EP2644281B1 - Colour changer - Google Patents
Colour changer Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2644281B1 EP2644281B1 EP12002292.6A EP12002292A EP2644281B1 EP 2644281 B1 EP2644281 B1 EP 2644281B1 EP 12002292 A EP12002292 A EP 12002292A EP 2644281 B1 EP2644281 B1 EP 2644281B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- valve
- valve means
- actuator
- actuation
- switching
- 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.)
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Classifications
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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
- B05B12/14—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for supplying a selected one of a plurality of liquids or other fluent materials or several in selected proportions to a spray apparatus, e.g. to a single spray outlet
- B05B12/149—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for supplying a selected one of a plurality of liquids or other fluent materials or several in selected proportions to a spray apparatus, e.g. to a single spray outlet characterised by colour change manifolds or valves therefor
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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
- B05B15/00—Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
- B05B15/50—Arrangements for cleaning; Arrangements for preventing deposits, drying-out or blockage; Arrangements for detecting improper discharge caused by the presence of foreign matter
- B05B15/55—Arrangements for cleaning; Arrangements for preventing deposits, drying-out or blockage; Arrangements for detecting improper discharge caused by the presence of foreign matter using cleaning fluids
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
- Y10T137/8593—Systems
- Y10T137/87096—Valves with separate, correlated, actuators
Definitions
- the invention relates to a color changer comprising a valve module having a first interaction surface, a plurality provided in the valve module valve means which are connected at their respective inlet side with a respective supply channel and at their respective outlet side with a common collecting channel, wherein the valve means via respective switching means with a respectively in a switching module having a second interaction surface and exactly one actuator, which opens with a second actuation end in the second interaction surface, valve module and switching module with their respective interaction surfaces adjacent and are arranged along this against each other slidably and wherein by a respective sliding movement, the second operating end at the same time a maximum of one of the first operating ends in a respective operating position bewegb ar is, so that an opening and closing of the respectively associated valve means is made possible by exactly one actuator.
- a variety of different shades are used in industrial painting, for example, in paint shops for automobile bodies or attachments.
- Such paint shops are mostly robot-based and designed at typical cycle times of 60s to 90s to paint a different color in each cycle, with 20 to 60 different colors in the automotive industry is a common number.
- one each To supply supplied to a robot arm atomizer with a paint material of the desired color usually color changer are provided. These have a plurality of inputs for paint material, which are connected to corresponding supply lines for the different paint materials.
- the paint materials are usually provided by means of so-called ring lines at various delivery points along the painting and provided from there by means of the supply lines to the respective color changer.
- a color changer usually has a common collecting channel, in which the supply lines open at least indirectly, the output of which is connected via a line to the atomizer to be supplied with paint material.
- Valve means are provided between the respective inputs of the color changer and the common collection channel. Depending on which of the valve means is open, the corresponding paint material is introduced into the collecting channel during painting and forwarded from there to the atomizer. At least one input of a color changer is usually connected via a valve means with a solvent line in order to clean in the case of a color change the collecting channel for the next paint material with a different hue. Frequently, cleaning also involves the feeding of an air / solvent mixture which is produced by alternating, pulsed feeding of air and solvent. The cleaning effect of such a mixture is significantly increased with reduced solvent consumption.
- Valve means are subject to wear and thus leakage may occur over time. If a valve means no longer closes reliably, so marginal amounts of a paint material of a first hue can get into the collection channel despite actually closed state of a valve means and mix with a paint material located therein a different hue.
- the patent document US Pat. No. 3,672,570 discloses a pneumatically controlled color changer according to the preamble of claim 1, in which a plurality of paint materials of different color via a respective valve with a common collection channel is connectable.
- the patent document US 4 191 214 A discloses a sequential locking mechanism for valves by which erroneous operation is precluded.
- the patent application WO 0151216 A2 discloses a color changing device, in which the closable with a respective valve ends of respective color supply lines lead to a matrix similar to a plane and can be optionally connected to a corresponding take-off line, wherein in the case of connection, the respective valve is open.
- the basic idea of the invention is, on the one hand, to physically exclude a simultaneous actuation of a plurality of valve means and, furthermore, to visually make visible a possible leakage of valve means as clearly as possible.
- a drive device is ideally provided, for example one or more stepper motors or pneumatic actuators.
- the second actuation end of the exactly one actuator is simultaneously positioned opposite at most one of the first actuation ends, in which position an interaction of the respective actuation ends is made possible.
- the actuating ends preferably act perpendicular to the respective interaction surfaces, for example in the form of a joint push or pull movement. But it is also possible that the respective actuating ends comprise lines which are hermetically connected to each other in the operating position. Thus, it is also possible, for example, to direct a compressed air from the actuator through the conduit thus formed from the switching module in the valve module and thus to effect a switching of a respective selected valve means.
- the interaction surfaces are at least partially opposite one another and arranged displaceable or movable relative to one another.
- the interaction surfaces it is possible both for the interaction surfaces to adjoin one another directly, that is for them to be slidably movable on one another, but also for the interaction surfaces to be arranged at a distance from one another, for example 1-2 cm.
- the gap existing in this case is then to be bridged by the actuating ends, at least in the case of actuation of a respective valve means, which then correspondingly protrude from the respective interaction surface.
- all first operating ends of the switching means protrude in the closed state of the first interaction surface.
- the first switching ends in the first interaction surface is also advantageously allows that in the case of a possible leakage of one of the valve means leaking paint material preferably collects on the first interaction surface and thus is particularly quickly visible, so that any leakage in an advantageous Way is easy to locate.
- the switching means provide a preferably mechanical operative connection between their respective first switching end and the valve means to be switched, for example in the form of a push rod or the like.
- the push rod is then optionally connected with its side remote from the operating end directly to the valve means and thus actuates this as needed.
- An actuator is preferably designed to perform a linear movement. In the case, that an actuator is able to exert a force only for one of its two directions of movement, are provided either in the actuator itself or in the switching means corresponding spring elements, so that a provision of the actuator is effected by a spring force.
- the valve and the switching module are movable relative to each other about a common axis of rotation, wherein the first actuating ends of the switching means are arranged along a circular path about the axis of rotation.
- the common collecting channel merges at its first end into an outlet channel.
- appropriate connection means are provided at the first end of the collecting channel or at the outlet channel, for example a respective screw connection as a transition to a hose.
- a hose connection is then guided directly or indirectly to a respective atomizer, which is then mounted, for example, on a robot.
- an inlet channel opens into the second end of the common collecting channel, which is provided for the supply of air and / or cleaning agent.
- an inlet channel By fluidly provided at the beginning of the common collecting channel junction can be cleaned from its second end to the first end in the event of a color change after closing all the valve means the entire collecting channel and be prepared for a next color.
- a corresponding inlet valve for air and / or cleaning agent also actuated by the exact one actuator, so that a common opening of a valve means for color is excluded together with the inlet valve for air and / or cleaning agents.
- separately openable and closable further valve means are provided for the inlet channel and / or in particular the outlet channel.
- a flow of color to the atomizer can be interrupted in an advantageous manner, for example to allow the lacquer material to be pressed on or else to enable a synchronous switching of the color flow in accordance with the requirements of a lacquering program of a robot.
- the valve module and the switching module are designed and cooperate in such a way that the valve means are closed in the unactuated state.
- spring elements are preferably provided, which press the valve means in the idle state in the safe closed state. In the case of an actuation of one of the valve means by the exactly one actuator, this optionally brings a force acting against the spring force and thus causes an opening of the respective valve means selected.
- the switching means are designed such that opening of a respective valve means is effected by a return movement of the second actuating end of the actuator into the second interaction surface. This either requires that the respective first actuating end of the respective selected switching means presses with a spring force against the second actuating end of the opposite actuator or that coupling means are provided between the second actuating end of the actuator and the respective first actuating end, by which the transmission of a tensile force is enabled. By a return movement of the actuator, the associated valve means is opened.
- coupling means are provided between the second actuating end of the actuator and the respective first actuating end, which between them a tensile stress enable.
- a coupling means may, for example, in a nail-head-like configuration of respective first actuating ends, which can then be gripped by a form-fitting corresponding gripping element of the second operating end.
- the switching means are designed such that an opening of a respective valve means is effected by a retraction movement of the second actuating end of the actuator out of the second interaction surface.
- the non-actuated valve means are closed without the action of a force on the first switching ends in an advantageous manner, wherein an opening is then effected by the action of a pressure movement to the selected first switching end.
- the valve means have tube-like coupling elements for paint material, which are fluidically connected to each other in the open state and are moved away from each other in the closed state, in which case an isolating distance is formed.
- the tube-like coupling elements are part of the respective switching channel, which is formed in the open state of a respective valve means of the respective feed channel to the common collection channel.
- the formation of a separation path in the closed state requires that on both sides of the separation path, if necessary, further valve and / or switching means are provided which securely close them in the closed state relative to the respective supply channel or the common collection channel.
- the tube-like coupling elements are part of the switching means and, in particular, are also suitable for transmitting a compressive force or a pressure movement in the coupled state, through which the respectively selected valve means can then be opened.
- the separating line on both sides closing valve or switching means are feeder channel side, for example, the aforementioned switching means according to the invention and Sammelkanalograph an additional closing mechanism, weleher is also operated via the switching means or is formed by the switching means itself.
- the formation of a separation path safely excludes that in the closed state paint material can flow through the tube-like coupling elements. Any possible leakage of one of the respective valve means leads to a leakage of typically under pressure paint material in the region of the separation distance.
- the respective separation sections are formed in an overarching separation area, which thus accommodates the separation sections of a plurality of valve means. It is further optionally provided that one or more externally accessible and / or visible separation areas are formed.
- a separation region may be, for example, a groove or the like, for example with a width of 1-2 cm, into which the coupling elements protrude on both sides.
- the separation sections of all or at least a plurality of valve means are formed in the same groove.
- the valve means are designed such that, in addition to the closed and the open valve state, they can also assume a third valve state, in which no separation path and no fluidic connection between the coupling elements is formed.
- the tube-like coupling elements are indeed coupled to each other, but the respective switching channel between the respective supply channel and the common collecting channel is closed at least at the coupling point by respective switching or valve means. In this special cleaning position, this makes it possible to clean the collecting channel together with the collecting channel-side coupling piece in the event of a color change, whereby it is certainly precluded that cleaning agent enters the feeding-side coupling piece.
