Supply device for a sprayer, module for such a supply device, and coating installation comprising a coating product of such a supply device

Abstract

An apparatus for supplying coating and / or cleaning agents to a sprayer has a ring shape and includes a ring-shaped plate (110), a plurality of connection modules (120), a plurality of function modules (140), and a plurality of inlet modules (150). Each connection module (120) is detachably mounted to abut against one side (110B) of the ring-shaped plate. Each function module (140) is detachably mounted on an outer surface of a connection module. Each function module (140) is fluidly coupled to the connection module (120) on which the function module is mounted. Each inlet module (150) is detachably mounted on an inlet face of a connection module (120). Each inlet module (150) carries fluid coupling elements that are accessible on a surface of the inlet module that is oppositely oriented from the connection module (120) on which the inlet module is mounted.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for supplying coating and / or cleaning products to a sprayer. The invention also relates to modules forming spare parts for such a supply apparatus and to equipment for applying coating products, the equipment comprising a robot (preferably a multi-axis robot) and a sprayer mounted on a robot arm, the sprayer being supplied with coating and / or cleaning products via the supply apparatus. [Background Technology]

[0002] The technical field of this invention is the application (particularly by electrostatic spraying) of coating products to objects (e.g., vehicle bodies, vehicle parts, or household appliance components) and more generally to any object to which a coating product layer is to be received.

[0003] In this field, it is known from EP-A-1543883 how to use a valve system to supply a two-component product to a sprayer, with the valve system installed close to the sprayer.

[0004] JP-A-6-246200 also discloses a set of paint valves installed upstream of a sprayer, arranged in one or more rows and supplying paint to a manifold, on which air and solvent valves are mounted. The paint valve assembly is so large that it must be positioned at a distance from the sprayer, with a suction pump inserted in between. This results in significant loss of paint and solvent when changing the color of the sprayed paint.

[0005] On the other hand, it is known from EP-A-1502658 to mount a set of valves and a sprayer at the end of a robotic arm. Color-changing valves are arranged in juxtaposed units and distributed around a central collection channel in adjacent planes while simultaneously leading to the channel. This configuration is difficult to implement, especially when it involves adapting the configuration to various coating products to be dispensed or their properties (e.g., single-component or two-component). The installation or removal of one valve unit affects the positioning of other valve units. Furthermore, when the valve assembly is integrated into the end of the robotic arm, it may obstruct the passage of the pilot air hose or power cable for the sprayer.

[0006] Known equipment includes application-specific valve blocks, which are sometimes designed according to end-user requirements for use in coating equipment that incorporates (among other things) associated sprayers and feeders. Consequently, many specific blocks must be designed and manufactured, which is disadvantageous, particularly in terms of cost and inventory management. Furthermore, these different specific blocks require specific maintenance operations, which is economically disadvantageous.

[0007] On the other hand, during the service life of coating equipment, it is sometimes necessary to upgrade the apparatus that supplies coating and / or cleaning products to the sprayer to accommodate the coating methods being implemented. For known equipment, such modifications are complex and time-consuming to implement. [Summary of the Invention]

[0008] More specifically, this invention aims to overcome these disadvantages by providing a novel device for supplying coating and / or cleaning products to a sprayer, the novel device having improved modularity, which allows the device to be easily constructed from standardized components to meet its operating conditions.

[0009] Therefore, the present invention relates to an apparatus for supplying coating products and / or cleaning products to a sprayer, the apparatus comprising at least one controlled valve, a supply pipe for bringing the product to the valve, and at least one pipe for supplying the product from the valve to the sprayer. According to the invention,

[0010] -The supply device has a ring structure and includes:

[0011] ● Circular plate;

[0012] ● Multiple connection modules;

[0013] ● Multiple functional modules; and

[0014] ● Multiple entry modules;

[0015] - The plate has through holes;

[0016] -Each connecting module is detachably installed by means of a contact plate that contacts the ground against one side of the annular plate;

[0017] - Each connection module includes at least one conduit for supplying the product to at least one pilot-operated valve;

[0018] - Each functional module is detachably mounted on the outer surface of the connecting module, which is different from the contact surface between the connecting module and the annular plate;

[0019] - Each functional module is fluidly connected to the supply conduit of the connecting module, and the functional modules are mounted on the outer surface of the connecting module;

[0020] - Each functional module includes at least one pilot-operated valve and at least one pipe or pipe section intended for grounding;

[0021] -Each inlet module can be detachably mounted on the inlet surface of the connecting module opposite its contact surface; and

[0022] - Each inlet module carries fluid coupling elements that are accessible on the surface of the inlet module, which is oriented relative to the connecting module and is mounted on the inlet face of the connecting module.

[0023] With the aid of this invention, the plate imparts an overall annular shape to the supply device and supports different types of modules. Connecting modules are used to form supply lines from inlet modules, valves belonging to functional modules, and / or pipes. Inlet modules can be used to easily connect the supply device to supply lines for delivering coating or cleaning products. The fact that different modules can be detachably installed facilitates maintenance, operation, and adaptation of the supply device to its operating conditions.

[0024] According to an advantageous but non-mandatory aspect of the invention, such a supply device may incorporate one or more of the following features, which may be employed individually or in any technically permissible combination:

[0025] - The bodies of all inlet modules equipped with fluid connection elements are identical to each other.

