Filter module

Abstract

The present invention relates to a filter module for separating particles from contaminated air, comprising a receiving element having an inlet side for the entry of an airflow to be cleaned and an outlet side for the exit of the cleaned airflow, wherein the inlet side and the outlet side are arranged opposite each other on the receiving element, and at least one filter element which is received in the receiving element, wherein the filter element has at least one transverse wall with at least one opening, wherein at least one air guide element is arranged at the opening, which is arranged inclined with respect to a plane of the transverse wall so that the airflow from the inlet side towards the outlet side can be deflected by the air guide element. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing a transverse wall for a filter module.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a filter module for separating particles from contaminated air. The invention further relates to a method for producing a transverse wall for a filter module. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] Filter modules are used for a variety of applications. For example, they can be used in spray booths to capture paint overspray. The filter modules serve to clean the air exhausted from the spray booth. Paint particles that do not adhere to the object being sprayed can be separated by the filter modules. Such filter modules can therefore also be referred to as separators or separator modules.

[0003] Filter modules typically have an inlet side designed for the entry of the air stream to be cleaned. An outlet side is preferably arranged on an opposite side, which serves as the exit for the cleaned air stream.

[0004] For example, several similar filter modules can be arranged next to each other or on top of each other to create a continuous surface, which can be positioned, for example, below or to the side of the object to be sprayed. All inlet sides are arranged on one side of the continuous surface. Preferably, a negative pressure is created behind the filter modules, creating an airflow through the filter modules, flowing from the inlet side toward the outlet side. The airflow guides the air to be cleaned through the filter modules and cleans it, with the particles adhering to the filter modules or being separated on the filter modules.

[0005] Filter modules made of paper stock are known from the prior art. At least two walls are arranged within the filter module, which are arranged transversely to the direction of the incoming airflow. The walls each have openings, whereby the openings in the walls become smaller from the inlet side toward the outlet side and / or can be offset from one another. The walls create chambers within the base body. The airflow to be cleaned is guided in a meandering pattern through the differently arranged openings in the successively arranged walls.

[0006] It is also possible to connect the walls via a stabilizing wall arranged perpendicular to them. Several such cleaning structures can be arranged one behind the other within the hollow body, thus forming the filter module. The air to be cleaned is directed through the openings in the walls and the stabilizing wall in a meandering pattern, alternating between the walls and the stabilizing walls, and through the filter module.

[0007] A disadvantage of this type of filter module is that the particle adhesion within the filter module varies greatly, i.e. is unevenly distributed. This results from the meandering shape of the air flow, whereby the air flow is diverted into openings in different spatial directions after entering the filter module. This pure diversion of the air flow, for example to the left, right, top or bottom within the filter module, results in an abrupt and very strong deceleration, as a result of which the air flow increasingly loses speed. Consequently, most of the particles are separated in a first chamber between a first and a second wall, which the air flow to be cleaned reaches first. Chambers arranged further back are only reached by a few particles.In addition, increased energy consumption is required to maintain the airflow at the required and effective speed in the rear chambers. This reduces the efficiency and service life of each filter module. Often, the filter modules need to be replaced even when the areas further back within the filter module show only very low particle accumulation.

[0008] It is also known from the prior art to individually remove individual cleaning structures arranged one behind the other within the base body. This allows the cleaning structure closest to the inlet side to be replaced.

[0009] During operation in a jump booth, where several identical filter modules are usually arranged next to each other or on top of each other to form a continuous surface, replacing individual cleaning structures in each individual filter module is only possible with considerable time and effort. In particular, to replace a cleaning structure in each individual filter module, each individual hollow body must be opened. This is not possible with filter modules arranged next to each other or on top of each other. Accordingly, the continuous surface of filter modules would first have to be disassembled to make each individual filter module accessible. This results in an enormous amount of time and effort. In practice, replacing individual cleaning elements is therefore hardly possible.Consequently, experience has shown that the filter modules are completely replaced when only the first cleaning element is so dirty that the air flow can no longer pass through this one cleaning element. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Against this background, the present invention is based on the object of providing an improved filter module with an improved service life. In particular, the object of the invention is to provide a filter module with improved separation properties while requiring less energy for operation.

[0011] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a filter module having the features of patent claim 1.

[0012] Accordingly, it is provided: A filter module for separating particles from contaminated air, in particular for separating paint particles from an air stream, with a receiving element which has an inlet side for the inlet of an air stream to be cleaned, and an outlet side for the outlet of the cleaned air stream, wherein the inlet side and the outlet side are arranged opposite one another on the receiving element, at least one filter insert which is received in the receiving element, wherein the filter insert has at least one transverse wall with at least one opening, wherein at least one air guide element is arranged at the opening and is arranged at an incline with respect to a plane of the transverse wall, such that the air stream can be deflected from the inlet side towards the outlet side by the air guide element. The invention further relates to a method for producing a transverse wall for a filter module, wherein the transverse wall and the air guiding element are formed in one piece, wherein the inclination of the air guiding element relative to the transverse wall is formed by a pressing process, wherein in particular by a stiffening adhesive material the air guiding element is immovably fixed at a predetermined angle with respect to the plane of the transverse wall.

