Coating mist capturing device

Abstract

The present application relates to a paint mist capturing device, which is provided with: a housing configured to flow in a gas stream containing paint mist discharged from a painting chamber; a capturing filter configured to capture the paint mist by being disposed in the housing and to be replaced by being taken out from the housing; and a gasket member. The gasket member is interposed between a gap between an inflow opening portion of the capturing filter and an inner surface of the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a paint mist collection device for coating equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, paint mist collection devices have become increasingly popular for capturing residual paint mist (excessive spraying that does not adhere to the object being coated) emitted from the coating chamber of coating equipment, thereby preventing the release of paint mist outside the coating equipment. One known paint mist collection device is a dry collection system that captures paint mist using a collection filter. Dry paint mist collection devices eliminate the need for water circulation and wastewater purification equipment required in wet paint mist collection devices that capture paint mist through contact with liquids such as water, thus simplifying the coating equipment.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-125647 discloses a coating apparatus equipped with a dry paint mist collection device. As disclosed in this publication, the dry paint mist collection device is typically arranged adjacent to the coating chamber (e.g., adjacent to the lower side). Furthermore, the dry paint mist collection device has a structure that houses a collection filter inside the housing. Airflow exiting from the coating chamber flows into the housing and passes through the collection filter, where paint mist contained in the airflow is collected. In this manner, the air after the paint mist has been removed (purified air) is discharged from the housing.

[0004] In this paint mist collection device, when a gap is created between the inner surface of the housing and the collection filter, paint mist that passes through the gap may sometimes be released to the outside of the paint mist collection device. Therefore, in order to suppress the release of paint mist, the collection filter is housed inside the housing with the inner surface of the housing in contact with the collection filter. Summary of the Invention

[0005] However, in dry paint mist collection devices, there is a tendency for collection performance to decrease as the amount of paint mist collected in the collection filter increases. To maintain good paint mist collection performance in paint mist collection devices, the collection filter needs to be replaced periodically. After removing (pushing out) the collection filter from the housing, it is replaced by inserting a new collection filter into the housing.

[0006] However, as mentioned above, the inner surface of the housing is in contact with the capture filter. Therefore, during paint mist capture, paint mist flowing into the housing sometimes crosses and accumulates between the inner surface of the housing and the capture filter (especially the airflow inlet of the capture filter). Moreover, when the amount of paint mist accumulation increases, the housing and the capture filter sometimes become stuck together by the paint. In this case, removing the capture filter from the housing becomes difficult, and therefore, the replacement of the capture filter sometimes becomes complicated or impossible.

[0007] The present invention provides a paint mist collection device in which the collection filter can be easily removed from the housing.

[0008] The paint mist collection device according to the present invention includes: a housing configured to allow an airflow containing paint mist discharged from a painting chamber to flow in; a collection filter configured to collect the paint mist by being disposed within the housing and to be replaced by removing it from the housing; and a gasket member. The gasket member is inserted into the gap between the inlet opening of the collection filter into which the airflow flows and the inner surface of the housing. Furthermore, the inlet opening of the collection filter is, for example, the portion surrounding the space forming the inlet opening within the collection filter.

[0009] The airflow exiting the painting chamber flows into the housing. Some of the paint mist contained in the airflow sometimes accumulates on the inner surface of the housing and the gasket components. The gasket components are sandwiched in the gap between the inlet opening of the trap filter and the inner surface of the housing. Therefore, it is possible to prevent paint mist from crossing and accumulating between the inner surface of the housing and the inlet opening of the trap filter. This prevents the housing and trap filter from being stuck with paint. As a result, the trap filter can be easily removed from the housing when it needs to be replaced, thus facilitating easy replacement of the trap filter.

[0010] For example, the gasket component can be removed from the housing before removing the trap filter. In this case, the trap filter can be removed from the housing with a gap created between the housing and the trap filter, where the gasket component is sandwiched. Therefore, the trap filter can be removed from the housing more easily and replaced more easily.

[0011] In the paint mist collection device of the present invention, a plurality of the aforementioned padding components may be arranged along the opening edge of the aforementioned inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter.

[0012] Therefore, compared to the case where a single, integrally shaped liner component is configured along the opening edge of the inlet of the trap filter, it is easier to configure and remove the individual liner components.

[0013] In the paint mist collection device of the present invention, the opening edge of a portion of the inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter may extend along the removal direction when the aforementioned collection filter is removed from the aforementioned housing, and a portion of the aforementioned plurality of pad members may be arranged along the opening edge extending along the aforementioned removal direction.

[0014] Therefore, the gasket component, which is arranged along the edge of the opening extending in the aforementioned removal direction, can be pulled out of the housing in the removal direction. In other words, the operation of removing the gasket component from the housing before removing the trap filter from the housing becomes easier. As a result, a sufficient gap can be easily created between the housing and the trap filter, making it easier to remove the trap filter.

[0015] In the paint mist collection device of the present invention, the aforementioned inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter may be open upwards, and the aforementioned padding member may be an L-shaped member having a vertical portion that abuts against the outer surface of the opening edge of the aforementioned inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter and a horizontal portion that abuts against the front end of the aforementioned opening edge.

[0016] The outer surface of the opening edge of the inlet of the trap filter is covered by the vertical portion of the gasket member. Furthermore, the leading edge of the opening edge of the inlet of the trap filter is covered by the horizontal portion of the gasket member. This ensures that the inner surface of the housing does not contact the opening edge of the inlet of the trap filter. Therefore, as described above, it is possible to prevent the housing and the trap filter from sticking to the coating, and the trap filter can be easily removed from the housing.

[0017] In the paint mist collection device of the present invention, the aforementioned housing may have an airflow inlet pipe configured to introduce the aforementioned airflow toward the aforementioned inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter. The aforementioned inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter is smaller than the inlet opening of the aforementioned airflow inlet pipe. The aforementioned airflow inlet pipe has a guide member. The aforementioned guide member has an inclined plate that is inclined toward the opening edge of the aforementioned inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter. The aforementioned padding member is inserted in the gap between the aforementioned inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter and the aforementioned guide member.

