FILTER MODULE

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a filter module for separating particles from contaminated air. The invention further relates to a method for operating a filter module and a method for assembling a filter module. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] Filter modules are used for various applications. For example, they can be used in spray booths to capture paint mist. 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 to allow the airflow to enter and be cleaned. An outlet side, preferably located on the opposite side, serves to release the cleaned airflow.

[0004] For example, several identical filter modules can be arranged side by side or on top of each other to create a continuous surface that can be positioned, for instance, below or to the side of the object to be sprayed. All inlet sides are located on one side of this continuous surface. Preferably, a negative pressure is created behind the filter modules, generating an airflow through them from the inlet side towards the outlet side. This airflow draws the air to be cleaned through the filter modules, where the particles adhere to or are deposited within the filter modules.

[0005] The publication EP 1 492 609 B1 describes a filter module in the form of a hollow body made of paper. At least two walls are arranged within the filter module, positioned transversely to the direction of the incoming airflow. Each wall has openings, with the openings decreasing in size from the inlet side towards the outlet side and / or being offset from one another. These 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 walls, which are positioned one behind the other. At least one chamber can be opened via a handle, allowing, for example, the insertion of a filling material.

[0006] Furthermore, a filter module is known from EP 3 167 948 A1, which also consists of a hollow body in which different cleaning structures can be inserted. As in EP 1 492 609 B1, the cleaning structure consists of walls with openings, the walls being connected to each other via a stabilizing wall oriented transversely to them. Several such cleaning structures can be arranged one behind the other within the hollow body to form the filter module. Through the openings in the walls and in the stabilizing wall, the air to be cleaned is guided in a meandering pattern, alternately through the walls and through the stabilizing walls within the filter module. The cleaning structures arranged one behind the other can be removed individually, so that cleaning structures with varying levels of soiling can be replaced at different intervals.The cleaning structures can be folded together before assembly into the filter module and must be unfolded for installation.

[0007] A disadvantage of such filter modules is that, due to the redirection of the airflow in different directions, particle adhesion within the module varies considerably, meaning it is very unevenly distributed. This results from the meandering airflow path, which, upon entering the module, redirects the airflow by approximately 90° in every possible direction. This abrupt redirection of the airflow, for example, to the left, right, up, or down within the filter module, causes a sudden and significant deceleration. Consequently, the first chamber, located between the first and second walls, which the airflow to be cleaned first reaches, captures the majority of the particles. Chambers located further back are only reached by a few particles.This reduces the efficiency and lifespan of each filter module, as they need to be replaced even when areas further back within the filter module only show very low particle accumulation.

[0008] In EP 3 167 948 A1, this is solved by allowing individual cleaning structures, arranged one behind the other within the base body, to be removed individually. This allows the cleaning structure closest to the inlet side to be replaced.

[0009] GB 2140 707 A discloses a gas filter with an elongated, hollow element of rectangular cross-section, which has openings in its opposing walls through which the gas to be filtered can flow. The element can be folded essentially flat for transport and storage and can be returned to its rectangular shape, if required, by a hinge-like movement of its corners. Furthermore, the filter is designed such that the gas flow is redirected within the filter during operation.

[0010] CN 111 821 793 A provides a method for improving the filter performance of a dry spray booth by reducing the agglomeration and clogging of powder and paint, wherein the dry spray booth is used to filter paint particles generated in the spray booth.

[0011] During operation in a jump simulator, where several identical filter modules are typically arranged side-by-side or stacked to form a continuous surface, replacing individual cleaning elements from each module is extremely time-consuming. Specifically, replacing a cleaning element from each module requires opening each individual hollow section. This is impossible with modules arranged side-by-side or stacked on top of each other. Therefore, the entire continuous surface of filter modules would first have to be disassembled to access each individual module. This results in an enormous amount of time. In practice, replacing individual cleaning elements is thus virtually impossible.Consequently, experience shows that the filter modules are completely replaced when only the first cleaning element is so dirty that the airflow can no longer pass through it.

