ preferably do not have a splitting device but are merely configured for continued pushing open the closure element 13A, 13B which alternatively or additionally can be conducted by the pressure surface 17A, 17B as previously described.

[0187] The previously described pressure surface 17A, 17B can, thus, be either avoided or reduced in height relative to an opening area of the respective connection device 4A, 4B, or can simply be the same or similar as previously discussed.

[0188] In the depicted embodiment, the alternative or additional rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ are located besides the thin point 5A, 5B close to the corner 12A, 12B, and have a shape such that during connecting the connection devices 4A, 4B, the alternative or additional rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ with progressed movement of the connection devices 4A, 4B along the coupling axis 20A, 20B towards each other come into contact with the closure element 13A, 13B of the other/opposing connection device 4A, 4B after the thin point 5A, 5B has been initially ruptured by means of the splitting device 8A, 8B such that the closure element 13A, 13B is moved in opening direction so as to opening the connection device 4A, 4B for achieving a larger opening cross section.

[0189] The alternative or additional rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ preferably are realized in form of bars which extend essentially perpendicular to a plane in which the thin point 5A, 5B or the closure element 13A, 13B is or are arranged at least in an initial position where the connection device 4A, 4B is still closed.

[0190] The alternative or additional rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ preferably are arranged and shaped such that pressure surfaces 17A′, 17B′, 17A″, 17B″, which can be formed by their open end faces, act on the closure element 13A, 13B of the other/opposing connection device 4A, 4B, i.e., of the connection device 4A, 4B at which the respective alternative or additional ram 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ is not fixed.

[0191] The additional or alternative rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ preferably are fixedly positioned at the side of the thin point 5A, 5B facing away from the closure element 13A, 13B. In particular, the alternative or additional rams 6A′, 6B′, 6A″, 6B″ are fixed to or connected in one piece with a housing or mounting part surrounding the thin point 5A, 5B.

[0192] Further aspects of the invention are:

