EP3104981A2

EP3104981A2 - Valve arrangement for applying fluid media to surfaces

Info

Publication number: EP3104981A2
Application number: EP15709410.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Jan-Christian WALTER; Marc-Daniel Stegen; Nils Neuhaus
Original assignee: Focke and Co GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: Focke and Co GmbH and Co KG
Priority date: 2014-02-14
Filing date: 2015-01-22
Publication date: 2016-12-21
Anticipated expiration: 2035-01-22
Also published as: ES2666409T3; US10035167B2; CN105992652B; EP3104981B1; WO2015120956A2; WO2015120956A3; US20160332185A1; DE102014001897A1; CN105992652A

Abstract

The invention relates to a valve arrangement for applying fluid media, in particular adhesive, to surfaces, said arrangement comprising a number of individual modules (11.1-11.11) detachably connected to form a row, a respective separating plane (13) being formed between neighbouring individual modules (11.1-11.11) in the row and the neighbouring individual modules (11.1-11.11) adjoining one another on the separating plane. The invention is characterised in that at least one separating plane (13) is assigned a heating organ (17) for heating the valve arrangement (10) and preferably a number or all of the separating planes (13) are assigned a respective heating organ (17) which sits in a suitable opening (46) of the two neighbouring individual modules (11.1-11.11), said openings being arranged opposite one another on both sides of the separating plane (13). The heating organ co-operates with walls (46a) of the individual modules (11.1-11.11) which delimit the openings (46), in such a way that relative movements of the two individual modules (11.1-11.11) in at least one spatial dimension are limited or prevented.

Description

Valve arrangement for applying flowable media to surfaces Description

The present invention relates to a valve arrangement for applying flowable media, in particular glue, on surfaces, with a plurality of individual modules detachably connected to a row, wherein in each case a separating plane is formed between the individual modules adjacent in the row, in which the adjacent individual modules abut each other.

From several, connected to a series of individual modules valve assemblies or applicators are known. In DE 40 13 322 A1, for example, a multiple application head is shown in which a plurality of individual valve modules are arranged in a frame-like application head. However, the multiple applicator head is not suitable for the use of hot glue, since the hot glue on its way to the individual valve modules would be cold due to lack of heating elements. Another disadvantage is that the Leimspurabstände the valves arranged in a row is limited by the width of the individual valve modules. In order to achieve even lower glue track spacings, a second, parallel row of individual valve modules must be provided, as DE 40 13 322 A1 already suggests, whose individual valve modules are arranged offset in a gap to the individual valves of the first row. With only a single valve module row to create a glue trace distance that is smaller than the valve width, in contrast, is not possible in the context of the teaching of DE 40 13 322 A1.

It is an object of the present invention to further develop a valve arrangement of the type mentioned.

CONFIRMATION COPY This object is achieved by a valve arrangement with the features of claim 1 and a valve arrangement with the features of claim 10. According to claim 1 is provided that at least one of the parting planes, each formed between the adjacent individual modules, a heating element for heating the Assigned valve assembly which sits in matching, arranged on both sides of the parting plane and opposite receptacles of the two adjacent individual modules. In this case, the receptacles delimiting walls of the individual modules interact with the heating element such that the heating element limits or prevents relative movements of the two individual modules in at least one spatial direction. Preferably, a plurality, particularly preferably each of the aforementioned parting planes of the valve arrangement is assigned in each case such a heating element in this way.

The walls delimiting the receptacles are preferably walls which extend transversely or perpendicular to the longitudinal extension or longitudinal direction of the valve arrangement, in particular upright walls. Advantageously, at least one, in particular transversely or perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the valve assembly in the parting plane extending relative movement is limited or prevented, in particular a relative movement, which also takes place transversely to the longitudinal extent of the heating element. The invention is based on the recognition that such an arrangement of the heating elements leads to a particularly good heat distribution within the entire valve arrangement. If, for example, hot glue is supplied as the flowable medium to the valve arrangement, this can thereby be kept very accurately in all areas of the valve arrangement at the desired temperature or, if appropriate, heated to this temperature. At the same time, the special arrangement of the heating elements contributes to the fact that the adjacent individual modules can not move in the at least one spatial direction or only to a limited extent relative to one another. In particular, in the connection of the individual modules in the context of the assembly of Valve arrangement is achieved a positional fixation, which simplifies this assembly particularly.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the heating element has a preferably cylindrical lateral surface, which faces the matching, in particular (partially) cylindrical inner surfaces of the opposing receptacles of the adjacent individual modules, in particular bears against these inner surfaces. The inner surfaces are ultimately part of the walls bounding the recordings.