[0018] Airflow from the airflow inlet duct into the housing is guided by the inclined plate of the guide member to the inlet opening of the trap filter. This effectively guides paint mist into the trap filter. Furthermore, a liner is inserted into the gap between the trap filter's inlet opening and the guide member, preventing the airflow flowing along the inclined plate from directly hitting the liner. This prevents the liner from moving due to airflow pressure, thus stably maintaining its inserted position. As a result, paint mist is reliably prevented from crossing and accumulating between the inner surface of the housing and the trap filter's inlet opening.

[0019] In the paint mist collection device of the present invention, the aforementioned padding member may be configured to be elastically deformed by being sandwiched in the gap between the aforementioned inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter and the aforementioned guide member.

[0020] By elastically deforming the gasket component in this manner, the outer surface of the gasket component is pressed against the inlet opening and guide component of the capture filter, respectively. This ensures a good seal between the inlet opening and guide component of the capture filter and the gasket component. Therefore, gaps between the inlet opening and guide component of the capture filter and the gasket component are avoided, preventing the release of paint mist to the outside of the paint mist capture device from such gaps.

[0021] In the paint mist collection device according to the present invention, the aforementioned housing may have a filter insertion opening and an opening. The filter insertion opening is configured such that, when the aforementioned collection filter is replaced, the aforementioned collection filter is removed from the aforementioned housing and inserted into the aforementioned housing via the aforementioned filter insertion opening. In the state where the aforementioned collection filter is inserted into the aforementioned housing through the aforementioned filter insertion opening, the aforementioned opening is disposed between the upper edge of the aforementioned filter insertion opening and the upper edge of the aforementioned inflow opening of the aforementioned collection filter, which is located lower than the aforementioned upper edge. The aforementioned opening has a predetermined height dimension, and the aforementioned pad member has an insert portion. The aforementioned insert portion has a height dimension that is the same as the height dimension of the aforementioned opening, and the aforementioned insert portion is inserted into the aforementioned opening.

[0022] After the filter is inserted into the housing, a gasket is inserted into the gap between the inner surface of the housing and the inlet opening of the filter. Specifically, the insert portion of the gasket is inserted into the opening between the upper edge of the filter insertion opening and the upper edge of the inlet opening of the filter. This ensures that the inner surface of the housing does not contact the opening edge of the inlet opening of the filter. Therefore, it prevents the housing and the filter from sticking to the paint, and the filter can be easily removed from the housing.

[0023] In the paint mist collection device of the present invention, the aforementioned pad component may also have a structure of stacked peeling sheets.

[0024] By peeling off the release liner that has accumulated paint, the paint can be removed from the gasket component along with the release liner. This allows the gasket component to be reused in a paint-free state.

[0025] In the paint mist collection device of the present invention, the collection filter can be easily removed from the housing. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described, in which the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the outline structure of the coating equipment involved in the implementation method.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view showing the housing of the paint mist collection device.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional view showing the collection filter and various gasket components of the paint mist collection device.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional view showing the state of the trap filter inserted into the housing.

[0031] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates the state of the trap filter inserted into the housing and the installation of the fourth gasket component.

[0032] Figure 6A This is a diagram illustrating the dimensions of the various parts of the filter insertion opening in the housing.

[0033] Figure 6B This is a diagram illustrating the dimensions of various parts of the trap filter, the first liner component, and the second liner component.

[0034] Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 A sectional view of line VII-VII in the diagram.

[0035] Figure 8 This is a diagram used to illustrate the airflow passing through the paint mist trapping device.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a diagram used to illustrate the accumulation state of paint mist in a paint mist collection device.

[0037] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the second gasket component involved in the modified example 1.

[0038] Figure 11 This is the case involved in variation example two. Figure 7 The corresponding diagram.

[0039] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the fourth gasket component involved in the modified example three. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this embodiment, an example will be described where a paint mist collection device is installed in a recovery chamber located below the coating chamber of a coating equipment.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the outline structure of the coating equipment (coating room) 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the coating equipment 1 according to this embodiment includes a coating chamber 2, an air supply chamber 3 disposed above the coating chamber 2, and a recovery chamber 4 disposed below the coating chamber 2.

[0042] Furthermore, the following will describe the width direction of the coating equipment 1 ( Figure 1 The left and right directions are defined as the X direction. In the X direction, [the following is a list of directions]... Figure 1 The left side is called the X1 direction, which will Figure 1 The direction to the right is called the X2 direction. Furthermore, the transport direction of the object to be painted, W ( Figure 1 The direction perpendicular to the paper plane is defined as the Y direction. In the Y direction, Figure 1 The direction in front of the paper (the downstream direction of the conveying direction of the object W to be coated) is called the Y1 direction. Figure 1 The direction on the inside of the paper (the upstream direction of the conveying direction of the object W to be coated) is called the Y2 direction. Furthermore, the height direction of the coating equipment 1 ( Figure 1 The vertical direction is defined as the Z direction. In the Z direction, [the following is a partial translation of the original text, which is incomplete and requires further context]. Figure 1 The upward direction is called the Z1 direction. Figure 1 The downward direction is called the Z2 direction.

[0043] Painting booth 2 is equipped with Figure 1 A painting line 21 extends in the Y direction. The painting line 21 uses, for example, the body of a car as the object to be painted (the workpiece to be painted). The painting line 21 has a conveyor track 22, a transport vehicle 23 that can move on the conveyor track 22, and painting robots 24L and 24R arranged on both sides of the conveyor track 22 in the X direction.

[0044] like Figure 1As shown, with the object to be painted, W, mounted on the transport vehicle 23, the transport vehicle 23 moves on the transport track 22. Thus, the painting line 21 can move the object to be painted, W, along the Y direction (towards the Y1 direction).

