DE102024107701A1 - Dispensing device with shielding element - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a dispensing device (1) for dispensing a flowable filling material (206) from a flexible tubular packaging (200), the dispensing device (1) comprising: a housing (2) with a receiving space (4) for receiving the packaging (200), at least one squeezing means (10) for reducing a volume (V) of the receiving space (4), a closing element (19) which closes the receiving space (4) and has at least one dispensing opening (34) for dispensing the flowable filling material (206) from the receiving space (4), at least one opening element (30) for tearing open the packaging (200), and at least one shielding element (26) which is arranged between the dispensing opening (34) and the receiving space (4) and is designed to define a flow space (32) for the filling material (206) and to keep it free from the flexible packaging (200), wherein the flow space (32) is at least partially located between the Dispensing opening (34) and the receiving space (4). Furthermore, the invention relates to a dispensing system (150) with a dispensing device (1) and at least one packaging (200).

Description

The invention relates to a dispensing device for dispensing a flowable filling material, in particular a flowable food product, from a flexible tubular packaging comprising a first end and an opposite second end, wherein at least the first end of the tubular packaging is closed by means of at least one clip. The dispensing device comprises a housing with a receiving space for receiving the tubular packaging, a squeezing means for reducing a volume of the receiving space, a lid that closes off the receiving space and has at least one dispensing opening for dispensing the flowable filling material from the receiving space closed off by the lid, and at least one opening element for tearing open the packaging. The invention further relates to a dispensing system comprising a dispensing device and a packaging.

In particular, the present invention relates to a dispensing device for dispensing a flowable filling material, such as flowable chemical products, for example sealants and/or adhesives, flowable food products, for example sauces, and/or flowable medical products. The packaging is preferably tubular and more preferably fluid-tight. Preferably, the packaging has no inherent rigidity in the unfilled state and only acquires a certain dimensional stability when filled with filling material. Particularly preferably, the packaging is closed at both ends by means of at least one clip. The at least one clip made of metal or plastic can be applied by means of a clipping machine, which also enables the filling of the tubular packaging. The tubular packaging can in turn either be fed to the clipping machine pre-assembled, for example in the form of a shirred film tube, or can be produced within the clipping machine from a suitable flat material, such as a film material.

The production of tubular packaging filled with filling material is typically carried out by filling a tubular packaging material, which is closed at one end by a closure element such as a clip, with the flowable filling material. The filled tubular packaging sleeve is then constricted, creating a braid that is at least almost free of filling material. Another clip is placed on this braid to close the tubular sleeve, and the resulting tubular packaging is separated from the remaining tubular packaging material.

In practice, tubular packaging for free-flowing filling materials such as silicone, adhesives or the like is known. The problem with known tubular packaging is that it has to be opened before the filling material can be used, and the filling material then has to be squeezed out of the packaging by hand. This creates the risk that the contents of the packaging will unintentionally leak out before the actual use. Furthermore, the filling material can be difficult to dose. It is therefore advantageous to place the packaging in a dispensing device. Such dispensing devices can be designed in particular as squeezing tools that can be operated manually or by motor. Using an appropriate mechanism, the dispensing device can be pressurized in order to squeeze the filling material out of the packaging.

So-called cartridge presses are known for packaging cartridges. Such cartridge presses typically comprise a receptacle for a cartridge filled with a flowable filling material and a piston for extruding the filling material from the cartridge. In addition to open receptacles into which a cartridge can be inserted sideways, closed receptacles are also known that completely enclose a packaging cartridge inserted therein. However, such cartridge presses are of very limited or not usable at all for flexible tubular cartridges. For example, a dispensing nozzle is usually provided on the packaging cartridges themselves and not on the cartridge presses. Dosing filling material from a flexible tubular packaging without a corresponding rigid nozzle is therefore not possible using conventional cartridge presses. Furthermore, cartridges are inherently rigid, preventing the packaging from emerging from the cartridge press and blocking an outlet opening with the packaging itself. Furthermore, known cartridge presses also require a separate opening of the packaging before dispensing the flowable filling material, with the disadvantages mentioned above.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a dispensing device for dispensing a flowable filling material from a flexible tubular packaging and a dispensing system which overcome the aforementioned disadvantages and in particular allow simple and hygienic handling and/or reliable dispensing of filling material.

In a first aspect, the invention solves the problem with a dispensing device for dispensing a flowable filling material from a flexible tubular packaging, which comprises a first end and an opposite second end, wherein at least the first end of the tubular packaging is closed by means of at least one clip. The dispensing device comprises a housing with a receiving space for receiving the tubular packaging, at least one squeezing means for reducing a volume of the receiving space, a closing element that closes the receiving space and has at least one dispensing opening for dispensing the flowable filling material from the receiving space, at least one opening element for tearing open the packaging received in the receiving space, and at least one shielding element that is arranged between the dispensing opening and the receiving space and is designed to define a flow space for the filling material and to keep it free from the flexible packaging, wherein the flow space is formed at least in sections between the dispensing opening and the receiving space.

The opening element is designed to open the packaging. This can be done actively by actuating, in particular moving, the opening element. In preferred variants, however, the opening element can also be rigid. Preferably, a package can be pressed against the opening means by actuating the squeezing means. A free-flowing product contained in the package, which is preferably a free-flowing foodstuff, can escape from the package after it has been torn open. The free-flowing foodstuff is preferably a sauce, such as ketchup or mayonnaise.

The squeezing means is provided to reduce the volume of the receiving space. As a result, a flexible packaging received in the receiving space is directly or indirectly subjected to force. The reduction in the volume of the receiving space preferably causes compression of the flexible packaging, such that the flowable contents are pressed out of the packaging. The squeezing means is preferably a piston that is displaceably received in the receiving space and preferably delimits it on one side. For example, the piston can be displaced along a central axis of the receiving space in the direction of the closing element in order to reduce the volume of the receiving space. In other variants, however, the squeezing means can also be a peristaltic squeezing means, for example. In particular, at least one squeeze roller or the like can be provided, which acts on a flexible receiving space and particularly preferably moves from a side opposite the closing element towards the closing element in order to reduce the volume of the receiving space.

The dispensing device according to the invention is intended for use with flexible packaging. Within the scope of the present disclosure, flexible packaging is packaging without significant inherent rigidity. Such packaging offers only very low resistance to deformation when unfilled. However, it should be understood that filled flexible packaging can be substantially dimensionally stable. Preferably, the flexible packaging can be a tubular bag. A flexible tubular packaging without filling can be substantially deformable. However, if the flexible tubular packaging is filled with the flowable filling material and closed, for example, by at least one clip at opposite ends, the packaging can assume a substantially dimensionally stable sausage shape. The pressurized filling material then imparts dimension stability to the closed packaging. A flexible packaging is formed from a flexible material, but can also be substantially rigid, particularly in the closed state, or only slightly deformable without destruction.