[0026] - At least one inlet module and preferably each inlet module is equipped with a label having an identification mark for the fluid connection component, the label preferably being affixed to a surface of the inlet module that extends the outer surface of the connection module to the inlet surface on which the inlet module is mounted.

[0027] - At least one functional module, preferably each functional module and / or plate, is equipped with a label for identifying valves, pipes or connections, which is detachably mounted on a fixed part of the functional module or plate.

[0028] Each connection module carries at least one functional module on its outer surface and a single entry module on its entry surface.

[0029] - The connecting modules together define a ring structure or a ring-shaped structure, and the control lines extend within the ring structure or ring-shaped structure, passing through each connecting module.

[0030] - The device includes parallel bars that support the annular plate, and each connecting module and / or each inlet module rests on a pair of adjacent parallel bars.

[0031] - The ring plate is made of a conductive material, and each connection module includes at least one threaded insert made of a conductive material. Each threaded insert is configured to receive a screw for mounting the connection module to the ring plate and / or an adjacent connection module, mounting a functional module to the connection module, or mounting an inlet module to the connection module. The screw and the threaded insert together form an equipotential track between the connection module, the functional module, the inlet module, and the ring plate.

[0032] The present invention also relates to modules for forming spare parts for, for example, the supply devices described above.

[0033] Such a module may be a connection module comprising: a contact face intended to detachably abut against one side of an annular plate; an outer face different from the contact face and intended to detachably receive at least one functional module; and an inlet face opposite to its contact face and intended to detachably support an inlet module.

[0034] This module can also be a functional module, which includes at least one pilot-operated valve, at least one internal conduit, and means for detachable mounting to the outer surface of the connecting module.

[0035] This module can also be an inlet module, which includes: a first surface designed to detachably abut against an inlet surface of a connecting module; and a second surface opposite to the first surface, through which the inlet of a fluid connection element carried by the inlet module is accessible.

[0036] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for applying coating products, the apparatus comprising: a robot, preferably a multi-axis robot; and a sprayer mounted on the arm of the robot, which supplies coating products and / or cleaning products via, for example, the supply device described above.

[0037] The advantages of this equipment stem from the advantages of its supply device for coating and / or cleaning products.

[0038] Advantageously, the pipes, connectors and / or cables for supplying control air to the pneumatic valves and for supplying high pressure to the sprayer pass through or are housed in the central area of ​​the supply device defined by the annular plate. [Attached Image Description]

[0039] The invention will be better understood and other advantages of the invention will become clearer from the following description of two embodiments of the supply device and coating apparatus according to the principles of the invention. These two embodiments are given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of the principle of an apparatus for coating products according to the present invention, which incorporates a supply device according to the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A larger scale view of detail II shown;

[0042] Figure 3 With Figure 2 Two different angles are shown respectively in a perspective view, a sectional view, and a perspective view. Figure 2 The visible parts are the same as the equipment parts;

[0043] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a supply device according to the present invention, which belongs to... Figures 1 to 3 The equipment shown; in Figure 4 In the illustration, A) corresponds to a partial cross-section along plane A;

[0044] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The cross-section of plane P5 shown;

[0045] Figure 6 It is along Figure 4 The solid cross-section of plane P6 shown;

[0046] Figure 7 It was cut along plane P7. Figure 2 A larger scale view of the details in VII;

[0047] Figure 8 It shows subordinate Figures 4 to 6 Two three-dimensional views of the inlet module of the supply device obtained from two different angles;

[0048] Figure 9 It shows that it belongs to Figures 4 to 6 The three-dimensional views of the functional modules of the supply device are shown, with each module viewed from two different angles.

[0049] Figure 10 Shown at a smaller scale the available options Figures 4 to 6 The three connecting modules in the supply device shown are presented in a perspective view from two different angles.

[0050] Figure 11 With Figure 10 The same scale shows what can be used Figures 4 to 6 The other two connecting modules in the supply device shown are illustrated in a perspective view from two different angles.

[0051] Figure 12 It's in front. Figures 4 to 6 Partial exploded perspective view of the device shown;

[0052] Figure 13 yes Figures 4 to 6 and Figure 12 Another exploded perspective view of the supply device shown, its explosion is related to... Figure 12 The decompositions are different; and

[0053] Figure 14 With the help of Figure 2 Comparable perspective views and perspective views of a portion of the supply device illustrate a second embodiment of the supply device and apparatus according to the invention.

Detailed Implementation Methods

[0054] Figure 1 The device 2 shown is an apparatus according to the present invention, and is used to apply a coating product (e.g., paint or varnish) onto the body C of a motor vehicle moving along the conveyor axis A4 by the conveyor 4. Device 2 includes multiple robots. Figure 1 Only one of the robots is shown in the attached figure, indicated by reference numeral 6. The arm 61 of each robot 6 carries a sprayer 8 for coating the product.

[0055] In fact, according to an aspect of the invention not shown, the robot 6 is distributed on both sides of the conveyor 4 along the conveying axis A4.

[0056] As in Figure 1 As can be seen, Robot 6 is a multi-axis robot type. In one variant, the robot can be of another type, particularly a reciprocating type.

[0057] exist Figure 1 In the image, the objects are not represented at the correct scale. The scale of robot 6 and sprayer 8 is magnified compared to the scale of the main body C.

