Reversible spray nozzle, spray head, application device comprising such a nozzle and associated unclogging method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a spray nozzle (18) for spraying a product, the spray nozzle defining a channel (30) for the flow of the product, the channel extending between an inlet end (32) and an outlet end (34) according to a spraying direction (A-A′) and opening to the outside of the spray nozzle (18) through a spraying orifice (35) at the outlet end (34). The nozzle is pivotable about a longitudinal axis (X-X′) orthogonal to the spraying direction, and the nozzle includes a nozzle body defining a through conduit and a spraying insert disposed in the through conduit and defining the spraying orifice of the nozzle, the nozzle body including a central member having a generally spherical shape having at least one material recess on the outlet end side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a spray nozzle for spraying products (e.g., coating products), the spray nozzle defining a channel for circulating the product through the spray nozzle, the channel extending between an inlet end and an outlet end according to the spraying direction and opening to the outside of the spray nozzle through a connecting orifice at the inlet end and a spraying orifice (suitable for spraying the product) at the outlet end, the spray nozzle being pivotable about the longitudinal axis of the spray nozzle (orthogonal to the spraying direction).

[0002] The present invention also relates to a spray head including such a nozzle and related coating apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] Product application devices are known, such as spray guns. These devices are designed to ensure that the product is broken down into fine particles so that a large surface can be covered with a small amount of product. To this end, the product is supplied under pressure from a supply source and conveyed to the spray nozzle.

[0004] In hybrid spraying technology, the product is supplied at high pressure from a source, typically between 20 and 300 bar. As in airless spraying, the narrow nozzle orifice causes product breakage. However, this spraying method is not optimal given the relatively low pressure at which the product is supplied. To improve product atomization, compressed air is blown at the nozzle exit. This compressed air is also blown towards the end of the jet to cause the sprayed product to fold back and prevent the formation of paint build-up known as horns at these product pressures. This solution allows for finishing quality comparable to airless spraying, but with better delivery rates and is more economical due to the lower pressure supply of the same product.

[0005] Given the small size of the nozzle outlet orifice and the viscosity of the product used, there is a risk of clogging during use, especially at the nozzle spray orifice.

[0006] Unblocking and cleaning the nozzles requires disassembling them, which takes time.

[0007] A reversible nozzle is known that can be flipped to allow the product to flow in the opposite direction to the conventional spraying direction, thus allowing the product to enter the nozzle through the spray orifice. This flipping allows the spray orifice to be cleared.

[0008] EP 0912255B1 discloses a reversible nozzle. The nozzle comprises a cylindrical body in which a spray insert is housed. The nozzle can be pivoted by turning the body with a wrench.

[0009] However, this solution is not entirely satisfactory.

[0010] In practice, this type of nozzle is unsuitable for devices that perform mixed spraying. In particular, this nozzle does not allow for proper airflow at the nozzle exit, resulting in suboptimal atomization of the sprayed liquid film. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The object of this invention is to provide a reversible nozzle that can be used in an apparatus for performing mixed spraying while maintaining a satisfactory transfer rate and surface finish quality.

[0012] Therefore, the object of the present invention is a nozzle of the type described above, characterized in that the nozzle comprises a nozzle body defining a through conduit and a spraying insert disposed in the through conduit, the spraying insert defining a spraying orifice of the nozzle, the nozzle body comprising a central member defining the through conduit and having a generally spherical shape having at least one material recess on the outlet end side.

[0013] Therefore, the nozzle according to the invention allows for similar surface finish quality and transfer rate as typically seen in mixed spraying, while benefiting from the advantages of reversible nozzles.

[0014] In fact, the nozzle can be flipped to aid in cleaning without requiring time-consuming, laborious, and messy disassembly.

[0015] The shape of the central component of the nozzle allows for optimal atomization of the sprayed liquid film by enabling the gas to be ejected as close as possible to the nozzle outlet (especially directly at the spray orifice).

[0016] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the nozzle includes one or more of the following features, which may be used alone or in all technically feasible combinations:

[0017] - The central component is generally truncated spherical on the outlet end side to define an annular shoulder surrounding the insert, or the central component is generally spherical on the outlet end side with at least one groove extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0018] - The nozzle body includes a central member forming a central component and at least a first support member that is generally cylindrical, the first support member being configured to be preferably removably mounted on the central member while extending from the central member along a longitudinal axis, the first support member being fixed to the central member and not rotating in the mounted position;

[0019] - The nozzle body also includes a generally cylindrical second support member, which is preferably removably mounted on the central part of the nozzle. The first support member and the second support member extend on both sides of the central part along a longitudinal axis. In the mounting configuration, the support members are fixed and do not rotate between themselves and the central body.