Through the action of the squeezing means, the packaging received in the receiving space can be displaced preferably in the direction of the dispensing opening. This applies in particular to torn-open packages, which lose a significant amount of rigidity due to the loss of internal pressure after being torn open. The shielding element prevents the at least one dispensing opening from being blocked by the flexible packaging. The shielding element maintains a flow space through which the flowable filling material emerging from the packaging can flow to the dispensing opening. The packaging can be pressed against the shielding element by the squeezing means and rest there. The shielding element can preferably prevent the packaging from coming into contact with an inner wall of the closure element, at least in the section of the closure element that has the dispensing opening. The shielding element according to the invention therefore allows a flowable filling material to be reliably dispensed from flexible packaging using a dispensing device. Compared to rigid packaging such as cartridges, the use of flexible packaging enables considerable material savings, since packaging with significantly thinner walls can be used. Resources and the environment are protected.

Preferably, the shielding element is a shielding plate that extends at least partially in a separating cross-section between the receiving space and the flow space. The separating cross-section is a cross-section of the dispensing device that extends between the receiving space and the flow space. space is defined. It should be understood that the shielding element does not have to keep the entire flow space clear. Rather, the shielding element can also keep only a portion of the flow space clear of the packaging. However, the shielding element particularly preferably keeps a section of the flow space directly adjacent to the receiving opening clear.

In a first preferred embodiment, the closure element is a lid that closes off the receiving space. The lid is preferably designed to close off a feed opening of the receiving space through which a package can be inserted into the receiving space. A lid is detachably attached to the housing, in particular by means of a thread, a snap closure, a locking closure, or a bayonet closure. In other variants, however, the closure element can be permanently connected to the housing, for example, glued or welded, or can also be formed integrally with the housing. Preferably, the closure element is an end wall of the receiving space. The closure element can be flat, but can also be pot-shaped or bowl-shaped, for example. Embodiments with a lid allow easy insertion of the package into the receiving space and can facilitate cleaning of the dispensing device. However, it can also be provided, for example, that the packaging is inserted into the receiving space from a side opposite the closure element.

The shielding element preferably comprises a receiving cavity for receiving the clip on a shielding side facing the receiving space. The end of the packaging closed with the clip can thus be securely held on the shielding element. This enables precise positioning of the tubular packaging in the dispensing device and particularly reliable dosing of flowable filling material by means of the dispensing device. Interference caused by the clip can be prevented. Furthermore, the receiving cavity can prevent the clip from detaching from the packaging, entering the flow space together with the filling material, and closing the dispensing opening there. In preferred embodiments, the receiving cavity is conical and/or dome-shaped.

The shielding element is preferably arranged at a distance from an inner end wall of the closure element. In variants in which the closure element is a lid or comprises a lid, the inner end wall can also be referred to as the lid inner wall. The inner end wall is an inner wall of the closure element that faces the receiving space, with a central axis of the receiving space extending through the inner end wall. Preferably, a maximum distance between the inner end wall and the shielding element is in a range of greater than 0 mm to 20 mm, particularly preferably 10 mm to 14 mm, with marginal values also being preferred.

Preferably, the shielding element is at least partially, particularly preferably completely, accommodated in the closure element, in particular in the lid. However, it can also be provided that the shielding element is arranged entirely or partially in the housing. A shielding element accommodated in the lid simplifies cleaning of the dispensing device and can thus offer hygiene advantages. Furthermore, a shielding element arranged in the closure element is positioned in close proximity to the dispensing opening and can thus reduce the flow resistance that the filling material to be dispensed must overcome.

In a preferred embodiment, the shielding element is held on the closure element. A shielding element held on the closure element cannot slip during the intended use of the dispensing device, thus increasing the reliability of the dispensing device. Furthermore, a shielding element held on a closure element designed as a cover is easily accessible by removing the cover from the housing. Preferably, the shielding element is detachably attached to the closure element. A detachable attachment allows the shielding element to be removed from the closure element, which particularly facilitates cleaning of the dispensing device. This allows any filling material remaining in the flow chamber after use to be removed particularly easily.

Preferably, the shielding element comprises fastening means, and the closure element comprises counter-fastening means corresponding to the fastening means. The fastening means can be engaged with the counter-fastening means to fasten the shielding element to the closure element. The engagement of the fastening means with the counter-fastening means can be releasable or non-releasable. For example, the fastening means can comprise at least one locking element that engages in a counter-fastening means designed as a locking receptacle. Alternatively or additionally, the fastening means can also be locking receptacles, such as grooves or projections, into which a counter-fastening means designed as a locking element, such as a locking hook, engages.

The fastening means is preferably or comprises an external thread. The counter-fastening means is then preferably or comprises an internal thread into which the external thread of the shielding element can be screwed. However, it can alternatively also be provided that the fastening means comprises an internal thread and the counter-fastening means comprises an external thread. In variants in which the closing element has an internal thread into which an external thread of the shielding element can be screwed or screwed, the housing particularly preferably also has an external thread corresponding to the internal thread of the closing element. The internal thread of a closing element designed as a cover can then be used particularly advantageously both for holding the shielding element and for connecting the cover and housing. However, it can also be provided that the housing has an internal thread into which an external thread of the shielding element can be screwed. The shielding element is then held not on the closing element, but on the housing. The closing element designed as a cover can then likewise have an external thread that can be screwed into the internal thread of the housing.

Alternatively or additionally, the fastening means can comprise at least one fastening groove and the counter-fastening means can comprise at least one holding head, in particular a mushroom head and/or a ball head. The holding head is then preferably provided for insertion into the fastening groove. The holding head can be designed to engage behind the fastening groove. The holding head then protrudes from the fastening groove on a holding side that is opposite the insertion side (from which the holding head is inserted into the groove) and rests at least partially against the holding side to prevent the holding head from being pulled out towards the insertion side. However, it can also be provided that the fastening groove does not extend completely through the shielding element. The fastening groove can preferably be designed as a T-shaped section. The fastening groove preferably comprises a first insertion section and a holding section. The insertion section preferably has a clear width that allows the holding head to be inserted into the fastening groove, while the holding section has a clear width that is smaller than a corresponding head size of the holding head. The holding head located in the holding section of the fastening groove cannot then be pulled out of the fastening groove transversely to the fastening groove.

In a further embodiment, the opening element is formed on the shielding element. The opening element is preferably or comprises at least one spike, which particularly preferably protrudes from the shielding element into the receiving space in the direction of a central axis of the receiving space. It can also be provided that the opening element extends at an angle to the central axis of the shielding element and/or has a spiral shape. The opening element can comprise two or more spikes.

According to a preferred embodiment, the opening element is arranged on the closure element. The shielding element then preferably has at least one recess that allows the opening element to pass through into the receiving space. However, the shielding element can also leave a portion of the separating cross-section free or not extend into this portion, in which case the opening element can then pass through this portion into the receiving space or protrude. An opening element arranged on the closure element is particularly easily accessible and can thus simplify opening the packaging using the opening element.

