EP0452819B1 - Coating device, especially spraying- or aerosol generator - Google Patents

Coating device, especially spraying- or aerosol generator Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0452819B1
EP0452819B1 EP91105812A EP91105812A EP0452819B1 EP 0452819 B1 EP0452819 B1 EP 0452819B1 EP 91105812 A EP91105812 A EP 91105812A EP 91105812 A EP91105812 A EP 91105812A EP 0452819 B1 EP0452819 B1 EP 0452819B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
discharge line
shut
active
accordance
monitoring element
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP91105812A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0452819A1 (en
Inventor
Paul Roth
Klaus Krug
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MOTAN SWINGTEC GmbH
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MOTAN SWINGTEC GmbH
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Publication of EP0452819A1 publication Critical patent/EP0452819A1/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B12/00—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a discharge device, in particular a spray or aerosol generator, according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • a discharge device with the features of the preamble is e.g. known from US-A-3,674,205.
  • the flow control of liquids is usually carried out using devices that operate on the float principle, with turbine meters, with baffle plates or e.g. work with panels.
  • These measuring methods have the disadvantage that liquids which are mixed or enriched with solids can lead to blockages and / or soiling in the measuring devices.
  • These measuring devices are also not or only difficult to clean due to their fine mechanical structure. When liquids have dried up, the residues lead to incrustations, so that measurements can no longer be carried out.
  • the invention has for its object to design the generic discharge device so that the flow of the active ingredient liquid through the discharge line simply over a can be monitored for a long period of time without the risk of blockages and / or contamination of the monitoring device.
  • the liquid level in the active substance tank is checked by the monitoring element. As soon as the active substance liquid falls below a predetermined level in the active substance tank, this is determined by the monitoring element. It then sends a switching signal to the flushing device, which is automatically started and rinses the discharge line immediately after discharge. This prevents in a very simple manner that the active substances in the active substance liquid settle in the discharge line and lead to contamination or even incrustation. As a result of the automatic flushing of the discharge line, it is ensured that the active substance liquid can be sprayed out perfectly with the discharge device according to the invention.
  • the discharge device is preferably a spray or aerosol generator, with which liquids which are mixed or enriched with solids are discharged from a tank 1.
  • a preferably height-adjustable suction tube 2 projects into it and is connected to a discharge line 3. It connects the suction pipe 2 to a spray device 4, with which the active substance liquid is discharged through a nozzle 5 which is connected to the discharge line 3.
  • Air is blown in the direction of arrow 6 at high speed by the spray device 4.
  • a negative pressure is generated, as a result of which the active substance liquid is sucked out of the active substance tank 1.
  • the negative pressure in the discharge line 3 and in the active substance tank 1 can of course also be generated in any other suitable way.
  • the drug tank 1 is not sealed in a known manner, so that no negative pressure can form in the drug tank 1.
  • the membrane 8 of the switching element 7 is under the force of a compression spring 9, which loads the membrane 8 in the direction of its central position.
  • the membrane 8 carries on its side facing away from the compression spring 9 a switching plunger 10 with which a switching lever 11 can be pivoted when the membrane 8 is deflected in order to close or open an electrical contact 12.
  • the space 13 of the switching element 7 which has the compression spring 9 is connected to the discharge line 3 via an intermediate line 14.
  • the intermediate line 14 has a substantially smaller cross-section than the discharge line 3, so that there is no risk that part of the active substance liquid will get into the switching element 7 via the intermediate line 14 during discharge.
  • a container 16 for a cleaning liquid is connected to the discharge line 3 in the flow direction behind the intermediate line 14 via a connecting line 15.
  • a shut-off device 17 which in Embodiment according to FIGS. 1 and 2 is a solenoid valve.
  • the shut-off device 17 is closed during the discharge of the active substance liquid, so that the cleaning liquid cannot flow out of the container 16 into the discharge line 3.
  • the membrane of the switching element 7 is elastically deformed in the direction of the intermediate line 14 against the force of the compression spring 9.
  • the shift lever 11 is entrained by the shift plunger 10, whereby the switch 12 is opened.
  • the active substance liquid is sucked out of the active substance tank 1 and sprayed.
  • the negative pressure in the active substance tank 1 and in the discharge line 3 drops.
  • the compression spring 9 of the switching element 7 can then adjust the membrane 8 again in the direction of its central position.
  • the shift lever 11 is adjusted so that the switch 12 is closed via the switching plunger 10.
  • the connections for the switching element 7 and the shut-off element 17 for the container 16 are provided on a screw part 19 which is detachably inserted into the discharge line 3 and, if necessary, for example for repair purposes of the switching element and / or the shut-off element 17 and / or the container 16, can be easily replaced.
  • the screw part 19 has threaded sections 20 and 21 at its two ends, into which corresponding thread ends of the discharge line 3 can be screwed.
  • the cleaning process is automatically initiated in the manner described.
  • the cleaning process can also be ended automatically, for example by means of a timer which determines the duration of the cleaning process.
  • This timer can be made adjustable, so that the duration of the cleaning process can be set depending on the active ingredient used.
  • it is also possible to switch off the cleaning process for example by hand, by moving the shut-off device 17 into its closed position.
  • the suction device with which the air is sucked into the spray device 4 for generating the negative pressure must be switched on by hand.
  • the cleaning container 16 as shown in FIG. 1, is located in the area above the discharge line 3 and is designed as a pressureless container.
  • the discharge line 3 is rinsed by utilizing the geodetic height of the cleaning container 16 in relation to the discharge line 3 after opening the shut-off member 17.
  • the switch 12 is closed in the manner described and the shut-off member 17 is opened is, the cleaning liquid flows from the container 16 under gravity through the connecting line 15 into the discharge line 3 to the spray nozzle 5.
  • the area of the discharge line 3 between the connecting line 15 and the spray nozzle 5 is rinsed and cleaned.
  • the shut-off element 17, in particular the cross section of the connecting line 15, is selected so that more cleaning liquid can flow from the container 16 than is suctioned off at the spray nozzle 5 . Due to the line resistance, the cleaning liquid thus flows against the direction of flow in the discharge line 3 back into the suction tube 2 and into the active substance tank 1, so that in this case the entire discharge line 3 including the suction tube 2 is excellently rinsed and cleaned. This reliably prevents active substances from settling in the discharge line 3, in the suction pipe 2 and in the spray nozzle or in the spray head 5 and prevent or at least impair the discharge of the active substance.
  • FIG 4a schematically shows the case in which the shut-off device 17 is closed and the active substance thus flows in the discharge line 3 in the suction direction 22.
  • the cleaning liquid can also be supplied intermittently in order to obtain a better cleaning effect.
  • the shut-off device 17 is opened and closed in a pulsed manner.