[0020] - At least one (preferably each) support defines at least one blowing conduit, the blowing conduit being designed to blow a gas jet, preferably an air jet, toward the spray nozzle;

[0021] - The support member or each support member defines at least one first blowing conduit, the first blowing conduit being designed to spray airflow onto the product jet exiting the spray nozzle;

[0022] - The support member or each support member defines at least one second blowing channel, preferably two second blowing channels, which are designed to spray airflow onto the spray insert;

[0023] - The central member includes at least one tenon extending from the central member along a longitudinal axis, and at least one of the support members defines a hole configured to receive the tenon;

[0024] - The nozzle includes a handle that can be mounted on or on one of the supports, and the user or automation device can turn the handle to rotate the nozzle body;

[0025] - The annular shoulder has a truncated conical annular edge that defines the opening, and the spraying insert is flush with the annular edge;

[0026] - The insert is oblong in shape;

[0027] The nozzle also includes a sleeve that is received in a through conduit to hold the insert in place.

[0028] The present invention also relates to a spray head for a product (e.g., coated product) application device (such as a spray gun), the spray head comprising: an annular ring having a central orifice; a spray nozzle of the type described above, the spray nozzle being removably received in the central orifice, the spray nozzle being rotatable about a longitudinal axis between a spray configuration and a cleaning configuration, in the spray configuration having a connecting orifice opening into the central orifice, and in the cleaning configuration having a spray orifice opening into the central orifice.

[0029] According to a particular embodiment, the annular ring has an upstream face for connection to the body of the coating apparatus and a downstream face oriented relative to the upstream face. The annular ring defines at least one blow pipe designed to receive compressed gas and open at a spray orifice into the downstream face. The blow pipe is configured to spray gas through the spray orifice in the direction of the product jet ejected from the coating orifice.

[0030] The present invention also relates to a product (e.g., a coated product) application device (such as a spray gun), the product application device including a spray head of the type described above.

[0031] The present invention also relates to a method for unclogging the spray nozzle of a coating device of the type described above, the method comprising the following steps:

[0032] - Provide an application device of the type described above;

[0033] - Switch the spray nozzle to its cleaning configuration;

[0034] - The unclogging product is supplied to the nozzle through a spray orifice, the pressure of which is between 20 bar and 300 bar. Attached Figure Description

[0035] The invention will become more apparent from the following description, given only by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 This is a partial perspective view of the front three-quarters of a coating device according to the present invention, the coating device including a spray head according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A longitudinal sectional view of a spray head, the spray head including a spray nozzle according to the invention, the spray nozzle being in a spray configuration;

[0038] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Perspective view of the front three-quarters (left) and rear one-quarter (right) of the central spray nozzle;

[0039] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A longitudinal sectional view of a portion of the spray nozzle; its cutting plane consists of Figure 3 The plane IV-IV marking in the middle;

[0040] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 yes Figure 3A longitudinal sectional view of a portion of the spray nozzle; its cutting plane consists of Figure 3 The VV symbol in the plane;

[0041] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the central component of the spray nozzle;

[0042] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 The spray nozzle of the spray head is in a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the cleaning configuration;

[0043] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 Perspective view of alternatives to the central component;

[0044] [ Figure 9 ] Figure 9 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the spray head according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Figure 1 The coating apparatus 8 for a product according to the first embodiment is shown in part.

[0046] The application device 8 is designed to apply the product to a surface. The product is preferably a fluid, such as a liquid or powder comprising one or more components. The fluid can be a coating product, such as a paint, primer, varnish, etc. Alternatively, the product can also be a flame-retardant or protective product.

[0047] In the following text, the orientation terms “upstream” and “downstream” should be understood with reference to the flow direction of the coated product within the coating device 8 under normal product spraying conditions—the product flows from upstream to downstream.

[0048] exist Figure 1 In the example, the application device 8 is a spray gun, specifically a manual spray gun. Alternatively, the spray gun could also be an automatic spray gun.

[0049] The coating device 8 is configured to supply the product to be coated and the compressed gas through a product source and a compressed gas supply source (not shown in the figure), respectively.

[0050] The product source is capable of supplying products at an export pressure between 20 bar and 300 bar.

[0051] The compressed gas supply source is capable of supplying compressed gas, typically compressed air, preferably at a pressure between 0.2 bar and 6 bar.

[0052] The coating device 8 includes a main body 10 (in... Figure 1(Only a portion of it is visible in the image). Furthermore, the coating device 8 also includes a positioning base and a guide piston (in the case of an automated device), or a handle and an actuation trigger (in the case of a manual device).

[0053] The coating device 8 also includes a spray head 12 mounted on the main body 10.

[0054] The spray head 12 is centered on the spraying direction AA′ of the coating device 8.

[0055] The spray head 12 includes an annular ring 14 having a central orifice 16 and a spray nozzle 18 at least partially housed within the central orifice 16.

[0056] The central opening 16 opens on one side at the downstream surface 14A of the annular ring 14, and on the other side at the upstream surface 14B of the annular ring 14, the upstream surface being opposite to the downstream surface 14A.

[0057] The annular ring 14 is centered on the spraying direction AA′. The annular ring 14 can be connected to the body 10 of the coating device 8 at its upstream surface 14B.