1. Container system 1 comprising at least two containers 3A, 3B each forming inner chambers 2A, 2B, the containers 3A, 3B each comprising a connection device 4A, 4B, specifically a first connection device 4A of a first container 3A and a second connection device 4B of a second container 3B, and the connection devices 4A, 4B being able to be coupled together such that the coupling produces a continuous fluid connection that is closed off from the surroundings and interconnects the inner chambers 2A, 2B of the containers 3A, 3B such that contents that can be held in the inner chambers 2A, 2B can be mixed, the first connection device 4A comprising a thin point 5A designed to rupture through the application of force by a ram 6B of the second connection device 4B, as a result of which the fluid connection can be established, wherein in its shape, the thin point 5A comprises a tip 7A between two at least substantially straight legs 14A and in that the ram 6B comprises a splitting device 8B that is designed and arranged such as to rupture the thin point 5A by acting on the tip 7A when the coupling is produced; and/or
in that the first connection device 4A comprises both the thin point 5A and a ram 6A for acting on a thin point 5B of the second connection device 4B, the thin point 5A of the first connection device 4A comprising a portion 9A that surrounds part of the ram 6A of the first connection device 4A; and/or
in that the connection devices 4A, 4B each comprise a closure element 13A, 13B delimited by a peripheral thin point 5A, 5B and each comprise a ram 6A, 6B having a splitting device 8A, 8B and a pressure surface 17A, 17B produced separately therefrom:
the splitting device 8A of the first connection device 4A being arranged and designed such as to act on the thin point 5B of the second connection device 4B when the coupling is produced such that said thin point ruptures,
the splitting device 8B of the second connection device 4B being arranged and designed such as to act on the thin point 5A of the first connection device 4A when the coupling is produced such that said thin point ruptures,
the pressure surface 17A of the first connection device 4A being arranged and designed to push open the closure element 13B of the second connection device 4B when the coupling is produced, and
the pressure surface 17B of the second connection device 4B being arranged and designed to push open the closure element 13A of the first connection device 4A when the coupling is produced.
2. Container system according to aspect 1, characterized in that straight, aligned portions 10A, 11A of the thin point 5A adjoin different sides of the ram 6A.
3. Container system according to aspect 2, characterized in that the aligned portions 10A, 11A of the thin point 5A form a film hinge by which the closure element 13A is pivotally mounted after the thin point 5A ruptures.
4. Container system according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the aligned portions 10A, 11A are arranged on a side facing away from the tip 7A and/or the aligned portions 10A, 11A and the tip 7A are arranged on opposite sides.
5. Container system according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that, once coupling is complete, the portion 9A of the ram 6A that was originally surrounded by the thin point 5A protrudes into an opening 19A formed as a result of the coupling.
6. Container system according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that, apart from in the region around the ram 6A, the thin point 5A extends in a polygonal manner, preferably having an odd number of corners 12A, 12B, particularly preferably in an at least substantially triangular manner.
7. Container system according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the thin point 5A at least substantially fully surrounds a preferably plate-like closure element 13A, the connection devices 4A, 4B preferably being designed such that, upon coupling, the ram 6B of the second connection device 3B acts on the closure element 13A of the first connection device 4A in such a way that the thin point 5A ruptures along two legs 14A of the shape of the thin point 5A starting from the tip 7A.
8. Container system according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the ram 9A is formed by a ridge having an elongate cross section, the longitudinal axis 15A of which extends transversely to the alignment 16A of the aligned portions 10A, 11A, and/or the ridge having, on an open end face, a V-shaped contour that has two open ends that form the splitting device 8A on one end and, on the other end, a pressure surface 17A for pushing open the closure element 13B of the second connection device 4B.
9. Container system according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the ram 6A is held in a stationary manner on a side of the thin point 5A facing away from the closure element 13A.
10. Container system according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the connection devices 4A, 4B are formed so as to complement one another and/or are similar, the two connection devices 4A, 4B preferably each having a thin point 5A, 5B and a ram 6A, 6B, the thin points 5A, 5B each being designed to rupture through the application of force by the ram 6A, 6B of the other connection device 4A, 4B, as a result of which the fluid connection can be established by opening the two containers 3A, 3B, which were previously sealed separately.
11. Container system according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the connection devices 4A, 4B comprise thin points 5A, 5B that extend in a similar manner to one another and the rams 6A, 6B at corresponding positions.
12. Container system according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the connection devices 4A, 4B can be coupled together by moving along a coupling axis 20A, 20B, which preferably forms a central axis of the containers 3A, 3B and/or connection devices 4A, 4B, only when they are in a predefined orientation relative to one another, the connection devices 4A, 4B preferably comprising complementary guides 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B which allow the containers 3A, 3B to be coupled together only when they are in a predefined orientation relative to one another and do not allow them to be coupled together when they are oriented differently.
13. Container system according to aspect 12, characterized in that, in the predefined orientation, projections of the thin points 5A, 5B extend along the coupling axis 20A, 20B in a mirror image to one another; and/or in that, in the predefined orientation, projections of the rams 6A, 6B are offset from one another along the coupling axis 20A, 20B so as not to be in contact.
14. Use of a container system 1 according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein a first container 3A comprises a first substance S1, in particular a first vaccine against a first illness, wherein a second container 3B comprises a second substance S2, in particular a second vaccine against a second illness different from the first, wherein at least one of the containers 3A, 3B comprises a removal opening 23A, 23B and the containers 3A, 3B each comprise the connection device 4A, 4B for establishing a fluid connection between the containers 3A, 3B, to produce a substance mixture, in particular to produce a combination vaccine for simultaneously vaccinating against different illnesses, wherein the containers 3A, 3B are brought into fluid communication with one another by means of the connection devices 4A, 4B in such a way that the substances S1, S2 are mixed, in particular such as to form the combination vaccine.
15. Container 3A, 3B for a container system 1 comprising two containers 3A, 3B, wherein the containers 3A, 3B each comprise a connection device 4A, 4B, the connection devices being separate from one another, wherein the connection devices 4A, 4B can be coupled together by moving towards one another along a coupling axis 20A, 20B in such a way that the coupling produces a continuous fluid connection that is closed off from the surroundings and interconnects the inner chambers 2A, 2B of the containers 3A, 3B such that contents that can be held in the inner chambers 2A, 2B can be mixed, wherein the container 3A, 3B comprises a guide 22A, 22B that allows the containers 3A, 3B to be coupled together only when they are in a predefined orientation relative to one another and does not allow them to be coupled together when they are oriented differently, and wherein the container 3A, 3B is covered by a cap 26A, 26B, wherein the guide 22A, 22B prevents or limits a rotational movement of the cap 26A, 26B and/or wherein the guide 22A, 22B forms a guide surface over which the cap 26A, 26B can be or is moved away from the container 3A, 3B by the cap 26A, 26B being rotated relative to the container 3A, 3B.
16. Container system 1 comprising at least two containers 3A, 3B each forming an inner chamber 2A, 2B,
the containers 3A, 3B each comprising a connection device 4A, 4B being initially closed, specifically a first connection device 4A of a first container 3A and a second connection device 4B of a second container 3B, and
the connection devices 4A, 4B being able to be coupled together such that the coupling produces a continuous fluid connection that is closed off from the surroundings and interconnects the inner chambers 2A, 2B of the containers 3A, 3B such that contents that can be held in the inner chambers 2A, 2B can be mixed,
the first connection device 4A comprising a thin point 5A designed to rupture through the application of force by a ram 6B of the second connection device 4B, as a result of which the fluid connection can be established,
wherein the connection devices 4A, 4B comprise guides 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B for guided coupling of the connection devices 4A, 4B, the guides 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B allowing the connection devices 4A, 4B to be coupled only when they are in a predefined orientation relative to one another and/or the guides 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B are configured for guiding the connection devices 4A, 4B, preferably merely, linear during coupling.
17. Container system according aspect 16, characterized in that the connection devices 4A, 4B can only be coupled together by moving along a coupling axis 20A, 20B forming a central axis of the connection devices when they are in the predefined orientation.
18. Container system according to aspect 16 or 17, characterized in that the predefined orientation is fixed.
19. Container system according to any of aspects 16 to 18, characterized in that the guides are complementary or corresponding in a manner that the guides 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B predefine the orientation and do not allow the containers 3A, 3B or connection devices 4A, 4B to be coupled when they are oriented differently.
20. Container system according to any of aspects 16 to 19, characterized in that the guides form a linear guidance preventing rotational movement of the connection devices 4A, 4B relative to each other during coupling of the connection devices 4A, 4B.