[0058] The sprayer 8 is rotatable and includes a body 82 defining a longitudinal axis A8 and a bowl 84 mounted to be rotated about the axis A8 and by means of a turbine (not shown), which is advantageously an air turbine.

[0059] In this example, the sprayer 8 is electrostatic and associated with a high-voltage unit 9 that provides a DC voltage on the order of -60kV to the sprayer, which causes the coated product sprayed by the bowl 84 rotating about axis A8 to become electrostatic.

[0060] As in Figure 3 As can be seen in the lower part, the high-pressure unit 9 is housed in part 86 of the sprayer 8, which is arranged opposite to the bowl 84 relative to the main body 82.

[0061] A device 10 for supplying coating and cleaning products to the sprayer 8 is inserted between the sprayer 8 and the wrist 62 of the robot 6 at the end of the forming arm 61. The supply device 10 provides a mechanical interface between the wrist 62 and the sprayer 8 and supplies coating and cleaning products to the sprayer.

[0062] Specifically, the supply device 10 supports the sprayer 8 from the wrist 62.

[0063] 10A indicates the front side of the supply device 10, which, in a configuration where the sprayer 8 is mounted on the device 10, is oriented toward the sprayer 8. 10B indicates the rear side of the device 10, which, in a configuration where the device 10 is mounted on the robot 6, is oriented toward the robot wrist 62. Similarly, the side or front surface of a component of the supply device 10 oriented toward the sprayer 8 in a configuration where the sprayer 8 is mounted on the device 10 has the same reference numeral as the component plus the letter A, while the side or rear surface of such a component oriented toward the robot wrist 62 in a configuration where the device 10 is mounted on the robot 6 has the same reference numeral as the component plus the letter B.

[0064] The supply device 10 includes a flange 102 on its rear side 10B, which is intended to be secured to the wrist 62 of the robot 6 by any suitable means, in particular by means of an internal thread or screw (not shown).

[0065] The flange is circular and centered on axis A10, which is the longitudinal axis of the supply device 10.

[0066] In the example in the attached figure, axes A8 and A10 are not parallel and intersect, which is caused by the geometry of body 82.

[0067] In a variant of the invention (not shown), axes A8 and A10 are parallel.

[0068] Six tie bolts 104 extend from flange 102 parallel to axis A10 and opposite to wrist 62, and each is provided with a threaded end 106.

[0069] The supply device 10 also includes an annular plate 110 made of a conductive material (e.g., aluminum) and forming the frame of the supply device 10. The plate 110 has six through ports 112, each configured to receive one end 106 of a fastening bolt 104. Nuts 114 are screwed onto ends 106 and can be used to secure the plate 110 to the fastening bolts 104. Six nuts 114 are present, four of which are equipped with collars 116 for hooking threaded rings 118 onto the plate 110. The rings 118 can be screwed onto threaded end pieces 88, which form the end of the sprayer 8 portion 86 opposite the body 82.

[0070] In practice, when the sprayer 8 needs to be mounted on the robot 6 equipped with the supply device 10, the threaded end piece 88 is aligned on the axis A10 and approaches the flange ring 102. Then, the threaded ring 118 forming the large-diameter nut is arranged along... Figure 7 Rotate in the direction of arrow F1 to screw onto the threaded end piece 88 until the sprayer 8 is secured. Conversely, when it is necessary to remove the sprayer 8, the ring 118 is set to... Figure 7 Rotate in the direction of arrow F2 so that the ring is unscrewed from the threaded end piece 88 before the sprayer 8 moves away from the supply device 10 along the axis A10.

[0071] For clarity in the accompanying drawings, nut 114 and ring 118 are... Figure 12 Not shown in the diagram. However, nut 114 and ring 118 are... Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 13 As can be seen in the text.

[0072] The supply device 10 also includes six connection modules 120. Figures 1 to 13 In the example shown, the six connecting modules 120 together form a ring structure that extends around axis A10.

[0073] Each connection module 120 extends on a angular sector where the apex angle α120 equals 60°.

[0074] Each connecting module 120 has a cylindrical shape with an integral trapezoidal base and includes an inner surface 122 oriented toward axis A10 in the configuration where the module is mounted on plate 110, an outer surface 124 oriented opposite to axis A10 in the configuration where the module 120 is mounted on plate 110, and two side surfaces 126 and 128, each extending radially in a plane to axis A10 in the configuration where the module 120 is mounted on plate 110. Two adjacent modules 120 mounted on plate 110 contact each other via side surface 126 of one module and side surface 128 of the other module.

[0075] Each module 120 defines two notches 130 and 132 at the junction between its inner surface 122 and its sides 126 and 128.

[0076] By engaging the portion of the connecting module 120 that defines its inner surface 122 between the two fastening bolts 104 from the outside and along the direction of axis A10, and in a direction radial to the axis, until the notches 130 and 132 partially cover the two fastening bolts 104, the notches 130 and 132 allow the connecting module 120, which is carried on the two adjacent fastening bolts 104, to be placed.

[0077] Then each module 120 can be slid toward the rear side 110B of the plate 110.

[0078] Each connection module 120 includes a front surface 120A and a rear surface 120B opposite to the front surface.

[0079] Advantageously, the front surface 120A and the rear surface 120B of the connecting module 120 are parallel.