[0012] Another disadvantage is the time lost during the assembly of the filter modules, as the walls or individual cleaning elements have to be inserted into the hollow body one by one. Furthermore, unfolding the cleaning elements into a three-dimensional unit is also time-consuming and requires expertise, and the three-dimensional element is unstable due to the previously folded walls. Therefore, the cleaning element must be reinforced or secured within the hollow body. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Against this background, the present invention aims to provide an improved filter module.

[0014] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a filter module with the features of claim 1, by a method for operating a filter module with the features of claim 16 and / or by a method for assembling a filter module with the features of claim 17. Accordingly, the following is planned:

[0015] A filter module for separating particles from contaminated air, in particular for separating paint particles from an airflow, comprising a receiving element having an inlet side for the inlet of an airflow to be cleaned and an outlet side for the outlet of the cleaned airflow, wherein the inlet side and the outlet side are arranged opposite each other on the receiving element, a three-dimensional filter insert which is received in the receiving element, wherein the filter insert has at least two transverse walls which are arranged approximately parallel to each other, each transverse wall having at least two openings, and the openings of adjacent transverse walls are offset vertically and overlapping vertically, so that the airflow from the inlet side towards the outlet side can be deflected through the openings to different heights.A wave-like airflow can be generated from the inlet to the outlet, causing particles from the airflow to be cleaned to adhere evenly to the filter element. A longitudinal wall is arranged between two openings of a transverse wall, fixing the transverse walls at a distance and preventing an airflow parallel to the transverse walls. In this way, two identical but separate airflows can be formed within the filter module. The surface of the longitudinal wall can also serve to separate particles. The longitudinal wall can be connected to the transverse walls by a plug connection. In particular, the longitudinal wall and / or the transverse walls have slots so that the longitudinal wall can be inserted into the transverse walls.

[0016] A method for operating a filter module, particularly in a paint mist extraction system, wherein the airflow from the inlet side towards the outlet side is merely deflected through the openings of the transverse walls to different heights within the filter insert, resulting in a wave-like flow and preventing deflection of the flow perpendicular to the different heights.

[0017] A method for assembling a filter module, comprising the steps of: erecting the transverse walls, which are nested together with at least one longitudinal wall and form the filter insert, so that a three-dimensional structure with cavities is created from an approximately two-dimensional structure, which is stable in itself; inserting the filter insert into the receiving element, in particular into an open top of the receiving element; closing the receiving element with a cover, so that the filter insert can be fixed immovably in the receiving element.

[0018] The underlying insight of 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.

[0019] The idea underlying the present invention is to not abruptly slow down or redirect the airflow, but instead to form a wave-like, in particular laminar, flow between the inlet side and the outlet side in order to enable a balanced adhesion of the particles to all transverse walls within the receiving element.

[0020] The wave-like flow is preferably laminar between the inlet and outlet sides. This helps to avoid turbulence.

[0021] Advantageously, particles from the airflow to be cleaned are separated on and / or between the transverse walls. This occurs particularly through a centrifugal force resulting from the airflow, whereby the particles are heavier than the elements in the air and sink due to inertial forces caused by gravity, i.e., especially downwards. This preferably allows for a uniform distribution of the particles within the filter element.

[0022] Furthermore, such a filter module has a single filter insert that does not need to be replaced over the entire lifespan of the filter module, whereby all elements of the filter insert can be used until they become unusable, i.e., until they are clogged by separated particles.

[0023] Furthermore, this method allows for the simple and time-saving assembly of a three-dimensional filter insert that is inherently stable. This eliminates the need to fix or stiffen the filter insert within the mounting element, thus saving further time. The filter insert's stability is ensured by its rigid transverse and longitudinal walls, which are never clicked together during assembly.

[0024] Overall, a forced airflow can be achieved with a low initial pressure difference of < 20 Pa. The time required to set up the filter module is preferably less than 30 seconds and is therefore very short compared to known filter modules. The wave-like, and especially laminar, airflow almost completely prevents cake formation at the inlet. This results in a more efficient separation process overall.

[0025] A transverse wall is defined as an element arranged perpendicular to the airflow within the receiving element. The vertically offset and / or vertically overlapping openings create an airflow that is only slightly deflected by the openings of adjacent transverse walls from the inlet opening towards the outlet opening, resulting in different heights within the filter element. Preferably, the adjacent openings are oriented relative to each other to allow for a continuous deflection of the airflow. This avoids sudden deflections, particularly meandering ones, i.e., at an angle of approximately 90° to the flow direction. An optimal position and / or size of the openings can be determined, for example, using artificial intelligence.