[0013] The finding underlying the present invention is that a durable and effective filter module can be formed by a uniform distribution of the particles between the inlet side and the outlet side.

[0014] The idea underlying the present invention is to accelerate the airflow within the filter module to enable balanced adhesion of the particles to all transverse walls within the receiving element while simultaneously saving energy in generating the airflow. This idea is implemented with at least one air guide element, with the airflow being guided, at least in sections, toward the outlet side by the air guide element. A surface of the air guide element oriented at an angle to the flow direction allows the airflow to be guided instead of simply redirected.The air flow can, for example, sweep over the surface of the air guide element, whereby the alignment at an angle to a connecting plane between the inlet side and the outlet side can accelerate the air flow, since the flow behind the opening is virtually constricted, whereby the air flow accelerates according to the Venturi principle.

[0015] Furthermore, this advantageously makes it possible to create an air guide in any direction relative to the plane of the transverse wall, without inserting a longitudinal wall and without connecting adjacent transverse walls. In other words, a flow area behind and / or in front of the opening can be influenced. Because the air guide element is arranged at an angle relative to the plane of the transverse wall, in particular at an angle other than 90° relative to the transverse wall, the air flow can be deflected directly in front of and / or directly after the opening.

[0016] Advantageously, the at least one air guide element is inclined relative to the plane of the transverse wall and relative to a plane angled at 90° thereto. Accordingly, the air guide element runs particularly obliquely and can enable air to be directed in any direction within the filter element. In particular, the air guide element can be inclined at an angle between 20° and 80° relative to the aforementioned planes.

[0017] Advantageously, the air guiding element is designed as a type of wing element that touches or contacts the transverse wall but is not connected to any other element.

[0018] An inclined arrangement of the air guide element in particular enables the air flow to be accelerated in a targeted manner so that a sufficient speed can be achieved within the filter insert for optimized separation behavior. The air guide element can therefore have a free side edge that forms a separation edge for the air flow. Droplets of the separated particles can form at the separation edge. The separation edge can facilitate the dripping behavior of particles separated on it, so that the service life of the filter module can be extended. In particular, separated particles can drip downwards, whereby the filter insert is saturated with particles less quickly. In particular, compared to prior art designs in which the transverse walls are connected to longitudinal walls, this can extend the service life and improve the separation behavior by more than 100%.Such droplet formation is not possible with the known filter modules, as they do not have any free tear-off edges within the filter module.

[0019] A transverse wall is an element that is arranged transversely to the air flow within the receiving element. Because the free air flow through the opening is partially influenced by the air guide element, so that the air flow is deflected from the inlet side towards the outlet side in front of and / or after the opening, an air flow can be created that can be deflected and accelerated as desired. The air is therefore not simply led through openings, but is directed behind or in front of the opening along the air guide element. The air guide element can therefore be understood as a type of guide flap through which the air flow is directed in a targeted manner behind or in front of the opening. In particular, the flow behavior through the opening can be specifically influenced, whereby the air flow can be specifically accelerated.

[0020] An opening is defined as a recess within the transverse wall. The opening can have any shape. In particular, the opening is rectangular or square.

[0021] In addition, such a filter module has a single filter insert that does not need to be replaced over the entire service life of the filter module, whereby all elements of the filter insert can be used until they become unusable, i.e. until they become clogged by separated particles.

[0022] In particular, the separation performance can be improved by more than 100% compared to known filter modules. This can be achieved in particular by the air guide element specifically redirecting and guiding the air flow after it has passed through the opening, so that the air flow within the filter insert is accelerated by the combination of the opening with the at least one air guide element. Therefore, the service life and separation performance can be increased by at least 100% compared to prior art filter modules. In particular, energy that is used in the prior art to generate the air flow can be saved. The energy savings amount to at least 30% compared to prior art filter modules.

[0023] Since the separation performance, in particular, can be improved by more than 100%, wet paints can drip downwards. The filter module can reach a high fill level and become heavy. To prevent the filter module from overflowing, a type of collecting tray or pan can be arranged beneath the filter module or filter insert. This can be made of the same material as the filter module, in particular, of cardboard, preferably with a wet-resistant coating on one side. This can prevent the filter module from overflowing and contamination of the system if the wet paints are collected in the collecting tray or pan.

[0024] Advantageous embodiments and further developments emerge from the further subclaims and from the description with reference to the figures of the drawing.

[0025] According to an advantageous embodiment, two air guiding elements can be arranged on the at least one transverse wall, so that a flow opening is formed which is offset to the opening in the transverse wall, and the air flow can flow through the flow opening. The flow opening is preferably formed between the two air guiding elements, wherein a respective side edge of each air guiding element can preferably form a lateral boundary of the flow opening. Offset means in particular that the flow opening is arranged offset, in particular with respect to a plane of the transverse wall, so that a type of nozzle can be formed through which the air flow is constricted and accelerated. In particular, the flow opening is arranged offset to the transverse wall. Acceleration can take place according to the Venturi principle.The flow opening is preferably located closer to the outlet side than the opening in the transverse wall, so that the air flow is accelerated toward the outlet side. In particular, a type of flat nozzle can be formed. This allows a flow area behind the opening to be influenced without using a longitudinal wall.