[0058] The annular ring 14 includes a body 20 defining a central orifice 16 and a skirt 22, the skirt being mounted to rotate relative to the body 20 about the spraying direction AA′.

[0059] Preferably, such as Figure 1 As shown, the annular ring 14 defines a blow conduit 24 designed to allow compressed gas to pass through and to open at injection orifices 26 into the downstream face 14A of the annular ring 14. The injection orifices 26 are arranged on either side of a central orifice 16. The blow conduit 24 is configured to inject compressed gas (typically air) in the direction of the product jet sprayed by the spray nozzle 18. This allows control of the product jet width and prevents the formation of angular flows.

[0060] Each blow pipe 24 is fluidly connected to a compressed gas supply source.

[0061] For example, in Figure 1 In one embodiment, the annular ring 14 includes two sets of injection orifices 26, each set including three injection orifices, the two sets of injection orifices being arranged on radially opposite sides of the central orifice 16.

[0062] The spray nozzle 26 is shaped to guide the air jet toward the spraying direction AA′. Therefore, the air jet from the spray nozzle 26 is centripetal relative to the spraying direction AA′ of the spray gun. For example, the air jet forms an angle between 25° and 50° with the spraying direction AA′. Figure 1In the embodiment shown, the air jet exiting from the central orifice forms a 35° angle with the spraying direction AA′, while the air jet exiting from the peripheral orifice forms a 30° angle with the spraying direction AA′.

[0063] Advantageously, in order to influence the shape of the product jets, these air jets converge at a distance of 5 mm to 15 mm from the spray orifice (which will be described in detail later). For example, in Figure 1 In one embodiment, for jets leaving the central orifice, the air jets converge at a distance of 7 mm, while for jets leaving the peripheral orifices, the air jets converge at a distance of 11 mm.

[0064] The body 20 of the annular ring 14 defines an aperture 28, within which a spray nozzle 18 is at least partially received. The aperture 28 extends along the longitudinal axis XX′ of the spray nozzle 18, which is orthogonal to the spraying direction AA′.

[0065] The spray nozzle 18 is removably housed within the annular ring 14.

[0066] For example, the spray nozzle 18 can be installed in the hole 28 by sliding and rotating within the hole 28.

[0067] The spray nozzle 18 is rotatable within the orifice 28 about the longitudinal axis XX′. Therefore, the spray nozzle 18 can rotate about the longitudinal axis XX′.

[0068] The spray nozzle 18 is defined as a channel 30 for allowing the product to flow through the spray nozzle 18.

[0069] Channel 30 extends along the transverse axis YY′ of the spray nozzle 18, which is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis XX′. During product spraying, the transverse axis YY′ coincides with the spraying direction AA′.

[0070] Channel 30 extends between inlet end 32 and outlet end 34 according to the transverse axis YY′. Channel 30 opens to the outside of spray nozzle 18 through connecting orifice 33 at inlet end 32 and through spray nozzle 35 at outlet end 34, which is capable of spraying product.

[0071] The connecting port 33 is fluidly connected to the product supply source.

[0072] refer to Figures 3 to 5 The spray nozzle 18 includes a nozzle body 40 that defines a through conduit 42 extending between an upstream end 43 and a downstream end 44 according to a transverse axis YY′.

[0073] The spray nozzle 18 also includes a spray insert 46, which is housed within a through conduit 42 and defines a spray orifice 35 for the spray nozzle 18.

[0074] like Figure 3 As shown, the nozzle body 40 includes a central component 50 that defines a through conduit 42.

[0075] The central component 50 is generally spherical in shape with at least one material recess on the side of the outlet end 34.

[0076] One or more material recesses on the sphere are designed to allow gas to pass through pipes 90A, 90B, which will be further described below.

[0077] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the central component 50 is generally truncated spherical on the outlet end 34 side. Here, the central component 50 has an annular shoulder 52 at the downstream end 44 of the through conduit 42.

[0078] like Figure 4 As shown, the central component 50 thus presents a spherical shape cut in such a way that the cap of material is removed on the side of the outlet end 34.

[0079] The ring-shaped shoulder 52 is crown-shaped.

[0080] The crown preferably has a width L52 that is large enough to allow gas to pass through, but small enough to maintain a continuous spherical surface, designed to ensure a seal in a clean configuration.

[0081] Advantageously, such as in Figure 6 As shown in more detail, the annular shoulder 52 further includes a frustoconical annular edge 54 that defines the opening 56 at the downstream end 44.

[0082] Here, the annular shoulder 52 includes, in order of radial direction toward axis YY′: an outer peripheral surface 57 orthogonal to axis YY′; and a central surface 58 with a bevel, the central surface 58 forming an angle α with the outer peripheral surface 57 such that the central surface 58 is advantageously tangent to the spraying insert 46.

[0083] The spraying insert 46 is at least partially inserted into the through conduit 42.

