Application device for producing multi-component mixture and for introducing / applying multi-component mixture into / onto object, and application system comprising application device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an application device for mixing a plurality of components to produce a multi-component mixture, in particular a polyurethane foam, and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object, in particular a lithium ion battery, comprising: a mixing tube having a first closed end and a second end, the mixing tube has a mixing chamber and a plurality of sections, walls of the mixing tube of at least two sections of the plurality of sections have mutually different inner diameters, further comprising a plurality of injection units, each injection unit is configured to inject a respective one of the plurality of components into the mixing chamber, and each injection unit is configured to inject a respective one of the plurality of components into the mixing chamber. And a mixer disposed in the mixing chamber, the mixer configured to mix the injected components with each other along the mixing tube. An application system including the application device is also disclosed.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an application device for producing multi-component mixtures, in particular polyurethane foams, and for introducing / applying the multi-component mixtures into / onto an object, in particular during the production of batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries, and to an application system comprising such an application device. Background Art

[0002] For example, in the production of foams, one or more components are mixed with air. Here, the precise, reproducible and uniform mixing of the components themselves and of the components with air is important. This includes the fact that the mass or volume ratios of the individual components to each other, in particular to air, in the foam can be precisely set to an optimum value and must be continuously maintained throughout the production process of the foam. In addition, the mixture must be uniform throughout the foam volume. The foam must be able to be reproduced in multiple production batches.

[0003] Foams with poor flammability are used for fire protection, for example in batteries, and for thermal insulation in the building sector. Fire protection also plays an important role in thermal insulation. In this case, the specific specifications for foam production are particularly important.

[0004] For example, lithium-based batteries, in particular lithium-ion batteries, are used in electric vehicles. It is particularly common for such lithium-ion batteries to be used for storing energy generated by photovoltaic systems. However, lithium-ion batteries are also used for storing energy in many other fields, especially because of their very long durability. However, the use of lithium-ion batteries is not without problems.

[0005] In the case of lithium-ion batteries, fire protection plays an extremely important role because lithium-ion batteries have a very destructive fire behavior and are difficult to extinguish. For the preventive fire protection of lithium-ion batteries, there are currently hardly any viable and / or only inadequately functioning solutions. These solutions include applying a fire protection material to the lid or housing of the battery, providing a honeycomb structure in the battery, or completely emptying the battery or the battery cells of the battery.

[0006] A new type of fire protection measure is the use of polyurethane (abbreviation "PU") foam. For this purpose, the battery is foamed with polyurethane foam. In this case, the battery cells are surrounded by polyurethane foam. If a defective battery cell catches fire or becomes thermally uncontrollable, the PU foam absorbs the heat generated during the process and prevents adjacent battery cells from overheating or starting to burn due to the melting of the PU foam. This prevents the occurrence or rapid spread of a fire. The PU foam thus prevents the entire electric vehicle or the entire house from burning down due to a defective battery cell.

[0007] Two monomers (for example polyols and polyisocyanates) are used for the production (polymerization) of PU foam. The foaming can be carried out chemically and / or physically.

[0008] The disadvantages of traditional solutions for the production and application of foams, especially PU foams, are that it is impossible to continuously convey the components or continuously produce the foam. So far, in each case, the components have been pre-treated or prepared in tanks and, if appropriate, mixed with air in the tanks. Then, the multiple components are fed into a mixer and / or an applicator. The component tanks must be replaced regularly or filled with new materials. Furthermore, it is impossible to precisely set the mixing ratio of the components in the foam because the components have been fed into the mixer or applicator in an air-displaced state. Therefore, the metering of the components is inaccurate, and the ratio between the components, especially the ratio between air and other components, cannot be set or is difficult to set. Furthermore, the mixer or applicator drips after the foam production stops.

[0009] Therefore, the unsolved problem is how to improve the material quality and mixing quality of the foam. In particular, it has not been solved how to produce and apply the foam in a clean, precise, repeatable, uniform, and efficient manner. Summary of the Invention

[0010] An object of the present invention is to improve an application device and an application system for producing a multi-component mixture, especially a PU foam, and introducing / applying it to an object, especially into / onto a lithium-ion battery. Another object of the present invention is to improve a method for producing a multi-component mixture, especially a PU foam, and introducing / applying it to an object, especially into / onto a lithium-ion battery.

[0011] An object of the present invention is to improve the efficiency of the production and introduction / application of PU foam. In particular, an object of the present invention is to achieve continuous production and introduction / application of PU foam.

[0012] An object of the present invention is to improve the uniformity, controllability, and precision in the production and introduction / application of PU foam. In particular, the object of the present invention is to improve the precision of the mixing ratio of the components of PU foam including air.

[0013] An object of the present invention is to improve the cleanliness in the introduction / application of PU foam. Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to increase the flexibility in producing PU foam using different components.

[0014] These objects are illustrated by taking PU foam and its application in batteries as an example. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and can generally be used for the production and application of multi-component mixtures and / or foams composed of one or more components mixed with air. The application in batteries is also only mentioned as an example here. Such multi-component mixtures and foams can be used in different fields, such as building materials.

[0015] At least one object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. The subject matter of the dependent claims gives advantageous embodiments and developments.

[0016] In the context of the present disclosure, "applied to an article" is considered synonymous with "applied onto an article". Embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the application of a multi-component mixture onto an article. This is also intended to cover the case of introducing a multi-component mixture into an article. In the context of the present disclosure, "battery" is considered a synonym of "accumulator". The "application device" may also be abbreviated as "applicator" and constitutes a device for applying or dispensing a mixture. In the context of the present disclosure, "mixture" should be understood as synonymous with "mixture". A multi-component mixture refers to a mixture of a first component and at least one other component, in particular a gas or a gas mixture, such as air. A foam is a multi-component mixture consisting of a first component and, as a second component, a gas or a gas mixture, in particular air, and optionally other components. Unless otherwise stated, "component" refers to a material. The specifications of different components are used to distinguish different materials. In the context of the present disclosure, a polymeric polyurethane may also be referred to as a multi-component mixture.

[0017] As a result of the invention, all components, if appropriate including gases or gas mixtures, are only mixed in the application device with a mixer.

[0018] As a result of the invention, mixing tubes with different inner diameters are provided. During the mixing of the components in the mixing space by means of a mixer, the different inner diameters result in different rotational speeds of the component materials along the mixing tube. This enables a more flexible mixing of the components and improves the mixing, in particular the homogeneity of the mixing.

[0019] Furthermore, by an embodiment of the present disclosure, a mixing section is defined along a mixing tube having a closed end and an open end. By means of the mixing section, an order is predefined based on which the various components for producing a multi-component mixture are injected into the mixing space and mixed with one another. In this case, on the one hand, it is possible to ensure compliance with the order of component mixing.

[0020] Furthermore, by changing one or more positions at which one or more components are injected into the mixing space, this order can be made flexible. Furthermore, the type of component injected can be changed in a simple manner, and the components injected at the respective positions can be replaced. Thus, different multi-component mixtures can be produced in a simple manner. Furthermore, by setting the material flow of the injected components, the mass or volume ratio of the injected or mixed components can be set in a simple manner. In particular, the ratio between the first component / third component and the gas or air can be precisely set, whereby the material quality and / or mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can be improved.

[0021] Furthermore, the materials for the preparation or stirring of the first or third component can be provided by a device for material handling, which is connected upstream of the mixer in a corresponding manner. Thus, the materials always have the same material properties before being injected into the mixing space. In particular, the uniformity of the injected components can be improved. As a result, the material quality and mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can also be improved. Furthermore, effects such as the so-called "dismissal" are prevented.

[0022] By means of an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is further achieved that by the movement of the mixer along the mixing tube, the second open end of the mixing tube can be closed in a quick and simple manner. As a result, the multi-component mixture can be effectively prevented from emerging from the mixing tube. This is particularly advantageous when it is intended to end the application of the multi-component mixture on an article. In addition, the multi-component mixture can be prevented from dripping from the application device. Thus, a clean application of the multi-component mixture can be ensured.

[0023] By means of an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is further achieved that the first component and the third component are only mixed with gas in the mixing space of the application device. Thus, these components can be metered and injected into the mixing space in a gas-free or air-free state. Therefore, the metering no longer depends on the amount or volume of gas contained in the components. In particular, the gas volume will highly depend on the pressure in the pipeline guiding the components. Therefore, the accuracy in the metering process is significantly improved. As a result, in turn, the ratio between the first component or the third component and the gas, especially air, can be precisely set and adjusted. As a result, the material quality and mixing quality of the multi-component mixture can be improved.

[0024] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an application device is proposed for mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object.

[0025] The application device includes a mixing tube having a first closed end and a second end for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube. The mixing tube may include a mixing space between the first end and the second end.

[0026] The mixing tube has a plurality of sections, wherein the mixing tube walls of at least two of the plurality of sections have mutually different inner diameters. The plurality of sections may be arranged along the mixing tube. The mixing tube walls may have mutually different inner diameters in at least two of the plurality of sections or between them. The inner diameter of the wall in one section may be different from the inner diameter of at least another section among the plurality of sections. The inner diameter of the mixing tube wall may be substantially constant within each part.

[0027] The application device further includes a plurality of injection units, each injection unit being configured to inject a respective one of the plurality of components into the mixing chamber. The plurality of injection units may be arranged on the mixing tube. The plurality of injection units may be arranged on the mixing tube wall, particularly on the outer side of the wall.

[0028] The application device further includes a mixer at least partially arranged in the mixing chamber. The mixer may be fully disposed in the mixing chamber. Preferably, the central member and the mixing elements of the mixer are arranged in the mixing chamber. The mixer is configured to mix the injected components with each other. The mixer may be configured to mix the injected components in the mixing chamber or the mixing tube, preferably along the mixing tube starting from the first end towards the second end.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an application system for mixing a plurality of components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture onto and / or into an object. The application device according to the aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Furthermore, the application system may include at least one first device for material handling, the first device being configured to provide a material flow of a first component, and / or at least one second device for material handling, the second device being configured to provide a material flow of a third component.

[0031] Furthermore, the application system may include at least one first metering device configured to receive the material flow of the first component, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the component, and provide the material flow to at least one first injection unit of the application device.

[0032] Furthermore, the application system may include a second metering device configured to receive the material flow of the second component, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the second component, and provide the material flow to at least one second injection unit of the application device. According to a preferred embodiment, the second component is a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, and the material flow of the second component is a flow of a gas or a gas mixture, preferably an air flow.

[0033] Furthermore, the application system may include at least one third metering device configured to receive the material flow of the third component, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the component, and provide the material flow to at least one third injection unit of the application device.

[0034] The application device or the application system according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present disclosure may be configured to perform the method according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] The method according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present disclosure may be performed by means of the application device or the application system according to an aspect or an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, it is provided to use the application device or application system of the embodiments of the present disclosure in the method of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] According to still another aspect of the present disclosure, it is provided a method of the embodiments of the present disclosure using the application device or application system of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] Aspects of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following features.