The closure element preferably has a receptacle into which the opening element is inserted. For example, the receptacle can be a receiving bore in the closure element into which the opening element can be inserted, preferably in a sealing manner. However, the receptacle can advantageously also be or comprise a receiving bushing. The receiving bushing can have an opening channel for receiving the opening element. The opening channel can extend partially or completely from an inner side of the dispensing device to the outside. Particularly advantageously, the opening channel extends completely from the inner side to the outside. The opening element can then be inserted into the receiving bushing from the outside or placed onto the receiving bushing and can be easily actuated. The opening element preferably comprises a shaft, the first shaft end of which is provided with at least one opening mandrel and/or a tip for tearing open and/or piercing the packaging. A holding section for fastening the opening element to the closure element, in particular to the receiving bushing of the closure element, can then be provided on a second shaft end opposite the first shaft end. For example, the holding section can be a cap arranged on the second shaft end, which can be screwed onto the receiving bushing or screwed into the receiving bushing.

In preferred embodiments, the opening element can be moved from a neutral position into an opening position for opening the packaging. In the neutral position, the opening element is preferably arranged at a distance from a package resting against the shielding element. In particular, an opening section, such as a mandrel, of the opening element does not protrude into the receiving space in the neutral position. The neutral position thus prevents unintentional opening of the package. Preferably, the receiving space is free of the opening section of the opening element when the opening element is in the neutral position, and the opening section of the opening element protrudes into the receiving space when the opening element is in the open position. Preferably, the opening section can be arranged in the free flow cross-section and/or in the receiving bushing when the opening element is in the neutral position.

In preferred embodiments, the opening element is pre-tensioned into the neutral position. In these variants, a pre-tensioning force must then be overcome in order to move the opening element from the neutral position into the open position. The risk of unintentional opening of a package received in the receiving space is further reduced. Furthermore, the pre-tensioning can achieve automatic retraction of the opening element into the neutral position. Contact between the at least one squeezing means and the opening element is thus prevented. Furthermore, retracting the opening element into the neutral position can be advantageous in order to achieve the most complete emptying of the package. Furthermore, the risk of injury when cleaning the dispensing device is reduced.

Preferably, the opening element is displaced from the neutral position into the open position, in particular axially displaced along its longitudinal axis. The displacement of the opening element from the neutral position into the open position preferably occurs along an opening axis that is angled to a central axis of the receiving space. However, it can also be provided that the opening element is rotated from the neutral position. Particularly preferably, the opening element is displaced and rotated from the neutral position into the open position. For example, the opening element can be displaced axially and then locked into place by turning.

In a preferred embodiment, the shielding element is substantially circular and has at least one recess. The recess allows the flowable filling material to flow from the receiving space to the flow space. The flowable filling material emerging from the torn-open package can pass through the recess of the shielding element and thus reach the dispensing opening from the receiving space. In particular, at least one outer edge of the shielding element is circular. The shielding element is preferably circular, at least when viewed along a central axis of the receiving space. Regardless of the circular shape, the shielding element is preferably substantially disc-shaped, but particularly preferably circular disc-shaped. The shielding element can have a plurality of recesses that are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the shielding element by webs of the shielding element. For example, three recesses can be evenly distributed in the circumferential direction. The circumferential direction of the shielding element is defined by the central axis of the receiving space. The shielding element preferably extends substantially transversely to the central axis of the receiving space, although this is also preferred for non-circular shielding elements. The webs arranged between several recesses in the shielding element preferably extend in a star shape from a central section of the shielding element, where the receiving cavity for the clip is particularly preferably formed. On opposite sides of the central section, the webs can be connected by a ring or ring segments.

In an alternative embodiment, the shielding element extends only partially between the receiving space and the flow space. In particular, the shielding element extends only partially through a separating cross-section of the dispensing device. The separating cross-section is defined in sections by the shielding element, but extends completely across the entire cross-sectional area of the shielding device. The separating cross-section is preferably transverse to the central axis of the receiving space. A shielding element that extends only partially through the separating cross-section leaves part of the separating cross-section free, thus allowing flowable filling material to flow from the receiving space into the free flow space. However, at least part of the shielding element is preferably always arranged between the dispensing opening and the receiving space. In preferred variants, the shielding element is essentially circular sector-shaped (or has the shape of a circular sector) and/or circular segment-shaped (or has the shape of a circular segment). The shielding element can, for example, be substantially semicircular or have a circular sector with a central angle in a range from 90° to less than 180°, in particular 120° to 170°.

Preferably, the dispensing opening is offset from a central axis of the receiving space. However, it can also be provided that the dispensing opening or at least one of several dispensing openings is aligned with the central axis. A laterally arranged dispensing opening can facilitate the dosing of free-flowing filling material from the dispensing device, since the dispensing device can, for example, be held at an angle during dispensing and still allow clean dosing. Furthermore, if the dispensing opening is offset from the central axis, the shielding element can also be offset from the central axis. The shielding element can then be designed to be smaller and/or more stable.

In a preferred variant, the dispensing device has a dispensing valve accommodated in the dispensing opening. The dispensing valve is preferably a pinch valve that opens when the pressure applied to the valve is exceeded. The valve is preferably made of a plastic.

In preferred embodiments, the dispensing device further comprises a handle for actuating the dispensing means. In particular, the handle can be provided for axially displacing the dispensing means, such as a piston. The handle preferably has a lever and a transmission, wherein the transmission translates a movement of the lever into an axial movement of the dispensing means along the central axis of the receiving space. The movement of the dispensing means can be a continuous or discontinuous movement. For example, and preferably, the dispensing means can be moved in discrete steps by actuating the handle. Thus, actuating the handle can cause an axial displacement of an dispensing means designed as a piston by a predefined step size in the direction of the closure element. Preferably, the handle is a plumb handle or a pliers handle. A pliers handle extends substantially parallel or at an acute angle to the longitudinal axis of the dispensing device, while a plumb handle extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

The opening element is preferably arranged in the region of the closure element, particularly preferably in the region of the closure element designed as a lid. An opening element arranged in the region of the closure element allows the packaging to be opened near the dispensing opening. This allows a particularly short flow path of the flowable contents from the packaging to the dispensing opening, thereby reducing the necessary operating forces. Furthermore, a package can be particularly well emptied of residues. It should be understood that an opening element arranged in the region of the closure element can also be held on the shielding element or the housing, in particular a side wall of the housing. Rather, the arrangement in the region of the closure element refers to the spatial proximity of the opening element to the closure element. In particular, the opening element is arranged in a range from 0% to less than 50%, preferably greater than 0% to 30%, of an inner length of the dispensing device. The inner length is measured along the central axis of the receiving space, starting from an inner wall of the closure element and extending to an end of the receiving space opposite the closure element.