[0045] Painting robots 24L and 24R are multi-jointed robots configured to apply paint micronized particles towards the object W to be painted. Painting robot 24L is positioned on the X1 direction side of painting robot 24R. Painting robot 24L is responsible for painting the outer surface of the object W, including the... Figure 1 The painting involves the left side and the upper left-side area. Meanwhile, painting robot 24R is responsible for painting the outer surface of object W. Figure 1 The paint job on the right side and the upper right area.

[0046] The painting robots 24L and 24R include a spray gun 24a for atomizing paint, a robotic arm 24b for moving the spray gun 24a, and a base 24c for supporting the robotic arm 24b. These painting robots 24L and 24R operate according to control signals from a robot controller (not shown). The robot controller stores operational information in advance through offline teaching. Thus, the painting robots 24L and 24R spray paint mist from the spray gun 24a toward the outer surface of the object W to be painted. The spray gun 24a employs a rotary atomization method with a rotating atomizing head. The painting method is not limited to rotary atomization; it can also be air atomization, hydraulic atomization, etc.

[0047] In the coating equipment 1 according to this embodiment, coating robots 24L and 24R are arranged on the longitudinal wall of the coating chamber 2. However, coating robots 24L and 24R may also be arranged on the floor of the coating chamber 2. Furthermore, the coating robot 24L arranged on the X1 direction side and the coating robot 24R arranged on the X2 direction side are not limited to one unit each, and multiple units may be provided.

[0048] Drying zones (not shown) for drying the object W are provided on both sides of the Y-direction of the coating chamber 2 (on both sides of the conveying direction of the object W to be coated). In these drying zones, heated air is supplied to dry the surface of the object W. That is, the object W dried in the drying zone on the upstream side (Y2 direction side) of the conveying direction is conveyed to the coating chamber 2. In the coating chamber 2, paint mist sprayed from the spray guns 24a, 24a of the coating robots 24L, 24R is sprayed onto the object W for coating. The coated object W is then conveyed to the drying zone on the downstream side (Y1 direction side) of the conveying direction for further drying.

[0049] Furthermore, an inlet for introducing air from the air supply chamber 3 (described later) is formed on the top plate portion 25 of the coating chamber 2. This inlet has a mesh structure. Additionally, an outlet for discharging air toward the recovery chamber 4 (described later) is formed on the bottom plate portion 26 of the coating chamber 2. This outlet has a crossbar structure. Thus, in the coating chamber 2, the air supplied from the air supply chamber 3 flows from top to bottom in a rectified state, and this air is discharged into the recovery chamber 4 (see reference). Figure 1 (arrow). Therefore, during the painting operation in the painting chamber 2, the remaining paint mist (overspray) that is not coated on the object W flows along the airflow (downflow) in the painting chamber 2 and is discharged from the painting chamber 2 to the recovery chamber 4.

[0050] Air supply chamber 3 is provided for supplying ventilation air to painting chamber 2. An air conditioner 32 is connected to air supply chamber 3 via air supply pipe 31. Air that has been purified and had its temperature and humidity regulated by the air conditioner 32 flows into air supply chamber 3 via air supply pipe 31. Air supply chamber 3 has the function of rectifying the air flowing in from air supply pipe 31, thereby regulating the amount of air introduced into painting chamber 2.

[0051] As described above, a mesh inlet is formed on the top plate 25 of the coating chamber 2, so that the air volume is regulated and rectified and supplied as a downward flow from the air supply chamber 3 to the coating chamber 2.

[0052] Furthermore, the air supply chamber 3 is set to be the same size as the painting chamber 2 when viewed from above. That is, the width (length in the X direction) of the air supply chamber 3 is the same as the width of the painting chamber 2. The length (length in the Y direction) of the air supply chamber 3 is the same as the length of the painting chamber 2.

[0053] The recovery chamber 4 is provided to purify the airflow containing paint mist discharged from the coating chamber 2 and discharge it outside the coating equipment 1.

[0054] The recovery chamber 4 is configured to include an airflow guide 41, a paint mist collection device 5, and an exhaust pipe 42.

[0055] The airflow guide 41 is composed of a metal plate extending horizontally within the recovery chamber 4. The outer periphery of the airflow guide 41 is connected to the walls of the recovery chamber 4. The interior of the recovery chamber 4 is divided into an airflow guiding space 4A, which serves as the upper space of the airflow guide 41, and a trapping device installation space 4B, which serves as the lower space of the airflow guide 41. An opening 43, which is rectangular in shape when viewed from above, is formed in the center of the airflow guide 41. Furthermore, the periphery of the opening 43 of the airflow guide 41 has an inclined portion 44 that slopes downwards (in a mortar-like shape) towards the center of the airflow guide 41 (towards the opening 43). Airflow discharged downwards from the outlet formed in the floor portion 26 of the coating chamber 2 and flowing into the airflow guiding space 4A is easily guided into the opening 43 by the inclined portion 44. Alternatively, the airflow guide 41 may be a flat plate without the inclined portion 44.

[0056] A paint mist collection device 5 is installed in the collection device installation space 4B. The paint mist collection device 5 purifies the air by collecting paint mist contained in the airflow flowing in through the opening 43 of the airflow guide 41. The detailed structure of the paint mist collection device 5 will be described later.

[0057] Exhaust duct 42 is connected to the outlet of paint mist collection device 5. Exhaust duct 42 is used to discharge air (air purified by capturing paint mist) from paint mist collection device 5 to the outside of painting equipment 1. A blower (not shown) is installed inside exhaust duct 42. With the operation of this blower, the inside of exhaust duct 42 becomes negative pressure. This generates airflow within recovery chamber 4 that flows sequentially through opening 43 of airflow guide 41, the internal space of paint mist collection device 5, and exhaust duct 42. Furthermore, the air discharged to the outside of painting equipment 1 undergoes deodorization treatment (not shown) to remove, for example, VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

[0058] Next, the paint mist collection device 5 installed in the recovery chamber 4 will be described.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the housing 6 of the paint mist collection device 5. Furthermore, Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the collection filter 7, the first pad component 81, the second pad component 82, the third pad component 83, and the fourth pad component 84 of the paint mist collection device 5. Furthermore, the first pad component 81, the second pad component 82, the third pad component 83, and the fourth pad component 84 will be collectively referred to as pad components 81, 82, 83, and 84 below. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the state in which the trap filter 7 is inserted into the housing 6.