[0080] Advantageously, the front surface 120A of the connecting module is perpendicular to its inner surface 122, outer surface 124 and sides 126, 118.

[0081] Advantageously, in the assembly configuration of the supply device 10, the surfaces 122, 124, 126 and 128 of the connecting module 120 are parallel to the longitudinal axis A10, and the front surface 120A and the rear surface 120B each extend in a plane radially to the axis.

[0082] In the assembly configuration of the supply device 10, each connecting module 120 abuts against the rear side 110B of the plate 110 via its front surface 120A. The front surface 120A of the module 120 thus forms its contact surface with the annular plate 110.

[0083] As from Figure 10 and Figure 11 As can be seen, the connection modules 120 can be of different types. Each connection module 120 includes a body 121, which can typically be made of a synthetic material, such as polyoxymethylene plastic, preferably in copolymer form, such as POMC, or in some cases, the body can be made of metal, particularly stainless steel. Each connection module 120 defines one or more circulation conduits for fluids. Such conduits can be conduits for circulating coating products, conduits for circulating cleaning products, or conduits for controlling air circulation. The various conduits are arranged to fluidly connect to fluid components, such as valves belonging to functional module 140, thereby enabling control of the distribution of coating products, cleaning products, or control air. The different conduits of the connection modules 120 can be further used to form pneumatic control lines C138.

[0084] The supply device 10 includes multiple functional modules 140, each of which is mounted on the outer surface 124 of the connection module 120.

[0085] Advantageously, functional module 140 is arranged to minimize dead zones in the circuit, which are portions of the pipe connected to the product circulation line but located outside the flow path. These dead zones, also known as glove fingers, are filled with product when the system is fed and must be cleaned when the system is emptied, representing a loss of coated product. The valves in functional module 140 are thus arranged and controlled to limit the presence of dead zones in the circuit.

[0086] This optimizes material balance, thereby minimizing product loss during product changeovers and improving performance in terms of both the amount and time of product consumed during rinsing.

[0087] As from Figure 5 As can be seen, the body 121 of each connection module 120 includes one or more circulation channels 134 for applying or cleaning products. The geometry and position of the channels 134 vary from one type of connection module 120 to another, depending on the type of functional module mounted on its outer surface 124. In other words, the geometry of the body 121 of the different connection modules 120 varies according to the type of the respective connection module, which in turn depends on the type of functional module associated with it.

[0088] Figure 9 The diagram shows three types of functional modules.

[0089] Figure 9 The first type of functional module 140 shown at the top is a functional module including four pneumatic valves 142, which allows for the supply of four different coating products (e.g., four different colors of paint). Figure 5 The coated product pipe 143 is visible in the middle and forms a common collector.

[0090] Functional module 140 includes a body 141, which is typically made of a synthetic material, such as polyoxymethylene (POM), preferably in copolymer form, such as POMC, or in some cases, the body is made of metal, particularly stainless steel. A valve 142 is received within the body 141 defining a conduit 143. Four screws 146 pass through the body 141 and are intended to be screwed into corresponding threaded inserts 136, which open onto an outer surface 124 of a connection module 120 adapted to receive functional module 140. The threaded inserts 136 are made of a conductive material, such as steel or brass.

[0091] exist Figure 9The second type of functional module 140, shown in the middle, includes two valves 142 mounted in its body 141, which defines an internal conduit 143 and is configured to be attached to the connection module 120 by means of two screws 146 screwed into corresponding threaded inserts 136 of the connection module.

[0092] Figure 9 The third type of functional module 140 shown at the bottom includes three valves 142 mounted on a body 141 that defines an internal conduit 143 and carries two mounting screws 146 on an outer surface 124 of a connecting module 120, the outer surface being equipped with threaded inserts 136 adapted to receive the screws 146.

[0093] In one variant, functional module 140 may include multiple internal pipes 143.

[0094] Other functional modules with different geometries and / or different numbers of valves can be envisioned. For example, a functional module with a single pipe can be used instead. Figure 9 The module shown is an example. In this case, the body of the functional module is advantageously conductive, which allows the conduit defined by the body to reach a defined potential, such as ground, by connecting the body to an object at that defined potential.

[0095] The geometry of the main body 141 of different functional modules 140 can vary according to the type of each functional module.

[0096] Screw 146 is made of metal and is therefore conductive. The screw can be used to reversibly secure functional module 140 to connection module 120, and more specifically to its outer surface 124. The conductive properties of the threaded insert 136 and screw 146 provide electrical continuity between connection module 120 and functional module 140.

[0097] like Figure 6 As shown, the two screws 146 used to detachably fix the functional block 140 to the associated connecting block 120 have the same length but different implantation depths. The above is a simple device for positioning the various terminal blocks 140 on the connecting block 120, which will be mounted on the outer surface 124 of the connecting block.

[0098] As from Figures 2 to 6 As you can see, Figure 9 The two functional modules 140 shown in the middle can be mounted side by side on the outer surface 124 of the same connecting module 120.