[0026] If the air guiding elements are aligned in such a way that the flow opening is closer to the inlet side than the plane of the transverse wall, a type of storage area or receiving area for the particles can be formed, whereby separated particles can accumulate in this area.

[0027] The remaining wall between the openings can also serve to contain the particles, forming a kind of frame element. The wall can be made of a paper material, allowing the openings to be easily punched or cut out.

[0028] According to an advantageous embodiment, the at least one transverse wall can have three openings, with at least one air guide element arranged at each opening. As a result, each opening can be designed to be several times smaller than the area of ​​the transverse wall, allowing the air flow to flow through the transverse wall at different positions. In particular, at least one air guide element can be arranged behind each opening, which deflects the air flow behind the opening toward the outlet side in a desired direction, inclined to the plane of the transverse wall.

[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment, the at least one opening can be slit-shaped, wherein the opening extends almost across the entire width or the entire height of the transverse wall. For example, at least three, in particular three or four, slits can be arranged parallel to one another, with identical air guiding elements being formed on at least two slits. The outermost slits can have different types of air guiding elements than the inner slits or the inner slit, so that an air flow can be directed in a targeted manner and no turbulence occurs in the edge regions of the filter insert. Likewise, all slits can have identical air guiding elements. In a preferred embodiment, the two embodiments just described can be arranged alternately one behind the other to form a filter insert.The air guide elements of adjacent transverse walls are preferably either aligned with each other or pointing away from each other. This allows for targeted air guidance, which features a plurality of storage surfaces and a plurality of nozzles to accelerate the air flow.

[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment, a plurality of transverse walls can be arranged parallel to one another in the receiving element, with the openings being offset from one another when the transverse walls are arranged one behind the other. For example, a transverse wall with three slots can be arranged alternately with a transverse wall with four slots to achieve the offset slots.

[0031] In other words, preferably several transverse walls are arranged one behind the other in such a way that the openings are formed at different positions on the transverse wall. The positions can be arranged next to one another and / or overlap. Thus, the air flow can be decelerated and / or deflected differently at different positions, whereby, in particular, a wave-like and laminar flow can be formed.

[0032] According to an advantageous embodiment, the air guiding elements of adjacent transverse walls can be aligned on opposite sides with respect to the plane of the respective transverse wall, so that the air guiding elements of adjacent transverse walls are either aligned with one another or point away from one another. This allows nozzles to be formed in one transverse wall, and storage surfaces or receiving areas for particles in the following transverse wall. This can be repeated so that nozzles and storage surfaces are formed alternately within the filter insert. The storage surfaces are designed in particular as U-shaped or V-shaped regions, in which the particles can collect. The air can therefore be continuously accelerated, while storage surfaces for the separation of particles are continuously provided.The deposition of the particles occurs primarily because, according to Newton's law, the particles are not deflected in their trajectory while the air is deflected. Deposition can therefore occur in the storage surfaces while the air flows to the next nozzle. Deposition of the particles further reduces the passages, thereby further enhancing the nozzle's function.

[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment, the filter insert can have at least three, in particular three to ten, transverse walls. The transverse walls can, for example, alternate identical openings and identically aligned air guide elements, so that a serpentine air path can be formed.

[0034] Preferably, the transverse walls are arranged at least partially at different distances from one another. In one embodiment, the transverse walls located closer to the inlet side can be arranged at a greater distance from one another than the transverse walls located closer to the outlet side. This ensures that blockage due to adhering particles is also avoided in the area of ​​the inlet side, even if a large number of particles are already adhering to the transverse walls there.

[0035] In a further embodiment, the transverse walls can be designed with alternating larger and smaller spacing. This means that there can be a greater distance, in particular a larger cavity, from the next transverse wall in front of a nozzle than behind the nozzle, so that sufficient air can be sucked in. In particular, the air guiding elements of the previously arranged transverse wall are aligned in the direction of the nozzle in front of the nozzle. This means that air is guided by the air guiding elements within the gap between the two transverse walls. In other words, the larger distances or cavities are partially spanned by the air guiding elements, so that the air can be guided in a desired direction in the larger cavities.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the transverse walls can all be arranged at equal distances from each other. The different filter strengths can be achieved by changing the size and geometry of the openings, as well as the size, geometry, and inclination of the air guide elements.

[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment, the air guiding element can contact the transverse wall with one side edge, and in particular the remaining side edges of the air guiding element can be designed as free edges. For example, the air guiding element can have a rectangular shape. The side edge with which the air guiding element contacts the transverse wall can be a long side edge of the rectangular shape. This makes it possible to form a type of wing that is connected to the transverse wall with one side edge and has no contact with the transverse wall with the remaining three side edges. A separation edge for the passing air can be formed on the free edge, where particles can settle. The free edge enables droplet formation, allowing the particles to drip downwards. This allows the filter module to absorb more particles because open air flow is enabled over a longer period of time.In particular, the side edge with which the air guide element contacts the transverse wall is connected to a side edge of the opening. The air guide element can, for example, be designed as a developed part of the transverse wall.

[0038] The air guide element can, in particular, have an area that is smaller than or equal to the area of ​​the opening. In particular, the air guide element has an area that is smaller than or equal to half the area of ​​the opening. For example, two air guide elements can be arranged on the right and left of the opening, i.e., in particular, on two opposite side edges of the opening. The two opposing air guide elements can be identically shaped, for example, formed integrally with the transverse wall as an angled part of the transverse wall.