The heating element may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the valve assembly, in particular upright, i. from top to bottom. The heating element is preferably an elongate heating cartridge. Preferably, the lateral surface of the heating element touches the walls of the receptacles in which it sits or the inner surfaces. This in particular over the entire surface to allow a particularly good heat transfer between the heating element and the adjacent walls or the inner surfaces of the individual modules.

The individual modules preferably each have a base body with a main medium channel extending in the longitudinal direction of the valve arrangement, which adjoins a corresponding main medium channel of the main body of a single module adjacent in the row. Preferably, the corresponding main channels of the adjacent individual modules are aligned with each other.

In a further embodiment of the invention, a plurality of individual modules of the valve arrangement each have a valve unit detachably attached to a fastening surface of the respective base body (for example via screw connections) with a metering opening for dispensing the medium, in particular a magnetic valve unit. Each basic body of each individual module with such a valve unit also expediently has a medium branch duct leading to the valve unit. This can at an angle, in particular perpendicular, extend to the main medium channel and connect to this. According to the independent idea according to claim 12, it is provided that a plurality of the individual modules, which are detachably connected to a row in the longitudinal direction or longitudinal extent of the valve arrangement, each have a metering opening arranged on the same side of the valve arrangement for dispensing the medium, in particular the glue. In this case, the metering openings of at least two of the individual modules arranged in this row are arranged on an imaginary common, straight, in particular parallel to the longitudinal direction of the valve arrangement extending line. The metering orifice of at least one other individual module of the individual modules arranged in the latter, ie in the same row, is arranged at a distance from the aforementioned line, in particular at a distance relative to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the valve arrangement.

The spaced dosing can ultimately be positioned so far "before" the other, arranged on the common line dosing that the dosing of the adjacent single module does not collide with the aforementioned dosing when it is positioned laterally indented in the direction of the dosing of the adjacent single module , The dosing of this single module can therefore be placed with respect to the longitudinal direction of the valve assembly at a distance from the dosing of the adjacent single module, which is smaller than the width of the individual modules. Accordingly, depending on the positioning of the arranged at a distance from the aforementioned line metering a nearly arbitrarily small track spacing can be realized. This, without - as in the prior art - a second series of individual modules would be necessary.

In a further development of this idea, the individual modules with metering opening can each have a particular releasably fastened valve unit with housing into which the respective metering opening is integrated. Next, the individual modules then turn on a corresponding body, each having a mounting surface on which the respective housing of the valve unit is attached. The mounting surface of the main body of that single module whose dosing is not arranged on the imaginary common line is then angled, in particular at right angles, and at a distance from the mounting surfaces of the main body of the other individual modules arranged, the metering openings are positioned on the imaginary common line. The distance is preferably greater than the housing of the respective valve unit is wide. Preferably, all mounting surfaces of the main body of the individual modules, the metering openings are arranged on the imaginary common line, in a common plane or are aligned with each other. However, the mounting surface of the body of that single module, whose dosing is arranged at a distance from the line, is at an angle, in particular perpendicular, and at a distance from this plane or is arranged accordingly.

In a further embodiment of this idea, the housing of the valve unit of that single module, the metering is not arranged on the imaginary common line, relative to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the valve assembly so laterally offset behind the housing of the valve unit of a series adjacent single module on the Placed imaginary common line lying dosing that the two housings of the two individual modules overlap in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the valve assembly.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the ratio of the width of the respective base body of the respective single module with valve unit to the width of the arranged on the respective individual module valve unit, in particular to the width of the housing of the valve unit, at most the value 2, more preferably at most the value 1, 6. It has been found that with the aforementioned maximum width ratio, good heat transfer is still ensured by the heating elements arranged in the parting planes between the modules and the valve units. The width of the main body or the width of the valve unit or of the housing naturally relate to the outer dimensions in the longitudinal direction of the valve arrangement. Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the appended claims, the following description of a preferred embodiment and from the accompanying drawings. It shows:

Fig. 1 is a front view of a valve assembly of a plurality of individual valves, a plan view of the valve assembly of FIG. 1 corresponding to the viewing direction II in Fig. 1, a section through the valve assembly according to the section line

III-III in Fig. 2, a section through the valve assembly according to the section line

IV- IV in Fig. 2, a section through the valve assembly according to the section line

V-V in Fig. 4, a section through the valve assembly according to the section line

FIG. 4 shows an illustration of the left-hand part of the valve arrangement according to FIG. 5, but with a modified end module, a section through the valve arrangement corresponding to the section line VIII-VIII in FIG. 2.

A valve arrangement or device according to the invention for applying flowable media to surfaces is constructed from a plurality of individual modules 11.1-1 1.4 and 11 .6-1 .11. In the context of the application, the entirety of these individual modules is referred to simply as 1 1.1-1 1.11. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the valve assembly 10 is used for applying glue, in particular hot glue, to surfaces of blanks 12 made of paper, foil or the like used in the manufacture of cigarette packs. Of course, it is also within the scope of the invention to apply with the valve assembly 10 other flowable media, such as paints, varnishes or the like, on surfaces of blanks or objects of another kind.