  • air (closed shut-off device 17) and cleaning fluid (open shut-off device 17) are sucked in intermittently, whereby a better cleaning effect is achieved while at the same time saving cleaning fluid.
  • the shut-off device is closed during this pulse cleaning, then air is sucked out of the active substance tank, in which the liquid level 18 has dropped so far that the free end of the suction pipe 2 is free.
  • cleaning liquid is sucked out of the container 16.
  • the switching element 7 designed as a pressure switch is arranged in the area above the active substance tank 1 and in the area above the discharge line 3. This also ensures that the switching element 7 or its membrane 8 does not come into contact with the possibly corrosive medium to be discharged.
  • the vacuum or pressure switch 7 drops out in the manner described and initiates the rinsing process in the manner described.
  • the electrical sequence program is switched on by switching this switching element 7.
  • the container 16a is designed as a pressurized container.
  • it is provided with a pressure connection 23 so that the cleaning liquid can be conveyed into the discharge line 3 by means of pressurization via the connecting line 15.
  • the cleaning container 16a does not have to be arranged in the region above the active substance tank 1 or the discharge line 3.
  • the discharge line 3 is reliably cleaned or flushed. Cleaning with such a pressure vessel 16a is carried out in the same way as has been explained in detail using the previous exemplary embodiment.
  • the shut-off element 17 is in each case a two-way valve.
  • a three-way valve 17b can also be used as a shut-off device (FIGS. 3b and 3c).
  • Such a three-way valve 17b like the two-way valve 17, is arranged in such a way that it does not come into contact with the possibly corrosive agent to be discharged.
  • the three-way valve 17b is closed, so that the active substance in solution form 1 in the active substance tank 1 passes through the discharge line by means of negative pressure is carried out.
  • the switch 12 is actuated by the switching element 7 in the manner described and the three-way valve 17b is thus adjusted to the open position (FIG. 3b).
  • the cleaning liquid can flow from the container 16b via the connecting line 15 into the discharge line 3 in the manner described.
  • the container 16b can in turn work without pressure or be provided with a pressure connection, so that the cleaning liquid is pressed into the discharge line 3 through the connecting line 15 under pressure.
  • the dimensions of the connecting line 15 and the discharge line 3 with the spray head 5 can be chosen such that the cleaning liquid also flows into the suction tube 2 and into the active substance tank 1 counter to the suction direction 22.
  • the three-way valve 17b With the three-way valve 17b, it is particularly easy to carry out pulse cleaning.
  • the three-way valve 17b is switched over at short time intervals so that cleaning fluid and air alternately reach the discharge line 3 via the connecting line 15.
  • the three-way valve 17b is switched so that the container-side port 25 of the three-way valve 17b is closed and the air is sucked in via an atmosphere-side port 24.
  • the atmosphere-side connection 24 of the three-way valve 17b can also be used to connect a second cleaning container. Further cleaning liquid or another liquid can be stored in it. In this way, this additional or further cleaning liquid can be conveyed into the discharge line 3 by switching over the three-way valve 17b.
  • the switching element 7 is located in the suction direction 22 of the active substance behind the shut-off element 17c, which in turn is a three-way valve in the exemplary embodiment shown.
  • a two-way valve according to FIGS. 1 and 2 can of course also be used.
  • the three-way valve 17c has two connections 27 and 29 for the discharge line 3 and a connection 28 for the connecting line 15, which leads to the container 16c with the cleaning liquid.
  • the two connections 27 and 29 are located in the discharge line 3.
  • this embodiment has the same design as the exemplary embodiments described above.
  • the embodiment according to FIG. 5 is used in particular with residue-free or solids-free substances.
  • the connections 28 and 29 of the three-way valve are open, so that the cleaning liquid is sucked out of the pressureless or pressurized container 16c via the connecting line 15 into the discharge line 3 to the spray head 5.
  • the connection 27 of the three-way valve 17c directed against the flow direction 22 is blocked.
  • the discharge line 3 is not rinsed and cleaned in the area between the three-way valve and the active substance tank 1.
  • the two connections 27 and 29 of the three-way valve 17c are open, while the connection 28 on the container side is blocked.
  • the three-way valve 17c assumes this position during the discharge of the active substance.
  • the liquid in the active substance tank 1 is conveyed in the suction direction 22 in the manner described by negative pressure to the spray nozzle 5.
  • the two connections 27 and 28 are open, while the connection 29 of the three-way valve 17c is blocked.
  • the cleaning liquid is conveyed through the suction pipe 2 into the active substance tank 1.
  • the flushing or cleaning can also be carried out without pressure or with pressure, as in the position according to FIG. 6a.
  • the installation position of the container is not dependent on the geodetic height, as has also been explained with reference to the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3a.
  • the embodiment according to FIG. 5 works in the same way as the embodiment according to FIG. 1. Air is sucked into the spray device 4, which flows through the spray device at high speed and thereby sucks the active substance out of the spray nozzle 5. As a result of the high air speed, a negative pressure is generated in the discharge line 3 and thus in the suction pipe 2 and in the active substance tank 1, through which the active substance is sprayed. As a result of the negative pressure, the membrane 8 of the switching element 7 becomes counter to the force of the compression spring 3 bent elastically, whereby the switch 12 is opened in the manner described. As soon as the liquid level in the active substance tank 1 falls below the free end of the suction pipe 2, the negative pressure decreases, which leads to the compression spring 9 returning the membrane 8 to its initial position.
  • the switch 12 is closed via the switching plunger 10 and the switching lever 11, whereby the shut-off device 17c is simultaneously opened so that the cleaning liquid can get into the discharge line 3.
  • the three-way valve 17c is first opened in accordance with FIG. 6a, so that the discharge line 3 is rinsed and cleaned from the three-way valve 17c to the spray head 5.
  • the three-way valve 17c is then switched to the position according to FIG. 6c by means of a timer or also manually, so that the discharge line 3 in the region between the three-way valve and the active substance tank 1 is now also cleaned. In both cases, the cleaning liquid is sucked out of the container 16c by the negative pressure present in the discharge line 3. If the container 16c is under pressure, the suction effect of the discharge device is supported by the pressurization, so that the cleaning liquid reliably rinses the discharge line 3.
  • the three-way valves 17b, 17c described are commercially available 3/2-way valves, but can also be corresponding ball valves with which the various valve positions can be achieved.
  • the described arrangement of the switching element 7 in the flow direction 22 behind the shut-off device 17c can also be provided in the previously described exemplary embodiments. It is also possible, in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 5, to arrange the switching element 7 in the suction direction 22 in front of the shut-off element 17c. Finally, the shut-off element in the embodiment according to FIG. 5 can be designed in the same way as in the previously described exemplary embodiments, while conversely the shut-off element according to FIG. 5 can also be used in the previous exemplary embodiments.
  • the connecting line 15 to the cleaning container can also be connected directly to the water network, so that water can be removed directly from the water network as cleaning liquid. It is also possible to connect the container to the water network so that water can be removed directly from the water network via the container as a cleaning agent.