[0039] The plurality of sections may include a first section and a second section. The first section may be arranged at or adjacent to the first end. The second section may be arranged along the central axis between the first section and the second end. The wall in the first section may have a larger inner diameter than the second section, and vice versa. The first section may be arranged closer to the first end of the mixing tube than the second section. The first section may be arranged above the second section relative to the vertical direction. The first section may also be referred to as the upper material chamber.

[0040] The plurality of sections may include a third section. The third section may be arranged along the central axis between the second section and the second end. The inner diameter of the mixing tube wall in the third section may be different from that in the second section and / or the first section. The third section may be arranged closer to the second end of the mixing tube than the second section. The wall in the third section may have a smaller inner diameter than that in the first section and / or the second section. The wall in the third section may have a larger inner diameter than that in the first section and / or the second section.

[0041] The mixing tube may further include another transition section between two of the plurality of sections in each case. The wall in each transition section may have a variable, preferably linearly variable, inner diameter along the central axis.

[0042] The application device may include at least one pressure sensor. Preferably, for at least one section of the plurality of sections of the mixing tube, at least one pressure sensor is provided, which is configured to measure the pressure in the mixing chamber region adjacent to the respective section.

[0043] The application device may include a first pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in the mixing chamber region adjacent to and / or adjacent to the first end of the mixing tube. The application device may include a second pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in the mixing chamber region adjacent to the second section of the mixing tube. The application device may include a third pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in the mixing chamber region adjacent to and / or adjacent to the second end of the mixing tube and / or adjacent to the third section.

[0044] The mixing tube can be substantially straight. This can mean that the central line of the mixing tube or the mixing chamber is straight. The mixing tube can be oriented substantially vertically. The first end can be arranged above the second end. The length of the mixing tube can be greater than the inner diameter of the mixing tube wall. The inner side of the mixing tube wall can be rotationally symmetric about the central axis.

[0045] The application device can further include a displacement device. The displacement device can be formed as or include a lifting cylinder, in particular an electric lifting cylinder or an electro-hydraulic lifting cylinder. The displacement device can be configured to displace the mixer along the central axis of the mixing tube and / or between the first end and the second end. The central axis can also be referred to as the longitudinal axis.

[0046] The displacement can occur in such a way that the mixing tube is sealed relative to the injected components and / or the material flow from the second end of the mixing tube and / or towards the second end of the multi-component mixture.

[0047] The application device can further include a rotation device, preferably an electric motor, particularly preferably a servo motor. The rotation device can be configured to rotate the mixer, preferably about a rotation axis that is substantially parallel to the central axis of the mixing tube. The central axis of the mixing tube and the rotation axis of the mixer can be substantially coincident or overlapping. The displacement of the mixer can occur along the rotation axis of the mixer.

[0048] The mixer can have a plurality of sections along the rotation axis and / or along the central axis of the mixing tube, where at least two of the plurality of sections have mutually different outer diameters.

[0049] The mixer can include a first section and a second section. The first section can have a larger outer diameter than the second section, and vice versa. Relative to the central axis of the mixing tube, the first section can be arranged closer to the first end than the second section. The first section can be arranged above the second section in the vertical direction.

[0050] The mixer can include a third section that is arranged closer to the second end of the mixing tube than the first section and / or the second section of the mixer relative to the central axis of the mixing tube. The third section can have an outer diameter different from that of the first section and / or the second section. The third section can have a larger outer diameter than the first section and / or the second section. The third section can have a smaller outer diameter than the first section and / or the second section.

[0051] The mixer can have respective sections for each section of the mixing tube, where each section of the mixing tube overlaps with the respective sections of the mixer in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the mixing tube. This plane can include the radial direction of the mixing tube.

[0052] The application device may include at least one mixing element. The mixing element may be arranged on a wall, in particular on the inner side of the mixing tube wall, and extend into the mixing chamber. The mixing element may extend towards the central axis of the mixing tube. The mixing element may be formed as a ring. The mixing element may be formed as a lamina, cusp, hook or rod, or wherein at least one mixing element is formed as a regular or irregular structure.

[0053] The plurality of injection units of the application device may include at least one first injection unit and / or at least one second injection unit and / or at least one third injection unit.

[0054] At least one first injection unit may be arranged on the mixing tube wall in a first section of the mixing tube. The at least one first injection unit may be configured to inject a first component into a region of the mixing chamber adjacent to the first section of the mixing tube.

[0055] At least one second injection unit may be arranged on the mixing tube wall in a second section of the mixing tube. The at least one second injection unit may be configured to inject a second component into a region of the mixing chamber adjacent to the second section of the mixing tube.

[0056] At least one third injection unit may be arranged on the mixing tube wall in a third section of the mixing tube. The at least one third injection unit may be configured to inject a third component into a region of the mixing chamber adjacent to the third section of the mixing tube.

[0057] Along the central axis between the first end and the second end of the mixing tube, the inner diameter of the mixing tube may be greater than the outer diameter of the mixer. The inner diameter of the mixing tube may be defined as the inner diameter of the mixing tube wall, wherein any mixing elements of the mixing tube are not taken into account. The extent of the mixer in a plane including the radial direction of the mixing tube may be defined as the outer diameter of the mixer, wherein any mixing elements of the mixer are taken into account for the extent of the mixer.

[0058] The mixer may be displaced between a first position and a second position along the mixing tube. Along the mixing tube, in particular along the central axis, the second position may be closer to the second end than the first position. On the other hand, along the mixing tube, the first position may be closer to the first end than the second position. The mixer may be displaced from the first position in the direction of the second end to the second position.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, the mixer may be displaced from the second position in the direction of the first end to the first position. Such displacement may likewise have the effect that the mixing tube is sealed relative to the material flow of the injection components and / or the multi-component mixture from the second end and / or towards the second end.

[0060] The mixing tube may include at least one sealing element. The mixing tube may include a plurality of sealing elements. The sealing element(s) may be arranged on or in the region of the second end of the mixing tube, or the sealing element(s) may be formed by the second end of the mixing tube.

[0061] The sealing element(s) may be formed as a ring or substantially annular. A displacement of the mixer towards or away from the second end may have the effect that the mixer, in particular the mixing element(s) of the mixer, come(s) into contact with the sealing element(s), thereby sealing the mixing tube.

[0062] The sealing element(s) may also be formed as conical or substantially conical. This may mean that the surface of the sealing element(s) facing the central axis of the mixing tube is conical. In particular, the sealing element(s) may be formed as a conical seat for the end of the mixer.

[0063] The mixer may have a conical, frusto-conical, conical, needle-shaped or pointed tip opposite the second end of the mixing tube. A displacement of the mixer towards the second end may have the effect that the end of the mixer comes into contact with the sealing element(s), thereby sealing the mixing tube.

[0064] The sealing element and the first end of the mixer may form a needle valve.

[0065] The mixer may be displaced in such a way that the end of the mixer and the sealing element of the mixing tube overlap in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the mixing tube, and / or the first end of the mixer and the sealing element of the mixing tube come into contact.

[0066] The central axis of the mixer may extend substantially along the mixing tube, in particular along the central axis. The mixer may be substantially rod-shaped or have a rod. The mixer may have a substantially rotationally symmetric and / or substantially rod-shaped or rod-like central member. The central member may extend substantially along the central axis of the mixing tube. The axis of symmetry or central axis of the central member may substantially coincide with the central axis of the mixing tube.

[0067] The mixer may include at least one mixing element. The mixing element(s) are for effectively mixing the injected components through the mixer. The mixing element(s) may extend in the radial direction of the mixer. The mixing element(s) may be arranged on the outside and / or on the side surface of the central member, and / or extend in the radial direction of the central member. According to a preferred embodiment, the mixer includes a plurality of mixing elements. The plurality of mixing elements may be distributed along the central member and / or relative to the central axis. In addition, the plurality of mixing elements may be distributed circumferentially along the central member. Particularly preferably, the mixing element(s) are formed and / or arranged in such a way that no imbalance is formed when the mixer rotates about the axis of rotation. The axis of rotation of the mixer may coincide with the axis of symmetry.

[0068] At least one mixing element may be formed as a lamina, cusp, hook or rod. At least one mixing element may be formed as a ring around a central element. At least one mixing element may be formed as or include a thread or helix.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the application device includes a plurality of first injection units and / or a plurality of second injection units and / or a plurality of third injection units. Accordingly, the application system may include a plurality of first metering devices, a plurality of first devices for material handling, a plurality of second metering devices, a plurality of second devices for material handling, and a plurality of third metering devices.

[0070] The injection unit may be configured to receive a material flow of a corresponding component from a corresponding metering device.

[0071] The mixing section may be defined by a mixing chamber starting from a first end towards a second end. Each of the plurality of injection units may be configured to inject a corresponding one of the plurality of components into the mixing chamber at a corresponding position along the mixing section.

[0072] The first injection unit may be configured to inject a first component at a first position along the mixing section. The second injection unit may be configured to inject a second component at a second position, which is arranged at or after the first position along the mixing section. The second component may be or include a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air. The third injection unit may be configured to inject a third component at a third position. The third position may be arranged at or after the second position along the mixing section.

[0073] The mixer may be configured to mix the injected components with each other based on the order in which the injected components have been or are being injected at corresponding positions along or relative to the mixing section, or along the mixing chamber. Thus, the injected components may be mixed with each other based on this order. A multi-component mixture may be produced by mixing the injected components. Subsequently, the multi-component mixture may be discharged from the mixing tube and the application device through the second end of the mixing tube, and the multi-component mixture may be applied to an object.

[0074] The closed first end may be sealed relative to the components injected into the mixing chamber. The open second end is for discharging the produced multi-component mixture from the mixing tube. The mixing section may be defined as the path of the central axis of the mixing tube starting from the first end towards the second end. Each position along the mixing section may be defined as the projection of each injection point on the central pipeline of the tube.

[0075] The injection unit may also be referred to as an injection unit. Each injection unit may include a nozzle configured to inject a corresponding component into the mixing chamber.

[0076] The mixer can be configured to first mix a first component and a second component with each other along a mixing section. The mixer can be configured to then mix the mixture of the first component and the second component with a third component with each other. Accordingly, the methods of embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure can further include mixing the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component through the mixer to produce a multi-component mixture including the third component.

[0077] Mixing of the components can occur by a rotary mixer. The mixer can rotate about a rotation axis. The rotation axis can be substantially parallel to the central axis or the central pipeline of the mixing tube.

[0078] The injection unit can include at least one fourth injection unit for injecting a fourth component at a fourth position that is arranged along the mixing section before a third position, particularly between a second position and the third position.

[0079] The injection unit can include at least one fifth injection unit for injecting a fifth component at a fifth position that is arranged along the mixing section before a third position, particularly between a second position and the third position, particularly after the fourth position.

[0080] The mixer can be configured to first mix the first component and the second component along the mixing section, then mix the mixture of the first component and the second component with the fourth component or the fifth component, or then mix the mixture of the first component and the second component with the fourth component, and then mix the mixture of the first component, the second component, and the fourth component with the fifth component. The mixer can be configured to mix the mixture of the first component, the second component, the fourth component, and / or the fifth component with the third component.