[0060] As shown in these figures, the paint mist collection device 5 comprises a housing 6, a collection filter 7, and gasket components 81, 82, 83, and 84. The collection filter 7 is disposed (inserted) within the housing 6. Gasket components 81, 82, 83, and 84 are respectively sandwiched between the inner surface of the housing 6 and the collection filter 7. The components constituting the paint mist collection device 5 will be described below.

[0061] The casing 6 is formed of a metal plate. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the housing 6 is integrally assembled from a front housing 61 and a rear housing 62. The front housing 61 is positioned further along the X1 direction than the rear housing 62. The front housing 61 and the rear housing 62 are configured to be continuous with each other. The X direction in the housing 6 is the direction in which the airflow flowing into the housing 6 from above changes direction. The X1 direction is upstream of the airflow direction, and the X2 direction is downstream of the airflow direction.

[0062] The front housing 61 has a pipe shape with a rectangular cross-section, open at its respective edges in the X1 and X2 directions. That is, the front housing 61 is configured to include a base plate 61a, a top panel 61b, and side panels 61c and 61d. Side panel 61c is disposed at the edge of the front housing 61 in the Y2 direction. Side panel 61d is disposed at the edge of the front housing 61 in the Y1 direction. The filter insertion opening 63, open in the X1 direction, is freely opened and closed via a set of doors 64. In this embodiment, one door 64 is connected to the outer edge of the filter insertion opening 63 in the Y1 direction via a hinge (not shown). The other door 64 is connected to the outer edge of the filter insertion opening 63 in the Y2 direction via a hinge (not shown). That is, the doors 64 are so-called double-leaf type.

[0063] An airflow inlet duct 65 is provided on the upper panel 61b of the front housing 61. Specifically, a rectangular opening 65a is formed closer to the X1 direction side than the center portion in the X direction of the upper panel 61b of the front housing 61 (see reference). Figure 7 The airflow inlet duct 65 has longitudinal walls extending upward from each edge of the opening 65a to a predetermined size. The shape (rectangular) of the upper opening of the airflow inlet duct 65 matches the shape (rectangular) of the opening 43 of the airflow guide 41. The upper edge of the airflow inlet duct 65 engages with the edge of the opening 43. Thus, the airflow guide space 4A communicates with the internal space of the housing 6 (more specifically, the internal space of the front housing 61) via the airflow inlet duct 65.

[0064] Furthermore, corner beams 66A and 66B extending in the X direction are disposed at the connection between the upper panel 61b and each side panel 61c and 61d in the front housing 61. These corner beams 66A and 66B each have a longitudinal wall portion 66a extending downward from the upper panel 61b by a predetermined dimension, and a horizontal portion 66b extending towards the center side in the Y direction from the side panels 61c and 61d by a predetermined dimension. In addition, although not shown in the figure, the end edge position of each corner beam 66A and 66B in the X1 direction is located further to the X2 side than the end edge position of the front housing 61 in the X1 direction (the opening edge portion of the filter insertion opening 63). This provides space for inserting the fourth gasket member 84, which will be described later. Furthermore, the X-direction dimension of each corner beam 66A and 66B is set to be slightly longer than the X-direction dimension of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7, which will be described later.

[0065] Similar to the front housing 61, the rear housing 62 is a pipe shape with a rectangular cross-section open at its edges in both the X1 and X2 directions. The X1-direction end edge of the rear housing 62 joins the X2-direction end edge of the front housing 61. Thus, the internal space of the front housing 61 and the internal space of the rear housing 62 form a space extending in the X direction (a space for airflow). An exhaust pipe 42 (see reference 42) is connected to the X2-direction end edge of the rear housing 62. Figure 1 The air flowing through the internal space of the housing 62 is discharged to the outside of the coating equipment 1 through the exhaust pipe 42.

[0066] The trap filter 7 is disposed within the front housing 61 of the housing 6. The trap filter 7 traps paint mist in the airflow flowing into it. The trap filter 7 is configured to be replaced by removing it from the housing 6. In the trap filter 7, the X direction is also the direction in which the airflow flowing in from above changes direction. The X1 direction is upstream of the airflow direction, and the X2 direction is downstream of the airflow direction. The structure of the trap filter 7 will be described in detail below.

[0067] like Figure 3 As shown, the trap filter 7 is made of paper (more specifically, corrugated paper) and is generally rectangular in shape. The trap filter 7 includes an airflow inlet 71 and a filter body 72.

[0068] The airflow inlet 71 is the portion of the trap filter 7 on the X1 direction side. The airflow inlet 71 includes a base plate 71a, a front panel 71b, and side panels 71c and 71d. The front panel 71b is disposed on the X1 direction side of the airflow inlet 71. The side panel 71c is disposed on the Y2 direction side of the airflow inlet 71. The side panel 71d is disposed on the Y1 direction side of the airflow inlet 71. The upper part of the airflow inlet 71 is open. An inflow opening 73 is provided on the upper part of the open airflow inlet 71. Airflow flows into the interior of the airflow inlet 71 from the inflow opening 73. The inflow opening 73 is a portion forming a rectangular opening. That is, the inflow opening 73 is configured to include a first opening edge 73a, a second opening edge 73b, a third opening edge 73c, and a fourth opening edge 73d. The first opening edge 73a is located on the Y2 direction side of the inflow opening 73 and extends along the X direction. The second opening edge 73b is located on the Y1 direction side of the inflow opening 73 and extends along the X direction. The third opening edge 73c is located on the X2 direction side of the inflow opening 73 and extends along the Y direction. The third opening edge 73c corresponds to the edge of the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 described later on the X1 direction side. The fourth opening edge 73d is located on the X1 direction side of the inflow opening 73 and extends along the Y direction.