[0026] An opening is understood to be a recess within the transverse wall, particularly also within the longitudinal wall. The opening can have any shape. In particular, the opening is rectangular or square. Preferably, the opening has rounded corners rather than sharp ones. This optimizes the separation of particles from the airflow to be cleaned. The remaining wall between the openings serves to collect the particles. Sufficient wall space should remain between the openings to form a collection surface for the particles. Thus, transverse walls with differently sized remaining wall sections can be formed between, for example, two openings, each formed in a transverse wall.If these differently designed transverse walls are arranged one behind the other, an airflow can be created that is deflected to different heights by the differently sized remaining wall sections.

[0027] Advantageous designs and further developments result from the further sub-claims as well as from the description with reference to the figures in the drawing.

[0028] According to an advantageous embodiment, the filter element can have at least three, and in particular three to ten, transverse walls, wherein the openings of adjacent transverse walls are arranged vertically offset and / or vertically overlapping. Advantageously, the offset arrangement of the openings allows the flow to be deflected in a controlled and, in particular, continuous manner. This prevents an abrupt deceleration of the flow velocity.

[0029] Preferably, the transverse walls are arranged at least partially at different distances from each other. The transverse walls located closer to the inlet side are preferably arranged at a greater distance from each other than the transverse walls located closer to the outlet side. This ensures that blockage by adhering particles is avoided even in the inlet area, if a large number of particles are already adhering to the transverse walls there.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the longitudinal wall can have at least one opening that is smaller than the smallest opening of the transverse walls, wherein the ratio of an opening of the transverse walls to the opening of the longitudinal wall is, in particular, 2:1.5 or greater, such that pressure equalization within the cavities formed between the transverse and longitudinal walls is possible through the opening. The ratio refers, in particular, to the cross-sectional size of the opening. In this way, the flow is not diverted by the opening of the at least one longitudinal wall. Rather, the opening in the longitudinal wall serves to equalize the pressure within the cavities formed between the transverse and longitudinal walls within the filter element.

[0031] According to an advantageous embodiment, at least two, and in particular three to five, longitudinal walls can be included, arranged approximately parallel to each other, with each transverse wall having at least one opening in a region between the longitudinal walls. Advantageously, a filter insert with a stable three-dimensional structure can be formed in this way.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, adjacent longitudinal walls can each have at least one opening that is smaller than the smallest opening of the transverse walls, wherein the ratio of an opening of the transverse walls to the opening of the longitudinal walls is particularly 2:1.5 or greater, and the openings of the longitudinal walls have identical cross-sections and / or are each arranged in the same position with respect to adjacent longitudinal walls. In particular, all openings of the longitudinal walls are individually smaller than any opening of the transverse walls. This effectively prevents crossflow, since the openings of the longitudinal walls, arranged at the same height, only equalize the pressure but do not deflect the airflow.

[0033] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the transverse walls can be arranged not in the area of ​​at least one opening of the longitudinal walls, and in particular not in the area of ​​all openings of the longitudinal walls. This ensures that the airflow is directed specifically through the openings in the transverse walls.

[0034] According to an advantageous embodiment, the transverse walls and the at least one longitudinal wall can each have at least one slot, so that the transverse walls and the at least one longitudinal wall can be detachably inserted into one another. This allows a three-dimensional structure to be formed that can be easily and quickly folded or unfolded. Gluing, block gluing, or folding of the individual components is not necessary, which greatly simplifies the manufacturing process.

[0035] According to further training, the transverse walls can extend over the entire length between the inlet and outlet sides, and / or at least one longitudinal wall can extend over the entire width of the receiving element, so that only one filter element spans the interior of the receiving element. Due to the uniform distribution of particles across all transverse walls and / or all longitudinal walls, replacing individual elements of the filter element is therefore unnecessary to ensure continuous operation.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the inlet side of the receiving element can have at least one opening that corresponds to the at least one opening in the transverse wall nearest the inlet side, wherein, in particular, the at least one longitudinal wall does not intersect the at least one opening on the inlet side. This optimizes the entry of the airflow to be cleaned into the receiving element. Advantageously, this prevents the airflow from being deflected or slowed down by the longitudinal wall.