[0081] Each injection unit can be arranged on the mixing tube, particularly on the mixing tube wall. For example, the injection unit is arranged on the outer side of the mixing tube wall.

[0082] The mixing tube can include a plurality of injection points for injecting a corresponding one of the components. The injection points can be formed as holes or apertures passing through the mixing tube wall. Each injection unit can be arranged on a corresponding one of the injection units. Each injection unit can be configured to be attached to a corresponding one of the injection points. Each injection point can correspond to a specific position along the mixing section defined by the mixing chamber.

[0083] At least one of the plurality of injection units can be removably formed from the mixing tube, particularly from the mixing tube wall, and / or movably formed along the mixing tube. Thus, the injection units can be arranged at different injection points on the mixing tube. Thus, the corresponding components can be injected into the mixing chamber at at least two different positions along the mixing section. As a result, the injection and mixing order of the components can become more flexible.

[0084] The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of first injection units, such as two or three. Each of the plurality of first injection units may be configured to inject a corresponding one of a plurality of first components at a corresponding one of a plurality of first positions along the mixing section. The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of second injection units, such as two or three. Each of the plurality of second injection units may be configured to inject a corresponding one of a plurality of second components at a corresponding one of a plurality of second positions along the mixing section. In particular, each second position may be arranged after each first position along the mixing section. The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of third injection units, such as two or three. Each of the plurality of third injection units may be configured to inject a corresponding one of a plurality of third components at a corresponding one of a plurality of third positions along the mixing section. In particular, each third position may be arranged after each second position along the mixing section. This also applies to fourth and fifth injection units for injection. Each of at least one of the first to fifth components may also be injected multiple times.

[0085] Alternatively or additionally, the plurality of injection units may include a plurality of first injection units, wherein each of the plurality of first injection units is configured to inject a first component at a corresponding one of a plurality of first positions. The plurality of injection units may include a plurality of third injection units, wherein each of the plurality of third injection units is configured to inject a third component at a corresponding one of a plurality of third positions. This also applies to the second, fourth, and / or fifth components. On the one hand, each of the respective components can thus be injected multiple times. On the other hand, it is thereby possible to vary at which position or with which injection unit the first, second, third, fourth, or fifth component is injected into the mixing chamber. This is advantageous when one of the injection units has to be repaired. Then, different injection units for the same component can be dispensed with.

[0086] At least one of the first, third, fourth, and fifth components may be or include a fluid, and / or may be a liquid (at 20 °C and 1 bar). In particular, the first component and / or the third component may be a liquid. The dynamic viscosity of the components, in particular determined at 20 °C according to DIN EN ISO 2884, is between 0.5 mPa s and 100000 mPa s.

[0087] Each of at least the first, third, fourth, and fifth components may be one of the following or include at least one of the following: water, initiator, inhibitor, promoter, enhancer, monomer, monomer for polyurethane polymerization, polyol, diol, polyisocyanate, isocyanate, diisocyanate, moist air. Preferably, each component includes at most one monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The at least second component may be one of the following or include at least one of the following: industrial gas, N2, CO2, NO, mixture of at least two of the above gases.

[0088] Multicomponent mixtures can be produced by mixing multiple components. In particular, foams can be produced by mixing a gas or gas mixture with at least one other component. This can also be referred to as foaming, especially physical foaming. In particular, foams can be produced by mixing the first component and / or the third component with a gas or gas mixture.

[0089] The first component can include a first monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The third component can include a second monomer for polyurethane polymerization. Polyurethane can be polymerized by the chemical reaction of the first monomer and the second monomer. After the polyurethane is discharged from the mixing space, the polymerization can be carried out in and / or outside the mixing space. Polyurethane can be foamed by a gas or gas mixture, especially physical foaming.

[0090] The first component can be or include a polyol, especially a diol, and / or the third component can be or include a polyisocyanate, especially a diisocyanate. Alternatively, the first component can be or include a polyisocyanate, and / or the third component can be or include a polyol. The fourth component can especially be or include a promoter or enhancer for the third component and / or the first component. The fifth component can especially be or include water. The injection of water can be used to flush the mixer and / or the mixing tube.

[0091] The application device can include a flushing injection unit. The flushing injection unit can be configured to inject a flushing medium into the mixing chamber to flush the mixing chamber. The flushing medium can be or include a fluid, especially water. Relative to the first to fifth injection units, the flushing injection unit can inject the flushing medium into the mixing chamber at any position along the mixing section. Additionally or alternatively, one of the first to fifth injection units can be used to inject the flushing medium.

[0092] The produced multicomponent mixture can emerge independently from the mixing tube and the application device at the second end. This can especially occur when the mixing tube is vertically arranged. Then, due to the action of gravity, the material of the multicomponent mixture has emerged. Since the first end of the mixing tube is closed and the components are injected into the mixing space, the material of the multicomponent mixture is further pressed out of the mixing tube by the material of the inflowing injection components. Alternatively or additionally, the mixer can be designed such that the rotation of the mixer presses the material of the multicomponent mixture out of the mixing tube.

[0093] The produced multicomponent mixture can be a foam, especially a PU foam. The emerging multicomponent mixture can be applied to an object or introduced into an object. In particular, the PU foam can be applied to or introduced into a lithium-ion battery.

[0094] The object can be a lithium-based battery or battery cell, or a lithium-ion battery or battery cell. The multicomponent mixture can be or include a polyurethane foam.

[0095] Each metering device may also be configured to set the volume flow rate of the respective component. The first metering device may be configured to measure the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the first component. The third metering device may be configured to measure the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the third component. The volume or volume flow rate of each component and the mass or mass flow rate thereof can be converted in a simple manner based on pressure, temperature, and / or molar volume.

[0096] According to a preferred embodiment, the application system includes at least two first devices for material handling of the first component and / or at least two second devices for material handling of the third component. Here, each first device may supply a material flow to the first metering device. The first metering device may be configured to receive the material flow from one of the two first metering devices, or simultaneously receive the material flow from the two first devices for material handling. This applies correspondingly to the second devices for material handling and the third metering device for the third component. By providing two devices for material handling for each component, it can be ensured that each metering device continuously receives a material flow. As a result, continuous operation of the application system can be ensured.

[0097] The first component and / or the third component may be injected into the mixing space in a air-free state and / or a gas-free state.

[0098] The mixer may be configured to mix the injected components with each other based on the order in which the injected components are injected at respective positions along the mixing section.

[0099] The first pressure sensor may be configured to measure the pressure in the mixing chamber in the region of the first position or at a position along the mixing section between the first position and the second position. The second pressure sensor may be configured to measure the pressure in the mixing chamber in the region of the second position or at a position along the mixing section between the second position and the third position. The third pressure sensor may be configured to measure the pressure in the mixing chamber in the region of the third position or at a position along the mixing section after the third position and / or between the third position and the second end.

[0100] The application system may be configured to mix the first component and / or the third component with a gas or a gas mixture in the mixing space of the application device, particularly only in the mixing space.

[0101] The application system can be configured to mix a first component with a gas or gas mixture in the direction of the material flow of the first component or relative to the material flow direction of the first component, which is not upstream of the first metering device or the application device. The application system can be configured to mix a third component with a gas or gas mixture in the direction of the material flow of the third component or relative to the material flow direction of the third component, which is not upstream of the third metering device or the application device.

[0102] The second metering device can include a measuring unit and an actuator. The measuring unit can be a gas mass sensor or a gas quantity sensor. The actuator can be a controlled or regulated gas valve, particularly a proportional gas valve. The measuring unit can be configured to receive a flow of gas or gas mixture from the gas supply device of the application system, measure the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate, and supply the flow to the actuator. The actuator can be configured to receive the flow, set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the flow of the gas or gas mixture, and supply the flow to the second injection unit. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator can be configured to set the pressure in the pipeline, preferably the second pipeline, guiding the flow of the gas or gas mixture. Alternatively or additionally, the measuring unit can be configured to set the quantity and / or the volume flow rate and / or the mass flow rate of the flow of the gas or gas mixture. For air, the measuring unit can be an air quality sensor or an air quantity sensor, the gas valve can be an air valve, and the gas supply device can be an air supply device, configured as an air pump or including an air pump. The quantity sensor can also be referred to as a flow meter.

[0103] The application system can further include a first pipeline between the gas supply device and the second metering device, preferably a channel, a hose or a tube. The application system can include a second pipeline between the second metering device and the application device, preferably a channel, a hose or a tube, for guiding the flow of the gas or gas mixture. The pipeline can also be referred to as a fluid conducting element.

[0104] The application system can further include a first pipeline pressure sensor, which is configured to measure the pressure in the first pipeline, particularly the gas pressure or the air pressure. The application system can include a second pipeline pressure sensor, which is configured to measure the pressure in the second pipeline, particularly the gas pressure or the air pressure.

[0105] The application system can further include a control unit. The control unit can include a computing unit, such as a microprocessor. The methods of the embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure can include control steps. The control unit can be configured to execute the control steps. Control can be performed using the control unit.

[0106] The control may include actuating a rotary device of the mixer and / or a first metering device and / or a second metering device and / or a third metering device and / or a gas supply device. The control unit may be configured to actuate the rotary device, the first metering device, the second metering device, the third metering device and / or the gas supply device accordingly.

[0107] Actuation of the rotary device may be used to set the rotational speed of the mixer. Actuation of the first metering device may be used to set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the first component. Actuation of the second metering device may be used to set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the second component. Actuation of the second metering device may include actuating an actuator and / or a measuring unit, which may be used to set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the second component and / or the pressure in a pipeline guiding a gas or a gas mixture. Actuation of the third metering device is used to set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the third component. Actuation of the gas supply device may be used to set the pressure of the flow of the gas or the gas mixture and / or the pressure in a pipeline guiding the gas or the gas mixture, such as the pressure in the first or second pipeline.

[0108] The control may be carried out based on a set value of the ratio between the mass flow rate of the second component and the mass flow rate of the first component, and / or a set value of the ratio between the mass flow rate of the second component and the mass flow rate of the third component, and / or the ratio between the mass flow rate of the first component and the mass flow rate of the third component, in particular the ratio of the respective mass flow rates injected into the mixing chamber. Alternatively or additionally, the control may also be carried out based on the ratio between the corresponding volume flow rates.

[0109] Alternatively or additionally, the control may be carried out based on the mass flow rate value of the second component and / or the mass flow rate value of the first component and / or the mass flow rate value of the third component and / or the rotational speed value of the mixer and / or the pressure value in the mixing chamber and / or the pressure value in the first pipeline and / or the pressure value in the first or second pipeline. The specified value may be a set value or a measured value of the corresponding specified variable. Alternatively or additionally, the control may also be carried out based on the corresponding volume flow rate value.

[0110] The control may include controlling the mixing ratio of multiple components in a multi-component mixture. The control may include controlling the ratio between the mass and / or volume of the second component and the mass and / or volume of at least one other component in a multi-component mixture. The control may include controlling the ratio between the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the second component and the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of at least one other component. The control may include controlling the ratio between the mass and / or volume of the second component and the mass and / or volume of at least one other component in a multi-component mixture. This may also apply correspondingly to each other component. The mass flow rate or the volume flow rate may be the flow rate of the material flow of the component injected into the mixing chamber.