[0193] 21. Container system according to any of aspects 16 to 20, characterized in that the guides 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B are configured for positive guiding by means of a groove or ridge at one of the connection devices 4A, 4B and a complementary part for sliding along the groove or ridge on the other one of the connection devices 4A, 4B.

22. Container system according to any of aspects 16 to 21, characterized in that the orientation is such that the ram 6B of the second connection device 4B impinges the thin point of the first connection device 4A when the connection devices 4A, 4B are connected.
23. Container system according to any of aspects 16 to 22, characterized in that the connection devices 4A, 4B can be coupled together by moving along a coupling axis 20A, 20B, which forms a central axis of the containers 3A, 3B and of the connection devices 4A, 4B, only when they are in the predefined orientation relative to one another, the connection devices 4A, 4B comprising complementary guides 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B which allow the containers 3A, 3B to be coupled together only when they are in the predefined orientation relative to one another and do not allow them to be coupled together when they are oriented differently.
24. Container system according to any of aspects 16 to 23, characterized in that, in the predefined orientation, projections of the thin points 5A, 5B along the coupling axis 20A, 20B extend in a mirror image or inversely to one another.
25. Container system according to any of aspects 16 to 24, characterized in that in the predefined orientation, projections of the rams 6A, 6B are offset from one another along the coupling axis 20A, 20B so as not to be in contact.

[0194] The various aspects of the present invention can be implemented in isolation or in combination, and different combinations can be advantageous in their own right.