[0084] The spraying insert 46 has an upstream surface 60 that is accommodated within the through conduit 42 and a downstream surface 61 that is opposite to the upstream surface 60 and disposed outside the through conduit 42.

[0085] The upstream face 60 is basically flat and is arranged basically transversely to the axis YY′.

[0086] The downstream surface 61 of the spray-painted insert 46 is typically dome-shaped and centered on the axis YY′. Advantageously, as in Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the downstream surface 61 of the spray insert 46 is advantageously flush with the annular edge 54 at its periphery.

[0087] The spraying insert 46 defines a spraying orifice 35 on its downstream surface 61.

[0088] In addition, the spraying insert 46 includes, from upstream to downstream, a cavity 62 with a cross-sectional area that gradually decreases downstream; followed by a pipe 63 with a substantially constant cross-sectional area, which fluidly connects the cavity 62 to the spraying orifice 35.

[0089] exist Figure 4 In the example, cavity 62 is basically bell-shaped.

[0090] The diameter of the pipe 63 is smaller than that of the cavity 62 and leads to the spray nozzle 35, which is even smaller and may be blocked.

[0091] Advantageously, the spraying insert 46 has an elongated oval shape at its upstream face 60. This shape facilitates the positioning of the spraying insert 46 within the through conduit 42, particularly the angular orientation of the insert relative to the nozzle body 40 (especially the central component 50).

[0092] The spray insert 46 is provided with a slit configured to generate and orient the sprayed product jet. The elongated oval shape of the spray insert 46 allows for easy positioning, thereby easily orienting the sprayed jet relative to a compressed airflow originating from the annular blow duct 24 and ducts 90A, 90B, which will be defined later.

[0093] The elongated oval shape of the spraying insert 46 also facilitates its assembly into the nozzle body 40 without requiring additional grinding rework of the slit after assembly, or adjustment of the insert's orientation within the nozzle body 40.

[0094] Spray-coated insert 46 is, for example, a carbide insert.

[0095] The spray-coated insert 46 is preferably held in place within the through conduit 42 by being bonded to the inner wall of the through conduit 42. This contributes to a tight seal during insert installation.

[0096] Preferably, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the sleeve 64 is accommodated within the through conduit 42 in a manner that holds the spray insert 46 in place. The sleeve 64 is, for example, press-fitted into the through conduit 42.

[0097] Advantageously, the channel 30 is provided with a flow restrictor (not shown in the figure), for example, located at the sleeve 64. The flow restrictor allows for limiting the volume of the contained product and has a retention effect.

[0098] According to an advantageous embodiment (not shown in the figures), sleeve 64 has a dome-shaped downstream surface. This shape allows for a reduction in the volume that may be contained in the product.

[0099] according to Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle body 40 includes a central member 70, a first support member 72, and a second support member 74. The first support member 72 and the second support member 74 extend from both sides of the central member 70 along the longitudinal axis XX′.

[0100] Advantageously, at least one of the support members 72 and 74 is removably mounted on the central member 70. Preferably, both support members 72 and 74 are removably mounted on the central member 70.

[0101] Figure 6 A separate central component 70 is shown.

[0102] like Figure 6 As shown, the central component 70 forms the central component 50 of the nozzle body 40.

[0103] Therefore, the central member 70 defines the through conduit 42 and the annular shoulder 52. The central member 70 thus forms an insert holder for the spraying insert 46.

[0104] Preferably, the central component 70 further includes assembly devices for the support components 72 and 74.

[0105] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the central member 70 includes at least one tenon 76 extending from the spherical central member 50 along a longitudinal axis XX′, the tenon 76 being intended to be received within a cavity provided in one of the support members 72, 74. Preferably, the central member 70 includes two tenons 76 extending from both sides of the spherical central member 50 in radially opposite directions.

[0106] For example, the tenon or each tenon 76 is approximately cylindrical.

[0107] Advantageously, as will be described later, the tenon or each tenon 76 is provided with a groove 77 designed for air passage.

[0108] Preferably, the central component 70 is approximately symmetrical with respect to a plane orthogonal to axis XX′ and passing through axis YY′.

[0109] Preferably, the first support member 72 and the second support member 74 are each generally integrally cylindrical and extend along the longitudinal axis XX′. Each support member 72, 74 is defined radially by a cylindrical surface 78.

[0110] The first support member 72 and the second support member 74 include components that complement the assembly components of the central member 70, thereby allowing the assembly of the nozzle body 40.

[0111] For example, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, each of the first support member 72 and the second support member 74 includes a hole 80, which is configured to receive a corresponding tenon 76 of the central member 70.

[0112] Advantageously, at least one of the supports 72, 74 is provided with at least one blowing channel 90A, 90B, which is designed to blow a gas jet, preferably an air jet, toward the spray nozzle.

[0113] Advantageously, each air duct 90A, 90B is fluidly connected to a compressed gas supply source.