The opening element can have at least one tip and/or a spike for axial penetration into the packaging. Preferably, a plurality of opening elements are provided. For example, a plurality of opening elements can be provided on the shielding element. Preferably, two or three opening elements extend from the shielding element toward the receiving space. In preferred embodiments, the opening element is a hollow pin with a plurality of tips spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction. For example, the hollow pin can have two tips spaced apart from one another by 180° in the circumferential direction.

To facilitate the storage of the dispensing device and prevent contamination of the dispensing opening, the end element can have a storage surface on an outer side opposite the receiving space, which protrudes from the dispensing opening. Contact between the dispensing opening and a storage surface is then reliably prevented when the dispensing device is placed on a flat surface.

In a second aspect, the invention solves the aforementioned problem with a dispensing system for storing and dispensing a flowable filling material, comprising: a dispensing device according to one of the above-described preferred embodiments according to the first aspect of the invention, and a flexible tubular package filled with a flowable filling material, in particular with a flowable foodstuff. The tubular package is preferably closed at at least one end, but preferably at two opposite ends, each with at least one clip.

Preferably, the tubular packaging is made of a flexible film tube. The ends can then be closed by at least one clip to secure the to form packaging. A film thickness of the film tube is preferably in a range from 20 µm to 150 µm, preferably 20 µm to 100 µm, preferably 20 µm to 85 µm, more preferably 30 µm to 85 µm, particularly preferably 45 µm to 65 µm. The film of the film tube is preferably made of a plastic, in particular polyethylene (PE), polyamide (PA) and/or PVDC, and/or aluminum. The film tube can also be a multi-layer film tube, in particular with two to five layers. The preferred film thickness then relates to a total layer thickness of the majority of the films of the film tube. The film tube is preferably a composite film tube formed from at least two films of different materials. Preferably, the package has a diameter, measured transversely to the longitudinal axis of the package, in a range of 30 mm to 100 mm, in particular 60 mm to 80 mm. The preferred film thicknesses and diameters allow the package to be opened securely by an opening element, even when the squeezing means is operated manually. At the same time, incorrect openings are prevented.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described below with reference to the drawings. These are not necessarily intended to depict the embodiments to scale; rather, the drawings are schematic and/or slightly distorted where this is useful for explanation. With regard to additions to the teachings immediately apparent from the drawings, reference is made to the relevant prior art. It should be noted that numerous modifications and changes can be made to the form and detail of an embodiment without deviating from the general idea of the invention. The features of the invention disclosed in the description, the drawings, and the claims can be essential to the development of the invention, both individually and in any combination. Furthermore, all combinations of at least two of the features disclosed in the description, the drawings, and/or the claims fall within the scope of the invention. The general idea of the invention is not limited to the exact form or detail of the preferred embodiments shown and described below, nor is it limited to a subject matter that would be more limited than the subject matter claimed in the claims. For specified design ranges, values within these limits are also intended to be disclosed as limit values and can be used and stressed as required. For the sake of simplicity, the same reference symbols are used below for identical or similar parts or parts with identical or similar functions.

• 1 eine schematische Explosionsdarstellung eines ersten Ausführungsbeispiels einer Abgabevorrichtung;
• 2 eine schematische Schnittansicht durch die Abgabeordnung gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei in einem Aufnahmeraum der Abgabevorrichtung eine flexible schlauchförmige Verpackung aufgenommen ist;
• 3a ein Detail der Abgabevorrichtung gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel in Schnittansicht, wobei ein Öffnungselement der Abgabevorrichtung in einer neutralen Stellung ist;
• 3b ein Detail der Abgabevorrichtung gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel in Schnittansicht, wobei ein Öffnungselement der Abgabevorrichtung in einer Öffnungsstellung ist;
• 4a eine schematische Ansicht eines Abschirmelements der Abgabevorrichtung gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 4b eine schematische Ansicht einer Innenseite eines Deckels der Abgabevorrichtung gemäß dem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 5 eine schematische Explosionsdarstellung eines zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels einer Abgabevorrichtung;
• 6a eine schematische Ansicht auf eine Außenseite eines Deckels der Abgabevorrichtung gemäß dem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 6b eine schematische Ansicht auf eine Innenseite des Deckels der Abgabevorrichtung gemäß dem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 7a eine schematische Ansicht auf eine Abschirmseite des Abschirmelements der Abgabevorrichtung gemäß dem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 7b eine schematische Ansicht auf eine der Abschirmseite gegenüberliegende Seite des Abschirmelements der Abgabevorrichtung gemäß dem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 8 eine schematische Schnittansicht, die den Bereich des Deckels der Abgabevorrichtung des zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels illustriert, und in
• 9 eine schematische Schnittansicht durch eine flexible schlauchförmige Verpackung eines Spendesystems.

Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments and from the drawings, which show:

• 1 a schematic exploded view of a first embodiment of a dispensing device;
• 2 a schematic sectional view through the dispensing arrangement according to the first embodiment, wherein a flexible tubular packaging is accommodated in a receiving space of the dispensing device;
• 3a a detail of the dispensing device according to the first embodiment in sectional view, wherein an opening element of the dispensing device is in a neutral position;
• 3b a detail of the dispensing device according to the first embodiment in sectional view, wherein an opening element of the dispensing device is in an open position;
• 4a a schematic view of a shielding element of the dispensing device according to the first embodiment;
• 4b a schematic view of an inside of a lid of the dispensing device according to the first embodiment;
• 5 a schematic exploded view of a second embodiment of a dispensing device;
• 6a a schematic view of an outer side of a lid of the dispensing device according to the second embodiment;
• 6b a schematic view of an inside of the lid of the dispensing device according to the second embodiment;
• 7a a schematic view of a shielding side of the shielding element of the dispensing device according to the second embodiment;
• 7b a schematic view of a side of the shielding element of the dispensing device according to the second embodiment, opposite the shielding side;
• 8 a schematic sectional view illustrating the area of the lid of the dispensing device of the second embodiment, and in
• 9 a schematic sectional view through a flexible tubular packaging of a dispensing system.

1 shows an exploded view of a dispensing device according to a first embodiment Example. The dispensing device 1 comprises a housing 2, which in the present embodiment is essentially cylindrical and in whose interior a receiving space 4 is provided for a tubular packaging 200. Together, the dispensing device 1 and the packaging 200 form a dispensing system 150. The packaging 200 is essentially sausage-shaped here and is closed by a clip C at a first packaging end 202 and at an opposite second packaging end 204.

The housing 2 and its receiving space 4 are dimensioned so that the 1 The packaging 200, which is still shown closed, can be completely received in the receiving space 4. The receiving space 4 extends along a central axis A from a first end 6 to an opposite second end 8. On a side facing the first end 6, the receiving space 4 is delimited by an ejection means 10, which here is a piston 12 that is displaceably received in the receiving space 4. A volume V of the receiving space 4 can be reduced by moving the piston 12 in the direction of the second end 8.