With the valve assembly 10 each individual (small) medium or Leimportionen 42 are applied to the respective blank 12. Regularly, for this purpose, the blank 12 is moved relative to the valve arrangement 10, in particular transversely to the longitudinal extension thereof. In the present exemplary embodiment, the valve arrangement 10 is stationarily positioned in a horizontal plane, for example, and the blanks 12 to be provided with the medium or glue are conveyed below the valve arrangement 10 in a horizontal plane parallel thereto (arrow direction in FIG. 2). , Correspondingly, in each case individual, parallel medium or glue traces each consisting of individual medium portions 42 are formed perpendicular to the feed direction of the blank 12 or in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the valve arrangement 10.

The individual modules 1 1.1-1 1.11 are arranged in the longitudinal extension of the valve assembly 10 successively in a common row. In each case, pairs of two adjacent individual modules 11.1-1 1.1 1 are detachably connected to one another in a manner explained in more detail later. Between each pair of individual modules 1 1.1-1 1.11 of the series of individual modules 11.II I .1 1 a separation plane 13 is formed in each case. Accordingly, in the present exemplary embodiment, a total of ten parting planes 13 are formed, in which corresponding abutment or flange surfaces 33 of the individual modules 11.1-11.1 1 of the respective individual module pair are opposite each other and touch. Along the parting lines 13, the valve assembly 10 in the context of disassembly according to the individual modules 1 1.1-1 1.1 1 are decomposed. The individual modules 11.1-1 1.11 are partly constructed differently or have different functions.

Some individual modules, namely the individual modules 1 1.2, 1 1.4, 1 1.6, 11.7, 1 1.9, 1 1.10, each have a valve unit 14 with integrated into the valve unit 14 metering opening 15. All metering orifices 15 lie in a common (horizontal) level.

About these individual modules 1 1.2, 11.4, 1 1.6, 1.7, 11.9, 1 1.10 with valve unit 14, namely via the metering orifice 15 thereof, the flowable medium is applied in the process on the surface of the blank 12. The exact structure of the valve units 4 will be explained later in more detail.

A single module, namely the single module 11.8, is used to connect the valve assembly 10 to, in particular, the superordinate (packaging) machine, in particular the machine control, incoming power supply lines and possibly additional control lines 26. The lines 26 are presently guided inside a cable tube 18.1. Starting from the module 11.8, the lines 26 are guided through the valve arrangement 10 to the individual modules 1 1.2, 11.4, 11.6, 1.7, 1.9, 11.10 with the valve unit 14.

Another single module, namely the single module 1 1.1 1, serves for a connection of the valve assembly 10 to a medium source, such as a hot glue tank device. For this purpose, a corresponding, presently heated medium hose 18.3 ends at the individual module 1 1.11. From the individual module 11.11, the medium guided via the hose 18.3 is distributed in the interior of the valve arrangement 10 and led to the individual modules 11.2, 11.4, 1.6, 1.7, 11.9, 1.10 with valve unit 14.

On the other hand, the individual module 1 1.11 serves for connection to power supply lines 27, which preferably also come from the medium source or a control unit thereof. The lines 27 are guided inside a cable tube 18.2. Starting from the module 11.1 1, the lines are 27th guided in the valve assembly 10 to individual heating elements 17 of the valve assembly 10. The heating elements 17 in the present case are heating cartridges.

Next, the valve assembly 10 a single module 1.3 (without valve unit 14) as an intermediate module. Such intermediate modules have in the configuration of the valve assembly 10 primarily the function, on the one hand to influence the overall width of the valve assembly 10, on the other hand to be able to adjust the track spacing in the desired manner. In this case, the medium track spacing, which results between each of a valve unit 14 having individual modules 1 1.2 and 11.4.

Of course, the overall width of the valve arrangement 10 or the individual medium track distances predetermined by the corresponding distances between the metering openings 15 can not only be influenced by the use of intermediate modules. In principle, the width of each of the individual modules 11.1-1 1.11 can be selected individually, so that ultimately overall any desired overall width and any track spacing can be set.

It should be noted that the position of different modules 1 1.1-11.11 in the common row can be varied. For example, the modules 11.8 and 1.1 can be spatially positioned to connect the above-mentioned hoses or cables in the module row so that the corresponding cables and hoses can be guided in the best possible way to the higher-level machine or the medium source.

Finally, the valve assembly 10 still has a single module 11.1, which serves as a final module in the common row as a final or final module. In the present case, the individual module 1 1.1 closes off the valve arrangement 10 on one side in the longitudinal direction.