[0111] The control may include controlling the ratio between the mass flow rate of the second component and the mass flow rate of the first component, and / or controlling the ratio between the mass flow rate of the second component and the mass flow rate of the third component, and / or the ratio between the mass flow rate of the first component and the mass flow rate of the third component. Alternatively or additionally, the control may also be carried out by controlling the ratio between the respective volume flow rates of the components. The control can in particular be carried out by actuating the second metering device and / or by actuating the first metering device and / or by actuating the third metering device and / or by actuating the gas supply device and / or by actuating the rotating device. The setpoint of the ratio can be predefined by the control unit or an external system or the user of the application device. The setpoint can be predefined by a mathematical function.

[0112] The control may include controlling the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the second component, in particular in such a way that it is proportional to the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the first component and / or the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the third component and / or proportional to the rotational speed of the mixer. The control can in particular be carried out by actuating the second metering device and / or by actuating the first metering device and / or by actuating the third metering device and / or by actuating the gas supply device and / or by actuating the rotating device.

[0113] The control may include controlling the pressure of the second component, in particular in the pipeline for guiding the material flow of the second component, such as in the first pipeline or the second pipeline, and / or at the second injection point of the second component, such that the pressure is greater than the pressure in the mixing chamber, preferably at a position in the region of the first position along the mixing section, preferably by 1 bar. The control can in particular be achieved by actuating the gas supply device and / or the second metering device.

[0114] The control may include controlling the pressure of the second component, in particular in the pipeline for guiding the material flow of the second component and / or at the second injection point for the second component, such that the second component is injected into the mixing chamber at a greater pressure than the first component and / or the third component. Preferably, the difference may be 1 bar or greater.

[0115] The control may include controlling the rotational speed of the mixer, in particular in such a way that the rotational speed is proportional to the mass flow rate and / or the volume of the first component, and / or proportional to the mass flow rate and / or the volume of the third component. In particular, the control can be carried out by actuating the rotating device.

[0116] The first component and / or the third component can be injected into the mixing space in a state without air and / or without gas. The first component can pass through the first metering device in a state without air or without gas. The third component can pass through the third metering device in a state without air or without gas. The application system can be configured such that the first component and / or the third component are injected and / or pass through the corresponding metering device in a state without air or without gas.

[0117] The first metering device can be configured to receive a material flow of the first component from a first device for material processing. The third metering device can be configured to receive a material flow of the third component from a second device for material processing.

[0118] The device for material processing (hereinafter also simply referred to as the material processing device), in particular the first device for material processing and / or the third device for material processing, can include a material container and a pump device. The material container can be configured to process the corresponding component. The pump device can have an inlet and an outlet. The inlet of the pump device can be connected in fluid communication to the material container such that the component can be introduced from the material container into the pump device. The pump device can be configured to provide a pressure of at least 15 bar for the component at the outlet of the pump device.

[0119] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for material processing is provided. The method can include the following steps: processing a component, in particular the first component or the third component, in a material container; introducing the component from the material container into the inlet of the pump device; increasing the pressure of the component by the pump device; and discharging the component from the outlet of the pump device. The component can have a pressure of at least 15 bar at the outlet of the pump device.

[0120] Any material processing device disclosed herein can be used in a method for material processing.

[0121] Furthermore, the use of the material processing device disclosed herein for processing components for polyurethane polymerization is disclosed. The component can be a monomer for polyurethane polymerization.

[0122] The application device, in particular the first injection unit, can be connected in fluid communication to the outlet of the first device for material processing. The application device, in particular the third injection unit, can be connected in fluid communication to the outlet of the second device for material processing. As a result, the first component and the third component can be introduced into the application device, in particular into the mixing chamber. The application device can be configured to mix the first component and the third component to form a mixture or a multicomponent mixture and apply the mixture to an object, in particular to a battery or a storage battery.

[0123] The pressure values disclosed herein are absolute pressure values. Therefore, the pressure values are based on absolute vacuum. The ambient pressure is approximately 1 bar.

[0124] As a result of the treatment of the individual components, a steady state of the components can be achieved before the relatively high pressure at which the components are provided for further treatment, with the result that a high metering accuracy with a high volume flow rate is achieved. For example, components, such as components comprising monomers for polyurethane polymerization, are usually provided in drums. If the components are stirred to ensure a uniform distribution of the substances in the components, air is introduced into the components. The amount of air introduced can vary, making it more difficult to accurately meter the components.

[0125] At the inlet of the pump device, the component can have a pressure of less than 1.0 bar. Preferably, the component has a pressure of less than 0.9 bar at the inlet of the pump device, more preferably less than 0.8 bar, more preferably less than 0.7 bar, more preferably less than 0.6 bar. The component can have a pressure below the ambient air pressure at the inlet of the pump device. A vacuum may exist at the inlet of the pump device.

[0126] The pump device can comprise or be a high-pressure pump. The pump device can comprise or be a piston pump. Preferably, the pump device comprises or is a high-pressure piston pump.

[0127] The pump device can not comprise a diaphragm pump. In other words, a diaphragm pump cannot be included in the pump device.

[0128] The pump device can be configured to provide a pressure of at least 60 bar for the component at the outlet of the pump device. Preferably, the pump device is configured to provide a pressure of at least 60 bar for the component at the outlet of the pump device, more preferably at least 100 bar, more preferably at least 200 bar, more preferably at least 300 bar.

[0129] The pump device can be configured to provide a pressure between 15 bar and 350 bar, in particular between 20 bar and 350 bar, for the component at the outlet of the pump device.

[0130] The pump device can be configured to increase the material pressure from the inlet to the outlet by at least 15 bar, preferably at least 60 bar, more preferably at least 100 bar, more preferably at least 200 bar, more preferably at least 300 bar.

[0131] The pump device can be configured to control or regulate or set the volume flow rate or mass flow rate of the component at the outlet of the pump device.

[0132] The pump device can comprise a drive. The drive can be a hydraulic drive, in particular a servo-hydraulic drive.

[0133] The material container can comprise at least one treatment unit. The treatment unit can be configured to treat the corresponding component in the material container. In particular, the treatment unit is configured to heat, degas, place under vacuum, stir and / or mix the component in the material container.

[0134] The material container can be heatable. Preferably, the material container includes at least one heating element. The heating element can be an electric heating element. The heating element can be configured to heat the temperature of the corresponding component in the material container to at least 30 °C, preferably at least 40 °C, more preferably at least 50 °C, more preferably at least 60 °C, more preferably at least 70 °C, more preferably at least 80 °C, more preferably at least 100 °C.

[0135] A vacuum can exist in the material container. The pressure in the material container can be lower than the ambient air pressure. The pressure in the material container can be less than 1.0 bar, preferably less than 0.8 bar, more preferably less than 0.6 bar, more preferably less than 0.5 bar, more preferably less than 0.4 bar.

[0136] The material container can include a vacuum unit. The vacuum unit can be configured to provide a vacuum in the material container. The vacuum unit cannot be part of the material container, especially not connected to the material container.

[0137] The material container can be configured to stir the components in the material container. Preferably, the material container includes a stirrer, more preferably a movable stirrer. The stirrer can be driven by a driver.

[0138] The components can include monomers for polyurethane polymerization. The component can be mixed with another monomer for polyurethane polymerization downstream of the pump device. Polyurethane can be polymerized by the chemical reaction of the monomers.

[0139] Preferably, the component includes at most one monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The component can include a polyol. In particular, the component includes a diol. The component can include a polyisocyanate. In particular, the component includes a diisocyanate. The component can be a liquid (at 20 °C and 1 bar).

[0140] The component can have a dynamic viscosity of 0.5 mPa s to 100000 mPa s, especially measured at 20 °C according to DIN EN ISO 2884.

[0141] Generally, the first component can include a first monomer for polyurethane polymerization. The third component can include a second monomer for polyurethane polymerization. Polyurethane can be polymerized by the chemical reaction of the first monomer and the second monomer. Polyurethane can be foamed with gas, especially physical foaming.

[0142] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an application device is provided for mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object.

[0143] The application device includes a mixing tube having a first closed end and a second end for discharging a multi-component mixture from the mixing tube, wherein the mixing tube includes a mixing chamber. The mixing chamber can be arranged between the first end and the second end.

[0144] The application device includes a plurality of injection units, each injection unit being configured to inject a respective one of the multiple components into the mixing chamber. The injection units can include at least one first injection unit for injecting a first component, at least one second injection unit for injecting a second component, in particular a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, and at least one third injection unit for injecting a third component. The plurality of injection units can be arranged on the mixer.

[0145] The application device further includes a mixer at least partially arranged in the mixing chamber, the mixer being configured to mix the injected components with each other. The mixer can be particularly configured to mix the injected components with each other in the mixing chamber, preferably along the mixing chamber and / or along the mixing tube. The mixer can be fully arranged in the mixing chamber.

[0146] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture is provided. The method includes the following steps: injecting a first component into a mixing chamber in a mixing tube of the application device by means of a first injection unit of the application device, injecting a second component, in particular a gas or a gas mixture, preferably air, into the mixing chamber by means of a second injection unit of the application device, and mixing the first component with the second component by means of a mixer arranged in the mixing chamber to produce a multi-component mixture.

[0147] The method can further include injecting a third component into the mixing chamber by means of a third injection unit of the application device and mixing the mixture of the first component and the second component with the third component to produce a multi-component mixture including the third component. The method can further include discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube, in particular from a second open end of the mixer. The method can further include applying the multi-component mixture to an object or introducing the multi-component mixture into an object. Mixing can include rotating the mixer.

[0148] The injection of the first component can be carried out at a first position along a mixing section defined by the mixing chamber, the injection of the second component can be carried out at a second position at or after the first position along the mixing section, and the injection of the third component can be carried out at a third position at or after the second position along the mixing section.

[0149] The method may further include at least one of the following steps: setting the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the material flow of the first component and supplying the material flow to at least one first injection unit of the application device, setting the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the material flow of the second component and supplying the material flow of the second component to at least one second injection unit of the application device, setting the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the material flow of the third component, and supplying the material flow to at least one third injection unit of the application device.

[0150] According to another aspect, an application system including an application device according to the aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. The application system may include at least one device for material processing according to the aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure. Description of the Drawings

[0151] The aspects of the present disclosure will be explained below based on the drawings. In the drawings:

[0152] Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0153] Figure 1B A schematic cross-sectional view of an application device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0154] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a part of an application device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0155] Figure 3A and Figure 3B A schematic cross-sectional view of the second end of a mixing tube and a mixer at different positions of an application device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0156] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A schematic cross-sectional view of the second end of a mixing tube and a mixer at different positions of an application device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0157] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A schematic cross-sectional view of the second end of a mixing tube and a mixer at different positions of an application device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0158] Figure 6 A schematic view of a mixing section according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0159] Figure 7 A device for material processing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0160] Figure 8 An enlarged view of a material container of a device for material processing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0161] Figure 9 Shows a schematic diagram of the application system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0162] Figure 10 Shows a flowchart of the method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0163] Figure 11 Shows a flowchart of the method according to other embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0164] Figure 12 Shows a diagram of the control steps of the method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure for explaining mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing / applying the multi-component mixture into / onto an object. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0165] In the following, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding elements.