The dispensing device 1 has in 1 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the dispenser 1 has a handle 14. The handle 14 serves to hold the dispensing device 1 and can simultaneously be used to actuate the squeezing means 10. For this purpose, the handle 14 has a lever 16. The lever 16 is connected to a piston rod 18 via a transmission (not shown). The transmission converts a movement of the lever 16 oriented essentially transversely to the central axis A into an axial movement of the piston rod 18. The piston 12 is arranged on the piston rod 18 and can thus be pushed into the receiving space 4 by actuating the lever 14 in the axial direction along the central axis A in order to reduce its volume V.

To remove the piston 12 from the receiving chamber 4 or to increase the volume V, the handle 14 can release the piston rod 18, and the piston 12, including the piston rod 18, can be manually withdrawn. However, it can also be provided, for example, that the entire handle 14 is removed from the housing 2, or that the transmission is switchable, and the piston 12 can be moved either into or out of the receiving chamber 4 by actuating the lever 16.

On a side of the housing 2 opposite the squeezing means 10, in this case at the second chamber end 8, a closure element 19 is provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure element 19 is designed as a cover 20 that can be removed from the housing 2. For reversible attachment to the housing, the cover 20 has an internal thread 22 that corresponds to an external thread 24 of the housing 2. The cover 20 can be screwed onto the housing 2 and secured thereto. A flexible tubular packaging 200 accommodated in the receiving space 4 is completely enclosed by the dispensing device 1 in the illustrated embodiment, namely by the housing 2, the piston 12, and the cover 20.

1 further shows a shielding element 26, a valve 28 of the cover 20 and an opening element 30, the function of which will be explained below with reference to 2 is explained in more detail. 2 shows a sectional view through the dispensing device and a package 200 arranged in the receiving space. Also in 2 the translation is not shown for simplification. By moving the squeezing means 10 along the central axis A, the volume V of the receiving space 4 can be reduced. Here, the piston 12 approaches the lid 20. The packaging 200 received in the receiving space 4 is initially carried along by the piston 12 and also moved axially in the direction of the lid 200. As soon as the packaging 200 fills the receiving space 4 over its entire length, the first packaging end 202 of the packaging 200 can no longer be moved in the direction of the lid 20, even if the piston 12 applies a force to the opposite second packaging end 204. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first packaging end 202 in this case rests against the shielding element 26, which prevents further movement of the packaging 200 in the direction of the lid 20. The shielding element 26 thus keeps a free flow space 32 free.

The flow space 32 borders on a discharge opening 34 of the dispensing device 1. The discharge opening 34 serves to discharge flowable filling material 206, which in 2 still enclosed in the packaging 200, from the dispensing device 1. The valve 28 is provided in the dispensing opening 34. Here, the valve 28 is a self-opening valve that opens and allows flow through the dispensing opening 34 when an internal pressure in the flow chamber 32 exceeds a threshold value. This can prevent an unintentional outflow of flowable filling material from the dispensing device 1. However, the dispensing device 1 can in principle also be designed without a valve 28 in the dispensing opening 34.

In the first embodiment, the shielding element 26 is a shielding plate 36. The shielding plate 36 is arranged between the discharge opening 34 and the receiving space 4. The shielding element 26 extends in the first embodiment (cf. 2 ) only partially over a separating cross-section 38. The separating cross-section 38, however, is defined over the entire cross-section of the dispensing device 1 and runs here transversely to the central axis A. The shielding element 26 extends only partially through the separating cross-section 38. In 2 The shielding plate 36 extends substantially over the lower half of the separating cross-section 38, leaving its upper half free. Flowable filling material 206 emerging from the packaging 200 can thus pass from the receiving space 4 into the flow space 32. The flow space 32, in turn, borders the discharge opening 34, so that the flowable filling material 206 can be discharged from the dispensing device 1 through the flow space 32. The shielding element 26 prevents parts of the packaging 200 from entering the flow space 32 and blocking the discharge opening 34 there.

Before the flowable filling material 206 can be dispensed from the dispensing device 1, however, the packaging 200 must first be opened. In the present first exemplary embodiment, a film 208, which forms the wall of the packaging 200 surrounding the filling material 206, can be torn open for this purpose. To tear open the packaging 200, the dispensing device 1 comprises the opening element 30. Here, the opening element 30 is provided on the lid 20. 2 shows the opening element 30 in a neutral position 46, in which an opening section 40 of the opening element 30 does not or only insignificantly protrudes into the receiving space 4.

To open the packaging 200, the opening element 30 can be axially displaced along an opening axis 42. At least the opening section 40 then passes through a free cross-section of the separating cross-section 38, i.e., a part of the separating cross-section 38 not blocked by the shielding element 26, and into the receiving space 4. There, the opening section 40, comprising a plurality of points 44, can tear open the packaging 200 resting against the shielding element 26. It can be helpful here if the squeezing means 10 compresses the packaging 200 and thus puts it under pressure.

In the first exemplary embodiment shown, the opening element 30 can additionally be rotated about the opening axis 42, whereby the packaging 200 can be torn open more easily and/or whereby a larger hole can be torn open in the packaging 200. The opening element 30 enables the packaging 200, which is completely enclosed by the dispensing device 1, to be torn open, thus preventing unwanted escape of contents 206 and/or contamination, which would be almost unavoidable when opening the packaging 200 outside the dispensing device 1.

After the packaging 200 has been torn open, the opening element 30 can return to the neutral position 46 from an opening position for tearing open the packaging 200, in which the opening section 40 can come into contact with the packaging 200. In variants of the dispensing device 1, this can be achieved by manually retracting the opening element 30 along the opening axis 42. In the exemplary embodiment shown, however, the opening element 30 is pretensioned into the neutral position 46 and returns automatically to the neutral position 46 unless an opening force is applied to the opening element 30 along the opening axis 42 toward the receiving space 4. To provide the necessary preload, the opening element 30 here comprises a spring 48. In the first embodiment, the spring 48 is accommodated in a cap 50 of the opening element 30 and is supported both on the cap 50 and on a receiving bushing 52 of the cover 20, into which the opening element 30 is partially inserted. A shaft 54 of the opening element 30, which carries the tips 44, extends through an opening channel 56 in the receiving bushing 52 ( 3a , 3b , 4b) .

3a and 3b show a detail of the dispensing device 1 in a sectional view. In 3a the opening element 30 is in the neutral position 46, while the opening element 30 is in 3b in the open position 58. In the open position 58, the opening portion 40 of the opening element 30 is pushed into the package 200 in order to open it. The cap 50 of the opening element 30 is in 3b compared to 3a approached to the receiving bushing 52 and the spring 48 is compressed accordingly.

The receiving bushing 52 further includes a collar 60. This prevents the cap 50 from slipping off the receiving bushing 52 when the opening element 30 is in the neutral position 46. The cap 50 includes an internal bead 62 corresponding to the collar 60. In the neutral position 46, the bead 62 of the cap 50 rests against the collar 60, thus preventing the shaft 54 from exiting the opening channel 56.