[0114] Preferably, such as Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the first support member 72 and the second support member 74 each define at least one central pipe 90A and two peripheral pipes 90B, that is, three blowing pipes 90A and 90B.

[0115] Each conduit 90A, 90B is designed to receive compressed gas, preferably compressed air. Each conduit 90A, 90B is opened at a gas injection orifice 92 on one side of the downstream face 14A of the spray head 12 and is configured to inject gas in the direction of the product jet ejected from the spray orifice 35.

[0116] Advantageously, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the support member or each support member 72, 74 includes pipes 90A, 90B, which open at their respective injection orifices 92 in different directions.

[0117] For example, such as Figures 3 to 5 As shown, each support member 72, 74 includes a central conduit 90A with an inclined opening (see...). Figure 4 ) and two surrounding pipes 90B (see Figure 5 The two peripheral pipes are arranged on both sides of the central pipe 90A and open radially in the spraying direction AA′.

[0118] Advantageously, each central conduit 90A is configured to spray gas toward the spraying direction AA′ at a downstream distance of 35 from the spray nozzle, said downstream distance being less than 2 mm, preferably less than 0.7 mm.

[0119] Therefore, the shape of the central component 50 and the positioning of the pipe 90A at the supports 72, 74 allow the gas to be blown as close as possible to the spray nozzle 35.

[0120] Advantageously, each pipe 90B is configured to spray gas onto both sides of the dome (formed by the downstream surface 61) of the spraying insert 46 at an upstream distance of 35 from the spraying orifice, said upstream distance being greater than 0.5 mm, preferably greater than 1.6 mm.

[0121] Therefore, the shape of the central component 50 and the positioning of the pipe 90B at the supports 72, 74 allow the gas to be blown as close as possible to the base of the dome of the spray insert 46.

[0122] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Corresponding to according to Figure 3 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the spray nozzles 18 for planes IV-IV and VV, with plane IV-IV passing through a central conduit 90A and plane VV passing through two of the peripheral conduits 90B.

[0123] The injection orifice 92 guides the gas jet along the spraying direction AA′. Therefore, the jet from the injection orifice 92 has a generally radial and centripetal direction relative to the spraying direction AA′ of the spray gun. Here, the adjective "generally" means that there is at most a few degrees of deviation between the strictly radial direction relative to the spraying direction AA′ and the direction of the gas jet.

[0124] For example, the central conduit 90A forms an angle with a direction that is strictly orthogonal to the spraying direction AA′, the angle being between 15° and 40°, preferably 30°.

[0125] Advantageously, the central conduit 90A is located along its extension partially behind the groove 77 provided in the tenon 76 of the central member 70.

[0126] Therefore, the gas reaches the product jet point via the central pipe 90A and is as close as possible to the spray nozzle 35, thereby promoting the product to break down into fine particles.

[0127] The conduit 90B itself is configured to spray a gas flow to be flush with or to the dome of the annular shoulder 52 and the spray insert 46, and more particularly, the gas flow is preferably tangential to the peripheral surface 57.

[0128] Gas reaches the spray insert 46 via pipe 90B to remove any product deposits that may be present there and to prevent deposits (including in the form of mist) during the spraying process.

[0129] according to Figure 4and Figure 5 In one embodiment, pipes 90A and 90B open into holes 80 of the corresponding supports 72 and 74. Supply pipe 94 opens into the hole 80 on one hand and at the orifice 95 on the other hand. The orifice is located on the cylindrical surface 78 of the supports 72 and 74.

[0130] Other arrangements can also be used for the blowing pipes in the supports 72 and 74.

[0131] For example, according to one alternative, the pipe 90B does not open into the hole 80, but instead opens into an annular groove provided on the cylindrical surface 78 of the supports 72, 74.

[0132] In the mounting configuration, the supports 72, 74 are fixed to the central member 70 without rotation. For example, the nozzle body 40 includes fastening devices (such as pins 96 or threaded elements) that allow the central member 70 to be secured to the supports 72, 74.

[0133] Advantageously, the fastening device is reversible. This means that the fastening device can be released in such a way that the supports 72, 74 can be separated from the central member 70.

[0134] As mentioned above, when the nozzle is mounted on the annular ring 14, the spray nozzle 18 is able to pivot about the longitudinal axis XX′ of the nozzle.

[0135] Therefore, the spray nozzle 18 can rotate and move between the spraying configuration and the cleaning configuration around the longitudinal axis XX′.

[0136] The switching between the spraying configuration and the cleaning configuration is performed by rotating the spray nozzle 18 180° around the longitudinal axis XX′.

[0137] In spraying configurations (such as...) Figures 1 to 5 As shown), the connecting orifice 33 opens into the central orifice 16, while the spraying orifice 35 opens to the outside of the body 20 of the annular ring 14.

[0138] In the cleaning configuration, the spray nozzle 35 opens into the central nozzle 16, while the connecting nozzle 33 opens to the outside of the body 20 of the annular ring 14.