[0039] According to an advantageous embodiment, the air guide element can be inclined at an angle of 10° to 80°, in particular 40° to 70°, with respect to the plane of the transverse wall. For example, the air guide element can be inclined at an angle of 30 to 45° with respect to the plane of the transverse wall. If air guide elements are provided on two opposite side edges of the opening, they can have the same inclination, with both air guide elements, in particular, pointing towards the center of the opening or being aligned with the center of the opening. This allows a flow opening to be formed that results from two adjacent side edges of the two air guide elements.

[0040] According to a further development, the air guide element can be formed integrally with the transverse wall. In particular, each air guide element can be formed as an angled part of the transverse wall, resulting in a recess-free transition between the transverse wall and the air guide element. The air guide element can be formed as a type of wing or tab that is inclined with respect to the plane of the opening and the plane of the transverse wall. To enable the air guide element to be angled during production, slots can be provided in the bend plane between the air guide element and the transverse wall. The air guide element can thus be formed from at least part of the material that is removed from the transverse wall to form the opening.

[0041] According to a further development, the air guide element can be rigidly aligned with respect to the transverse wall so that it is not moved by the air flow, wherein, in particular, the at least one transverse wall is formed in two layers. If the transverse wall consists, for example, of two layers, in particular two layers of a paper material, these can be glued together. The two layers can be glued together in such an alignment that the at least one inclined air guide element is formed and fixed in the angled position by the adhesive layer. For this purpose, a mold and a pressing tool can be used, for example.

[0042] According to one embodiment, a funnel-shaped flow region can be formed in one plane by two air guiding elements, wherein the opening is larger than the flow opening. This can be achieved, for example, by arranging an air guiding element on each of two opposite side edges of the opening, wherein in particular the two air guiding elements are aligned in the direction of a central axis of the opening. A type of nozzle can be formed which accelerates the air according to the Venturi principle. For example, a flow opening can be formed on the central axis of the opening. It is also conceivable for the two air guiding elements to be designed differently so that the flow opening is not located on the central axis of the opening. For example, if one air guiding element is less wide than the other, the flow opening can be formed more in the area of ​​the less wide air guiding element.This allows for even more targeted air flow in a desired direction.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the at least one transverse wall can be aligned transversely to a connecting plane between the inlet side and the outlet side. This allows the transverse wall to be aligned transversely to an air flow. The transverse wall is preferably aligned orthogonally to the air flow. In contrast, the air guiding element is preferably aligned at an angle to the connecting plane between the inlet side and the outlet side, and in particular at an angle to the plane of the transverse wall. This makes it possible to generate a flow that is not aligned parallel to a connecting plane between the inlet side and the outlet side. By means of a plurality of openings with air guiding elements arranged thereon, the flow within the filter module can be controlled in a targeted manner. For example, several different wave-shaped, and in particular laminar, flows can be achieved from the inlet side towards the outlet side.

[0044] According to an advantageous embodiment, the transverse walls can be arranged parallel to one another. Thus, all transverse walls can be aligned transversely to the air flow, so that the air flow is deflected in the direction of flow by the at least one air guide element.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, the transverse walls can be connected to one another at at least one side edge via a longitudinal connection, thus forming a continuous filter insert. This allows a modular system to be formed, whereby the filter insert can be inserted into the receiving element as one piece. The longitudinal connection can be pivotally attached to the transverse walls so that the filter insert can be pushed together so that the transverse walls are arranged parallel and touch each other for transport. For example, two longitudinal connections can be arranged on two opposite sides, into which the transverse walls are inserted.

[0046] According to a further development, the transverse walls can extend over the entire length between the inlet side and the outlet side, and / or the at least one longitudinal wall can extend over the entire width of the receiving element, so that only one filter insert spans the interior of the receiving element. Due to the uniform distribution of particles on all transverse walls or all longitudinal walls, replacing individual elements of the filter insert is therefore not necessary to ensure continuous operation.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the inlet side of the receiving element can have at least one opening that is larger than the at least one opening of the transverse wall closest to the inlet side. This allows the entry of the air flow to be cleaned into the receiving element to be optimized.

[0048] In an advantageous embodiment, the receiving element and / or the filter insert can contain a recyclable material and / or the filter module can be designed as a paper filter module. Preferably, the transverse walls and the receiving element are made of cardboard. Such a filter module can be easily disposed of, especially incinerated, even with adhering particles. Furthermore, the manufacturing costs are minimal.

[0049] According to an advantageous embodiment, at least one sensor for measuring the speed of the purified airflow and / or for measuring a resistance value can be arranged at the outlet opening. This can advantageously be used to determine when a filter module needs to be replaced. If, for example, the speed of the purified airflow is below a threshold value, it can be assumed that the filter module is so contaminated that hardly any more air can flow through it.

[0050] According to a further development, a chamber can be arranged on the outlet side within the receiving element, which serves to accommodate a filter element. This allows for the formation of a fine filtration stage that filters out the smallest particles from the air stream.