3a and 3b further show the shielding element 26, which extends only partially along the separating cross-section 38. The shielding element 26 is spaced apart from the lid 20, in particular from an inner surface 80 of the lid 20, and spaced apart from the valve 28. This ensures that the flow space 32 is exposed by the packaging 200. However, it may also be provided that the shielding element 26 rests against the cover 20. The flow space 32 can then be formed in the shielding element 26, for example as a flow channel whose inlet preferably opens at least partially at an angle into the receiving space. A flow path of flowable filling material is provided in 3b illustrated by an arrow 66.

In the first exemplary embodiment, the shielding element 26 comprises a receiving cavity 68. The receiving cavity 68 extends substantially along the central axis A and is dome-shaped. The dimensions of the receiving cavity 68 are preferably selected such that the clip C closing the first packaging end 202 and a braid 208 of the packaging 200 can be received therein. This allows, on the one hand, the packaging 200 to be applied to the shielding element 26 over as large an area as possible, and, on the other hand, prevents the clip C and/or the braid 208 from entering the flow space 32.

The shielding element 26 is preferably held on the cover 20, which is subsequently determined using the 4a and 4b is explained. 4a shows a side of the shielding element 26 of the dispensing device 1 facing the cover 20 according to the first embodiment and 4b shows a view of the inside of the lid 20 of the dispensing device 1 according to the first embodiment. To hold the shielding element 26 on the lid 20, the shielding element 26 comprises fastening means 70 that can be engaged with corresponding counter-fastening means 72 on the lid 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the shielding element 26 is received in the lid 20 when the fastening means 70 are engaged with the counter-fastening means 72.

In the first exemplary embodiment, the shielding element 26 comprises two fastening means 70, which are designed here as fastening grooves 74. The fastening grooves 74 extend completely through the shielding element 26, although embodiments with fastening grooves 74 extending only partially through the shielding element 26 in the depth direction of the fastening groove 74 are also preferred. The fastening grooves 74 are arcuate and each comprise an insertion section 76 and a holding section 78. The insertion section 76 of the fastening grooves 74 each has a larger clear width W than the holding section 78 of the same fastening groove 74. The fastening grooves 74 therefore have approximately the shape of a keyhole.

In the first exemplary embodiment, the counter-fastening means 72 are arranged on an inner wall 80 of the lid 20, which faces the receiving space 4. In the first exemplary embodiment, the counter-fastening means 72 each have a holding head 82. The holding head 82 is connected to the inner wall 80 of the lid via a pin 84. The holding head 82 has a main dimension D that is greater than a first clear width W1 of the guide groove 74 on the holding section 78 but smaller than a second clear width W2 of the fastening groove 74 on the insertion section 76. The holding head 82 can thus be inserted into the fastening groove 74 on the insertion section 76. By rotating the shielding element 26 relative to the cover 20, the counter-fastening means 72 moves from the insertion section 76 into the holding section 78 of the guide groove 74. The holding head 82 of the counter-fastening means 72 then engages behind the guide groove 74 and can no longer be removed from the fastening groove 74 by purely axial movement transverse to a direction of extension of the fastening groove 74. The counter-fastening means 72 can thus releasably hold the shielding element 26 to the cover 20.

The holding head 82 is in 4b designed as a ball head. In other variants, however, the retaining head 82 can also be, for example, a hammer head or a mushroom head.

By rotating the shielding element 26 relative to the lid 20, the shielding element 26 can be detached from the lid 20, thereby facilitating cleaning of the dispensing device 1. The counter-fastening means 72 are preferably arranged on the lid 20 in such a way as to prevent incorrect insertion of the shielding element 26. Thus, in the first exemplary embodiment shown, the counter-fastening means 72 are unevenly distributed over a circumference (around the central axis A) of the lid inner wall 82. This ensures that the shielding element 26 always shields the dispensing opening 34. 4b further shows the dispensing opening 34 without the valve 28 accommodated therein. Preferably, the counter-fastening means 72 is molded integrally with the lid 20. For example, the lid 20 with counter-fastening means 72 and receiving bushing 52 can be manufactured using an additive manufacturing process (3D printing).

4a further illustrates the substantially semicircular configuration of the shielding element 26. A semicircular shielding element 26 preferably extends over exactly 180°, but can also have a central angle α in a range of 160° to 200°. In the first embodiment shown, the shielding element 26 essentially has the shape of a circular sector, with the central angle α having a value of approximately 190°.

As can be seen in particular from the 1 and 2 As can be seen, the dispensing opening 34 in the first embodiment is arranged offset from the central axis A, whereby dispensing of filling material 206 by means of the dispensing device 1 can be carried out more ergonomically. Thus, the dispensing device 1 does not have to be held vertically over an application site intended for the filling material 206, but can also be held at an angle to the application site.

The 5 to 8 now show a second embodiment of the dispensing device 1, wherein identical or similar components are marked with identical reference numerals for simplicity.

The dispensing device 1 according to the second embodiment also comprises a housing 2 with a receiving space 4 for a packaging 200, a squeezing means 10, a handle 14, which 5 is also designed as a pincer handle, a closure element 19 designed as a lid 20, an opening element 30, a shielding element 26 and a valve 28. The squeezing means 10 designed as a piston 12, the handle 14, the piston rod 18, the valve 28 and the housing 2 are designed in the second embodiment of the dispensing device 1 essentially identical to the corresponding components of the dispensing device 1 according to the first embodiment. However, the lid 20, the shielding element 26 and the shielding element 30 are designed differently in the second embodiment of the dispensing device 1 than the corresponding components of the first embodiment of a dispensing device 1. Also in the 5 However, in the dispensing device 1 shown, the shielding element 26 serves to keep a flow space 32 free, the lid 20 serves to close the dispensing device 1 and the opening element 30 serves to tear open the packaging 200.

6 shows two views of the lid 20 of the dispensing device 1 according to the second embodiment, wherein 6a a view from outside and 6b a view of the inner wall 80 of the lid. Analogous to the first embodiment, the lid 20 of the dispensing device 1 of the second embodiment also has a dispensing opening 34 through which flowable filling material 206 can be dispensed from the packaging 200 and from the dispensing device 1. However, in the second embodiment, the dispensing opening 34 is positioned centrally on the lid 20. When the lid 20 is screwed onto the housing 2, the dispensing opening 34 is then aligned with the central axis A. However, in variants, it can also be provided that the dispensing opening 34 for a lid, as in 6 shown, is offset from the central axis A.

An outer peripheral surface 86 of the lid 20 is provided with a surface structure 88. The surface structure 88 is formed here by depressions evenly distributed around the circumference of the lid 20, which also extend onto an upper side of the lid 20. The lid 20 of the dispensing device 1 of the first embodiment also has a corresponding surface structure 88 ( 1 ). Alternatively or in addition to recesses, the surface structuring 88 could also comprise knurling or another common structuring. Furthermore, the recesses do not have to extend to the top of the cover 20. The surface structuring 88 facilitates secure gripping of the cover 20. This can facilitate screwing the internal thread 22 onto the external thread 24 of the housing 2 and, in particular, also unscrewing the cover 20 from the housing 2.