[0069] The filter body 72 is the portion of the filter 7 located in the X2 direction. The filter body 72 has a structure in which multiple filters 72a are stacked. The multiple filters 72a are, for example, made of paper. The filter body 72 purifies the air (to a state where paint mist is removed) by capturing paint mist contained in the airflow flowing into the airflow inlet 71 via the inlet opening 73. The upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 is positioned slightly lower than the upper end of the airflow inlet 71. Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 A sectional view of line VII-VII in the diagram. (See example...) Figure 7 As shown, the dimension in the X direction of the inflow opening 73 ( Figure 7 The dimension t1 is set to be the dimension in the X direction relative to the opening at the upper end of the airflow inlet duct 65. Figure 7 The dimension t2 is shorter in comparison. Inside the airflow inlet duct 65, a guide member 67 is provided to guide the airflow flowing in through the opening 43 of the airflow guide 41 to the inlet opening 73.

[0070] The guide member 67 includes an inclined plate 67a and a horizontal plate 67b. The inclined plate 67a extends from the middle portion of the vertical direction of the longitudinal wall 65b of the airflow inlet duct 65 toward the third opening edge 73c of the inflow opening 73. The longitudinal wall 65b forms the X2 direction side of the airflow inlet duct 65. The horizontal plate 67b extends horizontally at a position higher than the filter body 72. The end edge of the horizontal plate 67b on the X1 direction side is continuous with the lower end edge of the inclined plate 67a. Furthermore, the end edge of the horizontal plate 67b on the X2 direction side is continuous with the lower end edge of the longitudinal wall 65b of the airflow inlet duct 65. Therefore, as Figure 7 As shown by the middle arrow, the airflow flowing into the airflow inlet pipe 65 via the opening 43 of the airflow guide 41 is guided by the inclined plate 67a of the guide member 67 and flows toward the inlet opening 73 of the airflow inlet 71.

[0071] The first liner component 81, like the trapping filter 7, is made of paper (more specifically, corrugated paper). The cross-section of the first liner component 81 is curved into an L-shape. Specifically, as... Figure 3 As shown, the first pad member 81 is positioned corresponding to the first opening edge 73a of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7. The first pad member 81 has a direction orthogonal to both the Y and X directions ( Figure 1 The first pad member 81 has a vertical portion 81a extending in the Z direction and a horizontal portion 81b extending horizontally from the upper edge of the vertical portion 81a toward the Y1 direction. A cutout 81e is provided at the corner of the end edge of the horizontal portion 81b on the X1 direction side. The X-direction dimension of the first pad member 81 is set to be slightly longer than the X-direction dimension of the first opening edge 73a of the airflow inlet portion 71. Figure 5 This diagram shows the state in which the trapping filter 7 is inserted into the housing 6. (See diagram for example.) Figure 5 As shown, the vertical portion 81a of the first pad member 81 abuts against the outer surface of the side panel 71c on the Y2 direction side of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7. The horizontal portion 81b of the first pad member 81 abuts against the upper end of the first opening edge 73a of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7. In other words, a structure is adopted in which the first opening edge 73a of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7 is completely covered by the first pad member 81.

[0072] The second liner member 82 has a symmetrical structure relative to the first liner member 81 described above. The second liner member 82, like the trapping filter 7, is made of paper. The cross-section of the second liner member 82 is curved into an L-shape. Specifically, as... Figure 3As shown, the second pad member 82 is positioned corresponding to the second opening edge 73b of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7. The second pad member 82 includes a vertical portion 82a extending in a direction orthogonal to both the Y and X directions, and a horizontal portion 82b extending horizontally from the upper edge of the vertical portion 82a toward the Y2 direction. A cutout 82e is provided at the corner of the end edge of the horizontal portion 82b on the X1 direction side. The X-direction dimension of the second pad member 82 is set to be slightly longer than the X-direction dimension of the second opening edge 73b of the airflow inlet 71. Figure 5 As shown, the vertical portion 82a of the second pad member 82 abuts against the outer surface of the side panel 71d on the Y1 direction side of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7. The horizontal portion 82b of the second pad member 82 abuts against the upper end of the second opening edge 73b of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7. That is, a structure is adopted in which the second opening edge 73b in the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7 is completely covered by the second pad member 82.

[0073] The following is a more detailed explanation. Figure 6A This is a diagram illustrating the dimensions of the various parts of the filter insertion opening 63 in the front housing 61. Figure 6B This is a diagram illustrating the dimensions of the various parts of the trap filter 7, the first liner component 81, and the second liner component 82.

[0074] like Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the width dimension of the filter insertion opening 63 of the front housing 61 is ( Figure 2 The dimension in the Y direction) W1, and the width dimension of the trapping filter 7 ( Figure 3 The sum of the Y-direction dimension w2, the thickness w3 of the first padding component 81 and the second padding component 82 (w2+2×w3=w1) is approximately the same.

[0075] Furthermore, regarding the height direction of the filter insertion opening 63 from the front housing 61 ( Figure 1 The height dimension H1 of the bottom surface of the Z-direction (from the horizontal part 66b of the corner beams 66A and 66B) is the same as the height dimension of the trapping filter 7. Figure 1 The sum of the Z-direction dimension (h3) and the thickness dimension (h4) of the first pad component 81 (h3+h4) is approximately the same.

[0076] Therefore, as Figure 5As shown, the first opening edge 73a of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7 is covered by the first padding member 81. The second opening edge 73b of the airflow inlet 71 of the trap filter 7 is covered by the second padding member 82. In this state, when the trap filter 7 is inserted into the interior of the front housing 61 from the filter insertion opening 63, the outer surface of the vertical portion 81a of the first padding member 81 abuts against the inner surface of the side panel 61c of the front housing 61. The upper surface of the horizontal portion 81b of the first padding member 81 abuts against the lower surface of the horizontal portion 66b of the corner beam 66A. Thus, the first padding member 81 is sandwiched between the first opening edge 73a of the airflow inlet 71 and the inner surface of the front housing 61. That is, the first opening edge 73a does not contact the inner surface of the front housing 61. Similarly, the outer surface of the vertical portion 82a of the second padding member 82 abuts against the inner surface of the side panel 61d of the front housing 61. The upper surface of the horizontal portion 82b of the second padding member 82 abuts against the lower surface of the horizontal portion 66b of the corner beam 66B. Thus, the second padding member 82 is sandwiched between the second opening edge 73b of the airflow inlet 71 and the inner surface of the front housing 61. In other words, the second opening edge 73b does not contact the inner surface of the front housing 61.