- another variant of the invention also includes that the actuator is intended to assume three operating positions, which cooperate correspond with each selected valve means with one of the valve states.
- each of the three valve means states - namely, open, closed and purge position - can also be safely set by the actuator.
- the actuator operates on a pneumatic or hydraulic basis and is configured such that the first operating position is achieved by supplying a pressure medium, for example compressed air, in a first input and the second operating position by supplying a pressure medium into a second input.
- a pressure medium for example compressed air
- the actuator comprises a lifting cylinder with a piston movable therein, pressure chambers being formed on both sides of the piston.
- the first input and the second input for the compressed air supply open into a different pressure chamber.
- a movement of the piston takes place in one or the other direction until a respective stop is reached.
- Return means such as a spring, spend the piston in an initial position when neither of the two outlets is pressurized with compressed air.
- Fig. 1 shows a first exemplary color changer 10 in a sectional view.
- a valve module 32 a plurality of valve means 18, 20, 22 are arranged with their outlet side into a common collecting channel 24, which are connected with their inlet side with respective supply channels 12, 14, 16 for paint material of different colors.
- the valve means 18, 20, 22 cooperate with a respective first actuation end in an interaction surface 34 opening switching means 26, 28, 30 such that the valve means 18, 20, 22 of the interaction surface 34 can be opened and closed.
- the respective switching means 26, 28, 30 essentially comprise a switching rod, which can be pressed down on the interaction surface side, so that an opening of the associated valve means 18, 20, 22 takes place, which, like all other valve means, is closed even in the unactuated state.
- valve module 32 Arranged in the drawing above the valve module 32 is a switching module 44 which comprises an actuator 48 and has a second interaction surface 46.
- Valve module 32 and switching module 44 are arranged such that their respective interaction surfaces 34 and 46 are opposite, wherein both modules 32, 44 along their interaction surfaces 34, 46 against each other are movable 52, for example by means of two not shown drives in the X-Y direction.
- the actuator 48 opens with a second actuating end 50 in the second interaction surface 46, wherein the direction of movement of the actuating end 50 is perpendicular to the parallel interaction surfaces 34, 46.
- the term "open" does not mean that an operating end must be flush with the relevant interaction surface; rather, it is also possible to project the operating end out or in.
- the switching module 44 is shifted to an actuating position for the valve means 18 such that the second actuating end 50 of the actuator 48 is located exactly opposite the first actuating end of the switching means for the valve means 18.
- the cooperating first actuating end is depressed and causes an opening of the valve means 18.
- a simultaneous actuation of all other valve means 20, 22 is excluded in an advantageous manner.
- an outlet channel for the outflow of the respectively selected paint material is provided.
- a further separately switchable valve means 38 is provided to interrupt a paint flow to the nebulizer, if necessary.
- a further valve means 36 is provided between an inlet channel and an inlet tube 40, with which provided via the inlet tube 36 provided cleaning agent can be passed into the collecting channel 24, so that it flows through the collecting channel 24 and then this cleans.
- the outflow of the solvent in the case of cleaning is then typically via the outlet channel.
- the valve means 18th is possible, in this example, the valve means 18th
- Fig. 2 shows an exemplary valve module 60 in a plan view.
- a first interaction surface 62 of the valve module 60 opens a plurality of first actuating ends 66 of respective switching means, which are associated with respective valve means of the valve module 60.
- the first actuating ends are arranged along a circular path 68, whose center is formed by a common axis of rotation 64 of the valve module 60 and a switching module, not shown.
- a common collection channel 70 is arranged substantially following the circular path 68, which at its first end 72 with a Connecting piece 76 for an outlet hose and at its second end 74 with a connection piece 78 for an inlet hose for cleaning agent is connected.
- the switching module is rotatable relative to the valve module 60 about the common axis of rotation 64, wherein also not shown switching end of an associated actuator at a distance of the radius of the circular path 68 is arranged so that this with exactly one of the respective first actuating ends 66 in a respective actuation position is available.
- the Fig. 3 shows a second exemplary color changer 80 in a sectional view.
- a cylinder-like valve module 82 Arranged around a common axis of rotation 86 are a cylinder-like valve module 82 and a cylinder-like switching module 84.
- the valve module 82 comprises an exemplary valve means 88, which in this example is shown in an open state and a respective switchable connector between a respective supply channel 100 and a fitting represents a tube-like coupling element in the rear region.
- the contact area 104 which in the Fig. 7 is shown in detail below, there is a coupling of the tube-like coupling element with a corresponding coupling element, which in turn is connected to a common collecting channel.
- valve means 88 In the opened state, paint material flows from the supply channel 100 through the valve means 88 into its rear region and from there through the coupling elements coupled in the contact region 104 into the common collection channel.
- the movable valve-side tube-like coupling element serves on the one hand the passage of the paint material from the open valve means 88 but on the other hand also the actuation of the valve means 88. This is designed such that it is set from the open to the closed state during a pressure movement of the coupling element.
- valve module 82 There are other comparable valve means provided in the valve module 82, which, however, are not shown.
- the feed channel 100 is part of a color supply with color circulation, wherein the return channel from the color changer is designated by the reference numeral 102.
- the respective paint material of different shades in a continuous circulation even if it is not passed into the common collection channel.
- a sedimentation of color pigments is thereby avoided in an advantageous manner.
- the switching module 84 comprises an actuator 94, which is provided for carrying out a linear movement in the direction of arrow 96 parallel to the common axis of rotation 86 and thereby assuming one of three defined positions.
- the actuation of the actuator 94 via a compressed air supply 98 and a compressed air supply 106, wherein in each case immersioneiindustrialder position of the two compressed air supply lines or even no compressed air is applied.
- an opening position of the actuator 94 is driven to have a first rearward position.
- the movement of the actuator 94 is transmitted as a pulling movement on the one end of a movable rod member which opens at its other end in the common collecting channel and closes this depending on the switching position or not.
- Coupling means are provided which allow a releasable connection between the first (actuating) end of the rod member and the second actuating end of the actuator 94.
- a pulling movement of the actuator 94 is advantageously transferable to the switching means 90.
- valve module 82 and the switching module 84 are rotated about the axis of rotation 86 in such a position against each other that the actuator 94 is in an actuated position relative to the valve means 88.
- a force transmission between the actuator 94 and the valve means 88 takes place in a coupling region 90 with corresponding switching means, of which an exemplary switching means, a return spring, is provided with the reference numeral 92.
- a coupling region of respective switching element elements is provided with the reference numeral 104 for an open valve means and in a detailed view 132 in the Fig. 7 shown.
- the Fig. 4 shows a third exemplary color changer 108 in a sectional view. This corresponds essentially to that in the Fig. 3 shown color changer, but the actuator does not occupy an opening position but a cleaning position.
- the tube-like coupling elements are indeed coupled to each other, but the respective switching channel between the respective supply channel and the common collecting channel is closed at least at the coupling point by respective switching or valve means.
- a coupling region of respective switching means elements for the valve means in the cleaning position is provided with the reference numeral 109 and in a detailed view 136 in the Fig. 7 shown.
- the Fig. 5 shows a fourth exemplary color changer 110 in a sectional view.
- a cylinder-like valve module 112 Arranged around a common axis of rotation are a cylinder-like valve module 112 and a cylinder-like switching module 114.
- the valve module 112 comprises two exemplary valve means 120, which in this example are depicted in a closed state and a respective switchable connector between a respective supply channel and a fitting to a common Represent collection channel.
- Switching means 122 opening into and protruding from a first interaction surface 116 of the valve module 112 constitute a mechanical operative connection between the respective valve means 120 and an actuating end opposite a second interaction surface 118 of the switching module 114.
- the switching means 122 are designed such that the valve means in this unoperated condition are safely closed.
- An actuation by an actuator is not provided in this illustration.
- Each of the non-actuated valves of the color changer is in such a closed position.
- a not shown actuator can be spent with a second operating end, not shown, in an actuating position for one of the valve means.
- a coupling region of respective switching element elements is provided with the reference numeral 124 for a closed valve means and in a detailed view 134 in the Fig. 7 shown.
- Fig. 6 represents the same fourth color changer in the same valve position, but with now engaged actuator. This is achieved by corresponding rotation of the switching module. The valve means can now be opened.
- Fig. 7 13 illustrates in detail drawings 130 contact areas of interlocking exemplary switch means components, with the reference numeral 132 for the detail with the reference numeral 104 in FIG Fig. 3 (open state), with the reference numeral 134 for the detail with the reference numeral 124 in the Fig. 4 (closed state) and the reference numeral 136 for the detail with the reference numeral 109 in the Fig. 5 (Cleaning state).
- a tube-like coupling element 139 is shown with cone-like tip, which is pressed by means of the force of a spring element, not shown, against a form-fitting corresponding bore of another coupling element, which opens into a common collection channel 137.
- the further coupling element is milled together with a plurality of other further coupling elements in one and the same component, in which the common collecting channel is provided.
- From the opposite side opens a movable rod member 138 in the common collecting channel, which cooperates on its side facing away from the collecting channel with an actuator, not shown, non-positively.
- the rod member 138 has been moved away from the positive bore by means of the actuator, so that this bore is fluidly released.
- paint material can flow from an opened valve means (not shown) into the common collection channel 137 through the pipe-like coupling element 139.
- the movement of the rod member 138 by the actuator takes place against the force of a spring element, not shown, so that the rod member 138 is pressed in the unactuated state by the spring force with its conical tip on the tube-like coupling element 139 and this closes, as in the detailed drawing with the reference numeral 134 indicated for the closed state.
- the spring force with which the rod member 138 is pressed against the tube-like coupling element 139 is greater than the spring force with which the tube-like coupling element 139 is pushed away from the valve means, not shown. Therefore, the tube-like coupling element 139 is pressed by the spring force of the rod member 138 in the direction of the valve means and moves - as shown in the detail drawing 134 - and closes this. Furthermore, the rod element 138 has a bead-like thickening in its rear region, which closes the common collection channel 137 in the position shown.