In the second embodiment, the opening element 30 is not arranged on the lid 20 of the dispensing device 1. Nevertheless, the opening element 30 is also arranged in the region of the lid 20 in the second embodiment. 7a and 7b As shown, in the second exemplary embodiment of the dispensing device 1, a total of three opening elements 30 are provided, each extending from the shielding element 26. The opening elements 30 extend essentially parallel to the central axis A from a shielding side 90 of the shielding element 26. However, it can also be provided that the shielding elements 26 extend at an angle to the central axis A or helically from the shielding side 90 of the shielding element 26 in the direction of the receiving space 4. The opening elements 30 are designed here as spikes that taper away from the shielding element 26.

The shielding element 26 of the second exemplary embodiment of a dispensing device 1 also comprises a receiving cavity 68 on the shielding side 90 for receiving a clip C and/or a braid 208 of the flexible packaging 200. In the second exemplary embodiment, the receiving cavity 68 is arranged centrally on the shielding element 26. The section of the shielding element 26 carrying the receiving cavity 68 according to the second exemplary embodiment is arranged between the dispensing opening 34 and the receiving space 4 in the assembled state and can thus prevent the dispensing opening 34 from being blocked by the packaging 200.

The opening elements 30 are rigid in the second embodiment and are thus particularly particularly robust against damage. Furthermore, rigid opening elements 30 are generally less complex and thus usually less expensive to manufacture. Preferably, the opening elements 30 are manufactured integrally with the shielding element 26, particularly preferably by an additive manufacturing process. In the second embodiment, the shielding element 26 is not a flat disc, but rather is dome-shaped, whereby residual emptying of the packaging 200 can be improved even with rigid opening elements 30. Furthermore, a dome-shaped shielding element 26 is resistant to deformation. The shielding element 26 of the first embodiment of a dispensing device 1 can also preferably be dome-shaped.

The 7a and 7b The shielding element 26 shown is essentially circular when viewed in the direction of the central axis A. Thus, the outer circumference of the shielding element 26 describes a circle when viewed in the direction of the central axis A. In the second exemplary embodiment shown, the central section of the shielding element 26 carrying the receiving cavity 68 is supported by three webs 92 extending in a star shape from the central section. The webs 92 are evenly spaced from one another here, but can also be distributed irregularly over the circumference of the shielding element 26. In the second exemplary embodiment shown, the webs 92 each enclose an angle of approximately 120° with one another.

In the circumferential direction of the shielding element 26, in 7b i.e. around the central axis A, the webs 92 are spaced apart from each other by recesses 94. Analogous to the first embodiment, the 7a and 7b The shielding element 26 shown according to the second embodiment of a dispensing device 1 is arranged between the dispensing opening 34 and the receiving space 4. The shielding element 26 can prevent the packaging 200 from entering the flow space 32 when the packaging 200 is displaced towards the lid 20 under the action of the squeezing means 10 and/or is pressed against the shielding element 26.

The squeezing means 10 presses the flexible tubular packaging 200 against the opening elements 30, which tear open the packaging 200 and thus enable the flowable filling material 206 to escape from the packaging 200. The clip C is preferably held securely in the receiving cavity 68, and blocking of the dispensing opening 34 and/or the valve 28 received therein by the clip C is prevented. Due to the reduction in the volume V of the receiving space, flowable filling material 206 escaping from the packaging 200 can enter the flow space 32, which is formed between the shielding element 26 and the inner wall 80 of the lid 20, through the recesses 94 and thus reach the dispensing opening 34.

Due to the arrangement of the opening elements 30 on the shielding element 26, they are positioned in the region of the lid 20, allowing the packaging 200 to be easily emptied. The flow path to be traveled by the flowable filling material 206 is comparatively short, and the flow resistance to be overcome is therefore low. This means that the flowable filling material 206 can be squeezed out of the packaging 200 under relatively low pressure, allowing the dispensing device 1 to be easily and ergonomically operated manually.

The recesses 94 of the 7b The shielding element 26 illustrated is essentially kidney-shaped. However, the recesses can preferably also have the shape of circular segments, circular sectors, rectangles, circles, squares, and/or trapezoids, for example.

Analogous to the shielding element 26 according to the first embodiment ( 4a) is also the shielding element 26 according to the second embodiment ( 7a , 7b) held on the lid. 8 , which shows the area of the lid of the dispensing device 1 of the second exemplary embodiment in a sectional view, illustrates the arrangement of the shielding element 26, which in the second exemplary embodiment is completely accommodated in the lid 20. An internal thread 22 of the lid 20 is screwed onto an external thread 24 of the housing 2. In the second exemplary embodiment of the dispensing device 1, the internal thread 22 also serves to detachably connect the lid 20 to the housing 2. In addition, the internal thread 22 of the lid 20 in the second exemplary embodiment also forms the counter-fastening means 72, which are provided for holding the shielding element 26 to the lid 20. The shielding element 26 has, on an outer circumferential surface 96, a shielding thread 98 which corresponds to the internal thread 22 and is an external thread and here forms the fastening means 70 of the shielding element 26. The internal thread 22 of the cover 20 is therefore advantageously used in the second embodiment both for holding the shielding element 26 and for connecting the cover 20 and the housing 2. The dispensing device 1 can thus be manufactured particularly easily and inexpensively. However, it should be understood that fastening means 70 and counter-fastening means 72 designed as threads could also be provided for the first embodiment and, in particular, also with the opening voltage element 30 of the first embodiment can be combined.

By using threads 98, 22 as fastening means 70 and counter-fastening means 72, the shielding element 26 is also detachably held on the cover 20 in the second exemplary embodiment of the dispensing device 1. During assembly of the dispensing device 1, the shielding element 26 or its shielding thread 98 can first be screwed into the internal thread 22 of the cover 20. Advantageously, a stop 100 is provided, which defines a designated screw-in depth of the shielding element 26 into the cover 20. Correct assembly of the shielding element 26 is thus facilitated. After screwing the shielding element 26 into the cover 20, the cover 20, together with the shielding element 26 now held thereon, can be screwed onto the housing 2.

Preferably, the external thread 24 of the housing 2 is dimensioned such that the cover 20 can be screwed onto the housing 2 until the housing 2 rests against the shielding element 26 (or preferably its section carrying the shielding thread 98). Detachment of the shielding element 26 from the cover 20 during use of the dispensing device 1 can thus be particularly effectively prevented. However, in alternative embodiments, it can also be provided that the shielding element 26 and the housing 2 are spaced apart from one another in an operating state in which the cover 20 is completely screwed onto the housing 2. The cover 20, the shielding element 26 and/or the housing 2 can thus be manufactured with coarser manufacturing tolerances, if necessary, and manufacturing costs can be saved.