Each of the individual modules 11.1-1 1 .1 1 has a base body 19. The individual base bodies 19 each have on at least one (outer) side one or the above-mentioned flange 33, on which then in each case a corresponding flange 33rd of the base 19 of one or the adjacent in the common row single module 1 1.1-1 1.1 1 is applied. The main body 19 of those individual modules 1 1.1 -11.1 1, adjacent to the other in the common row two other individual modules 11.1-1 1.1 1, have correspondingly on two opposite body (outside) pages each have a respective flange 33rd

With the exception of the main body 19 of the end module 11.1, all other main body 19 of the individual modules 1 1.2-11.11, ie in particular the intermediate module 1.3, each have a presently preferred parallel to the longitudinal extent of the valve assembly 10 extending main channel 20 medium. In any case, the main channels 20 of those individual modules 1 1.1-11.1 1, in which in the series of individual modules 1 1.1-11.1 1 on each side other individual modules 1 1.1-11.11 adjacent, extend continuously from the one (outer) side with flange 33rd to the other (outer) side with flange 33rd

The individual main channels 20 of the main body 19 of the individual modules 1 1.2-1 1.11 in each case, in particular aligned, to each other, so that a total of a continuous channel 21 results, extending from the base body 19 of the module 1 1.1 1 to the base body 19 of the Module 1 1.2 extends.

By contrast, the main body 19 of the terminating module 11.1 does not have such a main medium channel 20, but serves exclusively for the terminal closing of the main medium channel 20 of the module 1 1.2 adjacent to the row.

The main body 19 of the individual modules 1 1 .2, 1 1.4, 1 1.6, 1 1.7, 11.9, 11.10 with respective valve unit 14 further each have a branching out of the respective main channel 20 Mediumzweigkanal 22nd

The respective branch channels 22 end in each case at attachment (outside) - sides 23 of the base body 19 of the individual modules 1 1.2, 11.4, 11.6, 1 1.7, 1 1 .9, 1 1.10. For this purpose, they run at least in sections at an angle, in particular perpendicularly or transversely to the respective main medium channel 20. The respective branch channels 22 each terminate at an attachment surface 24 of the respective attachment side 23. At each attachment surface 24 is releasably, in the present case by means of screws 44, the respective valve unit 14 attached. In addition to the main medium channel 20, the base body 19 of the individual modules 11.2-11.1 1 (ie, with the exception of the end module 11.1) beyond each at least one, preferably each parallel to the respective main channel 20 medium extending channel channel 25. Through these are on the one hand the current and if necessary, control lines 26 are guided for the valve units 14, the base bodies 19 of the individual modules 1 1.2, 1 1.4, 11.6, 1.7, 1.9, 1.10 having respective valve unit 14 additionally each having a cable branch channel 50 departing from the respective cable channel 25 , through which the guided through the cable duct 25 lines 26 are further led to the valve units 14.

On the other hand, the power lines 27 are guided for the heating elements 17 through the cable channel 25. For this purpose, the individual cable channels 25 of the respective modules 11.2-11.11 also adjoin one another, so that correspondingly in the valve arrangement 10 there is also a continuous (possibly parallel to the continuous medium channel 21) cable channel.

Preferably, the cable channels 25 of the individual base body 19 are aligned and also run parallel to the longitudinal extent of the valve assembly 10. In any case, the cable channels 25 of those individual modules 1 1.1-1 1.11, in which in the series of individual modules 11.1-1 1.1 1 each on two sides other individual modules 11.1- 11.1 1 extend, as the medium main channels 20 - extending continuously from the (outer) side of the corresponding base body 19 having the flange surface 33 to the (outer) side facing the flange surface 33.

In the present exemplary embodiment, two main bodies 19 of the individual modules 11.1-11.11 adjoining one another in the common row are always connected to one another (see FIG. 5). For this purpose, corresponding connection means are provided. These are here Connecting bolts 45. This pass through holes 28, which in any case in the non-terminal modules 1 1 .2-1 1 .10 of the one, the flange 33 having (outer) side of a base body 19 to the other the flange 33 having (outside -) side of this body 19 extend. Theoretically, it is conceivable to connect more than two individual modules 1 1.1 -1 1 .1 1 with each other.

The holes 28 each have a disposed within the respective body 19 reduction 29 on or a cross-sectional constriction. At one angled, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis of the respective bore 28 and the respective reduction 29 extending, present annular abutment surface in each case a presently hollow cylindrical spacer 51 is supported or one end thereof is there. The respective other end of the respective spacer 51 serves as abutment or abutment surface for the respective screw head 52 of the respective screws 45. The respective length of the screws 45 designed as standard screws is selected, preferably identical in each case, to an internal thread 30 of one respective other, in particular adjacent body 19 can be screwed. Specifically, for example, they can be screwed into an internal thread 30 of a threaded piece 31 screwed into a further internal thread 32 of the other base body 19. The holes 28 are preferably distributed coaxially around the respective main medium channel 20 of the respective base body 19. In particular, they are each arranged at an identical distance from the main medium channel 20 so that they are distributed in cross section along the same circular line. The angular distances between each two adjacent to the circle line screws 45 are identical.