Abstract

The throughput control of liquids is usually carried out with devices which operate according to the suspended solid particle principle, with turbine wheel counters, with impact plates or, for example with shutters. Here, solids in the liquids in the measuring devices can lead to blockages and/or contaminations. Furthermore, the measuring devices can only be cleaned with difficulty. In order to be able to monitor the throughput of the active substance fluid through the discharge line in a simple manner over a relatively long period of time without there being a risk of blockages, the liquid level (18) in the active substance tank (1) can be controlled by at least one monitoring element. When the liquid level (18) drops below a predetermined level, a sound signal is transmitted to a rinsing device (15, 16, 17) for automatically rinsing at least a part of the discharge line (3). As a result, the active substances located in the active substance fluid are easily prevented from being precipitated in the discharge line (3) leading to contaminations or furring. <IMAGE>

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Austragvorrichtung, insbesondere einen Sprüh- oder Aerosolgenerator, nach dem Oberbegriff des Anspruches 1. Eine Austragvorrichtung mit den Merkmalen des Oberbegriffs ist z.B. aus US-A-3 674 205 bekannt.The invention relates to a discharge device, in particular a spray or aerosol generator, according to the preamble of claim 1. A discharge device with the features of the preamble is e.g. known from US-A-3,674,205.

Die Durchflußkontrolle von Flüssigkeiten wird in der Regel mit Geräten, die nach dem Schwebekörperprinzip, mit Turbinenradzählern, mit Prallplatten oder z.B. mit Blenden arbeiten, durchgeführt. Diese Meßverfahren haben den Nachteil, daß Flüssigkeiten, die mit Feststoffen gemischt oder angereichert sind, in den Meßeinrichtungen zu Verstopfungen und/oder Verschmutzungen führen können. Diese Meßeinrichtungen sind außerdem aufgrund ihres feinmechanischen Aufbaus nicht oder nur schwierig zu reinigen. Bei eingetrockneten Flüssigkeiten führen die Rückstände zu Verkrustungen, so daß Messungen nicht mehr durchführbar sind.The flow control of liquids is usually carried out using devices that operate on the float principle, with turbine meters, with baffle plates or e.g. work with panels. These measuring methods have the disadvantage that liquids which are mixed or enriched with solids can lead to blockages and / or soiling in the measuring devices. These measuring devices are also not or only difficult to clean due to their fine mechanical structure. When liquids have dried up, the residues lead to incrustations, so that measurements can no longer be carried out.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, die gattungsgemäße Austragvorrichtung so auszubilden, daß der Durchfluß der Wirkstoffflüssigkeit durch die Austragleitung einfach über einen langen Zeitraum überwacht werden kann, ohne daß Verstopfungen und/oder Verschmutzungen der Überwachungseinrichtung zu befürchten sind.The invention has for its object to design the generic discharge device so that the flow of the active ingredient liquid through the discharge line simply over a can be monitored for a long period of time without the risk of blockages and / or contamination of the monitoring device.

Diese Aufgabe wird bei der gattungsgemäßen Austragvorrichtung erfindungsgemäß mit den kennzeichnenden Merkmalen des Anspruches 1 gelöst.This object is achieved with the generic discharge device according to the invention with the characterizing features of claim 1.

Bei der erfindungsgemäßen Austragvorrichtung wird das Flüssigkeitsniveau im Wirkstofftank durch das Überwachungselement kontrolliert. Sobald beim Austrag der Wirkstofflüssigkeit ein vorgegebenes Niveau im Wirkstofftank unterschritten wird, wird dies vom Überwachungselement festgestellt. Es gibt dann ein Schaltsignal an die Spüleinrichtung ab, die dadurch automatisch in Gang gesetzt wird und sofort nach dem Austrag die Austragleitung spült. Dadurch wird in sehr einfacher Weise verhindert, daß sich die in der Wirkstofflüssigkeit befindlichen Wirkstoffe in der Austragleitung absetzen und zu Verschmutzungen oder gar zu Verkrustungen führen. Infolge der automatischen Spülung der Austragleitung ist gewährleistet, daß mit der erfindungsgemäßen Austragvorrichtung die Wirkstofflüssigkeit einwandfrei ausgesprüht werden kann.In the discharge device according to the invention, the liquid level in the active substance tank is checked by the monitoring element. As soon as the active substance liquid falls below a predetermined level in the active substance tank, this is determined by the monitoring element. It then sends a switching signal to the flushing device, which is automatically started and rinses the discharge line immediately after discharge. This prevents in a very simple manner that the active substances in the active substance liquid settle in the discharge line and lead to contamination or even incrustation. As a result of the automatic flushing of the discharge line, it is ensured that the active substance liquid can be sprayed out perfectly with the discharge device according to the invention.

Weitere Merkmale der Erfindung ergeben sich aus den weiteren Ansprüchen, der Beschreibung und den Zeichnungen.Further features of the invention result from the further claims, the description and the drawings.

Die Erfindung wird anhand einiger in den Zeichnungen dargestellter Ausführungsbeispiele näher erläutert. Es zeigen

Fig. 1
in schematischer Darstellung eine erfindungsgemäße Austragvorrichtung,
Fig. 2
in vergrößerter Darstellung einen Teil der erfindungsgemäßen Austragvorrichtung gem. Fig. 1,
Fig. 3a bis 3c
verschiedene Schaltmöglichkeiten eines Ventils eines Behälters für Reinigungsflüssigkeit der erfindungsgemäßen Austragvorrichtung,
Fig. 4a bis 4c
in schematischer Darstellung den Strömungsverlauf bei unterschiedlichen Stellungen eines Ventils am Auslaß des Behälters für die Reinigungsflüssigkeit,
Fig. 5
in schematischer Darstellung eine zweite Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen Austragvorrichtung,
Fig. 6a bis 6c
verschiedene Schaltstellungen eines Ventils am Auslaß des Behälters für die Reinigungsflüssigkeit der erfindungsgemäßen Austragvorrichtung gemäß Fig. 5.
The invention is explained in more detail with the aid of some exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings. Show it
Fig. 1
a discharge device according to the invention in a schematic representation,
Fig. 2
in an enlarged view part of the discharge device according to the invention. Fig. 1
3a to 3c
different switching options of a valve of a container for cleaning liquid of the discharge device according to the invention,
4a to 4c
a schematic representation of the flow pattern at different positions of a valve at the outlet of the container for the cleaning liquid,
Fig. 5
a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a discharge device according to the invention,
6a to 6c
5 different switching positions of a valve at the outlet of the container for the cleaning liquid of the discharge device according to the invention according to FIG. 5.

Die Austragvorrichtung ist vorzugsweise ein Sprüh- oder Aerosolgenerator, mit dem Flüssigkeiten, die mit Feststoffen gemischt oder angereichert sind, aus einem Tank 1 ausgetragen werden. In ihn ragt ein vorzugsweise höhenverstellbares Saugrohr 2, das an eine Austragleitung 3 angeschlossen ist. Sie verbindet das Saugrohr 2 mit einer Sprüheinrichtung 4, mit der die Wirkstofflüssigkeit durch eine mit der Austragleitung 3 strömungsverbundene Düse 5 ausgetragen wird.The discharge device is preferably a spray or aerosol generator, with which liquids which are mixed or enriched with solids are discharged from a tank 1. A preferably height-adjustable suction tube 2 projects into it and is connected to a discharge line 3. It connects the suction pipe 2 to a spray device 4, with which the active substance liquid is discharged through a nozzle 5 which is connected to the discharge line 3.

Durch die Sprüheinrichtung 4 wird Luft in Pfeilrichtung 6 mit hoher Geschwindigkeit geblasen. Infolge der hohen Luftgeschwindigkeit im Bereich der Sprühdüse 5 wird ein Unterdruck erzeugt, wodurch die Wirkstofflüssigkeit aus dem Wirkstofftank 1 gesaugt wird. Der Unterdruck in der Austragleitung 3 und im Wirkstofftank 1 kann selbstverständlich auch auf jede andere geeignete Weise erzeugt werden. Der Wirkstofftank 1 ist in bekannter Weise nicht dicht abgeschlossen, so daß sich kein Unterdruck im Wirkstofftank 1 bilden kann.Air is blown in the direction of arrow 6 at high speed by the spray device 4. As a result of the high air speed in the area of the spray nozzle 5, a negative pressure is generated, as a result of which the active substance liquid is sucked out of the active substance tank 1. The negative pressure in the discharge line 3 and in the active substance tank 1 can of course also be generated in any other suitable way. The drug tank 1 is not sealed in a known manner, so that no negative pressure can form in the drug tank 1.

An die Austragleitung 3 ist ein elektrisches Schaltelement 7, vorzugsweise ein Membran-Unterdruckschalter, angeschlossen. Die Membran 8 des Schaltelementes 7 steht unter der Kraft einer Druckfeder 9, die die Membran 8 in Richtung auf ihre Mittelstellung belastet. Die Membran 8 trägt auf ihrer von der Druckfeder 9 abgewandten Seite einen Schaltstößel 10, mit dem beim Auslenken der Membran 8 ein Schalthebel 11 verschwenkt werden kann, um einen elektrischen Kontakt 12 zu schließen oder zu öffnen.An electrical switching element 7, preferably a membrane vacuum switch, is connected to the discharge line 3. The membrane 8 of the switching element 7 is under the force of a compression spring 9, which loads the membrane 8 in the direction of its central position. The membrane 8 carries on its side facing away from the compression spring 9 a switching plunger 10 with which a switching lever 11 can be pivoted when the membrane 8 is deflected in order to close or open an electrical contact 12.