[0037] 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, and / or at least one sensor for measuring the velocity of the purified airflow and / or for measuring a resistance value can be arranged at the outlet. Preferably, the entire filter insert is made of cardboard. Advantageously, the receiving element is also made entirely of cardboard. Such a filter module can be easily disposed of, in particular by incineration, even with adhering particles. Furthermore, the manufacturing costs are minimal. Advantageously, this allows for the determination of when a filter module needs to be replaced. If, for example, the velocity of the purified airflow falls below a threshold value, it can be assumed that the filter module is so contaminated that hardly any air can flow through it.

[0038] According to a further development, a chamber can be arranged on the outlet side within the intake element, which serves to hold a filter material. In this way, a fine filtration stage can be created that filters out the smallest particles from the airflow.

[0039] According to an advantageous embodiment, the receiving element can be resealable or re-openable, with at least one locking element formed on a side surface of the receiving element. Preferably, the locking element can be completely recessed within the side wall of the receiving element, so that it does not impede the arrangement of several filter modules on top of or next to each other to form a continuous surface.

[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method for assembling a filter module, prior to setup, a substantially two-dimensional structure without cavities can be formed by fully contacting the at least one longitudinal wall with the transverse walls, which is then transformed into a three-dimensional structure with rectangular or square cavities by setup, without bending the transverse walls or the at least one longitudinal wall.

[0041] The filter element can also be advantageously designed as a largely two-dimensional structure, similar to a cardboard box. This allows both elements—the filter element and the filter insert—to be transported in a space-saving manner. Furthermore, assembling the filter module is quick and requires no prior knowledge.

[0042] The above embodiments and further developments can be combined with one another as appropriate. Further possible embodiments, further developments, and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention described previously or subsequently with regard to the exemplary embodiments, even if not explicitly mentioned. In particular, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention. CONTENT OF THE DRAWING

[0043] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic figures of the drawing. These figures show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of transverse walls of a filter element arranged one behind the other; Fig. 2 the transverse walls with openings made of Fig. 1 , arranged side by side; Fig. 3 side by side transverse walls with openings in a further embodiment; Fig. 4 a filter module with a receiving element and a filter insert with an open lid; Fig. 5 a further embodiment of a filter module; Fig. 6 a further embodiment of a filter module; Fig. 7 a top view of the embodiment made of Fig. 5 Fig. 8 a top view of another embodiment; Fig. 9 transverse walls with differently arranged openings; Fig. 10 an isometric view of a filter insert; Fig. 11 a side view of the filter assembly made of Fig. 10 in a folded state; Fig. 12 Openings of a longitudinal wall compared with the openings of a transverse wall; Fig. 13 An embodiment of a transverse wall with slots; Fig. 14 An embodiment of a longitudinal wall with slots; Fig. 15 Another embodiment of a transverse wall; Fig. 16 An embodiment of a filter module in an isometric view with a detailed view of a closure element.

[0044] The accompanying figures are intended to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain the principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the advantages mentioned will become apparent with reference to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale.

[0045] In the figures of the drawing, identical, functionally equivalent and similarly acting elements, features and components - unless otherwise stated - are each provided with the same reference symbols. DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF EXECUTION

[0046] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of transverse walls 7 of a filter element 6 arranged one behind the other. Each transverse wall 7 has an opening 8, with adjacent openings 8 being offset vertically and / or overlapping vertically from adjacent transverse walls 7. This deflects an airflow 4, originating from an inlet side 3 towards an outlet side 5, through the openings 4 at different heights, simultaneously creating a wave-like, in particular laminar, airflow that exhibits no turbulence. The opening 8 of the transverse wall 7 on the left side can also represent an opening 13 of the inlet side 3 of a receiving element 2, with the airflow 4a to be cleaned initially flowing through the opening 13. The cleaned airflow 4b exits on the right side of the illustration.A continuous airflow is generated in the areas between all transverse walls 7, whereby the arrangement of the openings 8 prevents the airflow 4' from deflecting parallel to the transverse walls 7. Particles from the air to be cleaned can therefore adhere evenly to all transverse walls 7. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the size of the openings 8 does not decrease continuously from the inlet side 3 towards the outlet side 5, so as not to excessively slow down the airflow 4 within the filter element.