The base bodies 19 are preferably made of aluminum. The material from which the spacers 51 are made, however, is preferably steel. The background is that steel has a significantly lower thermal expansion coefficient than aluminum. Accordingly, acting on the screws 45, thermally induced stresses that may result from the heating of the individual modules 1 1.1-1 1.1 1 and in particular by the corresponding heating of the spacer 51 during operation, kept as small as possible. The bores 28 of the end module 1 1.1 are arranged corresponding to the holes 28 of the adjacent module 11.2 in alignment, but do not reach through the end module 1 1.1 in the embodiment of FIG. This is different in an alternative embodiment according to FIG. 7, the modules 1 1.9 ', 1 1.10' and 1 1.1 1 'shows. The bore 28 of the terminal termination module 11.1 1 'passes through the end module 1.1' from the outside thereof. Accordingly, the screw 45 can be screwed in from this side.

As a result of the above-mentioned measures, in each case a constant surface pressure of the base body 19 or individual modules 1 1.1-1.1.1 connected in this way is achieved during assembly of the individual base bodies 19.

Unlike in the present embodiment can be provided to make the modules 1 1.1 -1 1.11 symmetrical as far as possible, so that the screws 45 can be inserted in principle from both (outer) sides of the respective body 19.

For sealing is between each two main channels 20 of the main body 19 of adjacent individual modules 1 1.2-11.1 1 each have a ring seal 34 is arranged. A further annular seal 34 is arranged between the main medium channel 20 of the main body 19 of the single module 1 1.2 and a medium main channel 20 laterally terminating wall of the end module 1 1.1.

As far as the valve units 14 are concerned, these are solenoid valves. Other valves can be used. The valve units 14 have a two-part housing 35 in the present case with an upper housing part 35a and a lower housing part 35b. The valve unit 14 is releasably connected to the respective base body 19 - as already mentioned, in the present case by the screws 44. Within the valve housing 35, namely in a valve housing interior or a valve housing chamber, two coils 36 of two electromagnets are arranged in the present case. Each solenoid has in each case a coil 36. Basically Also only one electromagnet with one or more coils or more than two electromagnets are used, each with one or more coils.

The two coils 36 are wound in the present embodiment of the valve unit 14 both on a common bobbin or bobbin 37. They are not shown separately or individually.

Within a hollow cylindrical portion of the bobbin 37, a closing or metering member 38 is movably arranged, namely a valve tappet.

In the present case, a ball is attached to a lower shaft of the metering element 38 as a closure means for the metering or valve opening 15. The metering opening 15 is arranged centrally in the region of a funnel-shaped valve seat or in the region of a corresponding valve nozzle 39. The ball is in the closed position of the valve unit 14 shown in FIG. 3 on conical seating surfaces of the valve nozzle 39 and closes the metering opening 15th

The medium to be metered, in particular glue or hot glue, is first fed to the individual module 11.11 via the heated tube 18.3 from the medium or glue source, not shown, and then via the respective main medium channels 20 and the respective medium branch channels 22 within the valve assembly 10 to the each valve unit 14 passed. In this case, the medium flows concretely into a channel 40 within the valve housing 35, from there into the interior of the valve unit 14 surrounding the coil support 37 and then in the direction of the nozzle 39 or metering opening 15.

By appropriate loading of the coils 36 and the electromagnet with electric current, the respective closure member 38 of the respective valve unit 14 is opened during operation upwards. Restoring forces then ensure a closing movement of the closure member 38 as soon as the opening forces applied by the electromagnet are eliminated. The restoring forces are caused by two repulsive individual magnets, one of which is arranged on the closure member 38, the other on a serving as a stop counterpart 16th Of particular importance is the arrangement of the above-mentioned heating elements 17. In the present case, each of the parting planes 13 is assigned its own heating element 17. The heating elements 17 are presently designed as so-called heating cartridges. Specifically, they have a substantially cylindrical lateral surface 41. Of course, the outer surface can also have a different shape.