Wie Fig. 2 zeigt, ist der die Druckfeder 9 aufweisende Raum 13 des Schaltelementes 7 über eine Zwischenleitung 14 mit der Austragleitung 3 verbunden. Die Zwischenleitung 14 hat aber einen wesentlich kleineren Querschnitt als die Austragleitung 3, sodaß nicht die Gefahr besteht, daß beim Austragen ein Teil der Wirkstofflüssigkeit über die Zwischenleitung 14 in das Schaltelement 7 gelangt.As shown in FIG. 2, the space 13 of the switching element 7 which has the compression spring 9 is connected to the discharge line 3 via an intermediate line 14. However, the intermediate line 14 has a substantially smaller cross-section than the discharge line 3, so that there is no risk that part of the active substance liquid will get into the switching element 7 via the intermediate line 14 during discharge.

An die Austragleitung 3 ist in Strömungsrichtung hinter der Zwischenleitung 14 über eine Verbindungsleitung 15 ein Behälter 16 für eine Reinigungsflüssigkeit angeschlossen. In der Verbindungsleitung 15 liegt ein Absperrorgan 17, das im Ausführungsbeispiel nach den Fig. 1 und 2 ein Magnetventil ist. Während des Austragens der Wirkstofflüssigkeit ist das Absperrorgan 17 geschlossen, so daß die Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Behälter 16 nicht in die Austragleitung 3 strömen kann.A container 16 for a cleaning liquid is connected to the discharge line 3 in the flow direction behind the intermediate line 14 via a connecting line 15. In the connecting line 15 is a shut-off device 17, which in Embodiment according to FIGS. 1 and 2 is a solenoid valve. The shut-off device 17 is closed during the discharge of the active substance liquid, so that the cleaning liquid cannot flow out of the container 16 into the discharge line 3.

Infolge des beim Austragen in der Austragleitung 3 sich bildenden Unterdruckes wird die Membran des Schaltelementes 7 gegen die Kraft der Druckfeder 9 in Richtung auf die Zwischenleitung 14 elastisch verformt. Der Schalthebel 11 wird dabei durch den Schaltstößel 10 mitgenommen, wodurch der Schalter 12 geöffnet ist. Solange der Unterdruck ansteht, wird die Wirkstofflüssigkeit aus dem Wirkstofftank 1 gesaugt und versprüht. Sobald der Flüssigkeitsspiegel 18 im Wirkstofftank 1 so weit abgesunken ist, daß die Ansaugöffnung des Saugrohres 2 freiliegt, fällt der Unterdruck im Wirkstofftank 1 und in der Austragleitung 3 ab. Die Druckfeder 9 des Schaltelementes 7 kann dann die Membran 8 wieder in Richtung auf ihre Mittelstellung verstellen. Über den Schaltstößel 10 wird der Schalthebel 11 hierbei so verstellt, daß der Schalter 12 geschlossen wird. Dadurch wird ein elektrischer Steuerstromkreis betätigt, z.B. geschlossen, wodurch das Absperrorgan 17 geöffnet wird. Die im Behälter 16 befindliche Reinigungsflüssigkeit, beispielsweise Wasser, wird durch den in der Austragleitung 3 noch vorhandenen, wenn auch verringerten Unterdruck über die Verbindungsleitung 15 in die Austragleitung 3 zur Sprühdüse 5 gesaugt. Dadurch wird die Austragleitung 3 im Bereich zwischen der Verbindungsleitung 15 und der Sprühdüse 5 gereinigt.As a result of the negative pressure which forms in the discharge line 3 during discharge, the membrane of the switching element 7 is elastically deformed in the direction of the intermediate line 14 against the force of the compression spring 9. The shift lever 11 is entrained by the shift plunger 10, whereby the switch 12 is opened. As long as the negative pressure is present, the active substance liquid is sucked out of the active substance tank 1 and sprayed. As soon as the liquid level 18 in the active substance tank 1 has dropped so far that the suction opening of the suction pipe 2 is exposed, the negative pressure in the active substance tank 1 and in the discharge line 3 drops. The compression spring 9 of the switching element 7 can then adjust the membrane 8 again in the direction of its central position. The shift lever 11 is adjusted so that the switch 12 is closed via the switching plunger 10. This actuates an electrical control circuit, e.g. closed, whereby the shut-off device 17 is opened. The cleaning liquid located in the container 16, for example water, is sucked through the connecting line 15 into the discharge line 3 to the spray nozzle 5 by the vacuum which is still present in the discharge line 3, albeit reduced. As a result, the discharge line 3 is cleaned in the area between the connecting line 15 and the spray nozzle 5.

Bei der bevorzugten Ausführungsform (Fig. 2) sind die Anschlüsse für das Schaltelement 7 und das Absperrorgan 17 für den Behälter 16 an einem Schraubteil 19 vorgesehen, das in die Austragleitung 3 lösbar eingesetzt ist und bei Bedarf, beispielsweise zu Reparaturzwecken des Schaltelementes und/oder des Absperrorgans 17 und/oder des Behälters 16, leicht ausgetauscht werden kann. Das Schraubteil 19 weist an seinen beiden Enden Gewindeabschnitte 20 und 21 auf, in die entsprechende Gewindeenden der Austragleitung 3 geschraubt werden können.In the preferred embodiment (FIG. 2), the connections for the switching element 7 and the shut-off element 17 for the container 16 are provided on a screw part 19 which is detachably inserted into the discharge line 3 and, if necessary, for example for repair purposes of the switching element and / or the shut-off element 17 and / or the container 16, can be easily replaced. The screw part 19 has threaded sections 20 and 21 at its two ends, into which corresponding thread ends of the discharge line 3 can be screwed.

Sobald der Flüssigkeitsspiegel 18 unter das freie Ende des Saugrohres 2 abfällt, wird in der beschriebenen Weise automatisch der Reinigungsvorgang eingeleitet. Die Beendigung des Reinigungsvorganges kann ebenfalls automatisch erfolgen, beispielsweise mittels eines Zeitgliedes, welches die Dauer des Reinigungsvorganges bestimmt. Dieses Zeitglied kann einstellbar ausgebildet sein, so daß die Zeitdauer des Reinigungsvorganges je nach verwendetem Wirkstoff eingestellt werden kann. Ebenso ist es aber auch möglich, den Reinigungsvorgang beispielsweise von Hand abzuschalten, indem das Absperrorgan 17 in seine Schließstellung verstellt wird.As soon as the liquid level 18 drops below the free end of the suction pipe 2, the cleaning process is automatically initiated in the manner described. The cleaning process can also be ended automatically, for example by means of a timer which determines the duration of the cleaning process. This timer can be made adjustable, so that the duration of the cleaning process can be set depending on the active ingredient used. However, it is also possible to switch off the cleaning process, for example by hand, by moving the shut-off device 17 into its closed position.

Um einen erneuten Austragvorgang einzuleiten, muß die Saugeinrichtung, mit der die Luft in die Sprüheinrichtung 4 zur Erzeugung des Unterdrucks gesaugt wird, von Hand eingeschaltet werden.In order to initiate a new discharge process, the suction device with which the air is sucked into the spray device 4 for generating the negative pressure must be switched on by hand.