[0051] According to an advantageous embodiment, the receiving element can be resealable or reopenable, with at least one closure element formed on a side surface of the receiving element. Preferably, the closure element can be completely recessed within the side wall of the receiving element, so that it does not hinder the arrangement of several filter modules on top of one another or next to one another to form a continuous surface.

[0052] According to a further idea, a method for assembling a filter module can be provided. In this case, prior to assembly, a substantially two-dimensional structure without cavities can be present by full-surface contact of the at least one longitudinal connection with the transverse walls. This structure is transformed into a three-dimensional structure with spaced-apart transverse walls during assembly, without the transverse walls or the at least one longitudinal connection being bent.

[0053] Advantageously, the receiving element can also be provided as an essentially two-dimensional structure, constructed similarly to a cardboard box. This allows both elements—the receiving element and the filter insert—to be transported in a space-saving manner. Assembly of the filter module is also time-saving and can be done without prior knowledge.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment of the method for producing the transverse wall, a mold and a pressing tool can be used. The mold can consist of two mold components, between which the transverse wall with the air guiding elements can be arranged. A support surface can be provided in a first mold component, and an inverse support surface can be provided in a second mold component, wherein the support surfaces simulate the shape of the transverse wall with the air guiding elements angled relative to it. By pressing the two mold components together, the transverse wall with the at least one angled air guiding element can be produced. This can be achieved in particular by forming the transverse wall from two layers which can be fixed to one another by means of an adhesive layer. The angled section of the air guiding element can be fixed relative to the transverse wall by the surfaces of the two layers being glued together.

[0055] The above embodiments and further developments can be combined with one another as desired, where appropriate. Further possible embodiments, further developments, and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention not explicitly mentioned above or described below with regard to the exemplary embodiments. In particular, those skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention. TABLE OF CONTENTS OF THE DRAWING

[0056] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic figures of the drawing. In the drawings: Fig. 1 different designs of transverse walls of a filter insert; Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of a transverse wall of a filter insert; Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of a filter module in a schematic representation; Fig. 4 an isometric view of a filter insert; Fig. 5 a flow behavior within a filter module; Fig. 6 a plan view of embodiments of the filter module; Fig. 7 a plan view of embodiments of the filter module; Fig. 8 detailed views of the air guiding elements; Fig. 9 a process step in the manufacture of a transverse wall; Fig. 10 a detailed view of the air guiding elements before completion of the transverse wall; Fig. 11 an embodiment of a filter module in an isometric representation with a detailed view of a closure element.

[0057] The accompanying drawing figures are intended to provide a further understanding of embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the noted advantages will become apparent upon review of the drawings. Elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale relative to one another.

[0058] In the figures of the drawing, identical, functionally identical and acting elements, features and components are provided with the same reference symbols, unless otherwise stated. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0059] Fig. Figure 1 shows different embodiments of transverse walls 7 of a filter insert 6. The transverse walls 7 each have openings 8, with at least one air guide element 9 provided at each opening 8. The openings are slit-shaped, with each opening 8 extending almost over the entire height of the transverse wall 7.

[0060] As in Fig. 1(a), in this embodiment, the transverse wall 7 has three openings 8, wherein two air guide elements 9 are provided in each opening 8. Each of the air guide elements 9 is in contact with the transverse wall 7 by a side edge, so that each air guide element 9 is shaped as a type of wing or as a type of tab. In this embodiment, the respective air guide elements 9 of an opening 8 are aligned with a central axis of the opening 8, so that a flow opening 27 is formed between two free side edges of the air guide elements 9. This is shown in Fig. 2. It would also be conceivable for the two air guide elements 9 to have different widths, so that the flow opening 27 is not located on a central axis of the opening 8. This allows the air flow to be redirected in a further desired direction, forming a type of nozzle.

[0061] The free side edges can form a separation edge for the passing air, allowing particles to settle there. The free side edge enables the separated particles to form droplets, allowing them to drip down into the filter module. This can significantly improve service life, as not all of the separated particles adhere to the side walls until the end of the filter's service life and clog it prematurely. Open airflow is therefore possible for a much longer period than with conventional filters with interconnected transverse and longitudinal walls.

[0062] In the embodiment according to Fig. 1(b), the transverse wall 7 has four openings 8. The two middle openings 8 are identical to the openings 8 in Fig. 1(a). The two outer openings 8 each have only one air guide element 9, which is connected at one side edge to a side edge of the opening 8. If the two transverse walls 7 shown of the Fig. 1(a) and Fig. 1(b) arranged one after the other, a flow can be generated that alternately provides nozzles and storage areas or receiving spaces, as for example in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 shown.

[0063] Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of a transverse wall 7 with openings 8. In contrast to Fig. 1, the transverse wall 7 is shown in detail. This shows that in this embodiment, the air guiding elements 9 have a plurality of slots 31 in a bending plane, in particular in a fold 30, on a side edge of each air guiding element 9. This simplifies the bending of the air guiding element 9 relative to a plane of the transverse wall 7. Furthermore, the transverse wall 7 has recesses 24 on two opposite side edges, which are formed with receptacles 23 for a longitudinal connection 14, as shown in Fig. 4. Furthermore, the flow opening 27 is shown by way of example at an opening 8, wherein the flow opening 27 is formed by two opposite side edges of two adjacent air guiding elements 9 and is arranged offset in the plane to the plane of the transverse wall 7. The flow opening 27 has a smaller area than the opening 8. As a result, a nozzle can be formed which has a funnel-shaped flow region 10, as shown by way of example in Fig. 8(b).