[0047] Fig. 2 shows the transverse walls 7 with openings 8 from Fig. 1 For comparison, these are arranged side by side. It can be seen that the openings 8 are offset with respect to a horizontal axis H. The openings 8 of different transverse walls 7 can, for example, have openings 8 with identical dimensions, but these are offset with respect to the horizontal axis H. This allows the air to be deflected at different heights.

[0048] Fig. 3 Figure 1 shows adjacent transverse walls 7 with openings 8 in a further embodiment. In contrast to the illustration according to Figure 2. Fig. 2 Each transverse wall 7 has two openings 8. The air to be cleaned can thus flow through both openings 8 in parallel, with respect to the upper and the lower opening 8 an airflow 4 comparable to Fig. 1 is generated.

[0049] Fig. 4 (a) Figure 1 shows a filter module 1 with a receiving element 2 and a filter insert 6 with an open lid 29. The openings 8 in the transverse walls 7 are not shown for clarity. In this embodiment, the filter module 1 has two transverse walls 7, each extending across the entire width of the receiving element 2.

[0050] An opening 13 is arranged at the inlet side 3, which can, for example, correspond to the opening 8 (not shown) of the transverse wall 7 that is located 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 preferably extends almost over the entire side surface of the receiving element 2 in order to ensure the fastest possible discharge of the purified air 4b. At the inlet side 3 of the embodiment shown Fig. 4 (b) Two openings 13 are arranged. The transverse wall, which is located closest to the entrance side 3, can also have two adjacent openings 8 (not shown).

[0051] Fig. 5 Figure 1 shows another embodiment of a filter module 1 with a longitudinal wall 9. The longitudinal wall 9 fixes the transverse walls 7 at a distance. Furthermore, an airflow 4', shown in Figure 1, can be directed into the filter module. Fig. 1 , are further prevented. The transverse wall 9 is in contact with the receiving element 2 in an area where the receiving element has no opening. This allows the airflow 4 to be optimally guided through a side surface 17 of the receiving element at the inlet side 3 to the filter insert 6. The opening at the outlet side 5 is not shown in this illustration.

[0052] Fig. 6 shows a top view of the embodiment made of Fig. 5 In this embodiment, the filter insert 6 forms a total of six cavities 19, with three cavities 19 arranged one behind the other. This allows two airflows 4 to be generated, which are separated from each other by a longitudinal wall 9 in the middle of the receiving element 2. Each transverse wall 7 can have openings 8 in the area of ​​each cavity 19, which, for example, according to Fig. 1 bis 3 are trained.

[0053] Fig. 7 Figure 1 shows two top views of two further embodiments. The direction of the airflow 4 is indicated by the arrows. Fig. 7 (a) The receiving element 2 has a chamber 15 on the outlet side 5, in which a filter material 16 is arranged. This allows the air 4a to be purified to a very fine degree in a final step. Fig. 7 (b) The filter insert 6 has three longitudinal walls 9, so that a total of four airflows 4 are formed from the inlet side 3 towards the outlet side 5, which run essentially parallel to each other. Each of the airflows 4 is a wave-like, in particular laminar, flow, without any meandering diversion to adjacent airflows, i.e., parallel to the transverse walls 7, and therefore, in the illustration, no deflection of the airflow to the left or to the right.

[0054] Fig. 8 (a) und 8 (b) Each figure shows a top view of a further embodiment. In this embodiment, the transverse walls 7 are arranged at different distances from one another. Preferably, the transverse walls 7 are arranged with a greater distance between them in the area of ​​the inlet side 3, since most of the particles from the air to be cleaned adhere to the filter element 6 in this area. In the area of ​​the outlet side 5, the transverse walls 7 are arranged closer together. This allows for finer cleaning of the airflow. With such an arrangement, a uniform distribution of the particles over the entire filter element 6 can be achieved particularly preferably, so that the filter module 1 can be used effectively for a particularly long period of time.