- the tube-like coupling element thus serves both the forwarding of paint material in its interior and as a push rod for actuating the valve means, not shown.
- the reference numeral 136 shows a contact area for the cleaning state.
- the rod member 138 with its cone-like tip closes the tube-like coupling element 139, but does not push it in the direction of the valve means, not shown. In this position, the common collecting channel 137 can be safely cleaned.
- Fig. 8 shows a fourth exemplary color changer 140 in a side view.
- a valve module 142 and switching module 144 which are arranged around a common axis of rotation, are shown, wherein the valve module 142 has feed channels 146 that run in a star shape on the axis of rotation for paint materials of different colors.
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Description
Die Erfindung betrifft einen Farbwechsler umfassend ein Ventilmodul mit einer ersten Interaktionssfläche, mehrere im Ventilmodul vorgesehene Ventilmittel, welche an ihrer jeweiligen Einlassseite mit einem jeweiligen Zuführungskanal und an ihrer jeweiligen Auslassseite mit einem gemeinsamen Sammelkanal verbunden sind, wobei die Ventilmittel über jeweilige Schaltmittel mit einem jeweils in der ersten Interaktionssfläche mündenden ersten Betätigungsende öffen- und schließbar sind, ein Schaltmodul mit einer zweiten Interaktionssfläche und genau einem Aktuator, welcher mit einem zweiten Betätigungsende in der zweiten Interaktionssfläche mündet, wobei Ventilmodul und Schaltmodul mit ihren jeweiligen Interaktionssflächen benachbart und entlang dieser gegeneinander verschiebbar angeordnet sind und wobei durch eine jeweilige Verschiebebewegung das zweite Betätigungsende gegenüber gleichzeitig maximal einem der ersten Betätigungsenden in eine jeweilige Betätigungsposition bewegbar ist, so dass ein Öffnen und Schließen genau des jeweils zugehörigen Ventilmittels durch den genau einen Aktuator ermöglicht ist.The invention relates to a color changer comprising a valve module having a first interaction surface, a plurality provided in the valve module valve means which are connected at their respective inlet side with a respective supply channel and at their respective outlet side with a common collecting channel, wherein the valve means via respective switching means with a respectively in a switching module having a second interaction surface and exactly one actuator, which opens with a second actuation end in the second interaction surface, valve module and switching module with their respective interaction surfaces adjacent and are arranged along this against each other slidably and wherein by a respective sliding movement, the second operating end at the same time a maximum of one of the first operating ends in a respective operating position bewegb ar is, so that an opening and closing of the respectively associated valve means is made possible by exactly one actuator.
Es ist allgemein bekannt, dass in industriellen Lackieranlagen eine Vielzahl von verschiedenen Farbtönen zum Einsatz kommt, beispielsweise in Lackieranlagen für Automobilkarosserien oder Anbauteile. Derartige Lackieranlagen sind zumeist roboterbasiert und bei typischen Taktzeiten von 60s bis 90s dafür ausgelegt, in jedem Taktzyklus einen anderen Farbton zu lackieren, wobei 20 bis 60 verschiedene Farbtöne in der Automobilindustrie eine gängige Anzahl ist. Um beispielsweise einen jeweils an einem Roboterarm angebrachten Zerstäuber mit einem Lackmaterial des gewünschten Farbtons zu versorgen sind zumeist Farbwechsler vorgesehen. Diese weisen eine Vielzahl an Eingängen für Lackmaterial auf, welche mit entsprechenden Versorgungsleitungen für die verschiedenen Lackmaterialien verbunden sind. Die Lackmaterialien werden in der Regel mittels sogenannter Ringleitungen an verschiedenen Abnahmestellen längs der Lackieranlage zur Verfügung gestellt und von dort mittels der Versorgungsleitungen zum jeweiligen Farbwechsler geführt. Ein Farbwechsler weist zudem üblicherweise einen gemeinsamen Sammelkanal auf, in welchen die Versorgungsleitungen zumindest indirekt münden, wobei dessen Ausgang über eine Leitung mit dem mit Lackmaterial zu versorgenden Zerstäuber verbunden ist.It is well known that a variety of different shades are used in industrial painting, for example, in paint shops for automobile bodies or attachments. Such paint shops are mostly robot-based and designed at typical cycle times of 60s to 90s to paint a different color in each cycle, with 20 to 60 different colors in the automotive industry is a common number. For example, one each To supply supplied to a robot arm atomizer with a paint material of the desired color usually color changer are provided. These have a plurality of inputs for paint material, which are connected to corresponding supply lines for the different paint materials. The paint materials are usually provided by means of so-called ring lines at various delivery points along the painting and provided from there by means of the supply lines to the respective color changer. In addition, a color changer usually has a common collecting channel, in which the supply lines open at least indirectly, the output of which is connected via a line to the atomizer to be supplied with paint material.
Zwischen den jeweiligen Eingängen des Farbwechslers und dem gemeinsamen Sammelkanal sind Ventilmittel vorgesehen. Je nachdem, welches der Ventilmittel geöffnet ist, wird beim Lackierbetrieb das entsprechende Lackmaterial in den Sammelkanal eingeführt und von dort an den Zerstäuber weitergeleitet. Wenigstens ein Eingang eines Farbwechsler ist üblicherweise über ein Ventilmittel mit einer Lösemittelleitung verbunden, um im Falle eines Farbwechsels den Sammelkanal für das nächste Lackmaterial mit anderem Farbton zu reinigen. Häufig kommt bei einer Reinigung auch ein Einspeisen eines Luft- Lösemittelgemisches zum Einsatz, welches durch abwechselndes, gepulstes Einspeisen von Luft und Lösemittel erzeugt wird. Die Reinigungswirkung eines solchen Gemisches ist bei verringertem Lösemittelverbrauch deutlich erhöht.Valve means are provided between the respective inputs of the color changer and the common collection channel. Depending on which of the valve means is open, the corresponding paint material is introduced into the collecting channel during painting and forwarded from there to the atomizer. At least one input of a color changer is usually connected via a valve means with a solvent line in order to clean in the case of a color change the collecting channel for the next paint material with a different hue. Frequently, cleaning also involves the feeding of an air / solvent mixture which is produced by alternating, pulsed feeding of air and solvent. The cleaning effect of such a mixture is significantly increased with reduced solvent consumption.
Die strikte Trennung von verschiedenen Farbtönen ist von höchster Bedeutung, weil bereits geringste Farbrückstände zu einer Verfälschung des Farbtons kommen können, beispielsweise bei einem marginalen Rückstand eines roten Farbtons in einem weißen Farbton. Ventilmittel unterliegen einem Verschleiß und es können somit im Laufe der Zeit auch Leckagen auftreten. Wenn ein Ventilmittel nicht mehr zuverlässig schließt, so können trotz eigentlich geschlossenem Zustand eines Ventilmittels marginale Mengen eines Lackmaterials eines ersten Farbtons in den Sammelkanal gelangen und sich mit einem darin befindlichen Lackmaterial eines anderen Farbtons vermischen.The strict separation of different hues is of the utmost importance, because even the slightest color residue can lead to a falsification of hue, for example, a marginal residue of a red hue in a white hue. Valve means are subject to wear and thus leakage may occur over time. If a valve means no longer closes reliably, so marginal amounts of a paint material of a first hue can get into the collection channel despite actually closed state of a valve means and mix with a paint material located therein a different hue.
Aber auch durch versehentliche gleichzeitige Betätigung von mehreren Ventilmitteln erfolgt das Mischen von mehreren Farbtönen, so dass das Lackierergebnis unbrauchbar wird. Auch wenn Maßnahmen getroffen werden, dies steuerungstechnisch zu unterbinden, so besteht immer noch ein Restrisiko einer gleichzeitigen Betätigung.But also by accidental simultaneous actuation of several valve means, the mixing of several shades takes place, so that the painting result is unusable. Even if measures are taken to prevent this control technology, there is still a residual risk of simultaneous actuation.
Der durch fehlerhaft lackierte Karosserien entstandene Schaden ist erheblich, weil diese komplett aufgearbeitet und neu lackiert werden müssen. Da in einer Lackierstrasse zumeist eine Vielzahl an Lackierrobotern sequentiell an der Lackierung ein und desselben Objektes beteiligt ist, erweist sich eine Zuordnung einer fehlerhaften Lackierung zu einem bestimmten Lackierroboter beziehungsweise dem diesen zugehörigen Farbwechsler zumeist als sehr schwierig bis unmöglich. Daher ist eine Lackieranlage bei Vorhandensein eines defekten Lackwechslers zumeist für den Zeitraum einer Fehlersuche stillzulegen, wodurch deren Produktionskapazität in nachteiliger Weise reduziert wird.The damage caused by incorrectly painted bodies is considerable because they have to be completely refurbished and repainted. Since in a painting line usually a plurality of painting robots sequentially involved in the painting of one and the same object, an assignment of a faulty painting proves to a particular painting robot or the associated color changer mostly very difficult to impossible. Therefore, a Lackieranlage is shut down in the presence of a defective paint changer mostly for the period of troubleshooting, whereby their production capacity is reduced adversely.
Das Patentdokument
Ausgehend von diesem Stand der Technik ist es Aufgabe der Erfindung, einen Farbwechsler anzugeben, welche sich durch eine besonders hohe Zuverlässigkeit bezüglich der Vermeidung einer möglichen Farbverschleppung auszeichnet.Based on this prior art, it is an object of the invention to provide a color changer, which is characterized by a particularly high reliability with respect to the avoidance of a possible Farbverschleppung.
Diese Aufgabe wird gelöst durch einen Farbwechsler mit den im Anspruch 1 genannten Merkmalen. Die Grundidee der Erfindung besteht einerseits darin, eine gleichzeitige Betätigung mehrerer Ventilmittel physikalisch auszuschließen und weiterhin darin, eine mögliche Leckage von Ventilmitteln möglichst deutlich optisch sichtbar werden zu lassen.This object is achieved by a color changer with the features mentioned in claim 1. The basic idea of the invention is, on the one hand, to physically exclude a simultaneous actuation of a plurality of valve means and, furthermore, to visually make visible a possible leakage of valve means as clearly as possible.