The heating elements 17 each sit in two matching, opposite and complementary, elongated receptacles 46 of adjacent in the series or adjacent basic bodies 19 of the individual modules 1 1.1 -1 1 .1 1 and a pair of adjacent base body 19. A receptacle 46 is In accordance with the (outer) side of the respective one base body 19, the other receptacle 46 is assigned to the opposite (outer) side of the respective other, adjacent or adjacent base body 19. Concretely, each receptacle 46 is introduced into the respective flange surfaces 33, in particular milled ,

The respective two receptacles 46 located opposite each other enclose the respective heating element 17 or its lateral surface 41 completely or substantially completely in the radial direction. The elongated receptacles 46 extend in the present case perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of Ventilanordpung, namely upright or from bottom to top. They each have a lateral wall 46a with a corresponding inner surface. The dimensions of the respectively opposing receptacles 46 are in this case adapted to the heating element 17, that the lateral surface 41 of the heating element 17 at the two, presently semi-cylindrical walls 46a with corresponding semi-cylindrical inner surfaces of the opposite receptacles 46 in particular over the entire surface is applied, and indeed over the entire lateral surface 41. As a result, a particularly good heat transfer between the respective heating element 17 and the respective base body 19 is achieved, which contributes to a uniform heat distribution in the valve arrangement 10 overall. It is basically also conceivable that the respective heating element 17 sits with some (lateral) play in the receptacles 46, which is then filled with a thermal grease. The special arrangement of the heating elements 17 also ensures that relative movements of the adjacent base body 19 with movement components in the direction transverse to the longitudinal extent of the heating element 17 are not possible, cf. In the present case, these are relative movements with movement components which are at the same time directed transversely to the longitudinal extent of the heating element 17 and transversely to the longitudinal extension of the valve arrangement 10. In order to limit or prevent relative movements of adjacent base body 19 with movement components, which are also directed parallel to the longitudinal extent of the heating element 17 and transversely to the longitudinal extent of the valve arrangement 10, cf. Movement arrow 47c in Fig. 8, the dividing planes 13 is additionally assigned a corresponding key 48 in each case. This key 48 is seated respectively in matching, opposite recesses 49 of the opposite (outer) sides of the adjacent base body 19. In particular, these recesses 49 are introduced into the corresponding flange 33 or likewise milled. The above-mentioned position fixings are particularly helpful in the assembly of the individual modules 1 1.1 -1 1 .1 1 before the described connection is made via the screws 45.

Another special feature is the individual module 1 1 .10. Like the other individual modules 1 1.2, 1 1 .4, 1 1.6, 1 1 .7, 1 1.9 and although it has a valve unit 14 on. However, this valve unit 14 is arranged offset relative to the other valve units 14 of the other modules 1 1 .2, 1 1.4, 1 1 .6, 1 1.7, 1 1.9 in the (horizontal) direction transverse to the longitudinal extent of the valve assembly 10 to the front.

This is achieved by the main body 19 of the module 1 1 .10 in the aforementioned transverse direction over a common plane of the valve unit mounting sides 23 of the main body 19 of the other modules 1 1 .2, 1 1 .4, 1 1 .6, 1 1 .7, 1 1.9 stands out. In addition, the mounting side 23 and the mounting surface 24 of the module 1 1.10 angle or present perpendicular to the mounting sides 23 and mounting surfaces 24 of the other modules 1 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.7, 1.9 are arranged. Namely, such that it faces the adjacent module 1 1.9.

The valve unit 14 is arranged on the module 11.10 at such a distance from the attachment sides 23 of the other modules 1 1.2, 1.4, 1.6, 1.7, 1.9, that the valve unit 14 of the module 1 1.10 in the longitudinal direction of the valve assembly 10 and . In the direction of the adjacent module 1 1.9 offset can be arranged.

Based on the direction transverse to the longitudinal extent of the valve assembly 10, the valve units 14 (or the housing 35 thereof) of the two adjacent modules 1 1.9 and 1 1 .10 (with lateral offset) are arranged one behind the other.

With respect to the longitudinal extension of the valve assembly 10, however, the two valve units 14 (or the housing 35) overlap. As a result of this overlap, the distance between the medium tracks of the module 11.9 and of the module 11.10 can be reduced to a value which is smaller than the width of the base body 19 of the modules 1 1.9 or 11.10.

As can be seen, are corresponding to the nozzle openings 15 of the modules 1 1.2, 11.4, 11.6, 11.7, 1 1.9 on an (imaginary) straight, common line parallel to the longitudinal extension of the valve assembly 10, while the nozzle opening 15 of the module 11.10 spaced from this line is arranged in front of said transverse direction. Another important aspect concerns the ratio of the width of the respective basic body 19 of the respective individual module 1 1.4, 11.6, 11.7, 1.9, 1.10 with valve unit 14 to the width of the respective individual module 11.4, 11.6, 11.7, 1.9, 11.10 respectively arranged valve unit 14, in particular to the width of the housing 35 of the valve unit 14. This ratio should preferably take at most the value 2, ie values <= 2, particularly preferably at most the value 1, 6 or <= 1, 6. It has been found that, with the aforementioned maximum width ratio, good heat transfer from the heating elements 19 arranged in the parting planes 13 to the valve units 14 is ensured. Conveniently, the ratio will also assume at least the value 1, so that the ratio assumes a value between 1 and 2 or 1 and 1, 6.