[0166] Figure 1A Shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the application device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1B Shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the application device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 Shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a part of the application device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0167] The application device 1 is configured to mix multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and to introduce and / or apply the multi-component mixture into or onto an object G. The multi-component mixture is, for example, a polyurethane foam.

[0168] The PU foam can be applied to an object by the application device 1. The object G is, for example, a lithium-ion battery or a battery cell. For example, the PU foam can be introduced into the internal space of the battery and / or the intermediate space between the battery cells of the battery. The PU foam is, for example, used for fire protection.

[0169] The application device 1 includes a mixing tube 2 having a first end 3 and a second end 4. The first end 3 is closed. This means that this end is sealed with respect to the components of the multi-component mixture injected into the mixing tube 2. The second end 4 is open for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2. Between the first end 3 and the second end 4, the mixing tube 2 includes a mixing chamber 5. The mixing chamber 5 defines a mixing section 6 starting from the first end 3 towards the second end 4. The mixing chamber 5 is arranged in the mixing tube 2. The mixing chamber 5 can also be referred to as a mixing chamber.

[0170] The mixing tube 2 is substantially straight. This means that the central pipeline 10 of the mixing tube 2 is straight. The central pipeline 10 can also be referred to as the central axis. The mixing tube 2 has a wall 19. As shown, the inner side of the wall 19 can be substantially rotationally symmetric about the central axis 10. The inner side of the wall 19 abuts the mixing chamber 5. The mixing tube 2 is substantially vertically oriented. This means that the central axis 10 extends substantially along the vertical spatial direction z.

[0171] As shown, the mixing tube 2 has a plurality of sections 2a, 2b, 2c along the central axis 10. In Figure 1A and 1B the embodiment, the mixing tube has two sections 2a, 2b. In Figure 2 the embodiment, the mixing tube has three sections 2a, 2b, 2c. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the first section 2a is arranged at or near the first end 3, and the second section 2b is arranged between the first section 2a and the second end 4 along the central axis 10. The third section 2c can be arranged at or near the second end 4. The third section 2c is arranged along the central axis 10, for example, between the second section 2c and the second end 4.

[0172] The wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 has a substantially constant inner diameter within each section 2a, 2b, 2c. However, the wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 has mutually different inner diameters between the sections 2a, 2b, 2c. Thus, the inner diameter of the wall 19 in the section 2a is different from the inner diameter in the section 2b. In addition, the inner diameter of the wall 19 in the section 2b is different from the inner diameter in the section 2c. Further, the inner diameter of the wall 19 in the section 2a is different from the inner diameter in the section 2c. When considering the inner diameter, any mixing element 16 can be not considered, which will be described in detail later.

[0173] As Figure 1A and 1B shown, the inner diameter of the wall 19 in the first section 2a is larger than the inner diameter in the second section 2b. The first section 2a can also be referred to as the upper material chamber of the mixing tube 2, and the second section 2b can also be referred to as the lower material chamber.

[0174] As Figure 2 shown, the wall 19 has a larger inner diameter in the third section 2a than in the sections 2a, 2b. According to a further embodiment, the inner diameter of the third section 2c can also be smaller than the inner diameters of the sections 2a, 2b.

[0175] As shown, additional transition sections 2d, 2e of the mixing tube 2 can be arranged between the sections 2a, 2b, 2c, where the wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 has a variable inner diameter. The inner diameter can vary linearly, for example, along the central axis 10. Thus, a transition can be created between the different inner diameters of the respective sections 2a, 2b, 2c.

[0176] The wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 has injection points 20a, 20b, 20c for the respective injection units 7a, 7b, 7c, which will be described in detail below. As shown, the injection points are arranged on the wall 19 of the mixing tube 2. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The injection points are only used to provide an inlet for the injection units to enter the mixing chamber 5 to inject the components. The injection points can be formed as holes or openings through the wall 19.

[0177] The application device 1 further includes a plurality of injection units 7a, 7b, 7c. These are all configured to inject the respective components into the mixing chamber 5. As shown, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c are arranged on the wall 19 of the mixing tube 2, more precisely, on the outer side of the wall 19, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Each injection unit 7a, 7b, 7c is arranged at the respective injection points 20, 20b, 20c and is configured to inject the respective components into the mixing chamber 5 via the injection points. Thus, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c inject the respective components at the predetermined positions Pa, Pb, Pc of the component along the mixing section 6.

[0178] As Figure 1A shown in the example of the injection units 7b and 7c, each injection unit 7a, 7b, 7c can include a nozzle. Each injection unit is further configured to stop the injection of the component. For this purpose, each injection unit 7a, 7b, 7c can include a respective inlet valve, which is configured as a needle valve, for example. The inlet valves 7a, 7b, 7c can be configured as PWM valves. Thus, the injection of the respective components into the mixing chamber 5 can be completely stopped. This is necessary, for example, when sufficient PU foam has been applied to the object G and the next object G' is replaced. Then, the material flow of the respective components can be temporarily interrupted by the inlet valves.

[0179] A first injection unit 7a is provided for injecting a first component at a first position Pa along the mixing section 6 via a first injection point 20a. A second injection unit 7b is provided for injecting a second component at a second position Pb along the mixing section 6 via a second injection point 20b. A third injection unit 7c is provided for injecting a third component at a third position Pc along the mixing section 6 via a third injection point 20c. The second position Pb is arranged after the first position Pa along the mixing section 6, and the third position Pc is arranged after the second position Pb along the mixing section 6.

[0180] To clean and rinse the application device 1, in particular the mixing tube 2, the mixer 8 and the mixing chamber 5, only air or the first component is injected into the mixing chamber 5. According to an embodiment not shown, the application device 1 may further include a rinsing injection unit. The rinsing injection unit may be configured to inject a rinsing medium into the mixing chamber 5 to rinse the mixing chamber 5 from the first to the third components. The rinsing medium may be water. The rinsing injection unit may inject the rinsing medium into the mixing chamber 5 at any position along the mixing section 6. Additionally or alternatively, one injection unit may be used to inject the rinsing medium.

[0181] In Figure 1B the embodiment of, there is a fourth injection unit 7d for injecting a fourth component. This is arranged at an injection point 20d at the same height as the injection point 20c of the third injection unit 7c. The injection point 20d may be opposite the injection point 20c on the wall 19 with respect to the central axis 10. Thus, the fourth component is injected along the mixing section 6 at the same position 20c as the third component. According to an embodiment not shown, the fourth injection unit 7d may be arranged along the mixing section 6 before the third position, in particular between the second and third positions.

[0182] The injection unit may include a fifth injection unit (not shown) for injecting a fifth component at a fifth position that is arranged along the mixing section before the third position, in particular between the second and third positions, for example after the fourth position. The fourth component may in particular be a booster for the third component. The fifth component may in particular be water. According to an embodiment, there may also be a plurality of first, second, third, fourth and / or fifth injection units.

[0183] The first to third injection units 7a, 7b, 7c are each configured to inject a fluid. According to an embodiment, the second injection unit 7b injects a gas or a gas mixture, such as air, as a component into the mixing chamber 5. The first injection unit 7a injects a polyol as the second component, and the third injection unit 7b injects a polyisocyanate as a component, and vice versa.

[0184] At least one of the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c may be removably formed from the wall 19. This is shown in Figure 1A the case of the injection unit 7c. Thus, it can be offset and connected to another injection point, such as the injection point 20c'. As a result, the third component can be flexibly injected at multiple positions Pc, Pc' along the mixing section 6.

[0185] The application device 1 further has a first pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring the pressure in the region of the mixing chamber 5 adjacent to the first section 2a of the mixing tube 2. The first pressure sensor may alternatively or additionally be configured to measure the pressure at a position along the mixing section 6 in the region of the first position Pa or at a position between the first position Pa and the second position Pb.

[0186] Furthermore, the application device 1 may have a second pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring the pressure in the region of the mixing chamber 5 adjacent to the second section 2b of the mixing tube 2. The second pressure sensor may alternatively or additionally be configured to measure the pressure at a position along the mixing section 6 in the region of the second position Pb or at a position between the second position Pb and the third position Pc. The application device 1 may further include a third pressure sensor (not shown) for measuring the pressure in the region of the mixing chamber 5 adjacent to the second end of the mixing tube 4 and / or adjacent to the third section 2c. The third pressure sensor may alternatively or additionally be configured to measure the pressure at a position along the mixing section 6 in the region of the third position Pc, or at a position after the third position Pc and / or between the third position Pc and the second end 4.

[0187] The application device 1 further has a mixer 8 arranged at least partially in the mixing chamber 5. The mixer 8 may be fully arranged in the mixing chamber 5. Preferably, the central member 12 and the mixing elements 13 of the mixer 8 may be arranged in the mixing chamber 5. The mixer 8 may be formed as a rotor. The mixer 8 is configured to mix the injected components. For this purpose, the mixer 8 rotates in the mixing chamber 5. The rotation axis of the mixer 8 is preferably parallel to or coincides with the central axis of the mixing tube 2. In order to rotate the mixer, the application device 1 may have a rotation device 15, such as an electric motor. The mixer 8 and the mixing tube 2 may be produced by 3D printing.

[0188] The mixer 8 mixes the injected components along the mixing chamber 5 or along the mixing section 6. The mixer 8 mixes the injected components based on the order in which the injected components are injected at the respective positions along the mixing section 6. A multi-component mixture is produced by mixing the injected components. For example, a PU foam is produced by mixing a polyisocyanate with a polyol and air.

[0189] The produced multi-component mixture then emerges independently from the mixing tube 2 and the mixer at the second end 4. This occurs when the mixing tube 2 is vertically arranged and the material of the multi-component mixture emerges due to gravity. Since the upper first end 3 of the mixing tube 4 is closed and when the components are continuously injected into the mixing space 5, the material of the multi-component mixture is further pressed out of the mixing tube 5 by the material of the incoming injected components.

[0190] The mixer 8 first mixes the first component and air with each other along the mixing space 5 starting from the first end 3. Then, the mixer 8 mixes the mixture of the first component and air with the third component with each other.

[0191] Since the injection point 20c for the third component is set to be lower than the injection point 20b for air, air has been added to or mixed with the first component in the upper part of the mixing tube 2, while the first component has not been mixed with the second component yet. As a result, clogging of the mixer 8 is prevented.

[0192] The first end 3 of the mixing tube 2 can be particularly closed and sealed by a part of the mixer 8. Alternatively or additionally, a seal (not shown) can be provided for closing the first end 3.