Durch das Vorhandensein genau eines Aktuators, dessen zweites Betätigungsende gegenüber gleichzeitig maximal einem der ersten Betätigungsenden der Schaltmittel für die jeweiligen Ventilmittel in eine jeweilige Betätigungsposition bewegbar ist, ist konstruktionsbedingt sichergestellt, dass maximal ein Ventilmittel gleichzeitig öffenbar ist. Farbverschleppungen beziehungsweise Farbvermischungen durch eine Fehlbedienung des Farbwechslers sind damit in vorteilhafter Weise ausgeschlossen. Die Auswahl des jeweiligen Ventilmittels, welches durch den genau einen Aktuator zu schalten ist, erfolgt durch eine jeweilige Verschiebung des Schaltmoduls relativ zum Ventilmodul. Hierzu ist idealerweise eine Antriebsvorrichtung vorgesehen, beispielsweise ein oder mehrere Schrittmotoren oder auch pneumatische Aktuatoren. In einer Betätigungsposition ist das zweite Betätigungsende des genau einen Aktuators gegenüber gleichzeitig maximal einem der ersten Betätigungsenden positioniert, wobei in dieser Position ein Zusammenwirken der jeweiligen Betätigungsenden ermöglicht ist. Die Betätigungsenden wirken vorzugsweise senkrecht zu den jeweiligen Interaktionsflächen, beispielsweise in Form einer gemeinsamen Schub- oder auch Zugbewegung. Es ist aber auch möglich, dass die jeweiligen Betätigungsenden Leitungen umfassen, welche in der Betätigungsposition hermetisch miteinander verbunden sind. So ist es beispielsweise auch möglich, eine Druckluft aus dem Aktuator durch den so gebildeten Leitungskanal von dem Schaltmodul in das Ventilmodul zu leiten und damit ein Schalten eines jeweils ausgewählten Ventilmittels zu bewirken.Due to the presence of exactly one actuator whose second actuating end is at the same time at most one of the first actuating ends of the switching means for the respective valve means movable to a respective actuation position, it is ensured by design that a maximum of one valve means can be opened simultaneously. Farbverschleppungen or color mixing by incorrect operation of the color changer are thus excluded in an advantageous manner. The selection of the respective valve means, which is to be switched by the exactly one actuator, is effected by a respective displacement of the switching module relative to the valve module. For this purpose, a drive device is ideally provided, for example one or more stepper motors or pneumatic actuators. In an actuation position, the second actuation end of the exactly one actuator is simultaneously positioned opposite at most one of the first actuation ends, in which position an interaction of the respective actuation ends is made possible. The actuating ends preferably act perpendicular to the respective interaction surfaces, for example in the form of a joint push or pull movement. But it is also possible that the respective actuating ends comprise lines which are hermetically connected to each other in the operating position. Thus, it is also possible, for example, to direct a compressed air from the actuator through the conduit thus formed from the switching module in the valve module and thus to effect a switching of a respective selected valve means.
Die Interaktionsflächen sind zumindest teilweise gegenüberliegend benachbart und gegeneinander verschieb- beziehungsweise bewegbar angeordnet. Hierbei ist es sowohl möglich, dass die Interaktionsflächen direkt aneinander grenzen, also aufeinander gleitend bewegbar sind, aber auch, dass die Interaktionsflächen in einem Abstand zueinander, beispielsweise 1-2 cm, angeordnet sind. Der in diesem Fall vorhandene Spalt ist dann zumindest im Falle einer Betätigung eines jeweiligen Ventilmittels durch die Betätigungsenden zu überbrücken, welche dann entsprechend aus der jeweiligen Interaktionsfläche ragen. Es ist aber auch ohne weiteres möglich, dass beispielsweise alle ersten Betätigungsenden der Schaltmittel im geschlossenen Zustand aus der ersten Interaktionsfläche herausragen. Durch das Münden der ersten Schaltenden in der ersten Interaktionsfläche wird zudem in vorteilhafter Weise ermöglicht, dass sich im Fall einer eventuellen Leckage eines der Ventilmittel austretendes Lackmaterial bevorzugter Weise an der ersten Interaktionsfläche sammelt und damit besonders schnell sichtbar wird, so dass eine eventuelle Leckage in vorteilhafter Weise einfach zu orten ist.The interaction surfaces are at least partially opposite one another and arranged displaceable or movable relative to one another. In this case, it is possible both for the interaction surfaces to adjoin one another directly, that is for them to be slidably movable on one another, but also for the interaction surfaces to be arranged at a distance from one another, for example 1-2 cm. The gap existing in this case is then to be bridged by the actuating ends, at least in the case of actuation of a respective valve means, which then correspondingly protrude from the respective interaction surface. But it is also readily possible that, for example, all first operating ends of the switching means protrude in the closed state of the first interaction surface. By Münden the first switching ends in the first interaction surface is also advantageously allows that in the case of a possible leakage of one of the valve means leaking paint material preferably collects on the first interaction surface and thus is particularly quickly visible, so that any leakage in an advantageous Way is easy to locate.
Die Schaltmittel stellen eine vorzugsweise mechanische Wirkverbindung zwischen ihrem jeweiligen ersten Schaltende und dem zu schaltenden Ventilmittel dar, beispielsweise in Form einer Schubstange oder dergleichen. Die Schubstange ist dann gegebenenfalls mit ihrer dem Betätigungsende abgewandten Seite direkt mit dem Ventilmittel verbunden und betätigt dieses somit bedarfsweise. Ein Aktuator ist vorzugsweise dafür vorgesehen, eine Linearbewegung durchzuführen. Für den Fall, dass ein Aktuator lediglich für eine seiner beiden Bewegungsrichtungen in der Lage ist, eine Kraft auszuüben, sind entweder im Aktuator selbst oder aber in den Schaltmitteln entsprechende Federelemente vorzusehen, so dass eine Rückstellung des Aktuators durch eine Federkraft erfolgt.The switching means provide a preferably mechanical operative connection between their respective first switching end and the valve means to be switched, for example in the form of a push rod or the like. The push rod is then optionally connected with its side remote from the operating end directly to the valve means and thus actuates this as needed. An actuator is preferably designed to perform a linear movement. In the case, that an actuator is able to exert a force only for one of its two directions of movement, are provided either in the actuator itself or in the switching means corresponding spring elements, so that a provision of the actuator is effected by a spring force.
Entsprechend einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Farbwechslers sind das Ventil- und das Schaltmodul um eine gemeinsame Drehachse gegeneinander bewegbar, wobei die ersten Betätigungsenden der Schaltmittel längs einer Kreisbahn um die Drehachse angeordnet sind. Somit ist durch eine einfache Drehbewegung der Aktuator des Schaltmoduls beziehungsweise dessen zweites Betätigungsende in eine Betätigungsposition gegenüber genau eines der ersten Betätigungsenden verbringbar. Die Auswahlbewegung ist damit auf einen Bewegungsfreiheitsgrad reduziert und damit besonders einfach und positionsgenau realisierbar. Zudem ist auch lediglich ein einziger Antrieb zur Durchführung dieser Auswahlbewegung notwendig.According to a preferred embodiment of the color changer according to the invention, the valve and the switching module are movable relative to each other about a common axis of rotation, wherein the first actuating ends of the switching means are arranged along a circular path about the axis of rotation. Thus, by a simple rotational movement of the actuator of the switching module or its second operating end in an operating position relative to exactly one of the first actuating ends can be brought. The selection movement is thus reduced to a degree of freedom of movement and thus particularly simple and accurate position feasible. In addition, only a single drive for carrying out this selection movement is necessary.
Gemäß einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Farbwechslers geht der gemeinsame Sammelkanal an seinem ersten Ende in einen Auslasskanal über. Hierzu sind entsprechende Anschlussmittel am ersten Ende des Sammelkanals beziehungsweise am Auslasskanal vorzusehen, beispielsweise eine jeweilige Schraubverbindung als Übergang zu einem Schlauch. Typischerweise ist eine derartige Schlauchverbindung dann direkt oder indirekt zu einem jeweiligen Zerstäuber geführt, welcher dann beispielsweise auf einem Roboter montiert ist.According to a further embodiment of the color changer according to the invention, the common collecting channel merges at its first end into an outlet channel. For this purpose, appropriate connection means are provided at the first end of the collecting channel or at the outlet channel, for example a respective screw connection as a transition to a hose. Typically, such a hose connection is then guided directly or indirectly to a respective atomizer, which is then mounted, for example, on a robot.
Einer weiteren Erfindungsvariante folgend mündet ein Einlasskanal in das zweite Ende des gemeinsamen Sammelkanals, welcher für die Zuführung von Luft- und/oder Reinigungsmittel vorgesehen ist. Durch die strömungstechnisch am Anfang des gemeinsamen Sammelkanals vorgesehene Einmündung kann im Falle eines Farbwechsels nach Schließen aller Ventilmittel der gesamte Sammelkanal von seinem zweiten Ende beginnend bis zum ersten Ende gereinigt werden und so für einen nächsten Farbton vorbereitet werden. Es ist optional möglich, ein entsprechendes Einlassventil für Luft- und/oder Reinigungsmittel auch von dem genau einen Aktuator betätigen zu lassen, so dass ein gemeinsames Öffnen eines Ventilmittels für Farbe zusammen mit dem Einlassventil für Luft- und/oder Reinigungsmittel ausgeschlossen ist.According to a further variant of the invention, an inlet channel opens into the second end of the common collecting channel, which is provided for the supply of air and / or cleaning agent. By fluidly provided at the beginning of the common collecting channel junction can be cleaned from its second end to the first end in the event of a color change after closing all the valve means the entire collecting channel and be prepared for a next color. It is optionally possible to have a corresponding inlet valve for air and / or cleaning agent also actuated by the exact one actuator, so that a common opening of a valve means for color is excluded together with the inlet valve for air and / or cleaning agents.