[0099] As in Figure 4 The upper right quadrant and Figure 5 As can be seen in the lower right quadrant, it can also be mounted on the outer surface 124 of one or more connection modules 120. Figure 9 The first functional module 140 and the second functional module 140', as shown in the middle section, allow the fluid flowing to the sprayer via the wrist 62 of the robot 6 to be raised to a given potential, namely the potential of the annular plate 10. The second functional module 140' can be used to connect a hose to an inlet module 150 mounted on the same connection module 120, without having a free hose at the first functional module 140. The second functional module 140' can also be a module for cleaning certain components of the sprayer 8 (e.g., the bowl 84), allowing airflow, solvent flow, and drying air to be injected into said components. In this case, the second functional module 140' allows the cleaning and drying of the rear portion formed by the supply device 10 to be separated from the cleaning and drying of the front portion formed by the sprayer 8. Thus, the cleaning and drying operations can be performed in parallel, saving time.

[0100] On the other hand, such as in Figure 5 As can be seen, portions of conduit 138 are disposed within different connecting blocks 120 and together form a pneumatic circulation line C138 for checking the proper fastening and positioning of the different connecting modules 120 relative to each other. Line C138 includes a closed loop 138A that passes through each connecting module 120 and is formed by portions of conduit 138 extending between sides 126 and 128 of the connecting modules 120. Line C138 also includes branches 138B formed by portions of conduit 138 that connect loop 138A to different functional modules 140 and lead to the outer surface 124 of the connecting module 120. The outlets of the conduit portions 138 on the outer surface 124 and sides 126 and 128 are surrounded by seals 139. Seals 139 isolate line C138 from the outside. Therefore, when the connection module 120 is mounted on the board 110 and the functional module 140 is mounted on the connection module, line C138 can be pressurized to detect any leaks that would correspond to a poor assembly of at least one of the connection module 120 or the functional module 140. On the other hand, if no leak is detected, it can be assumed that the connection module 120 and the functional module 140 are correctly mounted relative to each other.

[0101] Different connecting blocks 120 are fixed to the annular plate 110 by means of metal screws 147. The metal screws pass through the plate 110 between the front side 110A and the rear side 110B and are screwed into threaded holes 137 leading to the front surface 120A of each connecting module 120. Thus, the installation of the connecting module 120 on the plate 110 is reversible or detachable, that is, the connecting module can be removed from the plate if needed.

[0102] As in Figure 7 As can be seen in the diagram, the threaded hole 137 is formed by a metal insert that runs through each module 120 from its front surface 120A to its rear surface 120B. Thus, the threaded hole 137 also leads to the rear surface 120B of the connecting module 120.

[0103] Considering the conductivity of plate 110, screw 147 and insert 137, mounting connection module 120 onto plate 110 enables electrical continuity to be provided for the components, particularly grounding connection module 120 when plate 110 itself is grounded.

[0104] The supply device 10 also includes an inlet module 150, one of which is in Figure 8 It is shown in three dimensions from two different angles.

[0105] Each inlet module 150 includes a body 151, which is typically made of a synthetic material, such as polyoxymethylene (POM), preferably in copolymer form, such as POMC, or in some cases, the body is made of metal, particularly stainless steel. Each inlet module has a cylindrical shape with an overall trapezoidal base, the cross-section of which is similar to that of the connecting module 120. Each inlet module 150 is defined between an inner surface 152, an outer surface 154, and two side surfaces 156 and 158. Recesses 160 and 162 are defined in a manner comparable to those of the recesses 130 and 132 of the connecting module 120, and allow each inlet module 150 to be mounted on the fastening bolts 104, as explained above regarding the connecting module 120.

[0106] The main body 151 of all inlet modules 150 of the supply device 10 is identical, which is advantageous in terms of manufacturing and maintenance. In other words, regardless of the connection module 120 that cooperates with the inlet module, each inlet module 150 maintains the same basic structure.

[0107] Each inlet module 150 has a body 151 equipped with a fluid connection element 164, with its inlet 166 arranged on the rear surface 150B of the corresponding inlet module. Thus, each fluid connection element 164 is accessible on the rear surface 150B of the inlet module 150 on which the fluid connection element is mounted.

[0108] Viewed from the rear side 10B of the supply device 10, the different inlet modules 150 have the same geometry with ports 168, some of which are filled by inlets 166 of the fluid coupling element 164.

[0109] Figure 8 The inlet module 150 shown is equipped with the maximum number of fluid connection elements 164 that its body 151 can support. However, the above is not mandatory, and Figure 3The upper part allows for the distinction between ports 168 not occupied by connecting elements 164 and other ports occupied by these elements, particularly on the inlet module 150 mounted on the connection module 120, on which a functional module 140 with three valves 142 is also mounted. The type of this functional module is as follows: Figure 9 The lower part is shown.

[0110] Depending on the nature of the fluid flowing through it, the connecting element 164 can be of different types, in particular the connecting element can have different diameters, and the fluid can be a coating product, a cleaning product or air.

[0111] Metal screws 170 are provided for reversibly securing inlet modules 150, each inlet module abutting against the rear surface 120B of connecting module 120 via its front surface 150A. Thus, the surface 120B of the connecting module serves as the inlet surface for fluid to enter the module.

[0112] The rear surface 150B of the entry module 150 is opposite to its front surface 150A.

[0113] The screw 170 is screwed into the threaded hole 137 through its side leading to the rear surface 120B of the connecting module 120.

[0114] As in Figure 8 As can be seen in the upper part, each connecting element 164 protrudes from the front surface 150A of the inlet module 150 where the connecting element is mounted.