[0193] The mixer 8 has a central member 12. The central member is substantially rotationally symmetric and preferably has as small a range as possible in the radial direction in order to minimize the centrifugal force. The central member 12 extends along the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. The axis of symmetry of the central member 12 preferably coincides with the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. In addition, the axis of symmetry of the central member 12 coincides with the rotational axis of the mixer. For example, the central member 12 is configured as a circular or cylindrical rod.

[0194] In addition, the mixer 8 has a plurality of mixing elements 13. The mixing elements 13 are used for the effective mixing of the injected components. The mixing elements 13 are arranged on the outer side of the central member 12, for example, its side surface. The mixing elements 13 extend in the radial direction of the central member 12. The mixing elements 13 can be distributed along the central member 12 and / or with respect to the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. In addition, a plurality of mixing elements can be distributed along the circumferential direction of the central member.

[0195] For example, as shown in the figure, the mixing elements 13 are all formed as thin plates arranged on the side surface of the central member 12, where the mixing elements 13 all extend in the radial direction of the central member 12. The mixing elements 13 can be arranged in a star shape and / or regularly around the central member 12. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The mixing elements 13 are preferably formed and / or arranged such that no imbalance occurs when the mixer 8 rotates.

[0196] In addition, a plurality of mixing elements 16 are provided, and these mixing elements 16 are arranged on the inner side of the wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 and extend into the mixing chamber 5 in a direction opposite to the radial direction towards the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 8. As shown in the figure, the mixing elements 16 are also formed as thin plates. As shown in the figure, the mixing elements 16 are only arranged in the section 2a of the mixing tube 2, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0197] As Figure 1A and 1BAs shown, the first injection unit 7a is arranged on the wall 19 in the first section 2a of the mixing tube 2. The first injection unit 7a is configured to inject a first component into the region of the mixing chamber 5 adjacent to the first section 2a of the mixing tube 2. In addition, the second injection unit 7b is arranged on the wall 19 in the first section 2a of the mixing tube 2. The second injection unit 7a is configured to inject a first component into the region of the mixing chamber 5 adjacent to the first section 2a of the mixing tube 2. The third injection unit 7c is arranged on the wall 19 in the second section 2b of the mixing tube 2. The third injection unit 7c is configured to inject a third component into the region of the mixing chamber 5 adjacent to the second section 2b of the mixing tube 2.

[0198] As Figure 2 shown, the first injection unit 7a is arranged on the wall 19 in the first section 2a of the mixing tube 2. The second injection unit 7b is arranged on the wall 19 in the second section 2b of the mixing tube 2. The second injection unit 7c is arranged on the wall 19 in the third section 2c of the mixing tube 2.

[0199] The application device 1 further includes a shifting device 9. The shifting device 9 can move the mixer 8 along and / or parallel to the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2 and / or between the first end 3 and the second end 4, which is shown by the vertical double arrow in the figure. The shifting device 9 is configured to move the mixer 8 up and down. The shifting device 9 can be, for example, a lifting cylinder, especially an electric lifting cylinder or an electro-hydraulic lifting cylinder, or a linear unit with a coil.

[0200] The mixer 8 has a plurality of sections 8a, 8b, 8c along the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 8 or along the symmetry axis of the central member 12, where at least two of the sections 8a, 8b, 8c have mutually different outer diameters. The (maximum) extent of the mixer 8 in a plane including the radial direction of the mixing tube 2 can be regarded as the outer diameter of the mixer 8, where the mixing element 13 is considered for the extent of the mixer 8.

[0201] As Figure 1A and 1B shown, the outer diameter of the first section 8a of the mixer 8 is greater than the outer diameter of the second section 8b. Along the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2, the first section 8a is arranged closer to the first end 3 than the second section 8b.

[0202] As Figure 2 shown, the mixer further has a third section 8c, which is closer to the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 than the second section 8b of the mixer along the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2. The third section 8c has a greater outer diameter than the first section 8a and the second section 8b. The different outer diameters can be achieved by the mixing element 13 simply extending different distances radially.

[0203] Referring to Figures 3A to 5BThe displacement of the mixer 8 is described. Figures 3B to 5A Schematic cross-sectional views showing different positions of the second end 3 of the mixing tube 2 and the mixer 8 in the application device of various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0204] The mixer 8 can be moved between a first position and a second position along the mixing tube 2. The second position can be closer to the second end 3 along the mixing tube 2 than the first position. On the other hand, the first position can be closer to the first end 3 along the mixing tube 2 than the second position.

[0205] According to the first embodiment, the mixer 8 for producing the multi-component mixture and for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube 2 can be located in the first position. In order to close the second end 4 and prevent the multi-component mixture from accidentally leaking or dripping from the mixing tube 2, the mixer 8 can be located in the second position. For example, Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 2 as well as Figure 3A and 4A The mixer 8 is shown in a first position. In this position, a material flow 14 of the multi-component mixture can flow out of the mixing tube 2 via the second end 4.

[0206] The mixer 8 can be moved from a first position to a second position in the direction of the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2. For example, Figure 3B and Figure 4B The mixer 8 is shown in a first position. The effect of this displacement is that the mixing tube 2 is sealed with respect to the material flow 14 of the injected component and / or multi-component mixture coming from the second end 4.

[0207] The mixing tube 2 may include at least one sealing element 17. The sealing element 17 is arranged in the region of the second end 4. The mixer 8 may likewise include a sealing element 18. The effect of the movement of the mixer 8 towards the second end 4 into the second position is that the sealing element 18 of the mixer 8 comes into contact with the sealing element 17 of the mixing tube 2, so that the mixing tube 2 is sealed.

[0208] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the sealing element 17 is formed as a conical seat. Here, the sealing element 17 is formed by the second end 4 itself. The end 11 of the mixer 8 forms a sealing element 18, which is formed as a cone or frustoconical on its outside. According to an embodiment not shown, the mixer 8 can have a needle or tip 11. The second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 and the end 11 of the mixer 8 thus form a needle valve.

[0209] like Figure 4A and Figure 4BAs shown, the sealing element 17 is formed as a ring extending in a radial direction from the inner side of the wall 19 of the mixing tube 2 towards the central axis 10. The sealing element 24 of the mixer 8 is likewise formed as a ring extending radially from the side surface of the central member 12. In the radial direction, the sealing element 18 overlaps the sealing element 17.

[0210] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The construction of the illustrated embodiment of the application device is similar to Figure 4A and Figure 4B the illustrated embodiment, with the following difference: The positions of the sealing element 17 and the sealing element 18 relative to the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 are reversed. Accordingly, the mixer 8 for producing the multicomponent mixture and for discharging the multicomponent mixture from the mixing tube 2 is in the second position. In order to close the second end 4 and prevent the accidental leakage of the multicomponent mixture from the mixing tube 2, the mixer 8 is in the first position. For example, Figure 5B the mixer 8 in the second position is shown. In this position, the material flow 14 of the multicomponent mixture can flow out of the mixing tube 2 via the second end 4.

[0211] The mixer 8 can be moved from the second position to the first position. For example, Figure 5A the mixer 8 in the first position is shown. The effect of this displacement is that the mixing tube 2 is sealed relative to the injected components and / or the material flow 14 of the multicomponent mixture from the second end 4.

[0212] Figure 6 A schematic view of the mixing section of an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0213] As explained with reference to the foregoing figures, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d inject the respective components into the mixing chamber 5 via the respective injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c′, 20d. Along the mixing chamber 5, the mixer 8 mixes the respective components starting from the first end 3 of the mixing tube 2 towards the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2 in the order in which they are injected into the mixing chamber 5. Accordingly, the mixing chamber 5 defines a mixing section 6 starting from the first end 3 of the mixing tube 2 towards the second end 4 of the mixing tube 2. Thus, the mixing section 6 is used to describe logically or abstractly the order in which the components are injected into the mixing chamber 5, regardless of the detailed geometry of the mixing tube 2 and / or the mixer 5.

[0214] The mixing section 6 can be regarded as an arrow or a vector, with the first end 3 as the starting point and the second end 4 as the tip. The mixing section 6 can be regarded as the route of the central axis 10 of the mixing tube from the first end 3 towards the second end 4. If the respective injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c′, 20d are projected onto the central axis 10 of the mixing tube 2, the corresponding positions Pa, Pb, Pc, Pc′ are generated along the mixing section 6, asFigure 6 as shown in the embodiments for Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B and Figure 2 .

[0215] If the injection points are located at different positions along the central axis 10, or at different heights on the mixing tube wall 19, different positions are generated along the mixing section 6. For example, this is the case for the injection points 20a, 20b, 20c, 20c' or the positions Pa, Pb, Pc, Pc'. On the other hand, if the injection points are located at the same position along the central axis 10, or at the same height on the mixing tube wall 19, the same position is generated along the mixing section 6. For example, this is the case for the injection points 20c, 20d and the position Pc. As Figure 1A shown, the injection points can be located at the same height along the tube wall 19, but at different positions along the circumference of the tube wall 19.

[0216] Figure 7 Fig. 1 shows a device 200 for material processing (also referred to herein as a material processing device). In Fig. 1, the material processing device is denoted by the reference numerals 200a, b, since there can be a first device 200a and a second device 200b. This also applies to all elements of the material processing device. The material processing device 200 is described below, where this description is valid for the first material processing device 200a and the second material processing device 200b.

[0217] The material processing device 200 includes a material container 210 and a pump device 220. The material container 210 is configured to process a material M. The material M can be one of the first, third, fourth, and fifth components. To process the material M, the material container 210 can be heatable. For this purpose, the material container 210 can include a heating device (not shown in Fig. 1). The temperature in the material container 210 can be at least 10 °C, preferably at least 30 °C, higher than the ambient temperature of the material container 210. Alternatively or additionally, a pressure of less than 1.0 bar can prevail in the material container 210. To provide a negative pressure, the material container 210 can include a negative pressure unit. Alternatively or additionally, the material container 210 can be configured to stir or move or degas the material M. For this purpose, the material container 210 can include a stirrer 11. The stirrer 11 can be moved or driven by a drive 215.

[0218] The material M can be a liquid (at 20 °C and 1 bar). The material M can be a suspension. The material M can include monomers for polyurethane polymerization. In particular, the material includes polyols or polyisocyanates.

[0219] The material M can be stored in the material container 210 and pre-treated therein. For example, the material M can be degassed in the material container 210, or can be set to a defined physical and / or chemical state. Thus, the material can be metered precisely and reproducibly.

[0220] The pump device 220 can be arranged downstream of the material container 210. The material M can flow directly or via additional elements, such as fluid-conducting elements like tubes or channels, into the inlet 221 of the pump device 220. There can be a pressure of less than 1.0 bar at the inlet 221 of the pump device 220. In other words, the material M can have a vacuum at the inlet 221 of the pump device 220.

[0221] The pressure of the material M can be increased by the pump device 220. In particular, the pressure can be increased from the inlet 221 of the pump device 220 to the outlet 222 of the pump device 220, for example by at least 20 bar, at least 60 bar, at least 200 bar or even at least 300 bar. The material M can be present at the outlet 222 of the pump device 220 at a pressure of at least 20 bar, at least 60 bar, at least 200 bar or even at least 300 bar.