Gemäß einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Farbwechslers sind für den Einlasskanal und/oder insbesondere den Auslasskanal separat öffen- und schließbare weitere Ventilmittel vorgesehen. Somit lässt sich im Falle des Auslasskanals ein Farbfluss zum Zerstäuber in vorteilhafter Weise unterbrechen, beispielsweise um ein Andrücken des Lackmaterials zu ermöglichen oder aber auch um ein synchrones Schalten des Farbflusses entsprechend den Anforderungen eines Lackierprogramms eines Roboters zu ermöglichen.According to a further embodiment of the color changer according to the invention, separately openable and closable further valve means are provided for the inlet channel and / or in particular the outlet channel. Thus, in the case of the outlet channel, a flow of color to the atomizer can be interrupted in an advantageous manner, for example to allow the lacquer material to be pressed on or else to enable a synchronous switching of the color flow in accordance with the requirements of a lacquering program of a robot.
Entsprechend einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Farbwechslers sind das Ventilmodul und das Schaltmodul derart ausgestaltet und wirken derart zusammen, dass die Ventilmittel in unbetätigtem Zustand verschlossen sind. Hierzu sind bevorzugter Weise Federelemente vorzusehen, welche die Ventilmittel im Ruhezustand in den sicheren geschlossenen Zustand drücken. Im Falle einer Betätigung eines der Ventilmittel durch den genau einen Aktuator bringt dieser gegebenenfalls eine gegen die Federkraft wirkende Kraft auf und bewirkt damit ein Öffnen des jeweiligen ausgewählten Ventilmittels.According to a further embodiment of the color changer according to the invention, the valve module and the switching module are designed and cooperate in such a way that the valve means are closed in the unactuated state. For this purpose, spring elements are preferably provided, which press the valve means in the idle state in the safe closed state. In the case of an actuation of one of the valve means by the exactly one actuator, this optionally brings a force acting against the spring force and thus causes an opening of the respective valve means selected.
Gemäß einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsvariante des erfindungsgemäßen Farbwechslers sind die Schaltmittel derart ausgestaltet, dass ein Öffnen eines jeweiligen Ventilmittels durch eine Rückfahrbewegung des zweiten Betätigungsendes des Aktuators in die zweite Interaktionssfläche hinein bewirkt wird. Dies bedingt entweder, dass das jeweilige erste Betätigungsende des jeweiligen ausgewählten Schaltmittels mit einer Federkraft gegen das zweite Betätigungsende des gegenüber befindlichen Aktuators drückt oder dass Kupplungsmittel zwischen zweitem Betätigungsende des Aktuators und dem jeweiligen ersten Betätigungsende vorgesehen sind, durch welche die Übertragung einer Zugkraft ermöglicht ist. Durch eine Rückfahrbewegung des Aktuators wird das zugehörige Ventilmittel geöffnet.According to a further embodiment variant of the color changer according to the invention, the switching means are designed such that opening of a respective valve means is effected by a return movement of the second actuating end of the actuator into the second interaction surface. This either requires that the respective first actuating end of the respective selected switching means presses with a spring force against the second actuating end of the opposite actuator or that coupling means are provided between the second actuating end of the actuator and the respective first actuating end, by which the transmission of a tensile force is enabled. By a return movement of the actuator, the associated valve means is opened.
Erfindungsgemäß sind daher in einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltungsvariante Kupplungsmittel zwischen dem zweiten Betätigungsende des Aktuators und jeweiligen ersten Betätigungsenden vorgesehen, welche dazwischen eine Zugkraftbeanspruchung ermöglichen. Hierdurch ist eine permanente Gegenkraft zum Schließen der nicht betätigten Ventilmittel in vorteilhafter Weise vermieden, so dass die Sicherheit des Farbwechslers in vorteilhafter Weise gesteigert ist. Ein Kupplungsmittel kann beispielsweise in einer nagelkopfähnlichen Ausgestaltung von jeweiligen ersten Betätigungsenden bestehen, welche dann von einem formschlüssig korrespondierenden Greifelement des zweiten Betätigungsendes gegriffen werden können.According to the invention, therefore, in a preferred embodiment, coupling means are provided between the second actuating end of the actuator and the respective first actuating end, which between them a tensile stress enable. In this way, a permanent counterforce for closing the non-actuated valve means is advantageously avoided, so that the security of the color changer is increased in an advantageous manner. A coupling means may, for example, in a nail-head-like configuration of respective first actuating ends, which can then be gripped by a form-fitting corresponding gripping element of the second operating end.
Gemäß einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Farbwechslers sind die Schaltmittel derart ausgestaltet, dass ein Öffnen eines jeweiligen Ventilmittels durch eine Herausfahrbewegung des zweiten Betätigungsendes des Aktuators aus der zweiten Interaktionssfläche heraus bewirkt wird. Auch hier sind die nicht betätigten Ventilmittel ohne Einwirkung einer Kraft auf die ersten Schaltenden in vorteilhafter Weise geschlossen, wobei ein Öffnen dann durch Einwirkung einer Druckbewegung auf das jeweils ausgewählte erste Schaltende erfolgt.According to a further embodiment of the color changer according to the invention, the switching means are designed such that an opening of a respective valve means is effected by a retraction movement of the second actuating end of the actuator out of the second interaction surface. Again, the non-actuated valve means are closed without the action of a force on the first switching ends in an advantageous manner, wherein an opening is then effected by the action of a pressure movement to the selected first switching end.
Erfindungsgemäß weisen die Ventilmittel rohrähnliche Kupplungselemente für Lackmaterial auf, welche im geöffnetem Zustand strömungstechnisch miteinander verbunden sind und in geschlossenen Zustand voneinander wegbewegt sind, wobei dann eine Trennstrecke gebildet ist. Die rohrähnlichen Kupplungselemente sind Teil des jeweiligen Schaltkanals, der im geöffneten Zustand eines jeweiligen Ventilmittels von dem jeweiligen Zuführkanal zum gemeinsamen Sammelkanal gebildet ist. Die Bildung einer Trennstrecke in geschlossenem Zustand bedingt, dass beiderseits der Trennstrecke bedarfsweise weitere Ventil- und oder Schaltmittel vorgesehen sind, welche diese im geschlossenen Zustand gegenüber dem jeweiligen Zuführkanal beziehungsweise dem gemeinsamen Sammelkanal sicher verschließen. Erfindungsgemäß ist bevorzugter Weise vorgesehen, dass die rohrähnlichen Kupplungselemente Teil der Schaltmittel sind und insbesondere auch dafür geeignet sind, in gekuppeltem Zustand eine Druckkraft beziehungsweise eine Druckbewegung zu übertragen, durch welche dann das jeweils ausgewählte Ventilmittel geöffnet werden kann.According to the invention, the valve means have tube-like coupling elements for paint material, which are fluidically connected to each other in the open state and are moved away from each other in the closed state, in which case an isolating distance is formed. The tube-like coupling elements are part of the respective switching channel, which is formed in the open state of a respective valve means of the respective feed channel to the common collection channel. The formation of a separation path in the closed state requires that on both sides of the separation path, if necessary, further valve and / or switching means are provided which securely close them in the closed state relative to the respective supply channel or the common collection channel. According to the invention, it is preferably provided that the tube-like coupling elements are part of the switching means and, in particular, are also suitable for transmitting a compressive force or a pressure movement in the coupled state, through which the respectively selected valve means can then be opened.
Die die Trennstrecke beiderseits verschließenden Ventil- beziehungsweise Schaltmittel sind zuführungskanalseitig beispielsweise das bereits erwähnte erfindungsgemäße Schaltmittel und sammelkanalseitig ein zusätzlicher Schließmechanismus, weleher ebenfalls über die Schaltmittel betätigt wird oder auch durch die Schaltmittel selbst gebildet ist. Die Bildung einer Trennstrecke schließt sicher aus, dass in geschlossenem Zustand Lackmaterial durch die rohrähnlichen Kupplungselemente fließen kann. Jede eventuelle Leckage eines der jeweiligen Ventilmittels führt zu einem Austritt von typischerweise unter Druck stehendem Lackmaterial im Bereich der Trennstrecke.The separating line on both sides closing valve or switching means are feeder channel side, for example, the aforementioned switching means according to the invention and Sammelkanalseitig an additional closing mechanism, weleher is also operated via the switching means or is formed by the switching means itself. The formation of a separation path safely excludes that in the closed state paint material can flow through the tube-like coupling elements. Any possible leakage of one of the respective valve means leads to a leakage of typically under pressure paint material in the region of the separation distance.
Zur verbesserten Erkennung einer derartigen eventuellen Leckage ist in einer weiteren Ausführungsvariante vorgesehen, dass die jeweiligen Trennstrecken in einem übergreifenden Trennbereich gebildet sind, welcher also die Trennstrecken mehrerer Ventilmittel aufnimmt. Es ist weiterhin optional vorgesehen, dass ein oder mehrere von außen zugängliche und/oder einsehbare Trennbereiche gebildet sind. Ein solcher Trennbereich kann beispielsweise eine Nut oder dergleichen sein, beispielsweise mit einer Breite von 1-2cm, in welche beidseitig die Kupplungselemente hineinragen. Bevorzugter Weise sind die Trennstrecken aller oder zumindest mehrerer Ventilmittel in derselben Nut gebildet. Somit sammelt sich im Leckagefall eines beliebigen Ventilmittels austretendes Lackmaterial in derselben Nut und ist damit besonders einfach auf optische Weise erkennbar.For improved detection of such a possible leakage is provided in a further embodiment, that the respective separation sections are formed in an overarching separation area, which thus accommodates the separation sections of a plurality of valve means. It is further optionally provided that one or more externally accessible and / or visible separation areas are formed. Such a separation region may be, for example, a groove or the like, for example with a width of 1-2 cm, into which the coupling elements protrude on both sides. Preferably, the separation sections of all or at least a plurality of valve means are formed in the same groove. Thus, in the event of leakage of any valve means escaping paint material collects in the same groove and is therefore particularly easy to see in an optical manner.