[0139] Therefore, the flow direction of the product within the spraying insert 46 changes depending on the selected configuration.

[0140] Preferably, the spray nozzle 18 includes a handle 100, which can be fixedly mounted on or on one of the supports 72, 74 in a non-rotational manner. Figure 1In the example, the handle 100 is mounted on the first support 72. The user can turn the handle 100 to switch the spray nozzle 18 from its spraying configuration to its cleaning configuration and vice versa.

[0141] For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, the handle 100 includes a hole 102 configured to receive a rod 104 extending from the first support 72, for example by a strong snap-fit ​​or overmolding.

[0142] Preferably, such as Figure 1 As shown, the coating apparatus 8 includes a spray nozzle 18 locking system designed to interrupt the rotation of the spray nozzle 18. The spray nozzle locking system allows the spray nozzle 18 to be positioned in its spraying and cleaning configurations.

[0143] For example, handle 100 includes a stop device 106 (such as...) Figure 3 As shown), the stop device is formed, for example, from the base of the handle 100, and is intended to engage with a reverse stop 108 (such as...) mounted on the annular ring 14 when the spray nozzle 18 is in the spraying configuration or when the spray nozzle 18 is in the cleaning configuration. Figure 1 (As shown) contact in order to interrupt the rotation of the spray nozzle 18.

[0144] The operation of the coating apparatus 8 according to the first embodiment will now be described.

[0145] For example, the coating device 8 here is a manual device.

[0146] First, the product source and compressed gas supply source are activated. Then, pressurized product and gas are supplied to the coating unit 8.

[0147] At this time, the spray nozzle 18 is in the spray configuration.

[0148] The user presses the trigger to supply the product to the spray head 12.

[0149] The product is then supplied to the spray nozzle 18 through the connection port 33 of the spray nozzle, at a pressure between 20 bar and 300 bar.

[0150] Therefore, the product arriving under pressure passes through the spray insert 46, first through the cavity 62, and then through the pipe 63. Subsequently, the product is ejected from the spray insert 46 through the spray orifice 35 and dispersed from the spray nozzle 18 in the form of particles.

[0151] At least during product ejection and preferably before product ejection, pressurized gas is supplied to the blow pipes 90A and 90B of the spray nozzle 18, and compressed gas is sprayed toward the spray orifice 35 and the dome of the spray insert 46.

[0152] The gas ejected through the spray nozzle 92 immediately impacts the location, thereby impacting the product flow and breaking up the particles. The gas blown out of the pipe 90 arrives as close as possible to the spray nozzle 35, so that the product flow is atomized by the airflow as soon as it leaves the spray insert 46.

[0153] Advantageously, the blowing pipe 24 of the annular ring 14 is also supplied with pressurized gas, and compressed gas is injected in the direction of the product jet in order to control the width of the jet.

[0154] When the user wishes to unclog the spray nozzle 18, the user stops pressing the trigger and switches the spray nozzle 18 to its cleaning configuration (e.g., ...). Figure 7 (As shown).

[0155] To do this, the user grips the handle 100 and rotates it 180°. The rotation of the handle 100 causes the rest of the nozzle body 40 to rotate.

[0156] After the spray nozzle 18 rotates, the spray orifice 35 opens into the central orifice 16, while the connecting orifice opens outwards from the body 20.

[0157] The user can then press the trigger to allow the pressurized product to flow through the spray nozzle 18. The spray nozzle 18 then supplies the unclogging product, preferably, through the spray orifice 35. The product first passes through the conduit 63, and then through the cavity 62 of the spray insert 46. The pressure of the unclogging product is preferably between 20 bar and 300 bar. Advantageously, the user does not need to change the pressure setting.

[0158] Next, the user can restore the spray nozzle 18 to its spray configuration by turning the handle 100 in the opposite direction.

[0159] Advantageously, by pressing the trigger, compressed gas is sprayed through conduit 90B onto the spraying insert 46 to clean the spraying insert 46 and any remaining product around it. For example, without spraying product, the gas can be sprayed separately by pressing the trigger for a given period of time (e.g., between a tenth of a second and 3 seconds) and / or partially pressing the trigger.

[0160] Through the invention described above, a surface finish quality and transfer rate similar to those commonly seen in hybrid spraying are obtained, while benefiting from the advantages of reversible nozzles.

[0161] In fact, the spray nozzle 18 can be used as a conventional reversible nozzle (e.g. for mixing spraying) and can therefore be flipped to facilitate cleaning without the time-consuming, laborious and messy disassembly of the spray nozzle 18.

[0162] The shape of the central component 50 of the spray nozzle 18 allows for optimal atomization of the sprayed liquid film by allowing air to be sprayed as close as possible to the nozzle outlet (especially directly at the spray orifice 35).

[0163] Therefore, the airflow is not deflected by the shape of the spray nozzle 18, but since there is no material cap or groove at the central part 50, the airflow can reach the dome of the spray orifice 35 and the spray insert 46, thus allowing the sprayed product to break into fine particles.