[0064] Fig. 3 shows a filter module 1 with a receiving element 2 and a filter insert 6 with an open cover 29. The openings 8 in the transverse walls 7 are not shown for reasons of clarity. On the inlet side 3, an opening 13 is arranged, which can, for example, correspond to the opening 8 (not shown) of the transverse wall 7 arranged closest to the inlet side 3. Opposite the inlet side 3, an outlet side 5 is arranged on the receiving element 2, which has an opening 28. The opening 28 is preferably formed over almost the entire side surface of the receiving element 2 in order to ensure that the purified air 4b is discharged as quickly as possible.

[0065] A type of collecting tray or pan can be arranged beneath the filter module 1, in particular beneath the receiving element 2, or also within the receiving element 2, in particular beneath the filter insert 6 and / or on a base of the receiving element 2. This tray or pan can be made of the same material as the filter module, in particular of a cardboard material, preferably with a water-resistant coating on one side. This can prevent overflow of the filter module and contamination of the system, especially when wet paint drips downwards.

[0066] Fig. 4 shows an isometric representation of a filter insert 6. To form a three-dimensional structure, the transverse walls 7 are arranged essentially at right angles to one another. At one lateral end of the transverse walls 7, the transverse walls 7 can be connected to one another via longitudinal connections 14. For this purpose, each transverse wall 7 can have receptacles 23 and recesses 24. The three-dimensional structure can be produced by the longitudinal connections 14. The longitudinal connection 14 can, for example, have recesses 22 into which an operator can reach with their fingers. This allows the longitudinal connection 14 to be easily placed. Advantageously, the longitudinal connection 14 also has a fold 25 that extends over the length of the longitudinal connection 14. If an operator now reaches into the recesses 22 with their fingers, the longitudinal connection 14 folds along the fold 25 so that it can be placed more easily.Preferably, the longitudinal connection 14 is designed to be slightly longer than the distance between the two receptacles 23 so that it can be securely clamped between them.

[0067] Fig. 5 shows a flow pattern within a filter module. The transverse walls 7 are each arranged in a mirror image to one another, so that the air guide elements 9 of adjacent transverse walls 7 are either aligned toward one another or point away from one another. Accordingly, the transverse walls 7 are alternately aligned either as shown in position A or as shown in position B. This creates either nozzles or U-shaped or V-shaped receptacles. This redirects the air flow 4 in a serpentine manner, as shown. In particular, the distance, i.e., the cavity 19, from A to B can be greater than the distance from B to A, so that the flow can be optimized.

[0068] When the air flow 4a to be cleaned flows through an opening 8 of the first transverse wall 7 (uppermost transverse wall in the illustration, marked A) through the two air guiding elements 9, the air flow 4a is accelerated according to the Venturi principle. The air containing the particles collides with the next transverse wall 7 (marked B), wherein the transverse wall 7 has a receiving area, in particular a U-shaped or V-shaped area, formed by two air guiding elements 9 with adjacent openings 8. Particles can accumulate in the receiving area and are separated by deflecting the air in accordance with Newton's law. The particles are therefore not deflected in the direction of acceleration and land in the receiving area while the air is deflected. The direction of the particles is shown by the small arrows pointing in the direction of the U-shaped or V-shaped areas.V-shaped recording areas; the direction of the air is indicated by the connected and deflected arrows. The recording areas are shown in . Fig. 5 (b) are indicated by the dashed areas, which is why the flow arrows are partially covered. It should therefore be noted that the flow of the Fig. 5 (b) of Fig. 5 (a). The air guiding elements 9 of the second transverse wall (top transverse wall B) are aligned in the direction of the first transverse wall 7 (top transverse wall A). This accelerates the air back towards the first transverse wall, whereby further particles can be separated from the back of the first transverse wall 7 in a receiving area. Thus, in the dashed areas in Fig. 5 (b) continuously removes particles, causing the air to accelerate further due to the narrowing nozzle. In particular, this can save energy, preferably more than 30% compared to conventional filters, since the open airflow allows the air resistance (differential pressure) to be kept low for a long time.

[0069] In Fig. 5 (c) is detail C from Fig. 5 (a), showing the air flow through the air guiding elements 9 and the deflection of the air by the air guiding elements 9 of the adjacent transverse wall 7. The nozzle shape can be seen here, with the air guiding elements 9 of the first transverse wall 7 (top) forming a flat nozzle in particular. Furthermore, the receiving area through the second transverse wall 7 (bottom) can be seen, with the air being deflected by the air guiding elements 9 of the second transverse wall, namely in the direction of the first transverse wall 7. The air is then redirected again in the direction of the second transverse wall 7, then flows through the openings 8 of the second transverse wall 7 and through the air guiding elements 9 of a third transverse wall (not shown). The principle is then repeated, with the air being accelerated by the air guiding elements 9 of the third transverse wall 7, which form a nozzle shape.