In den Fig. 4a bis 4c sind schematisch einzelne Reinigungsabläufe dargestellt. Im einfachsten Fall befindet sich der Reinigungsbehälter 16, wie in Fig. 1 dargestellt, im Bereich oberhalb der Austragleitung 3 und ist als druckloser Behälter ausgebildet. In diesem Falle erfolgt die Spülung der Austragleitung 3 durch die Ausnutzung der geodätischen Höhe des Reinigungsbehälters 16 in bezug auf die Austragleitung 3 nach Öffnen des Absperrorgans 17. Sobald in der beschriebenen Weise der Schalter 12 geschlossen und das Absperrorgan 17 geöffnet wird, strömt die Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Behälter 16 unter Schwerkraft durch die Verbindungsleitung 15 in die Austragleitung 3 bis zur Sprühdüse 5. Hierbei wird der Bereich der Austragleitung 3 zwischen der Verbindungsleitung 15 und der Sprühdüse 5 gespült und gereinigt.Individual cleaning processes are shown schematically in FIGS. 4a to 4c. In the simplest case, the cleaning container 16, as shown in FIG. 1, is located in the area above the discharge line 3 and is designed as a pressureless container. In this case, the discharge line 3 is rinsed by utilizing the geodetic height of the cleaning container 16 in relation to the discharge line 3 after opening the shut-off member 17. As soon as the switch 12 is closed in the manner described and the shut-off member 17 is opened is, the cleaning liquid flows from the container 16 under gravity through the connecting line 15 into the discharge line 3 to the spray nozzle 5. Here, the area of the discharge line 3 between the connecting line 15 and the spray nozzle 5 is rinsed and cleaned.

Damit auch der in Strömungsrichtung vor der Verbindungsleitung 15 befindliche Teil der Austragleitung 3 gereinigt werden kann, ist das Absperrorgan 17, insbesondere der Querschnitt der Verbindungsleitung 15, so gewählt, daß mehr Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Behälter 16 zufließen kann, als an der Sprühdüse 5 abgesaugt wird. Aufgrund des Leitungswiderstandes strömt die Reinigungsflüssigkeit somit entgegen der Fließrichtung in der Austragleitung 3 zurück bis in das Saugrohr 2 und in den Wirkstofftank 1, so daß in diesem Fall die gesamte Austragleitung 3 einschließlich des Saugrohres 2 hervorragend gespült und gereinigt wird. Dadurch wird zuverlässig verhindert, daß sich Wirkstoffe in der Austragleitung 3, im Saugrohr 2 und in der Sprühdüse bzw. im Sprühkopf 5 absetzen und den Austrag des Wirkstoffes verhindern oder zumindest beeinträchtigen.So that the part of the discharge line 3 located in the flow direction in front of the connecting line 15 can be cleaned, the shut-off element 17, in particular the cross section of the connecting line 15, is selected so that more cleaning liquid can flow from the container 16 than is suctioned off at the spray nozzle 5 . Due to the line resistance, the cleaning liquid thus flows against the direction of flow in the discharge line 3 back into the suction tube 2 and into the active substance tank 1, so that in this case the entire discharge line 3 including the suction tube 2 is excellently rinsed and cleaned. This reliably prevents active substances from settling in the discharge line 3, in the suction pipe 2 and in the spray nozzle or in the spray head 5 and prevent or at least impair the discharge of the active substance.

In Fig. 4a ist schematisch der Fall dargestellt, daß das Absperrorgan 17 geschlossen ist und somit der Wirkstoff in der Austragleitung 3 in Saugrichtung 22 strömt.4a schematically shows the case in which the shut-off device 17 is closed and the active substance thus flows in the discharge line 3 in the suction direction 22.

Fig. 4b zeigt die Verhältnisse, wenn das Absperrorgan 17 geöffnet ist und die Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Behälter 16 durch die Verbindungsleitung 15 in die Austragleitung 3 strömt. Infolge der beschriebenen Dimensionierung des Absperrorgans bzw. der Verbindungsleitung 15 und des Leitungswiderstandes strömt die Reinigungsflüssigkeit sowohl in als auch entgegen Saugrichtung. Hierbei erfolgt eine kontinuierliche Spülung und Reinigung der Austragleitung 3.4b shows the conditions when the shut-off device 17 is open and the cleaning liquid flows from the container 16 through the connecting line 15 into the discharge line 3. As a result of the described dimensioning of the shut-off element or the connecting line 15 and the line resistance, the cleaning liquid flows both in and against Suction direction. The discharge line 3 is continuously rinsed and cleaned.

Die Reinigungsflüssigkeit kann auch intermittierend zugeführt werden, um eine bessere Reinigungswirkung zu erhalten. Um diese intermittierende und damit diskontinuierliche Spülung der Austragleitung 3 zu erreichen, wird das Absperrorgan 17 impulsartig geöffnet und geschlossen. Dies hat zur Folge, das intermittierend Luft (geschlossenes Absperrorgan 17) und Reinigungsflüssigkeit (geöffnetes Absperrorgan 17) angesaugt wird, wodurch eine bessere Reinigungswirkung bei einem gleichzeitigen Einsparen von Reinigungsflüssigkeit erreicht wird. Ist das Absperrorgan während dieser Impulsreinigung geschlossen, dann wird Luft aus dem Wirkstofftank angesaugt, in dem der Flüssigkeitsspiegel 18 so weit abgesunken ist, daß das freie Ende des Saugrohres 2 frei ist. Sobald das Absperrorgan 17 wieder geöffnet wird, wird Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Behälter 16 angesaugt. Diese diskontinuierliche Spülung ist in Fig. 4c schematisch dargestellt. Auch hier kann durch die beschriebene Abstimmung des Querschnitts der Verbindungsleitung 15 und der Austragleitung 3 erreicht werden, daß die Reinigungsflüssigkeit auch entgegen Saugrichtung 22 zurück bis zum Wirkstofftank 1 fließt. Selbstverständlich kann die Anordnung aber auch so getroffen sein, daß lediglich der Bereich zwischen der Verbindungsleitung 15 und dem Sprühkopf 5 mit der Reinigungsflüssigkeit gespült wird.The cleaning liquid can also be supplied intermittently in order to obtain a better cleaning effect. In order to achieve this intermittent and thus discontinuous flushing of the discharge line 3, the shut-off device 17 is opened and closed in a pulsed manner. As a result, air (closed shut-off device 17) and cleaning fluid (open shut-off device 17) are sucked in intermittently, whereby a better cleaning effect is achieved while at the same time saving cleaning fluid. If the shut-off device is closed during this pulse cleaning, then air is sucked out of the active substance tank, in which the liquid level 18 has dropped so far that the free end of the suction pipe 2 is free. As soon as the shut-off device 17 is opened again, cleaning liquid is sucked out of the container 16. This discontinuous rinsing is shown schematically in Fig. 4c. Here, too, it can be achieved through the described coordination of the cross section of the connecting line 15 and the discharge line 3 that the cleaning liquid flows back as far as the suction direction 22 to the active substance tank 1. Of course, the arrangement can also be such that only the area between the connecting line 15 and the spray head 5 is rinsed with the cleaning liquid.

Um ein sicheres Schalten bei unterschiedlichen Füllständen im Wirkstofftank 1 zu gewährleisten, ist das als Druckschalter ausgebildete Schaltelement 7 im Bereich oberhalb des Wirkstofftanks 1 und im Bereich oberhalb der Austragleitung 3 angeordnet. Dadurch wird auch erreicht, daß das Schaltelement 7 bzw. seine Membran 8 nicht mit dem evtl. korrosiv wirkenden auszutragenden Medium in Berührung kommt. Nach Unterschreiten des voreingestellten Füllstandes (Verschieben des Saugrohres 2) fällt in der beschriebenen Weise der Vakuum- bzw. Druckschalter 7 ab und leitet den Spülvorgang in der beschriebenen Weise ein. Gleichzeitig wird bei Unterschreiten des Füllstandes durch das Umschalten dieses Schaltelementes 7 das elektrische Ablaufprogramm weitergeschaltet.In order to ensure reliable switching at different fill levels in the active substance tank 1, the switching element 7 designed as a pressure switch is arranged in the area above the active substance tank 1 and in the area above the discharge line 3. This also ensures that the switching element 7 or its membrane 8 does not come into contact with the possibly corrosive medium to be discharged. After falling below the preset fill level (moving the suction pipe 2), the vacuum or pressure switch 7 drops out in the manner described and initiates the rinsing process in the manner described. At the same time, when the fill level is undershot, the electrical sequence program is switched on by switching this switching element 7.