The valve 28 is preferably held in a form-fitting manner in the discharge opening 34 of the lid 20. For this purpose, the valve 28 can have a retaining groove that engages the discharge opening 34 or a corresponding projection of the lid 20. The valve 28 is preferably flexible so that the valve 28 can be deformed for mounting in the discharge opening 34 or on the lid 20.

In the illustrated embodiments of the dispensing device 1, the squeezing means 10 is designed as a piston 12. However, it can also be provided, for example, that the squeezing means 10 comprises one or more squeezing elements, in particular squeezing rollers, which are movable along the central axis A to reduce the volume V of the receiving space 4. The piston 12 has, in a cross section along the central axis A ( 2 ) has a V-shape. This minimizes the friction of the piston 12 against the housing 2. The V-shape nevertheless ensures a good seal of the receiving chamber 4 by the piston, thus preventing the escape of flowable filling material 206 at the first chamber end 6 defined by the piston 12.

9 shows a section through the flexible tubular packaging 200 of the dispensing system 150. The packaging 200 comprises a film tube 210 which is filled with flowable filling material 206. To produce the packaging 200, a first end of the film tube 210 (the first packaging end 202) is usually first closed with the clip C. The filling material 206 is then introduced into the packaging 200 under pressure. At the second packaging end 204, a braid 208 is formed by displacing the filling material 206, which is essentially free of filling material 206. The braid is then closed with a clip C. The film tube 210 has a film thickness S which, measured in an unfilled state of the film tube 210, is preferably in a range of 20 µm to 120 µm. Particularly preferably, the film thickness S has a value of approximately 50 µm to 60 µm. The diameter of the packaging 200 is preferably in a range from 50 mm to 100 mm, particularly preferably in a range from 60 mm to 80 mm. Preferably, an inner diameter of the receiving space 4 is approximately identical to the diameter of the packaging 200, which can also be referred to as the caliber. For example, and preferably, an inner diameter of the receiving space 4 is approximately 5% to 15% larger and/or approximately 1 mm to 10 mm larger than a corresponding diameter of the filled packaging 200.

List of reference symbols

1

Dispensing device

2

Housing

4

recording room

6

first end of the room

8

second end of the room

10

Squeezer

12

Pistons

14

Handle

16

lever

18

piston rod

19

Closing element

20

Lid

22

internal thread

24

external thread

26

Shielding element

28

valve

30

Opening element

32

Flow space

34

Drop-off opening

36

Shielding plate

38

Separation cross-section

40

Opening section of the opening element

42

Opening axis

44

Great

46

neutral position of the opening element

48

Feather

50

cap

52

Receiving socket

54

Shaft of the opening element

56

Opening channel of the receiving socket

58

Opening position of the opening element

60

Collar of the receiving socket

62

bead

66

Arrow

68

Receiving cavity

70

Fasteners

72

Counter-fasteners

74

Mounting groove

76

Introductory section

78

holding section

80

Lid inner wall

82

Holding head

84

Pen

86

outer peripheral surface of the lid

88

Surface structuring

90

Shielding side

92

web

94

recess

96

outer peripheral surface of the shielding element

98

Shielding thread

100

stop

150

Donation system

200

Packaging

202

first packaging end

204

second packaging end

206

flowable filling material

208

plait

A

Central axis

C

Clip

D

Main dimension

S

Film thickness

V

volume

W1

first clear width of the guide groove

W2

second clear width of the guide groove

Claims (10)

Dispensing device (1) for dispensing a free-flowing filling material (206), in particular a free-flowing food product, from a flexible tubular package (200) comprising a first end (202) and an opposite second end (204), wherein at least the first end (202) of the tubular package (200) is closed by means of at least one clip (C). The dispensing device (1) comprises: a housing (2) with a receiving space (4) for receiving the tubular package (200), at least one squeezing means (10) for reducing a volume (V) of the receiving space (4), a closing element (19) closing the receiving space (4) and having at least one dispensing opening (34) for dispensing the free-flowing filling material (206) from the receiving space (4), at least one opening element (30) for tearing open the package (200) received in the receiving space (4), and at least one shielding element (26) arranged between the discharge opening (34) and the receiving space (4) and designed to define a flow space (32) for the filling material (206) and to keep it free from the flexible packaging (200), wherein the flow space (32) is formed at least in sections between the discharge opening (34) and the receiving space (4). Dispensing device (1) according to Claim 1 , wherein the closing element (19) is a lid (20) which preferably closes a feed opening of the receiving space (4) for feeding the packaging (200). Dispensing device (1) according to Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the shielding element (26) has a receiving cavity (68) for receiving the clip (C) on a shielding side (90) facing the receiving space (4), wherein the receiving cavity (68) is preferably conical or dome-shaped. Dispensing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the shielding element (26) is held on the end element (19), preferably detachably held on the end element (19). Dispensing device (1) according to Claim 4 , wherein the shielding element (26) comprises fastening means (70), and wherein the closing element (19) comprises counter-fastening means (72) corresponding to the fastening means (70), wherein the fastening means can be brought into engagement with the counter-fastening means (72), wherein preferably the fastening means (70) comprises an external thread (98) and the counter-fastening means (72) comprises an internal thread (22) into which the external thread (98) of the shielding element (26) can be screwed; and/or wherein preferably the fastening means (70) comprises at least one fastening groove (74) and wherein the counter-fastening means (72) comprises at least one holding head (82) for insertion into the fastening groove (74). Dispensing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening element (30) is formed on the shielding element (26); or wherein the opening element (30) is arranged on the closing element (19), preferably eccentrically, and wherein the shielding element (26) preferably has at least one recess which allows the opening element (30) to pass through into the receiving space (4), and wherein the opening element (30) can preferably be moved from a neutral position (46) into an open position (58) for opening the packaging (200), wherein the opening element (30) is preferably pretensioned into the neutral position (46). Dispensing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the shielding element (26) is substantially circular and has at least one recess (94) that allows the flowable filling material (206) to flow from the receiving space (4) to the flow space (32), or wherein the shielding element (26) extends only partially between the receiving space (4) and the flow space (32) through a separating cross-section (38) of the dispensing device (1), wherein the shielding element (26) is preferably substantially circular sector-shaped. Dispensing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the dispensing opening (34) is arranged offset from a central axis (A) of the receiving space (4). Dispensing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a handle (14) for axially displacing the squeezing means (10), wherein the handle (14) preferably comprises a lever (16) and a transmission, wherein the transmission translates a movement of the lever (16) into an axial movement of the squeezing means (10) along the receiving space (4), wherein the handle (14) is preferably a plumb handle or a pliers handle. Dispensing system (150) for storing and dispensing a flowable filling material, comprising; a dispensing device (1) according to one of the Claims 1 until 9 , and at least one flexible tubular packaging (200) filled with a flowable filling material (206), in particular with a flowable foodstuff.