[0077] In addition, Figure 5 In the illustrated state, a space C exists between the longitudinal wall portion 66a of corner beam 66A and the longitudinal wall portion 66a of corner beam 66B. Space C is an example of "an opening with a predetermined height dimension formed between the upper edge of the filter insertion opening and the upper edge of the inflow opening of the trapping filter, which is located lower than this upper edge." As described later, space C is closed by embedding the fourth gasket member 84.

[0078] The third liner component 83, like the trapping filter 7, is made of paper and has a structure that bends a flat sheet of paper (e.g., corrugated paper) into a quadrilateral cross-section. Specifically, as... Figure 3 As shown, the third liner member 83 is arranged to extend along the Y direction on the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72. The Y-direction dimension of the third liner member 83 is approximately the same as the Y-direction dimension of the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72. The height dimension of the third liner member 83 when no external force is applied is... Figure 3 The dimension t3. With the trapping filter 7 inserted into the front housing 61, the distance between the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 and the lower surface of the horizontal plate 67b of the guide member 67 is... Figure 7The dimension t4 is specified. The dimension t3 is set to be slightly longer than the dimension t4. The third liner member 83 is disposed on the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 and sandwiched between the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 and the horizontal plate 67b of the guide member 67. Thus, by slightly deforming the third liner member 83 in such a way that its vertical dimension is shortened, the cross-sectional shape of the third liner member 83 becomes a parallelogram (see reference). Figure 7 By configuring the third liner member 83 in this manner, the entire third opening edge 73c of the airflow inlet 71 is separated from the upper panel 61b of the front housing 61 and the guide member 67. Furthermore, as described above, the height difference between the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 and the upper end of the airflow inlet 71 (the heights of the first opening edge 73a and the second opening edge 73b) is very small. Therefore, the horizontal portion 81b of the first liner member 81 and the horizontal portion 82b of the second liner member 82 may coincide with the upper side of the third liner member 83. When the first liner member 81 and the second liner member 82 overlap the third liner member 83, gaps may sometimes form between the first liner member 81 and the first opening edge 73a, and between the second liner member 82 and the second opening edge 73b. In this case, paint mist may sometimes be discharged to the outside of the trap filter 7 through the gaps. Therefore, it is preferable to provide cuts (not shown) for preventing overlapping in at least one of the third liner member 83, the first liner member 81, and the second liner member 82. This prevents gaps from forming between the first liner member 81 and the first opening edge 73a, and between the second liner member 82 and the second opening edge 73b. Furthermore, it prevents paint mist from escaping to the outside of the trap filter 7.

[0079] As described above, the fourth liner member 84 is embedded in the space C between the longitudinal wall portion 66a of the corner beam 66A and the longitudinal wall portion 66a of the corner beam 66B (see reference). Figure 5 )middle. Figure 5 The imaginary line represents the position of the fourth pad component 84 when it is embedded relative to space C.

[0080] like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the fourth padding member 84 includes a flat substrate 84a and a cuboid-shaped insert 84b disposed in the center of the substrate 84a. The substrate 84a is configured to be larger than the opening shape of space C. The insert 84b is, for example, formed by stacking multiple corrugated cardboard sheets, and has a shape that is substantially consistent with the opening shape of space C. Specifically, as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the height dimension H2 of the embedded part 84b is... Figure 1The dimension in the Z direction is approximately the same as the sum of the height dimension of the longitudinal wall portion 66a of each corner beam 66A, 66B and the thickness dimension h4 of the first padding member 81. In addition, the length dimension (dimension in the Y direction) of the embedded portion 84b is approximately the same as the spacing dimension of the longitudinal wall portion 66a of corner beam 66A and the longitudinal wall portion 66a of corner beam 66B.

[0081] like Figure 5 As shown, with the first pad member 81, the second pad member 82, and the third pad member 83 sandwiched between the trapping filter 7 and the front housing 61, when the fourth pad member 84 is installed in the paint mist trapping device 5, the embedding portion 84b is embedded in the space C. Thus, the embedding portion 84b of the fourth pad member 84 is sandwiched between the opening edge of the space C in the front housing 61 and the fourth opening edge 73d in the airflow inlet 71. In other words, the front housing 61 and the fourth opening edge 73d do not abut against each other. Furthermore, as described above, a cutout 81e is provided on the horizontal portion 81b of the first pad member 81. A cutout 82e is also provided on the horizontal portion 82b of the second pad member 82. The shapes of these cutouts 81e and 82e are approximately the same as the shapes of the two side edges of the embedding portion 84b in the state of being embedded in the space C. Therefore, the first pad member 81 and the second pad member 82 do not overlap with the two side edges of the embedding portion 84b. Therefore, the lower surface of the insertion portion 84b of the fourth pad member 84 abuts against the fourth opening edge 73d. Preferably, the leading edges of the cuts 81e and 82e abut against the outer surface of the insertion portion 84b. In this case, it is possible to prevent the insertion portion 84b of the first pad member 81 and the fourth pad member 84 from overlapping. Therefore, for example, it is possible to prevent gaps from forming between the first pad member 81 and the first opening edge 73a, and between the insertion portion 84b of the fourth pad member 84 and the fourth opening edge 73d. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the insertion portion 84b of the second pad member 82 and the fourth pad member 84 from overlapping. Therefore, for example, it is also possible to prevent gaps from forming between the second pad member 82 and the second opening edge 73b. In this way, the formation of gaps can be suppressed, thereby preventing paint mist from being discharged to the outside of the trap filter 7 through the gaps. In addition, the cuts 81e and 82e may be provided on the fourth pad member 84 instead of the first pad member 81 and the second pad member 82.