Bei der Ausführungsform gemäß Fig. 3a ist der Behälter 16a als druckbeaufschlagter Behälter ausgebildet. Hierzu ist er mit einem Druckanschluß 23 versehen, sodaß die Reinigungsflüssigkeit mittels Druckbeaufschlagung über die Verbindungsleitung 15 in die Austragleitung 3 gefördert werden kann. Dadurch muß der Reinigungsbehälter 16a nicht im Bereich oberhalb des Wirkstofftanks 1 bzw. der Austragleitung 3 angeordnet sein. Infolge der Druckbeaufschlagung der Reinigungsflüssigkeit im Behälter 16a wird eine zuverlässige Reinigung bzw. Spülung der Austragleitung 3 erreicht. Die Reinigung mit einem solchen Druckbehälter 16a erfolgt auf gleiche Weise, wie dies anhand des vorigen Ausführungsbeispiels im einzelnen erläutert worden ist.In the embodiment according to FIG. 3a, the container 16a is designed as a pressurized container. For this purpose, it is provided with a pressure connection 23 so that the cleaning liquid can be conveyed into the discharge line 3 by means of pressurization via the connecting line 15. As a result, the cleaning container 16a does not have to be arranged in the region above the active substance tank 1 or the discharge line 3. As a result of the pressurization of the cleaning liquid in the container 16a, the discharge line 3 is reliably cleaned or flushed. Cleaning with such a pressure vessel 16a is carried out in the same way as has been explained in detail using the previous exemplary embodiment.

Bei den beiden zuvor beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispielen ist das Absperrorgan 17 jeweils ein Zweiwegeventil. Als Absperrorgan kann auch ein Dreiwegeventil 17b verwendet werden (Fig. 3b und 3c). Ein solches Dreiwegeventil 17b ist ebenso wie das Zweiwegeventil 17 so angeordnet, daß es nicht mit dem evtl. korrosiv wirkenden, auszutragenden Wirkstoff in Berührung kommt. Während des Austragvorganges ist das Dreiwegeventil 17b geschlossen, so daß der im Wirkstofftank 1 in gelöster Form sich befindende Wirkstoff durch die Austragleitung mittels Unterdruck ausgetragen wird. Sobald der Flüssigkeitsspiegel 18 im Wirkstofftank 1 wieder bis in den Bereich unterhalb des Saugrohres 2 abgefallen ist, wird in der beschriebenen Weise der Schalter 12 durch das Schaltelement 7 betätigt und damit das Dreiwegeventil 17b in die Offenstellung verstellt (Fig. 3b). Nunmehr kann die Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem Behälter 16b über die Verbindungsleitung 15 in die Austragleitung 3 in der beschriebenen Weise strömen. Der Behälter 16b kann wiederum drucklos arbeiten oder mit einem Druckanschluß versehen sein, so daß die Reinigungsflüssigkeit unter Druckbeaufschlagung durch die Verbindungsleitung 15 in die Austragleitung 3 gedrückt wird. Außerdem kann wiederum in der beschriebenen Weise die Dimensionierung der Verbindungsleitung 15 und der Austragleitung 3 mit dem Sprühkopf 5 so gewählt sein, daß die Reinigungsflüssigkeit auch entgegen Saugrichtung 22 in das Saugrohr 2 und in den Wirkstofftank 1 strömt.In the two exemplary embodiments described above, the shut-off element 17 is in each case a two-way valve. A three-way valve 17b can also be used as a shut-off device (FIGS. 3b and 3c). Such a three-way valve 17b, like the two-way valve 17, is arranged in such a way that it does not come into contact with the possibly corrosive agent to be discharged. During the discharge process, the three-way valve 17b is closed, so that the active substance in solution form 1 in the active substance tank 1 passes through the discharge line by means of negative pressure is carried out. As soon as the liquid level 18 in the active substance tank 1 has dropped again into the area below the suction tube 2, the switch 12 is actuated by the switching element 7 in the manner described and the three-way valve 17b is thus adjusted to the open position (FIG. 3b). Now the cleaning liquid can flow from the container 16b via the connecting line 15 into the discharge line 3 in the manner described. The container 16b can in turn work without pressure or be provided with a pressure connection, so that the cleaning liquid is pressed into the discharge line 3 through the connecting line 15 under pressure. In addition, in the manner described, the dimensions of the connecting line 15 and the discharge line 3 with the spray head 5 can be chosen such that the cleaning liquid also flows into the suction tube 2 and into the active substance tank 1 counter to the suction direction 22.

Mit dem Dreiwegeventil 17b ist es besonders einfach möglich, eine Impulsreinigung durchzuführen. Hierbei wird das Dreiwegeventil 17b in kurzen Zeitabständen jeweils so umgeschaltet, daß abwechselnd Reinigungsflüssigkeit und Luft über die Verbindungsleitung 15 in die Austragleitung 3 gelangt. In Fig. 3c ist das Dreiwegeventil 17b so geschaltet, daß der behälterseitige Anschluß 25 des Dreiwegeventils 17b geschlossen ist und die Luft über einen atmosphärenseitigen Anschluß 24 angesaugt wird. Durch schnelles Hin- und Herschalten des Dreiwegeventils 17b in die beiden Stellungen gemäß den Fig. 3b und 3c wird auf diese Weise impulsartig und abwechselnd Reinigungsflüssigkeit und Wasser in die Austragleitung 3 gefördert, die auf diese Weise besonders intensiv gespült und gereinigt wird.With the three-way valve 17b, it is particularly easy to carry out pulse cleaning. Here, the three-way valve 17b is switched over at short time intervals so that cleaning fluid and air alternately reach the discharge line 3 via the connecting line 15. In Fig. 3c, the three-way valve 17b is switched so that the container-side port 25 of the three-way valve 17b is closed and the air is sucked in via an atmosphere-side port 24. By quickly switching the three-way valve 17b back and forth into the two positions according to FIGS. 3b and 3c, cleaning liquid and water are conveyed into the discharge line 3 in an impulsive and alternating manner, which is rinsed and cleaned particularly intensively in this way.

Der atmosphärenseitige Anschluß 24 des Dreiwegeventils 17b kann auch zum Anschluß eines zweiten Reinigungsbehälters verwendet werden. In ihm kann weitere Reinigungsflüssigkeit oder auch eine andere Flüssigkeit gelagert sein. Auf diese Weise kann durch Umschalten des Dreiwegeventils 17b diese zusätzliche oder weitere Reinigungsflüssigkeit in die Austragleitung 3 gefördert werden.The atmosphere-side connection 24 of the three-way valve 17b can also be used to connect a second cleaning container. Further cleaning liquid or another liquid can be stored in it. In this way, this additional or further cleaning liquid can be conveyed into the discharge line 3 by switching over the three-way valve 17b.