[0222] The pump device 220 can be a high-pressure pump. The pump device 220 can be a piston pump. In particular, the pump device 220 is a high-pressure piston pump.

[0223] The volume flow rate of the material (at the outlet 222 of the pump device 220) can be adjusted or controlled by the pump device 220.

[0224] The material processing device 200 can include a driver 225 for the pump device 220. The driver 225 can be a servo-hydraulic driver. The volume flow rate and / or mass flow rate of the material M can be adjusted or controlled by the driver 225.

[0225] The pump device 220 can be electrically controlled or adjustable.

[0226] The material M can be processed in the material container 210 of the material processing device 200 and introduced into the pump device 220. The pressure of the material M can be increased in the pump device 220 such that the material can be discharged at a pressure of at least 15 bar at the outlet 222 of the pump device 220.

[0227] The material processing device 200 can be coupled to or include a control unit 207. The control unit 207 can be coupled to the device by wire or wirelessly. The control unit 207 can be configured to control or adjust the material container 210 and / or the pump device 220. In particular, the control unit 207 is configured to control or adjust the driver 215 of the stirrer 211 and / or the driver 225 of the pump device 220. The control unit can be Figure 7 the control unit 107.

[0228] Figure 8 A detailed view of the material container 210 is shown. The material M is contained or stored in the material container 210. The material M is processed in the material container 210. For example, a vacuum or negative pressure of the material M can be provided by the material container 210. Alternatively or additionally, the material M can be heated in the material container 210. Alternatively or additionally, the material M can be stirred or moved in the material container 210, particularly by the stirrer 211.

[0229] Figure 9 A schematic view of an application system is shown, which is used to mix multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and to introduce or apply the multi-component mixture into or onto an object of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0230] The application system 100 includes an application device 1 of an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as Figure 1A the application device 1.

[0231] Furthermore, the application system 100 may include at least one first material processing device 200a. The material processing device 200a is configured to provide a material flow of a first component. Furthermore, the application system 100 may include a second material processing device 200b. The second material processing device 200b is configured to provide a material flow of a third component.

[0232] The material processing device 200a may include a first material container 210a and a first pump device 220a. The first material container 210a may be configured to process the first component (corresponding to Figure 8 the material Ma in). The first pump device 220a may have a first inlet 221a and a first outlet 222a. The first inlet 221a of the first pump device 220a may be connected to the first material container 210a in a fluid communication manner such that the first material Ma can be introduced from the first material container 210a into the first pump device 20a. The first pump device 220a may be configured to provide a pressure of at least 15 bar for the first material Ma at the first outlet 222a of the first pump device 220a.

[0233] The application system 100 may include a second material processing device 200b. The second material processing device 200b may include a second material container 210b and a second pump device 220b. The second material container 210b may be configured to process the third component (corresponding to Figure 8the material Mb) in it. The second pumping device 220b may have a second inlet 221b and a second outlet 222b. The second inlet 221b of the second pumping device 220b may be connected in fluid communication to the second material container 210b such that the second material Mb can be introduced from the second material container 210b into the second pumping device 220b. The second pumping device 220b may be configured to provide a pressure of at least 15 bar for the second material Mb at the second outlet 222b of the second pumping device 220b.

[0234] The application device 1 may be connected in fluid communication to the first outlet 222a and the second outlet 222b such that the first component and the third component can be introduced into the application device 1.

[0235] Furthermore, the application system 100 includes a first metering device 101 which is configured to receive a material flow of the first component from the material processing device 200a, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the component, and supply the material flow to the first injection unit 7a of the application device 1.

[0236] In addition, the application system 100 includes a second metering device 102 which is configured to receive a material flow of the second component, set the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the second component, and supply the material flow to the second injection unit 7b of the application device 1. For example, the second component is a gas or a gas mixture, such as air, and the material flow is an air flow or an air stream.

[0237] Furthermore, the application system includes a third metering device 103 which is configured to receive a material flow of the third component from the second material processing device 200b, set the volume flow rate of these components and supply the material flow to the third injection unit 7c of the application device 1.

[0238] The first metering device 101 and the third metering device 103 may preferably be included in or form the metering device 112. The first metering device 101 and the third metering device 103 may be constructed identically or have the same function. The metering device 112 may be, for example, a series metering gauge DPL 20012KT from Scheugenpflug.

[0239] Each metering device may also be configured to set the volume flow rate of the corresponding component. According to an embodiment not shown, the application system 100 may include additional corresponding devices for material processing and metering devices for additional components, such as fourth and / or fifth components.

[0240] The second metering device 102 includes a measuring unit 104, such as an air quality sensor or an air quantity sensor. The second metering device 102 further includes an actuator 105, in particular an air valve, such as a proportional air valve. The measuring unit 104 is configured to receive an air flow from the air supply device 106 of the application system 100 or from an external air supply device 106, measure the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the air flow, and supply the air flow to the actuator 105. The actuator 105 is configured to receive the air flow from the measuring unit 104, set the mass flow rate and / or the volume flow rate of the air flow, and supply the air flow to the second injection unit 7b. The variable volume flow rate and / or mass flow rate of the air flow can be provided by the proportional air valve.

[0241] The air supply device 106 can be, for example, an air pump. The air supply device 106 is configured to provide an air flow at a predetermined pressure.

[0242] The application system 100 further includes a first pipeline 110 between the air supply device 106 and the second metering device 102 and a second pipeline 111 between the second metering device 102 and the second injection unit 7a. The pipelines 110, 111 can be, for example, hoses. The pipelines 110, 111 are used to guide the air flow between the air supply device 106, the second metering device 102 and the second injection unit 7a. Thus, the second component flows from the air supply device 106 to the metering device 102 and then to the injection unit 7b in the material flow direction.

[0243] The application system 100 further includes a measuring unit for measuring the pressure. The application system 100 includes a first pipeline pressure sensor (not shown), which is configured to measure the air pressure in the first pipeline 110. The application system 100 further includes a second pipeline pressure sensor (not shown), which is configured to measure the air pressure in the second pipeline 111.

[0244] The application system 100 further includes corresponding fluid conducting elements or pipelines for transporting the first component from the first material processing device to the first metering device 101 and the first injection unit 7a, and pipelines for transporting the second component from the second material processing device 200b to the third metering device 103 and the third injection unit 7b. Thus, the first component flows from the first material processing device 200a to the metering device 101 in the material flow direction and then to the injection unit 7a. In addition, the third component flows from the second material processing device 200b to the metering device 103 in the material flow direction and then to the injection unit 7b.

[0245] The first material processing device 200a, the first metering device 101, and the first injection unit 7a are connected to each other in a fluid communication manner. The second material processing device 200b, the third metering device 103, and the third injection unit 7c are connected to each other in a fluid communication manner. The air supply device 106, the second metering device 102, and the second injection unit 7b are connected to each other in a fluid communication manner.

[0246] The pipelines and material flows of the first component, the second component, and the third component are shown by solid arrows in Figure 9 it.

[0247] The application system 100 is configured to mix the first component and the third component with air only in the mixing chamber 5 of the application device 1. The application system 100 does not mix the first component or the third component with air in advance. In particular, the application system does not mix the first component or the third component with air that is already in the corresponding material processing devices 200a, 200b or upstream of the corresponding metering devices 101, 103. Thus, in the material flow direction from the first material processing device 200a to the metering device 101 and then to the injection unit 7a, the first component is not mixed with air upstream of the injection unit 7a or in the injection unit 7a. Correspondingly, in the material flow direction from the material processing device 200b to the metering device 103 and then to the injection unit 7b, the third component is not mixed with air upstream of the injection unit 7b. Thus, the first component and the third component are not mixed with gas or air upstream of the application device 1 and upstream of the corresponding injection units 7a, 7b.

[0248] The application system is thus configured not to mix the first component with air upstream of the first metering device 101 and upstream of the first injection unit 7a in the material flow direction of the first component. The application system is configured not to mix the third component with air upstream of the third metering device 103 and upstream of the third injection unit 7b in the material flow direction of the third component. Thus, the first component and the third component are injected into the mixing chamber 5 in an air-free or gas-free state.

[0249] The application system further includes a control unit 107. The control unit 107 includes, for example, a computing unit, in particular a microprocessor. The control unit 107 is configured to control and / or regulate the operation of the application system 100. For this purpose, the control unit 107 is configured to receive measurement values or measurement signals from measurement units of the application system, such as the measurement unit 104, the first to third pressure sensors for the mixing chamber 5, and the pipeline pressure sensor. In addition, the control unit 107 is configured to actuate the metering devices 101, 102, 103, the injection units 7a, 7b, 7c, the actuator 105, the air supply device 106, and the material processing devices 200a, 200b. The reception of the measurement values and the actuation of the respective units are shown by single and double dashed arrows in Figure 9 it.

[0250] System 100 may also be referred to as a system for applying a mixture, particularly for the polymerization of polyurethane.

[0251] The control unit 107 is configured to perform the control steps of the method of embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0252] Figure 10 A flowchart of a method for mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and for introducing or applying the multi-component mixture into or onto an object of embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The method can be performed by means of an application device or an application system of embodiments of the present disclosure, such as Figure 1A the application device of Figure 9 the application system of. The method includes the following steps. These steps are performed simultaneously.

[0253] Injecting a first component into a mixing chamber 5 of a mixing tube having a first end and a second end through a first injection unit, S1. Here, the mixing chamber defines a mixing section. The first component is injected into the mixing chamber at a first injection point. Thus, the first component is injected into the mixing chamber at a first position corresponding to the first injection point along the mixing section.

[0254] A second component, such as a gas or a gas mixture, particularly air, is injected into the mixing chamber through a second injection unit, S2. The second component is injected into the mixing chamber at a second injection point. The second component is injected into the mixing chamber at a corresponding second position along the mixing section. Here, the second position is arranged after the first position along the mixing section.

[0255] The method includes S4, injecting a third component into the mixing chamber through a third injection unit. The third component is injected into the mixing chamber at a third injection point. The third component is injected into the mixing chamber at a corresponding third position along the mixing section. Here, the third position is arranged after the second position P along the mixing section.

[0256] The method includes mixing the first to third components along the mixing tube based on the order of injecting the components along the mixing section. The mixing is performed by a mixer arranged in the mixing chamber. The mixing includes S3, mixing the first component with the second component. The method includes S5, mixing the mixture of the first and second components with the third component to produce a multi-component mixture including the first, second, and third components.

[0257] The method further includes S6, discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube through the second end. Further, the method includes applying the multi-component mixture to an object.

[0258] Figure 11A flowchart of a method for mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and for introducing or applying the multi-component mixture into or onto an object of other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The method can be performed by an application system of an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as Figure 9 the application system of. The method includes the following steps. These steps are performed simultaneously.

[0259] A material stream of a first component is provided to a first metering device by a first device for material handling, S11. The mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the first component is set by the first metering device, S12, and the material stream is provided to a first injection unit, S13.

[0260] An air stream is provided to a second metering device by an air supply device, S21. The mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the air stream is set by the second metering device, S22, and the air stream is provided to a second injection unit, S23.