[0115] Therefore, taking into account the number and distribution of the connecting elements 164 of the associated inlet module 150, each connecting module 120 includes one or more countersunk holes 135 on its rear surface 120B, which surround a port 133 for receiving a male end piece 163 of the connecting element 164.

[0116] The number and distribution of the connecting elements 164 on each inlet module 150 are determined as a function of the number, geometry, and distribution of the internal pipes of the connecting module 120, particularly the receiving ports 133. Thus, starting from the same body 151, different inlet modules 150 are formed by installing the connecting elements 164 thereon, depending on the different connecting modules 120 of the supply device 10. In other words, the number and distribution of the fluid connecting elements 164, and therefore the number and distribution of the inlets 166, vary from one inlet module 150 to another, and depend particularly on the connecting module on which the fluid connecting elements will be installed.

[0117] When the inlet module 150 abuts against the rear surface 120B of the connecting module 120 via its front surface 150A, and when the functional module 140 abuts against the outer surface 124 of the same connecting module 120, the connecting module connects (i.e., fluidly connects) the inlet module 150 and the functional module 140 by means of its conduit 134.

[0118] The supply device 10 is modular in the sense that it includes as many connection modules 120 and inlet modules 150 as the mechanical support and fluid supply functional modules 140, which are useful for the proper operation of the sprayer 8.

[0119] exist Figures 1 to 13 In the example, the number is equal to six, but the number can be smaller, as explained below.

[0120] Advantageously, each inlet module 150 is equipped with a label 180 on the outer surface 124 of its extension module 120, to which the inlet module is attached. The label has an indication 182 for identifying a valid inlet 166 of the connecting element 164. By positioning the label on the outside of the annular structure formed by the different inlet modules 150, the operator can easily access the label 180 to indicate how the operator must connect each inlet module 150 to the fluid supply conduit of the supply device 10, which is only... Figure 3 The center is indicated by its axis CA and is typically made of tubes of flexible synthetic material that extend from the wrist 62 along the direction of the supply device 10.

[0121] In one variant, only one entry module 150 or some entry modules have a label 180.

[0122] In addition, such as only Figure 9 For simplicity, the lower part of the diagram shows that the various valves 142 of the functional module 140 can be identified by means of an open marking ring 190, which has a mark 192 indicating the valve and is mounted in a recess 194 provided in the body of the functional module 140 and surrounds the valve 142 in question. Figure 9 In the example shown below, three valves 142 are identified by their pneumatic valve numbers or "PVs" (i.e., PV33, PV45, and PV46) using identification rings 190. The identification ring 190 for pneumatic valve PV45 is shown in an exploded view relative to the corresponding recess 194, while the other two identification rings 190 are shown as being in place on the body 141 of the functional module 140. Each ring 190 forms an identification label for either valve 142 or pipe 143.

[0123] Of course, the use of the identification ring can be switched to other functional modules 140, especially Figure 9 The upper and middle sections of the module are shown.

[0124] As in Figure 4 As can be seen in the image, the annular plate 110 is equipped with twelve through ports 113, each through port being surrounded by a sleeve 119 integral with the rest of the plate 110. Each connecting module 120 is arranged to face a pair of through ports 113. Depending on the type of connecting module 120, the front surface 120A may or may not be equipped with an outlet for supplying coating or cleaning products to the sprayer 8 via conduits 123. The coating or cleaning product reaching such an outlet flows within the conduits 123 inside the connecting module 120, originating from a functional module 140 mounted on the connecting module.

[0125] The connector 115 is secured in each through port 113 by a threaded ring 117, the through port being arranged to face the outlet of the supply pipe 123 of the connection module 120. Thus, each connector 115 is supplied with coating products and / or cleaning products.

[0126] Thus, the complementary coupling belonging to the sprayer 8 can be connected to the coupling 115 assembled to the annular plate 110 so as to supply coating products and / or cleaning products to the sprayer according to the operating sequence provided for the sprayer 8.

[0127] Thus, at least some of the connection modules 120 have a connection function, that is, they fluidly connect the functional module 140 to the plate 110 via their supply conduits 123, and more specifically, to one or more connectors 115 of the plate 110. The plate 110 thus forms the outlet or downstream portion of the supply device 10.

[0128] As in Figure 12 As can be seen, multiple connection modules 120 are provided with supply pipes 123. Thus, the supply device 10 includes multiple supply pipes 123 and an equal number of connectors 115.

[0129] Since the coated product must pass through the grounded and conductive plate 110, the coated product is also grounded at the stated level.

[0130] For easy identification of connector 115, and if only Figure 4 As shown in Figure A), an open identification ring 190 with a mark 192 for identifying the connector 115 is mounted in a groove 194 provided on the outer side of a sleeve 119, which surrounds the through port 113 in which the connector 115 is mounted. In this document, the identification mark is the number of the connector 115, R1 in the example. Each open ring 190 surrounds a connector 115 with the same mark. The identification ring 190 is mounted around each sleeve 119, which surrounds the through port 113 in which the connector 115 is fixed. Each ring 190 forms an identification label for the connector 115.

[0131] During the manufacture of the supply device 10, the identification ring 190 is detachably mounted on the functional module 140 and the annular plate 110 by means of a snap-fit ​​engagement within the recess 194. Depending on possible modifications to this device, the ring can be moved, removed, or replaced.