Bei der Ausführungsform gemäß Fig. 5 befindet sich das Schaltelement 7 in Saugrichtung 22 des Wirkstoffes hinter dem Absperrorgan 17c, das in dem dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel wiederum ein Dreiwegeventil ist. Anstelle dieses Dreiwegeventils kann selbstverständlich auch ein Zweiwegeventil gemäß den Fig. 1 und 2 eingesetzt werden. Das Dreiwegeventil 17c hat zwei Anschlüsse 27 und 29 für die Austragleitung 3 sowie einen Anschluß 28 für die Verbindungsleitung 15, die zum Behälter 16c mit der Reinigungsflüssigkeit führt. Die beiden Anschlüsse 27 und 29 befinden sich im Gegensatz zur vorigen Ausführungsform in der Austragleitung 3. Im übrigen ist diese Ausführungsform gleich ausgebildet wie die zuvor beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispiele. Das Ausführungsbeispiel nach Fig. 5 wird insbesondere bei rückstandsfreien bzw. feststofffreien Stoffen eingesetzt.In the embodiment according to FIG. 5, the switching element 7 is located in the suction direction 22 of the active substance behind the shut-off element 17c, which in turn is a three-way valve in the exemplary embodiment shown. Instead of this three-way valve, a two-way valve according to FIGS. 1 and 2 can of course also be used. The three-way valve 17c has two connections 27 and 29 for the discharge line 3 and a connection 28 for the connecting line 15, which leads to the container 16c with the cleaning liquid. In contrast to the previous embodiment, the two connections 27 and 29 are located in the discharge line 3. Otherwise, this embodiment has the same design as the exemplary embodiments described above. The embodiment according to FIG. 5 is used in particular with residue-free or solids-free substances.

Anhand der Fig. 6a bis 6c soll die Wirkungsweise des Dreiwegeventils 17c näher erläutert werden. In der Stellung gemäß Fig. 6a sind die Anschlüsse 28 und 29 des Dreiwegeventils offen, so daß die Reinigungsflüssigkeit aus dem drucklosen oder druckbeaufschlagten Behälter 16c über die Verbindungsleitung 15 in die Austragleitung 3 bis zum Sprühkopf 5 gesaugt wird. Der entgegen Strömungsrichtung 22 gerichtete Anschluß 27 des Dreiwegeventils 17c ist gesperrt. Bei dieser Stellung des Dreiwegeventils 17c wird die Austragleitung 3 im Bereich zwischen dem Dreiwegeventil und dem Wirkstofftank 1 nicht gespült und gereinigt.The mode of operation of the three-way valve 17c will be explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 6a to 6c. 6a, the connections 28 and 29 of the three-way valve are open, so that the cleaning liquid is sucked out of the pressureless or pressurized container 16c via the connecting line 15 into the discharge line 3 to the spray head 5. The connection 27 of the three-way valve 17c directed against the flow direction 22 is blocked. At this Position of the three-way valve 17c, the discharge line 3 is not rinsed and cleaned in the area between the three-way valve and the active substance tank 1.

In der Stellung gemäß Fig. 6b sind die beiden Anschlüsse 27 und 29 des Dreiwegeventils 17c offen, während der behälterseitige Anschluß 28 gesperrt ist. Diese Stellung nimmt das Dreiwegeventil 17c während des Austrags des Wirkstoffes ein. Die im Wirkstofftank 1 befindliche Flüssigkeit wird in Saugrichtung 22 in der beschriebenen Weise durch Unterdruck zur Sprühdüse 5 gefördert.6b, the two connections 27 and 29 of the three-way valve 17c are open, while the connection 28 on the container side is blocked. The three-way valve 17c assumes this position during the discharge of the active substance. The liquid in the active substance tank 1 is conveyed in the suction direction 22 in the manner described by negative pressure to the spray nozzle 5.

Bei der Stellung gemäß Fig. 6c sind die beiden Anschlüsse 27 und 28 offen, während der Anschluß 29 des Dreiwegeventils 17c gesperrt ist. In diesem Falle wird die Reinigungsflüssigkeit durch das Saugrohr 2 in den Wirkstofftank 1 gefördert. Die Spülung bzw. Reinigung kann in diesem Falle wie auch bei der Stellung gemäß Fig. 6a drucklos oder mit Druck erfolgen. Bei der Spülung mit einem druckbeaufschlagten Behälter 16c (Fig. 5) ist die Einbaulage des Behälters nicht von der geodätischen Höhe abhängig, wie dies auch anhand des Ausführungsbeispieles nach Fig. 3a erläutert worden ist.6c, the two connections 27 and 28 are open, while the connection 29 of the three-way valve 17c is blocked. In this case, the cleaning liquid is conveyed through the suction pipe 2 into the active substance tank 1. In this case, the flushing or cleaning can also be carried out without pressure or with pressure, as in the position according to FIG. 6a. When flushing with a pressurized container 16c (FIG. 5), the installation position of the container is not dependent on the geodetic height, as has also been explained with reference to the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3a.

Die Ausführungsform nach Fig. 5 arbeitet gleich wie das Ausführungsbeispiel nach Fig. 1. In der Sprüheinrichtung 4 wird Luft angesaugt, die mit hoher Geschwindigkeit durch die Sprüheinrichtung strömt und dadurch den Wirkstoff aus der Sprühdüse 5 saugt. Infolge der hohen Luftgeschwindigkeit wird in der Austragleitung 3 und damit im Saugrohr 2 sowie im Wirkstofftank 1 ein Unterdruck erzeugt, durch welchen der Wirkstoff versprüht wird. Infolge des Unterdruckes wird die Membran 8 des Schaltelementes 7 gegen die Kraft der Druckfeder 3 elastisch gebogen, wodurch der Schalter 12 in der beschriebenen Weise geöffnet ist. Sobald der Flüssigkeitsspiegel im Wirkstofftank 1 unter das freie Ende das Saugrohres 2 fällt, nimmt der Unterdruck ab, was dazu führt, daß die Druckfeder 9 die Membran 8 in ihre Ausgangslage zurückstellt. Dadurch wird über den Schaltstößel 10 und den Schalthebel 11 der Schalter 12 geschlossen, wodurch gleichzeitig das Absperrorgan 17c so geöffnet wird, daß die Reinigungsflüssigkeit in die Austragleitung 3 gelangen kann. Zweckmäßig wird das Dreiwegeventil 17c zunächst entsprechend Fig. 6a geöffnet, so daß die Austragleitung 3 vom Dreiwegeventil 17c bis zum Sprühkopf 5 gespült und gereinigt wird. Mittels eines Zeitgliedes oder auch manuell wird dann das Dreiwegeventil 17c in die Stellung gemäß Fig. 6c umgeschaltet, so daß nunmehr auch die Austragleitung 3 im Bereich zwischen dem Dreiwegeventil und dem Wirkstofftank 1 gereinigt wird. Die Reinigungsflüssigkeit wird in beiden Fällen durch den in der Austragleitung 3 vorhandenen Unterdruck aus dem Behälter 16c angesaugt. Steht der Behälter 16c unter Druck, dann wird durch die Druckbeaufschlagung die Saugwirkung der Austragvorrichtung unterstützt, so daß die Reinigungsflüssigkeit zuverlässig die Austragleitung 3 durchspült.The embodiment according to FIG. 5 works in the same way as the embodiment according to FIG. 1. Air is sucked into the spray device 4, which flows through the spray device at high speed and thereby sucks the active substance out of the spray nozzle 5. As a result of the high air speed, a negative pressure is generated in the discharge line 3 and thus in the suction pipe 2 and in the active substance tank 1, through which the active substance is sprayed. As a result of the negative pressure, the membrane 8 of the switching element 7 becomes counter to the force of the compression spring 3 bent elastically, whereby the switch 12 is opened in the manner described. As soon as the liquid level in the active substance tank 1 falls below the free end of the suction pipe 2, the negative pressure decreases, which leads to the compression spring 9 returning the membrane 8 to its initial position. Characterized the switch 12 is closed via the switching plunger 10 and the switching lever 11, whereby the shut-off device 17c is simultaneously opened so that the cleaning liquid can get into the discharge line 3. Appropriately, the three-way valve 17c is first opened in accordance with FIG. 6a, so that the discharge line 3 is rinsed and cleaned from the three-way valve 17c to the spray head 5. The three-way valve 17c is then switched to the position according to FIG. 6c by means of a timer or also manually, so that the discharge line 3 in the region between the three-way valve and the active substance tank 1 is now also cleaned. In both cases, the cleaning liquid is sucked out of the container 16c by the negative pressure present in the discharge line 3. If the container 16c is under pressure, the suction effect of the discharge device is supported by the pressurization, so that the cleaning liquid reliably rinses the discharge line 3.