Gemäß einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Farbwechslers sind die Ventilmittel derart ausgestaltet, dass sie neben dem geschlossenem und dem geöffneten Ventilzustand auch einen dritten Ventilzustand einnehmen können, in welchem keine Trennstrecke und keine strömungstechnische Verbindung zwischen den Kupplungselementen gebildet ist. Dies bedeutet, dass die rohrähnlichen Kupplungselemente zwar miteinander gekuppelt sind, der jeweilige Schaltkanal zwischen dem jeweiligen Zuführungskanal und dem gemeinsamen Sammelkanal jedoch zumindest an der Kupplungsstelle durch jeweilige Schalt- beziehungsweise Ventilmittel verschlossen ist. Dies ermöglicht in dieser speziellen Reinigungsposition das Reinigen des Sammelkanals zusammen mit dem sammelkanalseitigen Kupplungsstückes im Falle eines Farbwechsels, wobei sicher ausgeschlossen ist, dass dabei Reinigungsmittel in das zuführungsseitige Kupplungsstück gelangt.According to a further embodiment of the color changer according to the invention, the valve means are designed such that, in addition to the closed and the open valve state, they can also assume a third valve state, in which no separation path and no fluidic connection between the coupling elements is formed. This means that the tube-like coupling elements are indeed coupled to each other, but the respective switching channel between the respective supply channel and the common collecting channel is closed at least at the coupling point by respective switching or valve means. In this special cleaning position, this makes it possible to clean the collecting channel together with the collecting channel-side coupling piece in the event of a color change, whereby it is certainly precluded that cleaning agent enters the feeding-side coupling piece.
Deshalb umfasst eine weitere Erfindungsvariante auch, dass der Aktuator dafür vorgesehen ist, drei Betätigungsstellungen einzunehmen, welche im Zusammenwirken mit dem jeweils ausgewählten Ventilmittel mit jeweils einem der Ventilzustände korrespondieren. Somit kann jeder der drei Ventilmittelzustände - nämlich geöffnet, geschlossen und Spülposition - auch durch den Aktuator sicher eingestellt werden.Therefore, another variant of the invention also includes that the actuator is intended to assume three operating positions, which cooperate correspond with each selected valve means with one of the valve states. Thus, each of the three valve means states - namely, open, closed and purge position - can also be safely set by the actuator.
In einer weiteren erfindungsgemäßen Erfindungsvariante funktioniert der Aktuator auf pneumatischer oder hydraulischer Basis und ist derart ausgestaltet, dass die erste Betätigungsstellung durch Zuführen eines Druckmediums, beispielsweise Druckluft, in einen ersten Eingang und die zweite Betätigungsstellung durch Zuführen eines Druckmediums einen in zweiten Eingang erreicht ist. Eine mögliche Ausführungsform besteht beispielsweise darin, dass der Aktuator einen Hubzylinder mit darin beweglichem Kolben umfasst, wobei beiderseits des Kolbens Druckkammern gebildet sind. Der erste Eingang und der zweite Eingang für die Druckluftzuführung münden in einer jeweils anderen Druckkammer. Je nachdem, welcher der beiden Druckkammern nun Druckluft zugeführt wird, erfolgt eine Bewegung des Kolbens in die eine beziehungsweise andere Richtung bis ein jeweiliger Anschlag erreicht ist. Rückstellmittel, beispielsweise eine Feder, verbringen den Kolben in eine Ausgangsposition, wenn keiner der beiden Ausgänge mit einer Druckluft beaufschlagt ist.In a further inventive variant of the invention, the actuator operates on a pneumatic or hydraulic basis and is configured such that the first operating position is achieved by supplying a pressure medium, for example compressed air, in a first input and the second operating position by supplying a pressure medium into a second input. A possible embodiment consists, for example, in that the actuator comprises a lifting cylinder with a piston movable therein, pressure chambers being formed on both sides of the piston. The first input and the second input for the compressed air supply open into a different pressure chamber. Depending on which of the two pressure chambers compressed air is now supplied, a movement of the piston takes place in one or the other direction until a respective stop is reached. Return means, such as a spring, spend the piston in an initial position when neither of the two outlets is pressurized with compressed air.
Weitere vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungsmöglichkeiten sind den weiteren abhängigen Ansprüchen zu entnehmen.Further advantageous embodiment possibilities can be found in the further dependent claims.
Anhand der in den Zeichnungen dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiele sollen die Erfindung, weitere Ausführungsformen und weitere Vorteile näher beschrieben werden.Reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, the invention, further embodiments and other advantages will be described in detail.
Es zeigen:
- Fig. 1
- einen ersten exemplarischern Farbwechsler,
- Fig. 2
- ein exemplarisches Ventilmodul,
- Fig. 3
- einen zweiten exemplarischern Farbwechsler,
- Fig. 4
- einen dritten exemplarischern Farbwechsler,
- Fig. 5
- einen vierten exemplarischern Farbwechsler mit erster Aktuatorposition,
- Fig. 6
- einen vierten exemplarischern Farbwechsler mit zweiter Aktuatorposition,
- Fig. 7
- Kontaktbereiche zwischen Schaltmodul und Ventilmodul sowie
- Fig. 8
- einen fünften exemplarischern Farbwechsler.
- Fig. 1
- a first exemplary color changer,
- Fig. 2
- an exemplary valve module,
- Fig. 3
- a second exemplary color changer,
- Fig. 4
- a third exemplary color changer,
- Fig. 5
- a fourth exemplary color changer with first actuator position,
- Fig. 6
- a fourth exemplary color changer with second actuator position,
- Fig. 7
- Contact areas between switching module and valve module as well
- Fig. 8
- a fifth exemplary color changer.
In der Zeichnung oberhalb des Ventilmoduls 32 angeordnet ist ein Schaltmodul 44, welches einen Aktuator 48 umfasst und eine zweite Interaktionsfläche 46 aufweist. Ventilmodul 32 und Schaltmodul 44 sind derart angeordnet, dass sich ihre jeweiligen Interaktionsflächen 34 und 46 gegenüber liegen, wobei beide Module 32, 44 entlang deren Interaktionsflächen 34, 46 gegeneinander beweglich 52 sind, beispielsweise mittels zweier nicht gezeigter Antriebe in X- Y- Richtung. Der Aktuator 48 mündet mit einem zweiten Betätigungsende 50 in die zweite Interaktionsfläche 46, wobei die Bewegungsrichtung des Betätigungsendes 50 senkrecht zu den parallel angeordneten Interaktionsflächen 34, 46 ist. Der Begriff münden bedeutet keinesfalls, dass ein Betätigungsende mit der betreffenden Interaktionsfläche bündig abschließen muss, vielmehr ist auch ein Heraus- oder Hereinragen des Betätigungsendes möglich.Arranged in the drawing above the
In diesem Beispiel ist das Schaltmodul 44 derart in eine Betätigungsposition für das Ventilmittel 18 verschoben, dass sich das zweite Betätigungsende 50 des Aktuators 48 genau gegenüber dem ersten Betätigungsende der Schaltmittel für das Ventilmittel 18 befindet. Durch eine Herausfahrbewegung des zweiten Betätigungsendes 50 aus der zweiten Interaktionsfläche 46 wird das damit zusammenwirkende erste Betätigungsende heruntergedrückt und ein Öffnen des Ventilmittels 18 bewirkt. Ein gleichzeitiges Betätigen aller anderen Ventilmittel 20, 22 ist in vorteilhafter Weise ausgeschlossen.In this example, the switching
An dem ersten Ende des Sammelkanals 24 des Farbwechslers 10 ist ein Auslasskanal für den Abfluss des jeweils gewählten Lackmaterials vorgesehen. Zwischen Auslasskanal und einem zugehörigen Auslassschlauch 42, welcher beispielsweise zu einem Zerstäuber führt, ist ein weiteres separat schaltbares Ventilmittel 38 vorgesehen, um einen Lackfluss zum Zerstäuber bedarfsweise zu unterbrechen. Am zweiten Ende des gemeinsamen Sammelkanals 24 ist zwischen einem Einlasskanal und einem Einlassschlauch 40 ein weiteres Ventilmittel 36 vorgesehen, mit welchem über den Einlassschlauch 36 bereit gestelltes Reinigungsmittel bedarfsweise in den Sammelkanal 24 geleitet werden kann, so dass dieses durch den Sammelkanal 24 fließt und diesen dann reinigt. Der Abfluss des Lösemittels im Reinigungsfall erfolgt dann typischerweise über den Auslasskanal. Um ein gleichzeitiges Fluten des gemeinsamen Sammelkanals 24 mit Reinigungsmittel und Lackmaterial zu vermeiden ist aber auch alternativ eine Zuführung des Reinigungsmittels über das strömungstechnisch zuerst in den gemeinsamen Sammelkanal mündende Ventilmittel möglich, in diesem Beispiel also das Ventilmittel 18.At the first end of the collecting
Die
Der Zuführungskanal 100 ist Teil einer Farbversorgung mit Farbumlauf, wobei der Rückführungskanal aus dem Farbwechsler mit der Bezugsziffer 102 gekennzeichnet ist. Somit ist das jeweilige Lackmaterial der verschiedenen Farbtöne in einem steten Umlauf, auch wenn es nicht in den gemeinsamen Sammelkanal geleitet wird. Eine Sedimentierung von Farbpigmenten wird hierdurch in vorteilhafter Weise vermieden.The
Das Schaltmodul 84 umfasst einen Aktuator 94, welcher dafür vorgesehen ist, in Pfeilrichtung 96 eine Linearbewegung parallel zur gemeinsamen Drehachse 86 durchzuführen und hierbei eine von drei definierten Positionen einzunehmen. Die Ansteuerung des Aktuators 94 erfolgt über eine Druckluftzuführung 98 und eine Druckluftzuführung 106, wobei jeweils nach einzunehmender Position eine der beiden Druckluftzuführungen oder auch gar keine mit Druckluft beaufschlagt ist. In diesem Beispiel ist eine Öffnungsposition des Aktuators 94 angesteuert, so dass er eine erste rückwärtige Position eingenommen hat. Die Bewegung des Aktuators 94 wird als Zugbewegung auf das eine Ende eines beweglichen Stangenelementes übertragen, welches an seinem anderen Ende in den gemeinsamen Sammelkanal mündet und diesen je nach Schaltposition verschließt oder nicht. Es sind Kupplungsmittel vorgesehen, welche eine lösbare Verbindung zwischen dem ersten (Betätigungs-) Ende des Stangenelementes und dem zweiten Betätigungsende des Aktuators 94 ermöglichen. Somit Ist auch eine Zugbewegung des Aktuators 94 in vorteilhafter Weise auf die Schaltmittel 90 übertragbar.The