[0164] The arrangement of air ducts 90A and 90B directly within the nozzle body at supports 72 and 74 facilitates this by allowing air to be flush with the insert and blown onto the spray insert 46.

[0165] Therefore, the spray nozzle 18 according to the present invention is a reversible nozzle suitable for implementing a mixed spraying device.

[0166] The removable nature of the nozzle body components also allows for the replacement of various parts 70, 72, and 74 when needed. Therefore, the central component 70 can be easily replaced while retaining the support components 72 and 74.

[0167] Figure 8 An alternative to the central component 50 is shown, and more specifically... Figure 6 An alternative to the central component 70. According to this alternative, the central component 50 is generally spherical and has a groove 150 on the outlet end 34 side, the groove 150 extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis XX′.

[0168] Therefore, the tank 150 forms a channel for gas from pipes 90A and 90B.

[0169] The groove 150 is laterally defined by two lateral edges 152 and has a bottom 154 and a through conduit 42, which opens at the bottom 154 through an opening 156.

[0170] Here, the groove 150 defines two shoulders 158 on both sides of the opening 156.

[0171] exist Figure 8 In the example, the bottom 154 is flat and extends orthogonally to the axis YY′.

[0172] Alternatively, the bottom 154 is not flat. For example, the bottom 154 is rounded, and / or each shoulder 158 has a bevel and forms a non-zero angle with the axis XX′.

[0173] exist Figure 8 In the example, the lateral edge 152 extends along the transverse axis YY′ perpendicular to the bottom 154.

[0174] Alternatively, the lateral edge 152 is inclined relative to the axis YY′ and forms an angle greater than 90° with the bottom 154.

[0175] The groove 150 can also be in other shapes.

[0176] The central component 50 of this alternative design allows for minimizing the volume of the removed sphere while ensuring airflow from pipes 90A and 90B. This also allows for a reduction in the volume that may be used to house the product.

[0177] Figure 9 A spray head 12 according to a second embodiment is shown. Hereinafter, for the sake of brevity, only differences relative to the first embodiment will be mentioned. Furthermore, elements similar to or identical to those in the first embodiment retain their reference numerals, while other elements have different reference numerals.

[0178] The spray head 12 includes an annular ring 14 with a central orifice 16 and a spray nozzle 18 disposed in the central orifice 16.

[0179] In this second embodiment, the nozzle body 40 of the spray nozzle 18 includes a central member 70 and a single support member 72 as defined above.

[0180] The central component 70 can be truncated spherical (as shown in the attached document). Figure 6 (As shown in the alternative), it can also be a spherical shape with a groove (as shown in the attached). Figure 8 As shown in the alternative solutions.

[0181] The annular ring 14 directly integrates the function of the second support member of the first embodiment.

[0182] Therefore, the annular ring 14 includes a support member that forms a base 200 for the nozzle body.

[0183] For example, as shown in the appendix Figure 9 As shown, the base 200 defines a hole 202, which is designed to receive a tenon 76 of the central member 70 of the nozzle body.

[0184] The base 200 further defines at least one blow pipe 204, preferably multiple blow pipes 204, which are configured to blow compressed gas toward the spray nozzle 35. For example, the base 200 has an arrangement of blow pipes 204 similar to that of the first support member 72. For example, the base 200 includes a central pipe and two peripheral pipes arranged on either side of the central pipe, similar to the pipes 90A, 90B of the second support member 74 in the first embodiment.

[0185] The blowing pipe 204 can be opened into the hole 80, or it can be left unopened into the hole.

[0186] The blowing conduit 204 of the base 200 is capable of blowing away any product particles flowing out of the channel 30, for example, in the case of products with high flowability.

[0187] Therefore, the spray nozzle 18 according to the second embodiment has fewer parts, thereby reducing costs. Furthermore, the assembly and disassembly of the nozzle are also made easier.

[0188] Advantageously, according to this second embodiment, the locking system of the spray nozzle 18 locking system, which is intended to interrupt the rotation of the spray nozzle 18, is formed by the indexing system 210, rather than by the stop system / reverse stop system.

[0189] The indexing system 210 includes, for example, at least one spring plunger (not shown) mounted in the base 200 and contains a movable element, preferably a ball bearing, which is designed to be reversibly fitted into a housing 212 located in a tenon 76 of the central member 70.

[0190] "Reversible" means that the movable element of the plunger can be retracted by manually turning the handle 100.

[0191] This type of shell 212 is particularly evident in Figure 8 On the part shown.

[0192] Therefore, the tenon 76 of the central member 70 defines at least one housing 212 designed to receive the balls of the spring plunger. Preferably, the tenon 76 comprises two radially opposing housings 212, thereby allowing the nozzle to be indexed in spray and cleaning configurations.