[0082] As described above, each of the gasket components 81 to 84 is sandwiched in the gap between the opening edges 73a to 73d of the inflow opening 73 and the inner surface of the front housing 61.

[0083] Next, the operation of the coating equipment 1 configured as described above during coating will be explained. Furthermore, the coating equipment 1 can perform coating when there are people in the coating chamber 2 (performing a so-called manual blowing process), or when there are no people in the coating chamber 2.

[0084] First, before the start of coating based on coating equipment 1, air with adjusted temperature and humidity flows from air conditioner 32 into air supply chamber 3 via air supply pipe 31. In air supply chamber 3, the airflow is adjusted. The air with adjusted airflow in air supply chamber 3 is introduced into coating chamber 2 through inlet on top plate portion 25.

[0085] In the coating chamber 2, an airflow is formed from the air supply chamber 3 toward the recovery chamber 4. Then, in the coating chamber 2, coating robots 24L and 24R work to coat the object W. This coating is performed by a transport vehicle 23 moving on the transport track 22, causing the object W to be coated to move in the Y1 direction.

[0086] During painting using painting robots 24L and 24R, uncoated paint mist (overspray) is generated on the object W to be painted. This overspray is transported downwards by a downward flow and discharged into the recovery chamber 4. In the recovery chamber 4, airflow passing through the opening 43 of the airflow guide 41 flows into the paint mist collection device 5. The paint mist contained in the airflow is collected in the paint mist collection device 5. Thus, the purified air is discharged outside the equipment through the exhaust pipe 42. Figure 8 The arrow indicates the direction of the airflow passing through the paint mist collection device 5. For example... Figure 8 As shown, airflow passing through the airflow inlet duct 65 from above flows into the opening 73 (see reference). Figure 3 The airflow entering the air intake section 71 of the capture filter 7 changes its flow direction to horizontal (towards X2) and flows into the filter body section 72. Paint mist in the airflow is captured by the filter 72a of the filter body section 72. The purified air, having captured the paint mist, is discharged outside the coating equipment 1 via the exhaust pipe 42.

[0087] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the accumulation state of paint mist M in the paint mist collection device 5. Figure 9 In this version, part of the front housing 61 and the airflow inlet duct 65 are omitted. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the airflow discharged from the coating chamber 2 to the recovery chamber 4 flows into the housing 6 of the paint mist collection device 5. A portion of the paint mist M contained in this airflow does not flow into the collection filter 7, but accumulates on the inner surface of the housing 6 and on the gasket components 81-84. In this embodiment, the gasket components 81-84 are clamped into the opening edges 73a-73d of the inflow opening 73 of the collection filter 7 (see reference). Figure 3The paint mist M is contained in the gap between the inner surface of the front housing 61 and the inner surface of the inlet opening 73 of the trap filter 7. Therefore, the paint mist M is prevented from crossing and accumulating between the inner surface of the front housing 61 and the opening edges 73a-73d of the inlet opening 73 of the trap filter 7. As a result, it is possible to prevent the housing 6 and the trap filter 7 from being stuck with paint.

[0088] During the specified period of the aforementioned painting operation, the trap filter 7 is replaced periodically. During the replacement of the trap filter 7, the door 64 is opened when the trap filter 7 is removed from the housing 6. This allows the trap filter 7 to be pulled out from inside the housing 6 via the filter insertion opening 63. As described above, the housing 6 and the trap filter 7 are prevented from sticking to the paint, thus allowing the trap filter 7 to be easily removed from the housing 6. As a result, the replacement of the trap filter 7 can be performed easily.

[0089] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first pad member 81 and the second pad member 82 extend in the X direction. That is, the first pad member 81 and the second pad member 82 extend in the removal direction when the trap filter 7 is removed from the housing 6. Therefore, the first pad member 81 and the second pad member 82 can be easily pulled out in the removal direction. For example, before removing the trap filter 7 from the housing 6, the first pad member 81 and the second pad member 82 are removed from the housing 6 via the filter insertion opening 63. In detail, after the fourth pad member 84 is removed from the housing 6, the first pad member 81 and the second pad member 82 are removed from the housing 6. As a result, a gap is created between the housing 6 and the trap filter 7 where the first pad member 81 and the second pad member 82 are sandwiched. Therefore, the trap filter 7 can be easily removed from the housing 6.

[0090] In this embodiment, individual pad members 81 to 84 are respectively disposed corresponding to each opening edge 73a to 73d of the inflow opening 73 of the trap filter 7. Therefore, compared to the case where a single pad member of one integral shape is disposed along the opening edges 73a to 73d of the inflow opening 73 of the trap filter 7, the placement and removal operations of each pad member 81 to 84 can be easily performed.

[0091] In this embodiment, the third gasket member 83 is configured to be sandwiched between the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 and the horizontal plate 67b of the guide member 67, and is elastically deformed in the vertical direction. Therefore, the outer surface of the third gasket member 83 is pressed against both the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 and the horizontal plate 67b of the guide member 67. This ensures a good seal between the third gasket member 83, the filter body 72, and the horizontal plate 67b. Consequently, gaps between the third gasket member 83, the filter body 72, and the horizontal plate 67b are suppressed, preventing paint mist from being released from these gaps to the outside of the trap filter 7.

[0092] (Variation Example 1)

[0093] Next, a modified example will be described. In modified example one, the structures of the first padding member 81 and the second padding member 82 differ from those in the embodiment described above. In modified example one, as described above, the first padding member 81 and the second padding member 82 are also symmetrical structures. Therefore, the description will focus on the second padding member 82, and the description of the first padding member 81 will be omitted.

[0094] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the second gasket component 82 involved in the modified example 1. Figure 10 As shown, the second padding member 82 in Modification 1 has a structure in which multiple release sheets 82d are laminated on the entire surface of a substrate 82c with an L-shaped cross-section. The substrate 82c can be made of paper (e.g., corrugated paper) or resin. Furthermore, the release sheets 82d can be made of paper (e.g., paper thinner than corrugated paper) or resin.

