Apparatus and method of sterile filling of containers
US7322170B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 2, 2005 |
| Grant date | Jan 29, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 2, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB67C7/0073
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for the sterile filling of containers sterilizes the containers before supplying them, with their caps on, to a substantially airtight chamber for filling. A precision lead screw precisely positions each container under the appropriate capping/uncapping mechanism and the appropriate filling needle. Filling and capping of each container is individually controlled so that each container is filled with a precise amount of liquid, and each cap is applied with the proper torque. The minimized number of components of the system minimizes the potential openings through which unfiltered air may enter the apparatus. Keeping the containers capped except while they're actually being filled minimizes the opportunity for any bacteria or viruses to enter the container.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.