*****

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10 Valve assembly 28 bore

1 1.1 Single module 29 Reduction

1 1.2 Single module 30 Internal thread

1 1.3 Single module 31 threaded piece

11.4 Single module 32 internal thread

11.6 Single module 33 Flange surface

1 1.7 Single module 34 Ring seal

1 1.8 Single module 35 Housing

11.9 individual module 35a housing part

1 1.10 Single module 35b Housing part

11.1 1 single module 36 coil

1.9 'single module 37 bobbin

1 1.10 'Single module 38 Dosing element

11.11 'Single module 39 Valve nozzle

12 Blank 40 medium channel

13 parting plane 41 lateral surface

14 Valve unit 42 glue portions

15 dosing hole 44 screws

16 counterpart 45 screws

17 heating cartridge 46 recording

18.1 Hose 46a Lateral wall

18.2 Hose 47a movement arrow

18.3 tube 47b movement arrow

19 main body 47c movement arrow

20 Medium main channel 48 Key

21 channel 49 recesses

22 Medium branch channel 50 Cable branch channel

23 attachment side 51 spacer

24 mounting surface 52 screw head

25 cable channel

26 power line

27 power line

Claims

claims

1. Valve arrangement for applying flowable media, in particular glue, on surfaces, with a plurality of individual modules (11.1-11.11) detachably connected to one row, wherein in each case a separating plane (13) between the individual modules (1 1.1-11.1 1) adjacent in the row is formed, in which the respective adjacent individual modules (1 1.1-1 1.1 1) abut each other, characterized in that at least one parting plane (13) is assigned a heating element (17) for heating the valve assembly (10), preferably several or all parting planes (13) in each case one heating element (17), which seats in matching, on both sides of the parting plane (13), opposing receptacles (46) of the two adjacent individual modules (11.1-1 1.11) and thus with the receptacles (46) limiting Walls (46a) of the individual modules (11.1-11.11) cooperates, that relative movements of the two individual modules (11.1-1 1.11) are limited or prevented in at least one spatial direction.

2. Valve arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the heating element (17) has a preferably cylindrical lateral surface (41), the matching, formed by the opposing receptacles (46) of the individual modules (11.1-1 1.1 1), in particular cylindrical inner surfaces the individual modules (11.1 -1 1.11) is opposite, in particular rests against these inner surfaces.

3. Valve arrangement according to one or more of the further claims, characterized in that a plurality of individual modules (1 1.1-11.11) each have a base body (19) with a particular in the longitudinal direction of the valve assembly (10) extending main channel medium (20), which is to a corresponding main channel medium (20) of the base body (19) of a single module adjacent in the series (1 1.1-1 1.1 1) connects.

4. Valve arrangement according to one or more of the further claims, characterized in that a plurality of individual modules (1 1.1-11.1 1) each above a valve unit (14) releasably secured to a mounting surface (24) of the respective base body (19) and having a metering opening (15) for dispensing the medium, in particular a solenoid valve unit (14).

5. Valve arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that the heating element (17) is elongate and extends perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the valve assembly (10).

6. Valve arrangement according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that each base body (19) of each individual module (1 1.1-11.11) with valve unit (14) angled, in particular perpendicular to the main medium channel (20) extending, adjoining thereto, for Valve unit (14) leading medium branch channel (22).

7. Valve arrangement according to claim 4, 5 or 6, characterized in that the ratio of the width of the respective base body (19) of the respective individual module (11.1-1 1.1 1) with valve unit (14) to the width of the respective individual module (1 1.1 -1 1.1 1) arranged valve unit (14), in particular to the width of the housing (35) of the valve unit (14), at most the value 2, preferably at most the value 1, 6.

8. Valve arrangement according to one or more of the further claims, characterized in that in each case at least two individual modules (1 1.1-1 1.11) are screwed together by at least three preferably at the same distance from the main medium channel (20) of the base body (19) of a single module (11.1-1 1.11), in particular parallel to this and in each case at the same angular distance, extending, by corresponding holes (28) in the base body (19) of a single module (1 1.1 -1 1.1 1) extending connecting screws (45), each in a matching thread (32) of the main body (29) of the other single module (11.1-11.11) are screwed, in particular each in an associated internal thread (32) one in the base body (19) of the other single module (1 1.1-1 1.1 1) each screwed threaded piece (31).