[0193] Preferably, such as Figure 8 As shown, the tenon 76, which has one or more housings 212, also has an annular groove 214, the depth of which is less than the depth of the housing 212. The annular groove 214 thus allows the correct insertion height of the spray nozzle 18 along the axis XX′ to be indicated, and then the balls of the indexing system 210 are received in the annular groove 214.

[0194] According to another embodiment (not shown in the figure), the central member 70 and the support members 72, 74 are not removable from each other. For example, the nozzle body 40 is formed as a single integral component.

Claims

1. A spray nozzle (18) for spraying a product, such as a paint product, the spray nozzle (18) defining a channel (30) for allowing the product to flow through the spray nozzle (18), the channel (30) extending between an inlet end (32) and an outlet end (34) according to a spraying direction (AA′) and opening to the outside of the spray nozzle (18) through a connecting orifice (33) at the inlet end (32) and a spraying orifice (35) at the outlet end (34) capable of spraying the product, the spray nozzle (18) being pivotable about a longitudinal axis (XX′) of the spray nozzle (18) orthogonal to the spraying direction (AA′). Its features are, The spray nozzle (18) includes a nozzle body (40) defining a through conduit (42) and a spray insert (46) disposed in the through conduit (42), the spray insert (46) defining the spray orifice (35) of the spray nozzle (18). The nozzle body (40) includes a central component (50) that defines the through conduit (42) and the central component has a generally spherical shape with at least one material recess on the outlet end (34) side.

2. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The central component (50) is generally truncated spherical on the outlet end (34) side to define an annular shoulder (52) surrounding the spray insert (46), or, The central component (50) has a generally spherical shape with at least one groove (150) on the side of the outlet end (34), the groove (150) extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis (XX′).

3. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The nozzle body (40) includes a central member (70) forming the central component (50) and at least a first support member (72) that is generally cylindrical. The first support member (72) is preferably removably mounted on the central member (70) and extends from the central member (70) along the longitudinal axis (XX′). In the mounted position, the first support member (72) is fixed to the central member (70) and does not rotate.

4. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The nozzle body (40) also includes a generally cylindrical second support (74) configured to be preferably removably mounted on the central member (70) of the spray nozzle (18), the first support (72) and the second support (74) extending on both sides of the central member (70) according to the longitudinal axis (XX′), and in the mounting configuration, the support (72, 74) and the central member (70) are fixed and do not rotate.

5. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 3, characterized in that, At least one support member, preferably each support member (72, 74), defines at least one blow channel (90A, 90B) which is designed to blow a gas jet toward the spray nozzle (35), the gas jet preferably being an air jet.

6. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support member or each support member (72, 74) defines at least one first blow channel (90A) designed to spray air onto the product jet exiting the spray orifice (35).

7. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support member or each support member (72, 74) defines at least one second blow pipe (90B), preferably two second blow pipes (90B), which are designed to spray airflow onto the spray insert (46).

8. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The central member (70) includes at least one tenon (76) extending from the central member (50) along a longitudinal axis (XX′), and at least one of the support members (72, 74) defines a hole (80) configured to receive the tenon (76).

9. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The spray nozzle includes a handle (100) that can be mounted on or on one of the supports (72, 74), and a user or automation device can rotate the handle (100) to rotate the nozzle body (40).

10. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The annular shoulder (52) has a truncated cone-shaped annular edge (54) that defines the opening (56), and the spraying insert (46) is flush with the truncated cone-shaped annular edge (54).

11. The spray nozzle (18) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The spraying insert (46) is oblong in shape.

12. A spray head (12) for a product coating device (8), said coating device being, for example, a product coating device (8), such as a spray gun, characterized in that, The spray head (12) includes: an annular ring (14) having a central orifice (16); and a spray nozzle (18) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the spray nozzle (18) is removably housed in the central orifice (16), and the spray nozzle (18) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (XX′) between a spray configuration and a cleaning configuration, wherein in the spray configuration the connecting orifice (33) opens into the central orifice (16), and in the cleaning configuration the spray orifice (35) opens into the central orifice (16).

13. The spray head (12) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The annular ring (14) has an upstream face (14B) for connection to the body (10) of the coating device (8) and a downstream face (14A) oriented relative to the upstream face (14B). The annular ring (14) defines at least one blow pipe (24) designed to receive compressed gas and open at a spray orifice (26) into the downstream face (14A). The blow pipe (24) is configured to spray the gas through the spray orifice (26) in the direction of the product jet ejected from the coating orifice (35).

14. A product coating apparatus (8), said coating apparatus being, for example, a product coating apparatus (8), such as a spray gun, characterized in that, The coating device includes a spray head (12) according to claim 12 or 13.

15. A method for unclogging the spray nozzle of a coating device (8) for applying a product according to claim 14, characterized in that, The method includes the following steps: - Provide the coating device (8) according to claim 14; - Switch the spray nozzle (18) to its cleaning configuration; - A draining product is supplied to the spray nozzle (18) through the spray orifice (35), the pressure of which is between 20 bar and 300 bar.

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