Die Zugbewegung wirkt gegen die Kraft eines Federelementes, welches im unbetätigten Zustand das Stangenelement in Richtung des Ventilmittels 88 drückt und dieses damit sicher schließt. Somit führt eine Rückbewegung des Aktuators 94 und des damit verbundenen Stangenelementes zu einem Öffnen des Ventilmittels 88. Gleichzeitig weist das Stangenelement an seinem sammelkanalseitigen Ende eine Verdickung auf, welche den Sammelkanal im geschlossenen Zustand des Ventilmittels 88 zum Ventilmittel hin verschließt. Bei einer rückwärts gerichteten Öffnungsbewegung des Stangenelementes wird sowohl der Sammelkanal in Richtung des Ventilmittels 88 als auch das Ventilmittel 88 selber freigegeben, wie in dieser Fig. exemplarisch gezeigt und in der
Das Ventilmodul 82 und das Schaltmodul 84 sind um die Drehachse 86 in eine derartige Position gegeneinander gedreht, dass der Aktuator 94 in einer Betätigungsposition gegenüber dem Ventilmittel 88 ist. Eine Kraftübertragung zwischen Aktuator 94 und Ventilmittel 88 erfolgt in einem Kupplungsbereich 90 mit entsprechenden Schaltmitteln, von denen ein exemplarisches Schaltmittel, eine Rückstellfeder, mit der Bezugsziffer 92 versehen ist. Ein Kupplungsbereich von jeweiligen Schaltmittelelementen ist für ein geöffnetes Ventilmittel mit der Bezugsziffer 104 versehen und in einer Detailansicht 132 in der
Die
Die
In eine erste Interaktionsfläche 116 des Ventilmoduls 112 mündende und aus dieser ragende Schaltmittel 122 stellen eine mechanische Wirkverbindung zwischen dem jeweiligen Ventilmittel 120 und einem einer zweiten Interaktionsfläche 118 des Schaltmoduls 114 gegenüber liegenden Betätigungsende dar. Die Schaltmittel 122 sind derart ausgestaltet, dass die Ventilmittel in diesem unbetätigten Zustand sicher geschlossen sind. Eine Betätigung durch einen Aktuator ist in dieser Darstellung nicht vorgesehen. Jedes der nicht vom Aktuator betätigten Ventile des Farbwechslers befindet sich in einer derartigen geschlossenen Stellung. Durch entsprechendes Verdrehen des Schaltmoduls um die Drehachse kann ein nicht gezeigter Aktuator mit einem nicht gezeigten zweiten Betätigungsende in eine Betätigungsposition für eines der Ventilmittel verbracht werden. Ein Kupplungsbereich von jeweiligen Schaltmittelelementen ist für ein geschlossenes Ventilmittel mit der Bezugsziffer 124 versehen und in einer Detailansicht 134 in der
In der Detailzeichnung mit der Bezugsziffer 132 ist ein rohrähnliches Kupplungselement 139 mit kegelähnlicher Spitze gezeigt, welches mittels der Kraft eines nicht gezeigten Federelementes gegen eine formschlüssig korrespondierende Bohrung eines weiteren Kupplungselementes gedrückt ist, welche in einen gemeinsamen Sammelkanal 137 mündet. Das weitere Kupplungselement ist zusammen mit einer Vielzahl anderer weiterer Kupplungselemente in ein und dasselbe Bauelement eingefräst, in welchem auch der gemeinsame Sammelkanal vorgesehen ist. Von der gegenüber liegenden Seite mündet ein bewegliches Stangenelement 138 in den gemeinsamen Sammelkanal, welches auf seiner dem Sammelkanal abgewandten Seite mit einem nicht gezeigten Aktuator kraftschlüssig zusammenwirkt. Das Stangenelement 138 ist mittels des Aktuators von der formschlüssigen Bohrung wegbewegt worden, so dass diese Bohrung strömungstechnisch freigegeben ist. Somit kann - wie mit den Pfeilen angedeutet - durch dass rohrähnliche Kupplungselement 139 Lackmaterial von einem geöffneten nicht gezeigten Ventilmittel in den gemeinsamen Sammelkanal 137 strömen. Die Wegbewegung des Stangenelementes 138 durch den Aktuator erfolgt gegen die Kraft eines nicht gezeigten Federelementes, so dass das Stangenelement 138 in unbetätigtem Zustand durch die Federkraft mit seiner kegelähnlichen Spitze an das rohrähnliche Kupplungselement 139 gedrückt wird und dieses verschließt, wie in der Detailzeichnung mit der Bezugsziffer 134 für den geschlossenen Zustand angedeutet.In the detail drawing with the
Die Federkraft, mit welcher das Stangenelement 138 gegen das rohrähnliche Kupplungselement 139 gedrückt wird, ist größer als die Federkraft, mit welcher das rohrähnliche Kupplungselement 139 von dem nicht gezeigten Ventilmittel weggedrückt wird. Daher wird das rohrähnliche Kupplungselement 139 durch die Federkraft des Stangenelementes 138 in Richtung des Ventilmittels gedrückt und bewegt - wie in der Detailzeichnung 134 ersichtlich - und verschließt dieses. Weiterhin verfügt das Stangenelement 138 über eine wulstartige Verdickung in seinem hinteren Bereich, welche in der gezeigten Position den gemeinsamen Sammelkanal 137 verschließt. Das rohrähnliche Kupplungselement dient damit sowohl der Weiterleitung von Lackmaterial in seinem Inneren als auch als Schubstange zur Betätigung des nicht gezeigten Ventilmittels. Durch die Bewegung der Kupplungselemente 139 voneinander weg ist in geschlossenem Zustand in vorteilhafter Weise eine Trennstrecke gebildet, womit bei einer eventuellen Leckage eines der die Trennstrecke beidseitig verschließenden Schalt- beziehungsweise Ventilmittel ein Austritt von Lackmaterial in die gezeigte Nut erfolgt, womit eine eventuelle Leckage dann besonders einfach optisch zu detektieren ist und womit weiterhin ein Farbverschleppung ausgeschlossen ist.The spring force with which the
Mit der Bezugsziffer 136 ist ein Kontaktbereich für den Reinigungszustand dargestellt. In diesem Fall verschließt zwar das Stangenelement 138 mit seiner kegelähnlichen Spitze das rohrähnliche Kupplungselement 139, drückt dieses jedoch nicht in Richtung des nicht gezeigten Ventilmittels. In dieser Position kann der gemeinsame Sammelkanal 137 sicher gereinigt werden.The
- 1010
- erster exemplarischer Farbwechslerfirst exemplary color changer
- 1212
- erster Zuführungskanal von erstem Farbwechslerfirst supply channel of the first color changer
- 1414
- zweiter Zuführungskanal von erstem Farbwechslersecond feed channel of first color changer
- 1616
- dritter Zuführungskanal von erstem Farbwechslerthird feed channel of first color changer
- 1818
- erstes Ventilmittel von erstem Farbwechslerfirst valve means of the first color changer
- 2020
- zweites Ventilmittel von erstem Farbwechslersecond valve means of first color changer
- 2222
- drittes Ventilmittel von erstem Farbwechslerthird valve means of first color changer
- 2424
- gemeinsamer Sammelkanal von erstem Farbwechslercommon collection channel of first color changer
- 2626
- erste Schaltmittel von erstem Farbwechslerfirst switching means of the first color changer
- 2828
- zweite Schaltmittel von erstem Farbwechslersecond switching means of the first color changer
- 3030
- dritte Schaltmittel von erstem Farbwechslerthird switching means of the first color changer
- 3232
- Ventilmodul von erstem FarbwechslerValve module of first color changer
- 3434
- erste Interaktionsfläche von Ventilmodulfirst interaction surface of valve module
- 3636
- weiteres Ventilmittel zum Schalten des Zuführungskanalsanother valve means for switching the supply channel
- 3838
- weiteres Ventilmittel zum Schalten des Auslasskanalsfurther valve means for switching the outlet channel
- 4040
- Einlassschlauch zu gemeinsamen SammelkanalInlet hose to common collection channel
- 4242
- Auslassschlauch aus gemeinsamen SammelkanalOutlet hose from common collection channel
- 4444
- Schaltmodul von erstem FarbwechslerSwitch module of first color changer
- 4646
- zweite Interaktionsfläche von Schaltmodulsecond interaction surface of switching module
- 4848
- Aktuatoractuator
- 5050
- zweites Betätigungsende von Aktuatorsecond actuator end of actuator
- 5252
- Verschiebebewegung zwischen Ventilmodul und SchaltmodulMovement between valve module and switching module
- 6060
- exemplarisches Ventilmodulexemplary valve module
- 6262
- erste Interaktionsfläche von exemplarischem Ventilmodulfirst interaction surface of exemplary valve module
- 6464
- gemeinsame Drehachse von Ventilmodul und Schaltmodulcommon axis of rotation of valve module and switching module
- 6666
- erstes Betätigungsende von Schaltmitteln für Ventilmittelfirst operating end of switching means for valve means
- 6868
- Kreisbahnorbit
- 7070
- gemeinsamer Sammelkanalcommon collection channel
- 7272
- erstes Ende von gemeinsamem Sammelkanalfirst end of common collection channel
- 7474
- zweites Ende von gemeinsamem Sammelkanalsecond end of common collection channel
- 7676
- Anschlussstück für AuslassschlauchConnection piece for outlet hose
- 7878
- Anschlussstück für ZuführungsschlauchConnector for supply hose
- 8080
- exemplarischer zweiter Farbwechslerexemplary second color changer
- 8282
- Ventilmodul von zweitem FarbwechslerValve module of second color changer
- 8484
- Schaltmodul von zweitem FarbwechslerSwitch module of second color changer
- 8686
- gemeinsame Drehachsecommon axis of rotation
- 8888
- exemplarisches Ventilmittel in geöffnetem Zustandexemplary valve means in the opened state
- 9090
- Kupplungsbereichcoupling region
- 9292
- exemplarische Schaltmittelexemplary switching means
- 9494
- Aktuatoractuator
- 9696
- Bewegungsrichtung AktuatorDirection of movement actuator
- 9898
- DruckluftzuführungCompressed air supply
- 100100
- Zuführungskanalfeed channel
- 102102
- RückführungskanalReturn passage
- 104104
- erster Kontaktbereichfirst contact area
- 106106
- Entlüftungvent
- 108108
- exemplarischer dritter Farbwechslerexemplary third color changer
- 109109
- erster Kontaktbereichfirst contact area
- 110110
- exemplarischer vierter Farbwechsler mit erster Aktuatorpositionexemplary fourth color changer with first actuator position
- 112112
- Ventilmodul von viertem FarbwechslerValve module of fourth color changer
- 114114
- Schaltmodul von viertem FarbwechslerSwitch module of fourth color changer
- 116116
- erste Interaktionsfläche von Ventilmodulfirst interaction surface of valve module
- 118118
- zweite Interaktionsfläche von Schaltmodulsecond interaction surface of switching module
- 120120
- exemplarisches Ventilmittel in geschlossenem Zustandexemplary valve means in closed condition
- 122122
- exemplarische Schaltmittelexemplary switching means
- 124124
- dritter Kontaktbereichthird contact area
- 126126
- Trennbereichseparating region
- 128128
- exemplarischer vierter Farbwechsler mit zweiter Aktuatorpositionexemplary fourth color changer with second actuator position
- 130130
- Kontaktbereichecontact areas
- 132132
- Kontaktbereich in erstem öffnendem ZustandContact area in first opening state
- 134134
- Kontaktbereich in zweitem teilschließendem ZustandContact area in second partially closing state
- 136136
- Kontaktbereich in drittem schließendem ZustandContact area in third closing condition