[0070] Fig. Figure 6 shows two plan views and sectional views of two further embodiments. The direction of the air flow 4 is indicated by the arrows. Each of the air flows 4 is designed as a wave-shaped or serpentine flow. Such a flow can be formed in particular by alternately arranging two different embodiments of transverse walls 7 one behind the other. The two embodiments can be arranged as in Fig. 1. If such transverse walls 7 are arranged with intervening cavities 19, the air flow 4 can be guided in a wave-like manner through the openings 8. The air flow can be accelerated by the respective transverse walls 7, in which the air guiding elements 9 form a funnel-shaped flow area. Through the respective subsequent transverse wall 7, a receiving area or storage area for separated particles can be formed by the air guiding elements 9.

[0071] In Fig. 6 shows two embodiments, each having a different number of openings 8 and a different number of transverse walls 7.

[0072] These are examples, although different arrangements are possible.

[0073] In Fig. 6 (a), the receiving element 2 has a chamber 15 on the outlet side 5, in which a filter element 16 is arranged. The filter is designed, in particular, as an integrated fine and / or post-filter. This allows the air 4a to be cleaned to be finely cleaned in a final step.

[0074] Fig. 7(a) and Fig. 7(b) each show a plan view of a further embodiment. In this embodiment, the transverse walls 7 are arranged at different distances from one another (the air guiding elements are not shown). The transverse walls 7 are preferably arranged at a greater distance from one another in the region of the inlet side 3, since in this region most of the particles from the air to be cleaned adhere to the filter insert 6. In the region of the outlet side 5, the transverse walls 7 are arranged closer together. This allows for fine cleaning of the air flow. With such an arrangement, a uniform distribution of the particles over the entire filter insert 6 can be achieved particularly preferably, so that the filter module 1 can be used effectively over a particularly long period of time.

[0075] Each transverse wall of the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 can be used as in Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 be trained.

[0076] Fig. 8 shows the air flow through an opening 8 with two air guide elements 9 in detail. According to Fig. 8(a), the transverse wall 7 is formed in one piece with the two air guide elements 9 and is made from one component. Fig. 8(b), the transverse wall 7 with the two air guiding elements 9 is formed in two layers, wherein the two layers are connected to one another via an adhesive bond or adhesive layer. With both embodiments, a type of frame element 11 can be formed in the plane of the transverse wall 7, which is formed around the openings 8. The air guiding elements 9 are formed at an angle 34 to the plane of the transverse wall 7 or the frame element 11, and are arranged on one side of the transverse wall 7. According to an advantageous embodiment, the angle 34 can be between 10° and 80°, in particular 40° to 70°. For example, the air guiding element 9 can be inclined at an angle 34 of 30 to 45° with respect to the plane of the transverse wall 7. It would also be conceivable for the two air guiding elements 9 to be oriented in two different directions with respect to the plane of the transverse wall 7, in the illustration, one upwards and one downwards.

[0077] Fig. 9 shows a manufacturing method wherein two molded components 33 serve as pressing tools. The shape of the transverse wall 7 is reproduced on one surface of the molded components 33, wherein a second molded component 33 has the inverse surface to a first molded component 33. By pressing, shown in the direction of the arrow, the angled orientation of the air guiding elements 9 with respect to the transverse wall 7 or the frame element 11 can be achieved. This can be achieved in particular by the transverse wall 7 and the air guiding elements 9 being formed in two layers, wherein an adhesive bond is formed on mutually aligned surfaces of the layers. When this adhesive layer hardens, the air guiding elements 9 can be fixed at an angle to the plane of the transverse wall 7.

[0078] In Fig. 10 shows the geometry of the air guide elements 9 with respect to the opening 8 in detail. In the enlarged view, the air guide elements 9 are shown before they are aligned at an angle to the plane of the transverse wall 7. It can be seen here that the air guide elements 9 are formed from a part of the material which is removed from the opening 8 and / or which is attached to the frame element of the transverse wall 7. In order to enable the air guide elements 9 to be angled relative to the plane of the transverse wall 7, i.e. relative to the frame element 11, a plurality of slots 31 can be provided in a bending plane between the air guide elements 9 and the transverse wall 7 or the opening 8. The bending plane is described by the fold 30.To further optimize production, recesses 32 can be provided so that the air guide elements 9 are connected to the transverse wall 7 by only one side edge, and are formed at a distance from the opening 8 or the transverse wall 7 on the three other side edges. This can simplify the angling of the air guide elements 9 relative to the plane of the transverse wall or to the frame element 11.

[0079] Fig. 11 shows an embodiment of a filter module 6 in an isometric view with a detailed view of a closure element 18. The closure elements 18 are arranged on the upper side 20 of the receiving element 2. The upper side 20 has four elements that together form a cover 29. Two closure elements 18 are arranged on each of the elements. Two further elements of the cover 29 each have two slots 27. The slots 27 are arranged offset from one another. Consequently, the closure elements 18 are also arranged offset from one another in the same way.

[0080] In the detailed view in Fig.11(b) shows that the closure element 18 consists of a tab 26 that can engage a slot 27 in another element of the lid 29. The tab 26 is inserted into the slot 27 from above and bent in the direction of the arrow. As a result, the receiving element 2 has a flat upper side 20. The upper side 20 is designed similarly to a packaging carton, having two inner tabs and two outer tabs, which together form a lid 29.