[0261] A material stream of a third component is provided to a third metering device by a second device for material handling, S31. The mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of the third component is set by the third metering device, S32, and the material stream is provided to a third injection unit of the application device, S33.

[0262] Figure 11 The method further includes a method having steps S1 - S6 of Figure 10 .

[0263] The method further includes S7, under the control of a control unit.

[0264] The control can include actuating a rotating device for a mixer and / or the first metering device and / or the second metering device, in particular a measuring unit and an actuator, and / or the third metering device and / or the air supply device.

[0265] The control can include controlling the air pressure, in particular the air pressure in a pipeline for guiding the air stream and / or at a second injection point for air, such that the second component is injected into the mixing chamber at a greater pressure than the first component and / or the third component, or the air pressure is greater than the pressure in the mixing chamber. Preferably, the difference can be 1 bar or greater. The air pressure can be generated, for example, by adjusting the air pressure by means of the air supply device and / or by means of an actuator of the second metering device.

[0266] The control can further include controlling the ratio of the mass flow rate of the air stream to the mass flow rate of the first component and / or controlling or setting the ratio of the mass flow rate of the air stream to the mass flow rate of the third component. Here, these can preferably be the mass flow rates of the material streams of the components injected into the mixing chamber.

[0267] The set value of the ratio can be predefined by the control unit or an external system or the user of the application device. The set value can be predefined by a mathematical function. As a result, it is ensured that the same amount of air is always added to the material of the first component and the material of the third component. In other words, it is ensured that the same predetermined amount of air is always added to the PU foam. The ratio can be generated, for example, by setting the mass flow rate of the first component by means of a first metering device and / or setting the mass flow rate of the third component by means of a third metering device and / or setting the mass flow rate and / or volume flow rate of air by means of a second metering device, and / or setting the rotational speed of the mixer by means of a rotational device of the mixer, and / or setting the air pressure by means of an air supply device.

[0268] Figure 12 A diagram showing control steps for illustrating a method of mixing multiple components to produce a multi-component mixture and introducing or applying the multi-component mixture into or onto an object of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0269] An air flow meter serving as a measuring unit measures the amount or mass flow rate of air injected into the mixer. In addition, the pressure in the mixing chamber is measured by a pressure sensor. On this basis, signal processing is performed, for example, by the control unit. Based on the signal processing, the actual value of the "air-material ratio", the actual value of the position controller of the first metering device for the first component and / or the position controller of the third metering device for the third component, the actual value of the rotational speed of the mixer, and the actual value of the PWM control of the inlet valve of the second injection unit for the air flow are predefined. In addition, the set value of the proportional valve of the second metering device for the air flow is predefined based on the signal processing. The proportional valve can be similar.

[0270] The "air-material ratio" describes, for example, the ratio of the injection amount of air or the injection mass flow rate of air to the injection amount of the first component ( Figure 12 A in) or the injection mass flow rate of the first component entering the mixing chamber.

[0271] The set value of the position controller of the first or third metering device is generated from the set value of the "air-material ratio". Further, the set value of the rotational speed of the mixer is generated from the set value of the "air-material ratio". Further, the set value of the actuation of the intake valve is generated from the set value of the "air-material ratio".

[0272] The position of the first or third metering device is controlled based on the set value and the actual value of the "air-material ratio". This position can describe, for example, the opening angle of the metering unit of the metering device. However, this position can also be set as a function of the desired amount of PU foam or the desired material flow.

[0273] The rotational speed of the mixer is adjusted based on the set value and the actual value of the rotational speed. For example, the rotational speed is adjusted in proportion to the difference between the set value and the actual value.

[0274] Furthermore, the intake valve is actuated based on the setpoint and the actual value of the PWM control of the intake valve.

[0275] In addition, the proportional valve is actuated.

[0276] The air supply is adjusted in proportion to the material flow and the mixer speed, thus ensuring that the same amount of air is always added to the material. The amount of air is determined by the proportional valve. An air flow meter is used as the measuring instrument. The supplied air pressure should always be at least 1 bar greater than the pressure in the mixing chamber. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the material of the first component or the material of the third component from flowing into the injection unit and / or the pipeline for the air flow and clogging or contaminating the latter. According to the embodiment, the amount of air is adjusted by the air flow meter. The proportional valve adjusts the air pressure.

[0277] List of reference numerals

[0278] 1 Application device

[0279] 2 Mixing tube

[0280] 2a, 2b, 2c Sections of the mixing tube

[0281] 2d, 2e Transition sections of the mixing tube

[0282] 3 First end of the mixing tube

[0283] 4 Second end of the mixing tube

[0284] 5 Mixing chamber

[0285] 6 Mixing section

[0286] 7a, 7b, 7c Injection unit

[0287] 8 Mixer

[0288] 8a, 8b, 8c Sections of the mixer

[0289] 9 Shifting device

[0290] 10 Central axis of the mixing tube

[0291] 11 Mixer end

[0292] 12 Central part of the mixer

[0293] 13 Mixing element of the mixer

[0294] 14 Material flow

[0295] 15 Rotating device

[0296] 16 Mixing element of the application device

[0297] 17 Sealing element of the mixing tube

[0298] Sealing element of the mixer

[0299] Mixer pipe wall

[0300] Injection points 20, 20b, 20c, 20c’, 20d

[0301] Application system 100

[0302] First metering device 101

[0303] Second metering device 102

[0304] Third metering device 103

[0305] Measuring unit 104

[0306] Actuator 105

[0307] Air supply device 106

[0308] Control unit 107

[0309] First pipeline 110

[0310] Second pipeline 111

[0311] Metering device 112

[0312] Material handling device 200a, b

[0313] Control device 207

[0314] Material containers 210a, b

[0315] Agitators 211a, b

[0316] Drives 215a, b

[0317] Pump devices 220a, b

[0318] Inlets 221a, b

[0319] Outlets 222a, b

[0320] Drives 225a, b

Claims

1. An application device (1) for mixing a plurality of components to produce a multi-component mixture, in particular a polyurethane foam, and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object (G), in particular a lithium-ion battery, comprising: a mixing tube (2) having a first closed end (3) and a second end (4) for discharging the multi-component mixture from the mixing tube (2), wherein the mixing tube (2) comprises a mixing chamber (5), The mixing tube (2) has a plurality of sections (2a, 2b, 2c), wherein the walls (19) of at least two of the plurality of sections (2a, 2b, 2c) of the mixing tube (2) have mutually different inner diameters, - a plurality of injection units (7a, 7b, 7c), each injection unit being configured to inject a respective one of the plurality of components into the mixing chamber (5), - a mixer (8) arranged in the mixing chamber (5), the mixer being configured to mix the injected components with one another along the mixing pipe (2).

2. The application device according to the preceding claim, the plurality of sections (2a, 2b, 2c) comprising: a first section (2a) arranged at or adjacent to the first end (3), - a second section (2b) arranged along the central axis (10) between the first section (2a) and the second end (4), In particular, the wall (19) in the first section (2a) has a larger inner diameter than in the second section (2b).

3. The application device according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of sections (2a, 2b, 2c) further comprises: - a third section (2c) arranged along the central axis (10) between the second section (2a) and the second end (4), wherein, in particular, the wall (19) in the third section (2a) has a smaller inner diameter than in the first section (2a) and / or in the second section (2b), or wherein, in particular, the wall (19) in the third section (2a) has a larger inner diameter than in the first section (2a) and / or in the second section (2b).

4. The application device according to claim 1 , the mixing tube ( 2 ) further comprising a further transition section between in each case two sections of the plurality of sections, wherein The wall (19) in each of the transition sections has a variable, preferably linearly variable, inner diameter along the central axis (10).

5. The application device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one pressure sensor, wherein Preferably, at least one pressure sensor is provided for at least one of the multiple sections (2a, 2b, 2c) of the mixing tube (2), and the pressure sensor is configured to measure the pressure in the area of ​​the mixing chamber (5) adjacent to each section (2a, 2b, 2c).

6. The application device according to claim 5, wherein the at least one pressure sensor comprises: a first pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in a region of the mixing chamber adjacent to the first end of the mixing tube and / or adjacent to the first section of the mixing tube, - a second pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in a region of the mixing chamber adjacent to the second section of the mixing tube, and - a third pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure in a region of the mixing chamber adjacent to the second end of the mixing tube and / or adjacent to the third section.

7. Application device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that The mixing tube (2) is formed to be straight and / or vertically arranged, The inner side of the wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) is rotationally symmetric about the central axis (10).

8. The application device according to any of the preceding claims further comprises a displacement device (9), preferably an electric lifting cylinder or an electric hydraulic lifting cylinder, wherein the displacement device (9) is configured to move the mixer (8) along the central axis (10) of the mixing tube (2) and / or between the first end (3) and the second end (4), so that the mixing tube (2) is sealed relative to the material flow (14) of the injected component and / or the multi-component mixture from the second end (3) of the mixing tube (2) and / or toward the second end (3).

9. The application device according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises a rotating device (15), preferably an electric motor, particularly preferably a servo motor, wherein the rotating device (15) is configured to rotate the mixer (8) around a rotation axis coinciding with the central axis (10) of the mixing tube (2).

10. Application device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that The mixer (8) has a plurality of sections (8a, 8b, 8c), wherein at least two sections of the plurality of sections (8a, 8b, 8c) have mutually different outer diameters.

11. The application device according to claim 10, the plurality of sections of the mixer (8) comprising: - a first section (8a), - a second section (8b), wherein the first section (8a) is arranged closer to the first end (3) than the second section (8b), - a third section (8c), wherein the third section (8c) is arranged closer to the second end (4) than the first section (8a) and / or than the second section (8b), wherein, in particular, the first section (8a) has a larger outer diameter than the second section (8b), wherein, in particular, the third section (8c) has a larger outer diameter than the first section (8a) and / or the second section (8b), or wherein the third section (8c) has a smaller outer diameter than the first section (8a) and / or the second section (8b).

12. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one mixing element (16) arranged on a wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) and extending into the mixing chamber (5), wherein The at least one mixing element (16) is formed as a ring, or wherein the at least one mixing element (16) is formed as a sheet, a tine, a hook or a rod, or wherein the at least one mixing element (16) is formed as a regular or irregular structure.

13. The application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the plurality of injection units comprising: at least one first injection unit (7a) arranged on a wall (19) in the first section (2a) of the mixing tube (2) and configured to inject a first component into a region of the mixing chamber (5) adjacent to the first section of the mixing tube (2), and / or at least one second injection unit (7b) arranged on the wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) in the second section (2b) of the mixing tube (2) and configured to inject a second component into the mixing chamber (5) in a region adjacent to the second section (2a) of the mixing tube (2), and / or - at least one third injection unit (7c), which is arranged on the wall (19) of the mixing tube (2) in the third section (2c) of the mixing tube (2) and is configured to inject a third component into the mixing chamber (5) in an area adjacent to the third section (2c) of the mixing tube (2).

14. An application system (100) for mixing a plurality of components to produce a multi-component mixture and for introducing and / or applying the multi-component mixture into and / or onto an object (G), Comprising an application device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

Images