Device for coupling two storage and/or transport means with a cleaning device

US6807979B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• GEA Buck Valve GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Martin Koch · Neuenbürg, DE
• Bernd Elsässer · Sulzburg, DE
• Klaus Moeller · Oakville, CA

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 26, 2003
• Grant date: Oct 26, 2004
• Expiry date: Jun 26, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T137/87973
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A device and method are provided for coupling two storage and/or transport units with a cleaning device. In one cleaning position, either before or after a transfer process, an area is provided between two connecting branches and at least one part of front flaps of two closing valves and the connecting valves which is embodied as a cleaning chamber enclosed on all sides, and which can be sealed with respect to the outside atmosphere and product area. The cleaning space is protected against unintentional opening as a result of at least partial locking of the connecting branches with respect to each other. Cleaning occurs using the cleaning fluid without any danger of contamination be it from transfer product and/or the atmosphere.