[0055] Fig. 9 Figure 1 shows transverse walls 7 with differently arranged openings 8. Within a receiving element 2, transverse walls 7 with such openings are preferably arranged in the sequence starting with the design according to Figure 2. Fig. 9 (a) bis Fig. 9 (e) Arranged one behind the other. The transverse wall 7 according to Fig. 9 (a) The receiving element 2 can form an entry side 3, wherein the openings 8 can also represent the openings 13 on the entry side. Preferably, the transverse wall 7 is formed according to Fig. 9 (a) The transverse walls 7 are located closest to the entrance side 3. Therefore, the transverse walls 7 are arranged according to... Fig. 9 (e) The transverse walls 7 are arranged closest to the exit side 5. Fig. 9 (b) bis 9 (d) are arranged one after the other, and can, for example, have different distances between them, as in Fig. 8 The transverse walls 7 are preferably arranged as shown. Fig. 7 8 such openings.

[0056] Fig. 10 Figure 1 shows an isometric representation of a filter insert 6. To form a three-dimensional structure, the transverse walls 7 and the longitudinal walls 9 are arranged essentially at right angles to each other. The transverse walls 7 can be inserted into the longitudinal walls 9, or vice versa, with both walls having slots 11. These slots are, for example, in Fig. 13 oder Fig. 14 The cross walls 7 can be connected to each other at one lateral end via a plate element 21. For this purpose, each cross wall 7 can have recesses 23 and setbacks 24, as shown in the diagram. Fig. 15 The three-dimensional structure can be further reinforced by the plate element 21. The plate element 21 can, for example, have recesses 22 into which an operator can insert their fingers. This allows the plate element 21 to be easily removed. Advantageously, the plate element 21 also has a fold 25 that extends along its length. When an operator inserts their fingers into the recesses 22, the plate element 21 folds along the fold 25, making it easier to remove. Preferably, the plate element is slightly longer than the distance between the two receptacles 23, see [reference]. Fig. 15 , designed so that it can be securely clamped in between. The plate element can, for example, run along the recess 24 and rest against it, which also has a kink at the level of the fold 25.

[0057] Fig. 11 shows a side view of filter approach 6 from Fig. 10 in a folded state. It can be seen that the transverse walls 7 are tilted relative to the longitudinal walls 9 in order to transform a two-dimensional structure according to Fig. 11 a three-dimensional structure according to Fig. 10 To achieve this, when the filter insert 6 is set up into a three-dimensional structure with rectangular or square cavities 19, the transverse walls 7 and the longitudinal walls 9 are therefore not bent. Overall, the filter insert 6 thus exhibits high stability. Furthermore, the folded filter insert can be easily transported.

[0058] Fig. 12 (a) The figure shows openings 10 in a longitudinal wall 9 compared to the openings 8 in a transverse wall 7. Each opening 10 in the longitudinal wall 9 is smaller than each opening 8 in the transverse wall 7, which is shown for comparison in Fig. 12 (b) The representation corresponds to the one shown. Fig. 9 (e) Since the openings 10 in the longitudinal walls 9 are comparatively small, a wave-like, especially laminar, flow 4 from the inlet side towards the outlet side can be ensured without resulting in a meandering course parallel to the transverse walls 7.

[0059] Fig. 13 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a transverse wall 7 with slots 11. In this embodiment, a slot 11 is arranged between each of two adjacent openings 8, into which a longitudinal wall 9 can engage. Therefore, in this embodiment, the transverse wall 7 has slots 11 at its upper and lower edges, with each pair of slots 11 lying in the same plane or on the same line. The slots 11 are preferably of the same length. In particular, the slots 11 can each extend over 0.25 to 0.75 times the height of the transverse wall 7. Advantageously, the total length of both slots 11 lying on the same line is half the height of the transverse wall 7. Especially at high flow velocities, the transverse walls 7 are particularly stable due to slots 11 extending over half the height of the transverse walls 7.The longitudinal walls 9 to be inserted into the slots 11 therefore preferably have slots 11 corresponding to the slots 11. These are, for example, in . Fig. 14 depicted.