9. Valve arrangement according to claim 8, characterized in that the screw head (52) of the respective screw (45) within the respective bore (28) of one of the at least two individual modules (1 1.1-11.1 1) on a contact surface of a separate, within the respective Bore (28) arranged, in particular hollow cylindrical spacer (51) is applied, which in turn at an angle, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis of the bore (28) extending, in particular annular contact surface within the bore (28) is supported, wherein the material from which the Spacer (51) is made, preferably steel, a lower coefficient of thermal expansion than the material from which the respective base body (19) of the at least two individual modules (1 1.1-1 1.11) are made, preferably aluminum.

10. Valve arrangement according to one or more of the further claims, characterized in that the individual modules (11.1-11.11) each have a in the longitudinal direction of the valve assembly (10) extending cable channel (25) for power and optionally for control cable, which adjoins a corresponding cable channel of the main body (19) of an adjacent single module (1 1.1-1 1.11) connects.

11. Valve arrangement according to one or more of the further claims, characterized in that each base body (19) of each individual module (1 1.1-1 1.11) with valve unit (14) angled, in particular perpendicular, to the cable channel (25) extending to this having, leading to the valve unit (14) leading cable branch channel (50).

12. Valve arrangement for applying flowable media, in particular glue, on surfaces, in particular according to one or more of the further claims, with a plurality of in a longitudinal direction of the valve assembly (10) releasably connected to a series of individual modules (1 1.1-1 1.11), wherein between each of the adjacent individual modules (11.1-1 1.1 1) in each case a parting plane (13) is formed, in which the respective adjacent individual modules (11.1-1 1.1 1) abut each other, wherein a plurality of these individual modules (11.1-1 1.1 1) via each have a on the same side of the valve assembly (10) arranged metering opening (15) for dispensing the medium, wherein the Dosing (15) of at least two of these individual modules (1 1.1-1 1.11) on an imaginary common, straight, in particular parallel to the longitudinal direction of the valve assembly (10) extending line are arranged, and wherein the metering opening (15) at least one other single module this Single modules (1 1.1-11.11) is arranged at a distance from the aforementioned line.

13. Valve arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that the individual modules (11.1-1 1.11) with metering opening (15) each have a valve unit (14) with housing (35) into which the respective metering opening (15) is integrated, and respectively a base body (19) each having a fastening surface (24) to which the respective housing (35) of the valve unit (14) is fastened, and in that the fastening surface (24) of the base body (19) of that single module (11.1-11.1 1), whose metering opening (15) is not arranged on the imaginary common line, angularly and at a distance from the mounting surfaces (24) of the base body (19) of the other individual modules (1 1.1-1 1.11) is arranged, the metering openings (15) on the imaginary common line are arranged, in particular at right angles.

14. Valve arrangement according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the mounting surfaces (24) of the base body (19) of the individual modules (11.1-11.1 1), the metering openings (15) are arranged on the imaginary common line lie in a common plane or aligned with each other, and that the mounting surface (24) of the base body (19) of the single module (11.1-11.11), whose metering opening (15) is arranged at a distance from the line, at an angle, in particular perpendicular, and arranged at a distance to this plane is.

15. Valve arrangement according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the housing (35) of the valve unit (14) of that single module (11.1- 1 1.11), the metering opening (15) is not arranged on the imaginary common line, based on the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the valve assembly (10) so laterally behind the housing (35) of the valve unit (14) of a series adjacent single module (11.1-1 1.1 1) arranged on the imaginary common line dosing (15) is that the two housings (35) of the two individual modules (1 1.1-11.1 1) overlap in the longitudinal direction of the valve assembly (10).

16. Single module for a valve assembly (10) having a plurality of individual modules (1 1.1-1 1.1 1) detachably connected to a row according to one or more of the preceding Claims 1-13, which has at least one side a flange surface (33) for abutment a corresponding flange surface (33) of a further individual module (1 1.1-1 1.1 1), wherein in the flange (33) for limiting or preventing relative movements of the two individual modules in at least one spatial direction, a laterally open receptacle (46) is introduced into the a partial surface of the lateral surface (41) of a heating element (17) which matches the contour of the receptacle (46) can be inserted.

17. Single module for a valve arrangement (10) having a plurality of individual modules (11.1-11.1 1) detachably connected to a row according to one or more of the preceding claims 1-14, having a main body (19) with a main medium channel (20) to which a Medium main channel (20) of a basic body

(19) of a similar other single module (1 1.1-11.11) can be connected, wherein the base body (19) in particular perpendicular to the main channel medium (20) extending flange surface (33) for abutment with a corresponding flange (33) of a further single module (11.1- 1 1.11), and at a distance from the flange (33), in particular offset parallel to this extending mounting surface (24) to which a valve unit (14) with housing (35) can be fastened and at the one of the main medium channel

(20) outgoing medium branch channel (22) ends.