[0132] In one variant, other types of labels may be used to identify valve 142, pipe 123, or fitting 115. Their detachable installation on the body 141 or plate 110 may be performed by means other than snap-fit.

[0133] In the mounting configuration of the supply device 10, a central region Z10 of the supply device 10 is provided by an annular structure defined by a plate 110 and extending along axis A10 to modules 120 and 150. The central region Z10 can be used for pipes supplying fluid (particularly control air) to the sprayer 8, or for connections or cables for the sprayer to pass through. Pipes and power cables are only permitted to pass through... Figure 3 The axes CA and CB represent the axes respectively.

[0134] In the example shown in the attached drawing where the sprayer 8 includes a high-pressure unit 9, the connector 200 can be installed in region Z10, as in... Figure 3 As can be seen, only the housing of connector 200 is shown.

[0135] In a variant (not shown), if the sprayer 8 does not have a high-voltage unit, one or more high-voltage power cables of the sprayer may pass through a portion 86 of the sprayer 8 through the central region Z10 to be directly connected to the body 82.

[0136] As from Figure 6 and Figure 12 As can be seen, screws 148 are inserted into connecting modules 120 and protrude from at least one of their sides for screwing into adjacent connecting modules 120. Metal inserts 149 are provided in the different connecting modules 120 to receive the screws 148 of adjacent connecting modules, providing, on the one hand, good mechanical anchoring between the connecting modules and around axis A10 (i.e., durable assembly between two adjacent connecting modules), and on the other hand, electrical continuity between connecting modules 120. This electrical continuity is also achieved by functional module 140, whose screws 146 extend into the inserts 149, as shown in... Figure 6 It can be seen in the image.

[0137] Thus, screws 146, 147, 148, and 170, along with inserts 136, 137, and 149, together form an equipotential track between connection module 120, functional module 140, entry module 150, and annular plate 110 made of conductive material. The grounding of the annular plate is thereby transferred to modules 120, 140, and 150.

[0138] exist Figure 14 In the second embodiment of the invention shown, elements similar to those in the first embodiment have the same reference numerals. If in Figure 14 If a reference numeral is used in the specification but not mentioned in the description, then that reference numeral corresponds to an object having the same reference numeral in the first embodiment. Conversely, if a reference numeral is mentioned in the specification but not mentioned in the description, then the reference numeral corresponds to an object having the same reference numeral in the first embodiment. Figure 14 As shown in the figure, the reference numerals correspond to objects having the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment. The differences between the second and first embodiments will be primarily described below.

[0139] In the second embodiment, the supply device 10 includes only two connection modules 120, two functional modules 140 and two inlet modules 150, which are detachably mounted side by side on the rear side 110B of the annular plate 110 by means of screws 147.

[0140] In the second embodiment, the structure formed by modules 120, 140, and 150 does not extend more than 360° around axis A10 as in the first embodiment, but rather extends more than an angle β equal to approximately 120°. Figure 14 In the example shown, the two connection modules 120 are identical, and each has a plug 127, which corresponds to... Figure 11 The lower part shows the structure of module 120.

[0141] As in Figure 11 As can be seen, each plug 127 is detachably secured to the corresponding connection module 120 by means of a screw 129 inserted in the insert 149 instead of a screw 148 mentioned in the first embodiment.

[0142] In the second embodiment, a single connection module 120 is provided with a supply pipe 123. Thus, the supply device 10 includes a single supply pipe 123 and a single connector 115 mounted on the plate 110.

[0143] In one variant, the number of connection modules 120 may include between 3 and 5, depending on the number of functional modules 140 required to operate the sprayer 8. In this case, the number of inlet modules 150 is adapted to the number of connection modules 120.

[0144] Regardless of the implementation method, according to one aspect of the invention not shown in the figures, a cap surrounds the supply device 10 between the wrist 62 and the body 82 of the sprayer in order to protect the sprayer from contamination during the application of the coated product, particularly from paint backflow, sometimes referred to as “oversprays”.

[0145] As described above, some of the bodies 121, 141, and 151, particularly the body 141 of the functional module 140, can be made of conductive materials (especially aluminum or stainless steel) or even electrically insulating materials. The advantage of making the body 141 of the functional module 140 of a conductive material is its ability to transfer the potential of the equipotential tracks formed by the screws 146, 147, 148, and 170 connected to the plate 110 and the inserts 136, 137, and 149 to the various conductive components (e.g., fluid components) included in the functional module 140.

[0146] If the body 141 of the functional module 140 is made of a synthetic material (e.g., a plastic material), it advantageously includes a metal insert arranged to form an equipotential path between the fluid element of the functional module 140 and the screw 146 arranged to be attached in the insert 149.

[0147] In summary, plate 110 allows all fluids supplied to sprayer 8 to be brought to the same potential, which is ground. The bodies 121, 141, and 151 of modules 120, 140, and 150 can be made of conductive or electrically insulating materials, particularly metallic materials. If such material is electrically insulating, the insert allows for the creation of equipotential between all metal parts and between them and plate 10, preventing the attachment screws from being at a floating potential. If such material is conductive, equipotential is created without the need for the insert. The choice of material for bodies 121, 141, and 151 depends on the nature of one or more fluids to be delivered (e.g., whether it involves a two-component coating product) and / or, in the case of electrically insulating materials, on the possible complexity of mounting the insert.