[0095] In the first variation, during the coating process described above, if paint accumulates on the surface of the second pad member 82 (the surface of the outermost release tab 82d), the paint-accumulated release tab 82d can be peeled off. Thus, the paint can be removed from the second pad member 82 along with the peeled release tab 82d. Therefore, the second pad member 82 is made free of paint accumulation on its surface, allowing for easy reuse. As a result, the operating cost of the coating equipment 1 can be reduced.

[0096] (Variation Example 2)

[0097] Next, Modification 2 will be described. The structure of the third gasket member 83 in Modification 2 differs from that in the embodiment described above. Therefore, the third gasket member 83 will be described here.

[0098] Figure 11 This is the case involved in variation example two. Figure 7The corresponding figure. In the above embodiment, the cross-section of the third liner member 83 is quadrilateral. In the second variation, the cross-section of the third liner member 83 is circular. In the second variation, the third liner member 83 undergoes elastic deformation to form an elliptical cross-section by being sandwiched between the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 and the horizontal plate 67b of the guide member 67.

[0099] According to Modification 2, the third gasket member 83 can also effectively ensure the seal between the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72 and the horizontal plate 67b of the guide member 67. Therefore, gaps can be suppressed between the third gasket member 83 and the upper surface 72b of the filter body 72, as well as between the horizontal plate 67b, thus preventing paint mist from being released from these gaps to the outside of the paint mist collection device 5.

[0100] (Variation Example 3)

[0101] Next, Modification 3 will be described. The structure of the fourth gasket member 84 in Modification 3 differs from that in the embodiment described above. Therefore, the fourth gasket member 84 will be described here.

[0102] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the fourth padding member 84 according to Modification Example 3. In the above embodiment, the fourth padding member 84 has a flat substrate 84a and a cuboid-shaped insert 84b disposed in the center of the substrate 84a. In Modification Example 3, the fourth padding member 84 has, for example, a structure made by bending a sheet of corrugated paper. In the fourth padding member 84 of Modification Example 3, by bending a sheet of corrugated paper, an insert 84c with a U-shaped cross-section is formed. Furthermore, in the fourth padding member 84 of Modification Example 3, by bending a sheet of corrugated paper, flanges 84d, 84e, 84f, and 84g extending from the outer edge of the insert 84c in the vertical and horizontal directions, respectively, are formed.

[0103] According to Modification 3, the manufacture of the fourth gasket component 84 becomes easier, and the manufacturing cost of the fourth gasket component 84 can be reduced.

[0104] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and the above-described variations 1 to 3, and can be carried out within the scope of the claims and all variations and applications included in the scope equivalent to the claims.

[0105] For example, in the above embodiments and each of the above modifications 1 to 3, the present invention was described as being applied to the paint mist collection device 5 of a painting apparatus 1 used for painting the body (painting object W) of an automobile. The present invention is not limited thereto, and can also be applied to paint mist collection devices of painting apparatuses used for painting other parts of an automobile (bumpers, etc.) or parts other than the vehicle body.

[0106] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments and the above-described modifications 1 to 3, the inflow opening 73 of the trapping filter 7 is rectangular, and four padding members 81 to 84 are applied to each side (opening edge 73a to 73d) of the rectangular inflow opening 73. The present invention is not limited to this, and at least one of the four padding members 81 to 84 may also be used. Furthermore, the shape of the inflow opening 73 of the trapping filter 7 is not limited to a rectangular shape; for example, it may be other shapes such as polygons, circles, or ellipses. Multiple padding members may be arranged in these shapes of inflow openings 73, or only one padding member may be arranged.

[0107] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments and in each of the above-described modifications 1 to 3, the coating can be a water-based coating or a solvent-based coating.

[0108] This invention is applicable to paint mist collection devices installed in coating equipment to capture excessive spray emanating from the coating chamber.

Claims

1. A paint mist capturing device comprising: a housing configured to flow therein an airflow containing paint mist discharged from a painting chamber; a capturing filter configured to capture the paint mist by being disposed in the housing and to be replaced by being taken out of the housing; and a gasket member, a gap between an inflow opening portion of the capturing filter configured to flow therein the airflow and an inner surface of the housing sandwiches the gasket member, the housing has a filter insertion opening configured to implement, at the time of replacement of the capturing filter, taking out of the capturing filter from the housing and insertion of the capturing filter into the housing via the filter insertion opening, the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter opens toward an upper side, the gasket member is a member having a cross section L shape provided with a vertical portion abutting against an outer surface of an opening edge of the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter and a horizontal portion abutting against a front end of the opening edge.

2. The paint mist capturing device of claim 1, wherein A plurality of the gasket members are disposed along an opening edge of the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter.

3. The paint mist capturing device of claim 2, wherein, An opening edge of a portion of the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter extends along a direction of taking out of the capturing filter from the housing, and a portion of the plurality of gasket members are disposed along the opening edge extending in the direction of taking out.

4. The paint mist capturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The housing has an airflow introduction duct configured to introduce the airflow toward the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter, the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter is smaller than an introduction opening of the airflow introduction duct, the airflow introduction duct has a guide member, the guide member has an inclined plate inclined toward an opening edge of the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter, a gap between the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter and the guide member sandwiches the gasket member.

5. The paint mist capturing device of claim 4, wherein, The gasket member is disposed in a state of being elastically deformed by being sandwiched in the gap between the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter and the guide member.

6. The paint mist capturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The housing further has an opening, in a state where the capturing filter is inserted into the housing from the filter insertion opening, the opening is disposed between an upper edge portion of the filter insertion opening and an upper edge portion of the inflow opening portion of the capturing filter located on a lower side than the upper edge portion of the filter insertion opening, and the opening has a prescribed height dimension, the gasket member has an embedded portion having a height dimension coinciding with the height dimension of the opening, the embedded portion is embedded in the opening.

7. The paint mist capturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The gasket member has a structure in which a plurality of layers of release sheets are laminated.

Images