- 137137
- gemeinsamer Sammelkanalcommon collection channel
- 138138
- Stangenelementbar member
- 139139
- rohrähnliches Kupplungselementtube-like coupling element
- 140140
- exemplarischer fünfter Farbwechslerexemplary fifth color changer
- 142142
- Ventilmodul von fünftem FarbwechslerValve module of fifth color changer
- 144144
- Schaltmodul von fünftem FarbwechslerSwitch module of fifth color changer
- 146146
- Zuführkanälesupply channels
Claims (15)
- Colour changer (10, 80, 110, 140), comprising• a valve module (32, 60, 82, 112, 142) with a first interaction area (34, 116),• a plurality of valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120) provided in the valve module (32, 60, 82, 112, 142), which are connected on their respective inlet side to a respective supply duct (12, 14, 16, 100, 146) for paint material and are connected on their respective outlet side to a common collecting duct (24, 70, 72, 74, 137), the valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120) being openable and closable via respective switching means (26, 28, 30, 90, 122, 138, 139) by means of a first actuation end (66) discharging in each case into the first interaction area (34, 116), and• a switching module (44, 84, 114, 144) with a second interaction area (46, 118) and precisely one actuator (48, 94), which discharges by means of a second actuation end (50) into the second interaction area (46, 118),• wherein the valve module (32, 60, 82, 112, 142) and switching module (44, 84, 114, 144) are arranged with their respective interaction areas (34, 46, 116, 144) adjacent and are displaceable (52) therealong relative to one another, and wherein, as a result of a respective displacement movement (52), the second actuation end (50) is simultaneously movable with respect to at most one of the first actuation ends (66) into a respective actuation position so that the respective associated valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120) can be opened and closed by the precisely one actuator (48, 94),characterized in that each valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120) has at least one tubular coupling element (139), through which paint material can flow and which can be pressed against an interlockingly corresponding bore in a further coupling means, wherein the at least one coupling element (139) and the further coupling element are fluidically interconnected in the open state and are moved away from one another in the closed state, a separation gap then being formed, wherein the tubular coupling element (139) is used both to forward paint material in its interior and as a push rod for actuation of the valve means.
- Colour changer according to Claim 1, characterized in that the valve module (32, 60, 82, 112, 142) and the switching module (44, 84, 114, 144) are movable relative to one another about a common axis of rotation (64, 86), and in that the first actuation ends (66) of the switching means (26, 28, 30, 90, 122, 138, 139) are arranged around the axis of rotation (64, 86) along a circular path (68).
- Colour changer according to one of Claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the common collecting duct (24, 70, 137) transitions at its first end (72) into an outlet duct (42).
- Colour changer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an inlet duct (40) discharges into the second end (74) of the common collecting duct (24, 70, 137) and is intended for the supply of air and/or cleaning agent.
- Colour changer according to one of Claims 3 and 4, characterized in that further valve means (36, 38) that can be opened and closed separately are provided for the inlet duct (40) and/or the outlet duct (42).
- Colour changer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve module (32, 60, 82, 112, 142) and the switching module (44, 84, 114, 144) are designed and cooperate in such a way that the valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120) are closed in the unactuated state.
- Colour changer according to Claim 6, characterized in that the switching means (26, 28, 30, 90, 122) are designed in such a way that a respective valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120) is opened as a result of a return movement of the second actuation end (50) of the actuator (48, 94) into the second interaction area (46, 118).
- Colour changer according to Claim 7, characterized in that coupling means are provided between the second actuation end (50) of the actuator (48, 94) and respective first actuation ends (66) and enable application of a pulling force therebetween.
- Colour changer according to Claim 6, characterized in that the switching means (26, 28, 30, 90, 122) are designed in such a way that a respective valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120) is opened by moving the second actuation end (50) of the actuator (48, 94) out of the second interaction area (46, 118).
- Colour changer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tubular coupling elements (139) are part of the switching means (26, 28, 30, 90, 122) and are suitable for transferring a compressive force or a compressive movement in the coupled state, as a result of which the respective selected valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120) can then be opened.
- Colour changer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective separation gaps are formed in an overlapping separation region.
- Colour changer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective separation gaps are formed in a separation region accessible and/or visible from the outside.
- Colour changer according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120) are designed in such a way that, besides the closed and the open valve state, they can also adopt a third valve state, in which no separation gaps and no fluidic connection between the coupling elements is formed.
- Colour changer according to Claim 13, characterized in that the actuator (46, 118) is intended to adopt three actuation positions, which, in cooperation with a respective valve means (18, 20, 22, 88, 120), each correspond to a respective one of the valve states.
- Colour changer according to Claim 14, characterized in that the actuator functions on a pneumatic basis and is designed in such a way that the first actuation position is reached by supplying a pressure medium into a first input and the second actuation position is reached by supplying a pressure medium into a second input.
Priority Applications (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP12002292.6A EP2644281B1 (en) | 2012-03-29 | 2012-03-29 | Colour changer |
MX2013003376A MX2013003376A (en) | 2012-03-29 | 2013-03-25 | Paint changer. |
CN201310104114.6A CN103363154B (en) | 2012-03-29 | 2013-03-28 | Color changer |
US13/853,435 US9180477B2 (en) | 2012-03-29 | 2013-03-29 | Color changer |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP12002292.6A EP2644281B1 (en) | 2012-03-29 | 2012-03-29 | Colour changer |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2644281A1 EP2644281A1 (en) | 2013-10-02 |
EP2644281B1 true EP2644281B1 (en) | 2019-05-08 |
Family
ID=46000624
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP12002292.6A Active EP2644281B1 (en) | 2012-03-29 | 2012-03-29 | Colour changer |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US9180477B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2644281B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN103363154B (en) |
MX (1) | MX2013003376A (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102014011415A1 (en) | 2014-07-31 | 2016-02-04 | Eisenmann Ag | Changing device for coating media and coating system for coating objects |
DE102016113505A1 (en) * | 2016-07-21 | 2018-01-25 | Apson Lackiertechnik Gmbh | Color Change System |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO1987005832A1 (en) * | 1986-03-24 | 1987-10-08 | Leif Tilly | A method for supplying an electrically conductive, floating medium and a device for performing the method |
US5402826A (en) * | 1994-03-07 | 1995-04-04 | Nordson Corporation | Coupling device |
Family Cites Families (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2257004A (en) * | 1938-10-07 | 1941-09-23 | Chrysler Corp | Coating material spraying apparatus |
US2979066A (en) * | 1956-09-17 | 1961-04-11 | Proctor Silex Corp | Color control of liquids |
US3240225A (en) * | 1963-01-17 | 1966-03-15 | Benjamin G Barrows | Selecting and purging apparatus |
US3334864A (en) * | 1966-01-10 | 1967-08-08 | Coats Company Inc | Tire servicing apparatus |
US3443578A (en) * | 1966-10-12 | 1969-05-13 | Programmed & Remote Syst Corp | Color select valve for spray guns |
US3672570A (en) * | 1970-09-04 | 1972-06-27 | Nordson Corp | Sequence control of color change |
US4191214A (en) * | 1978-07-07 | 1980-03-04 | Forney Engineering Company | Sequential operating mechanism for valves |
US4526191A (en) * | 1983-08-30 | 1985-07-02 | Binks Manufacturing Company | Fluid supply container for color changer |
US4657047A (en) * | 1984-12-10 | 1987-04-14 | Nordson Corporation | Modular color changers with improved valves and manifolds |
FR2803776B1 (en) * | 2000-01-14 | 2002-06-07 | Sames Sa | COATING PRODUCT SPRAYING SYSTEM |
CN1960809B (en) * | 2004-06-03 | 2010-10-13 | 诺信公司 | Powder application system |
DE602008006193D1 (en) * | 2008-09-29 | 2011-05-26 | Abb As | Color change valve arrangement with sensors |
-
2012
- 2012-03-29 EP EP12002292.6A patent/EP2644281B1/en active Active
-
2013
- 2013-03-25 MX MX2013003376A patent/MX2013003376A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2013-03-28 CN CN201310104114.6A patent/CN103363154B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2013-03-29 US US13/853,435 patent/US9180477B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO1987005832A1 (en) * | 1986-03-24 | 1987-10-08 | Leif Tilly | A method for supplying an electrically conductive, floating medium and a device for performing the method |
US5402826A (en) * | 1994-03-07 | 1995-04-04 | Nordson Corporation | Coupling device |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN103363154A (en) | 2013-10-23 |
US20130255810A1 (en) | 2013-10-03 |
US9180477B2 (en) | 2015-11-10 |
EP2644281A1 (en) | 2013-10-02 |
MX2013003376A (en) | 2013-09-30 |
CN103363154B (en) | 2017-03-22 |
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