[0060] Fig. 14 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a longitudinal wall 9 with slots 11. In this embodiment, the longitudinal wall 9 is formed in two parts, such that the upper part 9' is placed from above onto the transverse wall. Fig. 13 , and the lower part from below onto the transverse wall after Fig. 13 The slots 11 are preferably configured to correspond to the slots 11 of the transverse walls 7, so that all slots 11 enable a plug-in connection between the transverse walls 7 and the longitudinal walls 9. In particular, the slots 11 of the longitudinal walls 9 each extend over 0.25 of the height of the longitudinal wall, and more specifically over a length of 0.2 to 0.3 of the height of the longitudinal wall 9.

[0061] In a further embodiment not shown, the two partial elements of the two-part longitudinal wall 9, shown in Fig. 14 , be connected to each other. This can be achieved in particular via clamping strips, each of which connects a side edge of an upper sub-element to a side edge of a lower sub-element. In Fig. 14 A clamping strip could therefore be positioned on both the left and right side edges. Advantageously, the clamping strips allow for further control of the airflow.

[0062] Fig. 15 Figure 1 shows another embodiment of a transverse wall 7. The transverse wall has recesses 23 and projections 24 for receiving the plate element 21, shown in Figure 2. Fig. 10 , are trained. For example, are transverse walls trained according to Fig. 9 (a) bis 9 (e) When used, each transverse wall can have such indentations 23 and recesses 24.

[0063] Fig. 16 Figure 1 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 surface 20 of the receiving element 2. The upper surface 20 has four elements which together form a cover 29. Two closure elements 18 are arranged on each of two of the elements. Two further elements of the cover 29 each have two slots 27. The slots 27 are arranged offset from each other. Consequently, the closure elements 18 are also arranged offset from each other in the same manner.

[0064] In the detailed view in Fig. 16 (b)It can be seen that the closure element 18 consists of a tab 26 that can engage in 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. This gives the receiving element 2 a flat top surface 20. The top surface 20 is designed similarly to a cardboard box, having two inner tabs and two outer tabs that together form a lid 29.

[0065] In this embodiment, the receiving element 2 has four substantially rectangular openings 13 on the side surface that forms an inlet side 3. Before using the filter module 1, these openings can be closed by removable elements to prevent contamination of the filter element 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 pre-defined by perforation. Similarly, the opening 28 on the outlet side 5 can initially be closed by a removable element.

[0066] Although the present invention has been fully described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto, but can be modified in many ways.

[0067] For example, openings 8, 10, and 13 can have different designs. Their shape may deviate from the rectangular or square shapes shown. Likewise, the arrangement of the openings may differ from the depicted arrangement. Reference symbol list

[0068] 1 Filter module 2 Mounting element 3 Inlet side 4 Airflow 5 Outlet side 6 Filter insert 7 Transverse wall 8 Transverse wall opening 9 Longitudinal wall 10 Longitudinal wall opening 11 Slot 12 Interior 13 Inlet side opening 14 Sensor 15 Chamber 16 Filter material 17 Side surface 18 Closure element 19 Cavity 20 Top 21 Plate element 22 Recess 23 Transverse wall mounting 24 Recess 25 Fold 26 Tab 27 Slot 28 Outlet side opening 29 Cover Horizontal axis

Claims

1. Filter module (1) for separating particles from contaminated air, in particular for separating paint particles from an airflow, comprising a receiving element (2) which has an inlet side (3) for admitting an airflow (4a) to be cleaned and an outlet side (5) for discharging the cleaned airflow (4b), the inlet side (3) and the outlet side (5) being arranged opposite one another on the receiving element (2), and a three-dimensional filter insert (6) which is received in the receiving element (2), wherein the filter insert (6) has at least two transverse walls (7) which are arranged approximately mutually parallel, each transverse wall (7) having at least two openings (8), and the openings (8) in adjacent transverse walls (7) being arranged offset in height and overlapping in height, in such a way that the airflow (4) from the inlet side (3) towards the outlet side (5) can be deflected into different vertical positions by the openings (4), it being possible to form a wave-like airflow from the inlet side (3) to the outlet side (5), in such a way that particles from the airflow (4a) to be cleaned adhere in an even distribution in the filter insert (6), wherein a longitudinal wall (9) is arranged between two openings (8) in a transverse wall (7) and fixes the transverse walls (7) at a distance and prevents an airflow (4') parallel to the transverse walls (7).