[0148] This invention can be applied to electrostatic or non-electrostatic sprayers, regardless of whether they are equipped with a rotating bowl.

[0149] The invention is illustrated in the figures with each connecting module 120 and each entry module 150 extending over a corner sector, the apex angle α120 of which, about axis A10, is equal to 60°. In a variation, the angle may be different, for example equal to 45°, in which case the maximum number of connecting modules 120 is eight. Other values ​​for the apex angle and the number of connecting modules are conceivable.

[0150] The invention is illustrated in the accompanying drawings with the sprayer 8 used to apply a coating product to the body C of a motor vehicle. The invention can also be applied to situations where the sprayer is used to apply a coating product to vehicle parts (e.g., bumpers or rims), the housing of household products, or any other object to be coated.

[0151] The above-described embodiments and variations can be combined to generate new embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. An apparatus (10) for supplying coating and / or cleaning products to a sprayer (8), the apparatus comprising at least one pilot-operated valve (142), a conduit (134) for bringing the product to the valve, and at least one conduit (123) for supplying the product from the valve to the sprayer, characterized in that, -The device (10) has a ring structure and includes: ● Annular plate (110); ● Multiple connection modules (120); ● Multiple functional modules (140); and ● Multiple entry modules (150); -The plate (110) is equipped with a through port (113). - Each connecting module (120) is detachably mounted by means of a contact surface (120A) against one side (110B) of the annular plate; - Each connection module (120) includes at least one conduit (134) for bringing the product to at least one pilot-operated valve (142). - Each functional module (140) is detachably mounted on the outer surface (124) of the connecting module (120), the outer surface being different from the contact surface between the connecting module and the annular plate; - Each functional module (140) is fluidly connected to the inlet pipe (134) of the connection module, and the functional module is mounted on the outer surface of the connection module; -Each functional module includes at least one pilot-operated valve (142) and at least one conduit (143) or a portion of the conduit intended for grounding; - Each inlet module (150) is detachably mounted on the inlet surface (120B) of the connection module (120) opposite its contact surface (120A); and - Each inlet module (150) carries a fluid coupling element (164) accessible on the surface (150B) of the inlet module, which is oriented relative to the connection module (120) and is mounted on the inlet surface (120B) of the connection module.

2. The device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bodies (151) of all the inlet modules (150) equipped with the fluid connection element (164) are identical to each other.

3. The apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that, At least one inlet module (150) is provided with a label (180) having a mark (182) for identifying its fluid connection element (164).

4. The apparatus (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The label is affixed to a surface (154) of the inlet module, which extends the outer surface (124) of the connection module (120) to the inlet surface (120B) on which the inlet module is mounted.

5. The apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that, At least one functional module (140) and / or the plate (110) has a label (190) for identifying a valve (142), pipe (123) or connector (115), the label being detachably mounted on a fixed portion (141, 119) of the functional module or the plate.

6. The apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that, Each connection module (120) carries at least one functional module (140, 140') on its outer surface (124) and a single inlet module (150) on its inlet surface (120B).

7. The apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that, The connecting modules (120) together define a ring structure or a ring-shaped structure, and the control line (C138) extends within the ring structure or the ring-shaped structure and passes through each connecting module.

8. The apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that, The device (10) includes parallel rods (104) supporting the annular plate (110), and each connecting module (120) and / or each inlet module (150) is carried on a pair of adjacent parallel rods.

9. The apparatus (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, - The annular plate (110) is made of a conductive material; Each connecting module (120) includes at least one threaded insert (136, 137, 149) made of conductive material, each threaded insert being configured to receive a screw (146, 147, 148, 170) for mounting the connecting module to the annular plate and / or an adjacent connecting module, mounting the functional module (140) to the connecting module, or mounting the inlet module (150) to the connecting module; and - The screws (146, 147, 148, 170) and the threaded inserts (136, 137, 149) together form an equipotential path between the connection module (120), the functional module (140), the inlet module (150), and the annular plate (110).

10. A spare part connection module (120) for the device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: - Contact surface (120A), which is designed to abut against one side (110B) of the annular plate (100) in a removable manner. - An outer surface (124), which is different from the contact surface, is used to detachably receive at least one functional module (140); and - Inlet surface (120B), which is opposite to the contact surface and is designed to detachably support the inlet module (150).

11. A functional module (140) forming a spare part for the device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising: - At least one pilot-operated valve (142); -At least one internal conduit (143); and - A means (146) for detachably mounting on the outer surface (124) of the connection module.

12. An inlet module (150) forming a spare part for the device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising: - First surface (150A), which is designed to abut against the inlet surface (120B) of the connecting module (120) in a removable manner. and - Second surface (150B), which is opposite to the first surface, and through the second surface, the inlet (166) of the fluid connection element (164) carried by the inlet module is accessible.

13. An apparatus (2) for applying a coating product, comprising: Robot (6); and a sprayer (8), which is mounted on the arm (61) of the robot and is supplied with coating products and / or cleaning products by means of the device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

14. The device (2) according to claim 13, characterized in that, Air supply lines (CA) for controlling pneumatic valves, connectors (200) and / or power cables (CB) for supplying high voltage to the sprayer (8) pass through or are housed in the central region (Z10) of the device (10) defined by the annular plate (110).

Images