Die beschriebenen Dreiwegeventile 17b, 17c sind handelsübliche 3/2-Wegeventile, können aber auch entsprechende Kugelhähne sein, mit denen die verschiedenen Ventilstellungen erreicht werden können.The three-way valves 17b, 17c described are commercially available 3/2-way valves, but can also be corresponding ball valves with which the various valve positions can be achieved.

Da nach Erreichen bzw. Unterschreiten eines vorgegebenen Flüssigkeitsspiegels im Wirkstofftank 1 automatisch der Reinigungsvorgang in der beschriebenen Weise eingeleitet wird, tritt keine Verstopfung oder Verschmutzung der Austragleitung 3 und/oder der Sprühdüse 5 ein.Since the cleaning process is automatically initiated in the manner described after reaching or falling below a predetermined liquid level in the active substance tank 1, there is no blockage or contamination of the discharge line 3 and / or the spray nozzle 5.

Die beschriebene Anordnung des Schaltelementes 7 in Strömungsrichtung 22 hinter dem Absperrorgan 17c kann auch bei den zuvor beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispielen vorgesehen sein. Ebenso ist es auch möglich, beim Ausführungsbeispiel nach Fig. 5 das Schaltelement 7 in Saugrichtung 22 vor dem Absperrorgan 17c anzuordnen. Schließlich kann das Absperrorgan bei der Ausführungsform nach Fig. 5 gleich ausgebildet sein wie bei den zuvor beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispielen, während umgekehrt das Absperrorgan gemäß Fig. 5 auch bei den vorigen Ausführungsbeispielen verwendet werden kann.The described arrangement of the switching element 7 in the flow direction 22 behind the shut-off device 17c can also be provided in the previously described exemplary embodiments. It is also possible, in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 5, to arrange the switching element 7 in the suction direction 22 in front of the shut-off element 17c. Finally, the shut-off element in the embodiment according to FIG. 5 can be designed in the same way as in the previously described exemplary embodiments, while conversely the shut-off element according to FIG. 5 can also be used in the previous exemplary embodiments.

Die Verbindungsleitung 15 zum Reinigungsbehälter kann auch direkt an das Wassernetz angeschlossen werden, so daß Wasser als Reinigungsflüssigkeit unmittelbar dem Wassernetz entnommen werden kann. Es ist hierbei auch möglich, den Behälter an das Wassernetz anzuschließen, so daß über den Behälter Wasser als Reinigungsmittel direkt dem Wassernetz entnommen werden kann.The connecting line 15 to the cleaning container can also be connected directly to the water network, so that water can be removed directly from the water network as cleaning liquid. It is also possible to connect the container to the water network so that water can be removed directly from the water network via the container as a cleaning agent.

Claims (10)

  1. A discharge device, in particular a spray generator or aerosol generator, having at least one active-substance tank (1) which is - via a discharge line (3) - provided with at least one spray device (4) from which the active-substance fluid is discharged by means of low pressure, characterised in that the fluid level (18) in the active-substance tank (1) is checked by means of at least one monitoring element (7) which - when the fluid level (18) falls below a predetermined level - emits a switching signal to a rinsing device (15; 16, 16a to 16c; 17, 17b, 17c) for automatic rinsing of at least part of the discharge line (3).
  2. A device in accordance with Claim 1, characterised in that the monitoring element (7) is a pressure switch which is connected to the discharge line (3), and in that the monitoring element (7) is preferably arranged in the region above the active-substance tank (1) and the discharge line (3).
  3. A device in accordance with Claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the height of the suction opening - located in the active-substance tank (1) - to the discharge line (3) is vertically adjustable, and in that the suction opening is preferably provided in a vertically adjustable suction pipe (2).
  4. A device in accordance with any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the switching signal of the monitoring element (7) can be supplied to a shut off member (17, 17b, 17c), preferably to a two-way valve or three-way valve, of the rinsing device (15; 16, 16a to 16c; 17, 17b, 17c), and in that the monitoring element (7) and/or the shut off member (17, 17b, 17c) is preferably connectable to a removable intermediate piece (19) of the discharge line (3) and the rinsing device (15; 16, 16a to 16c; 17, 17b, 17c) is preferably connectable to the water mains.
  5. A device in accordance with any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the switching signal of the monitoring element (7) steps on an electrical operating cycle of the device.
  6. A device in accordance with Claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the shut off member (17, 17b, 17c) lies in a connecting line (15) which connects a cleaning receptacle (16, 16a to 16c) to the discharge line, and in that preferably the cleaning receptacle (16, 16a to 16c) is arranged in the region above the discharge line (3) and has a pressure connection (23).
  7. A device in accordance with Claim 6, characterised in that the flow cross-section of the connecting line (15) is selected in such a manner that more cleaning fluid flows into the discharge line (3) than flows out of the discharge line (3).
  8. A device in accordance with any one of Claims 4 to 7, characterised in that the shut off member (17, 17b) is - in the suction direction (22) of the active-substance fluid - arranged after the monitoring element (7).
  9. A device in accordance with any one of Claims 4 to 7, characterised in that the shut off member (17c) is - in the suction direction (22) of the active-substance fluid - arranged before the monitoring element (7), and in that with a three-way valve or three-way cock as shut off member (17c) its active-substance connection (27) on the suction side is preferably blocked during the cleaning process.
  10. A device in accordance with any one of Claims 4 to 9, characterised in that the shut off member (17, 17b, 17c) is intermittently switchable in such a manner that cleaning fluid and air reach the discharge line (3) alternately, and in that two of the connections (28, 29) of the shut off member (17c) are preferably connected to the cleaning receptacle (16c) and to the atmosphere.
EP91105812A 1990-04-19 1991-04-12 Coating device, especially spraying- or aerosol generator Expired - Lifetime EP0452819B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4012433A DE4012433A1 (en) 1990-04-19 1990-04-19 DISCHARGE DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR SPRAY OR AEROSOL GENERATOR
DE4012433 1990-04-19

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0452819A1 EP0452819A1 (en) 1991-10-23
EP0452819B1 true EP0452819B1 (en) 1994-07-20

Family

ID=6404632

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP91105812A Expired - Lifetime EP0452819B1 (en) 1990-04-19 1991-04-12 Coating device, especially spraying- or aerosol generator

Country Status (5)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0452819B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE108702T1 (en)
DE (2) DE4012433A1 (en)
DK (1) DK0452819T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2056513T3 (en)

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3674205A (en) * 1971-05-14 1972-07-04 Champion Spark Plug Co Multiple color paint spray system
US4592305A (en) * 1981-01-26 1986-06-03 Ransburg Corporation Variable low-pressure fluid color change cycle
US4714179A (en) * 1985-03-15 1987-12-22 Ford Motor Company Positive displacement paint pushout apparatus
HU198116B (en) * 1986-11-06 1989-08-28 Debreceni Mezoegazdasagi Spraying machine particularly for area-proportional spreading spray liquor

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE4012433A1 (en) 1991-10-24
DK0452819T3 (en) 1994-09-05
DE59102217D1 (en) 1994-08-25
EP0452819A1 (en) 1991-10-23
ATE108702T1 (en) 1994-08-15
ES2056513T3 (en) 1994-10-01

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