[0081] In this embodiment, the receiving element 2 has four substantially rectangular openings 13 on the side surface forming an inlet side 3. Before use of the filter module 1, these openings can be closed by removable elements to prevent contamination of the filter insert 6. These removable elements can be easily removed manually via access holes or recesses. For this purpose, the shape of the openings 13 is preferably predefined by a perforation. Likewise, the opening 28 on the outlet side 5 can initially be closed by a removable element.

[0082] Although the present invention has been fully described above using preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto but can be modified in many ways.

[0083] For example, the openings 8 can have different configurations. Their shape can deviate from the rectangular or square slot shown. Likewise, the arrangement of the openings can deviate from the illustrated manner. Furthermore, the air guide elements 9 can have different geometric configurations than those shown or be angled differently relative to the plane of the transverse wall 7. List of reference symbols 1 filter module 2 receiving element 3 Entrance side 4 Airflow 5 Exit side 6 filter insert 7 Cross wall 8 Opening of the transverse wall 9 Air guide element 10 Flow area 11 Frame element 12 Interior 13 Opening of the entrance side 14 Longitudinal connection 15 chambers 16 Filter material 17 Side surface 18 Closure element 19 Cavity 20 Top 21 Plate element 22 Recess 23 Recording of the transverse wall 24 Return 25 fold 26 tab 27 Flow opening 28 Opening of the exit side 29 lids 30 fold 31 slot 32 recess 33 molded component 34 angles

Claims

[1] Filter module (1) for separating particles from contaminated air, in particular for separating paint particles from an air stream, with a receiving element (2) having an inlet side (3) for the inlet of an air flow (4a) to be cleaned and an outlet side (5) for the outlet of the cleaned air flow (4b), wherein the inlet side (3) and the outlet side (5) are arranged opposite one another on the receiving element (2), at least one filter insert (6) which is received in the receiving element (2), wherein the filter insert (6) has at least one transverse wall (7) with at least one opening (8), wherein at least one air guiding element (9) is arranged at the opening (8), which is arranged inclined with respect to a plane of the transverse wall (8) so that the air flow (4) can be deflected from the inlet side (3) in the direction of the outlet side (5) by the air guiding element (9). [2] Filter module (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that two air guiding elements (9) are arranged at the opening (8), so that a flow opening (27) is formed which is offset from the opening in the transverse wall (7), and the air flow (4) can flow through the flow opening (27). [3] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one transverse wall (7) has at least three openings (8), wherein at least one air guiding element (9) is arranged at each opening (8), and / or that in particular the at least one opening (8) is slit-shaped, wherein the opening extends almost over a complete width or a complete height of the transverse wall (7). [4] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a plurality of transverse walls (7) are arranged parallel to one another in the receiving element (2), wherein when the transverse walls (7) are arranged one behind the other, the openings (8) are arranged offset from one another. [5] Filter module (1) according to claim 4, characterized by that the air guiding elements (9) of adjacent transverse walls (8) are aligned on opposite sides with respect to the plane of the respective transverse wall (8), so that the air guiding elements (9) of adjacent transverse walls (8) are either aligned with each other or point away from each other. [6] Filter module (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by that the filter insert (6) has at least two, in particular three to ten, transverse walls (7). [7] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the air guiding element (9) contacts the transverse wall (7) with a side edge, and in particular other side edges of the air guiding element (9) are designed as free edges. [8] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the air guiding element (9) is inclined at an angle of 10° to 80°, in particular 40° to 70° with respect to the plane of the transverse wall (7). [9] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the air guiding element (9) is formed in one piece with the transverse wall (7). [10] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the air guiding element (9) is rigidly aligned with respect to the transverse wall (7) so that it is not moved by the air flow (4), wherein in particular the at least one transverse wall (7) is formed in two layers. [11] Filter module (1) according to one of claims 2 to 10, characterized by in that a funnel-shaped flow region (10) is formed in one plane by two air guiding elements (9), wherein the opening (8) is larger than the flow opening (27). [12] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one transverse wall (7) is aligned transversely to a connecting plane between the inlet side (9) and the outlet side (8), and the at least one air guiding element (9) is aligned at an angle between the inlet side (9) and the outlet side (8). [13] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the transverse walls (7) are connected to one another on at least one side edge via a longitudinal connection (14), so that a continuous filter insert (6) is formed, and / or that the at least one transverse wall (7) extends over a complete width of the receiving element (2), so that only one filter insert (6) spans an interior space (12) of the receiving element (2). [14] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the inlet side (3) of the receiving element (2) has at least one opening (13) which is larger than the at least one opening (8) of the transverse wall (7) closest to the inlet side (3). [15] Filter module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the receiving element (2) and / or the filter insert (6) contain a recyclable material. [16] Method for producing a transverse wall for a filter module according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by in that the transverse wall (7) and the air guiding element (9) are formed in one piece, wherein the inclination of the air guiding element (9) relative to the transverse wall (7) is formed by a pressing process, wherein in particular by a stiffening adhesive material the air guiding element (9) is immovably fixed at a predetermined angle (34) with respect to the plane of the transverse wall (7).

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