2. Filter module (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the filter element (6) has at least three, in particular three to ten, transverse walls (7), the openings (8) in adjacent transverse walls (7) being arranged offset in height and / or overlapping in height.

3. Filter module (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the longitudinal wall (9) has at least one opening (10) which is smaller than the smallest opening (8) in the transverse walls (7), the ratio of an opening (8) in the transverse walls (7) to the opening (10) in the longitudinal wall (9) in particular being 2:1.5 or more, in such a way that pressure compensation, within the cavities formed between the transverse walls (7) and longitudinal walls (9), can be implemented via the opening (10).

4. Filter module (1) according to claim 1, claim 2 or claim 3, characterised in that at least two, in particular three to five, longitudinal walls (9) are included, which are arranged approximately mutually parallel, each transverse wall (7) having at least one opening (8) in a region between the longitudinal walls (9).

5. Filter module (1) according to claim 4, characterised in that adjacent longitudinal walls (9) each have at least one opening (10) which is smaller than the smallest opening (8) in the transverse walls (9), the ratio of an opening (8) in the transverse walls (7) to an opening (10) in the longitudinal walls (9) in particular being 2:1.5 or more, and the openings (10) in the longitudinal walls (9) having identical cross-sections and / or each being arranged in the same position with respect to adjacent longitudinal walls (9).

6. Filter module (1) according to claim 5, characterised in that the transverse walls (7) are not located in the region of the at least one opening (10) in the longitudinal walls (9), in particular not in the region of any openings (10) in the longitudinal walls (9).

7. Filter module (1) according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the transverse walls (7) and the at least one longitudinal wall (9) each have at least one slot (11), in such a way that the transverse walls (7) and the at least one longitudinal wall (9) can be releasably plugged together.

8. Filter module (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the transverse walls (7) extend over an entire length between the inlet side (3) and the outlet side (5), and / or the at least one longitudinal wall (9) extends over an entire width of the receiving element (2), in such a way that just one filter insert (6) spans an interior space (12) of the receiving element (2).

9. Filter module (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the inlet side (3) of the receiving element (2) has at least one opening (13) which corresponds to the at least one opening (8) in the transverse wall (7) closest to the inlet side (3), the at least one longitudinal wall (9) in particular not intersecting the at least one opening (13) on the inlet side (3).

10. Filter module (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the receiving element (2) and / or the filter insert (6) contain a recyclable material, and / or the filter module is configured as a paper filter module, and / or in that at least one sensor (14) for measuring the velocity of the purified airflow (4b) and / or for measuring a resistance value is arranged on the outlet side (5).

11. Filter module (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that a chamber (15) for accommodating a filter material (16) is arranged on the outlet side (5) within the receiving element (2).

12. Filter module (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the receiving element (2) is resealable or re-openable, at least one closure element (18) being formed on a side face (17) of the receiving element (2).

13. Method for operating a filter module (1) according to any of the preceding claims, in particular in a paint mist extraction system, wherein the airflow (4) from the inlet side (3) towards the outlet side (5) is deflected merely to different vertical positions within the filter insert (6) by the openings (7) in the transverse walls (8), in such a way that a wave-shaped flow arises and deflection of the flow transverse to the different vertical positions is prevented.

14. Method for assembling a filter module (1) according to any of preceding claims 1 to 12, comprising the steps of: putting up the transverse walls (7), which are plugged together with the at least one longitudinal wall (9) and form the filter insert (6), in such a way that an approximately two-dimensional structure results in an intrinsically stable three-dimensional structure with cavities (19), sliding the filter insert (6) into the receiving element (2), in particular into an open upper face (20) of the receiving element (2), closing the receiving element (2) with a lid (29) in such a way that the filter insert (5) can be fixed undisplaceably in the receiving element (2).

15. Method according to claim 14, characterised in that, before they are put up, full-area contact of the at least one longitudinal wall (9) with the transverse walls (7) results in a substantially two-dimensional structure without cavities (19), which, by being put up, is transformed into a three-dimensional structure with rectangular or square cavities (19), without the transverse walls (7) or the at least one longitudinal wall (7) being folded.