FILTER MODULE

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a filter module for separating particles from contaminated air. 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] Filter modules made of paper are known in the prior art. Within the filter module, at least two walls are arranged transversely to the direction of the incoming airflow, forming baffles. Each wall has openings, the size of which decreases from the inlet side towards the outlet side and / or may be 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.

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

[0007] A disadvantage of such filter modules is that the redirection of the airflow in different directions results in highly uneven particle adhesion within the module. This is due to the meandering airflow pattern, which, upon entering the module, deflects 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] Another disadvantage is that part of the flow surface is covered by an airtight material, whereby particles can adhere to the surface of the so-called impact walls, but the air is deflected.

[0009] It is also known from the prior art to remove individual cleaning structures arranged one behind the other within the base body. This allows the cleaning structure located closest to the inlet side to be replaced.

[0010] During operation in a spray booth, 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 therefore 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.

[0011] Regarding the state of the art, reference can also be made to DE 20 2015 104109 U1, which discloses a filter module for a paint particle separator with slotted separator strips arranged one behind the other. Each strip is clamped by means of a spacer, so that the slots are opened and openings are created.

[0012] DE 10 2011 050915 A1 shows a filter with a filter material without openings.

[0013] WO 2007 / 028176 A1 discloses a filter module with filter inserts, wherein each filter insert consists of several filter strips and the filter strips of successive filter inserts are arranged offset from one another. The filter strips are held at one end by a filter carrier and inserted into the housing at the other end, with insertion openings being provided.

[0014] KR 2021 0009725 A further shows a filter module in which several filter inserts are arranged one behind the other in a tube. Each filter insert has an opening, with the openings being offset from each other. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Against this background, the present invention aims to provide an improved filter module with an extended service life. In particular, the invention aims to provide a filter module with better separation performance while requiring less energy for operation.

[0016] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a filter module with the features of claim 1.

[0017] Accordingly, the following is provided: A filter module for separating particles from contaminated air, in particular for separating paint particles from an airflow, with 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, at least one filter insert which is received in the receiving element, wherein the filter insert has at least one transverse wall, and the transverse wall is formed from a filter element that is at least partially air-permeable, wherein an open section is formed in or next to the filter element, so that the airflow from the inlet side towards the outlet side can flow on the one hand through the filter element and on the other hand through the open section.wherein at least one transverse wall is designed as a sandwich panel and has a frame element, the filter element being attached to the frame element.

[0018] The underlying insight of the present invention is that a durable and effective filter module can be created by dispensing with baffles.

[0019] The underlying idea of ​​the present invention is to avoid abruptly slowing down or redirecting the airflow, but instead to create a continuous, and / or particularly laminar, flow between the inlet and outlet sides, thus enabling balanced adhesion of the particles to all transverse walls within the receiving element. This is achieved by implementing the concept of an open airflow without baffles, whereby the airflow passes through a filter element on one side and through an open section on the other. In particular, a transverse wall can be formed that is essentially completely air-permeable, namely consisting of a material that is at least partially air-permeable, the filter element, and an opening, the open section.

[0020] Furthermore, this method advantageously allows for the creation of an open section with any desired geometry, enabling the filter to be adapted to different filtration grades. The open section also allows for the control of airflow within the receiving element. In particular, the shape of the filter element alone can influence the shape of the open section. The filter element can be cut to any desired shape to achieve different geometries. The open section can therefore be formed as a recess in the filter element or adjacent to, and especially adjacent to, the filter element. Adjacent means, in particular, that the open section is formed in a plane of the transverse wall by appropriately cutting the transverse wall so that the filter element does not span an entire cross-sectional plane within the receiving element. The open section can therefore be manufactured simply and cost-effectively.

[0021] The ratio of the area of ​​the open section to the area of ​​the entire transverse wall can be 1:2 to 1:20, in particular 1:2 to 1:10, preferably 1:5 to 1:12. For example, the open section can form half of the transverse wall, or even 1 / 4 or 1 / 5 of the area of ​​the transverse wall.

[0022] A transverse wall is an element arranged perpendicular to the airflow within the receiving element. In particular, the transverse wall is completely air-permeable, and different areas with varying air permeabilities can be arbitrarily configured. Preferably, the transverse wall consists of a filter medium, without the use of an impact baffle.

[0023] The airflow can pass through the transverse wall at any point. The differences in flow velocities between the airflow through the open section and through the filter element are minimal, allowing for a particularly laminar flow. Because the airflow is not slowed down by a transverse wall in any section, the separation efficiency can be significantly improved compared to prior art designs with transverse walls and multiple openings. In particular, the separation efficiency can be improved by more than 100% compared to known filter modules. This is achieved primarily by the open airflow from the inlet to the outlet, which prevents the airflow from being deflected by baffles. The air flows through the air-permeable filter element, allowing particles to be deposited on the filter element.This can continue until the filter element is saturated with particles and no more air can flow through it. However, the open section prevents the cross wall from becoming blocked, ensuring a continuous flow of air through this section.

[0024] With several such transverse walls arranged one behind the other, a more uniform separation can occur, whereby even a transverse wall positioned very far towards the outlet side can contribute significantly to particle separation. In particular, the transverse walls become saturated with particles sequentially, with the air being able to reach even the last transverse wall through the open section in each wall, so that even the transverse wall furthest towards the outlet side can be saturated with particles. Therefore, the service life can be increased by at least 100% compared to prior art filter modules with baffle walls.

[0025] The open airflow design allows the airflow to be directed straight to the outlet, especially over extended periods during operation of the filter modules, without any redirection. This also reduces the energy required to generate the airflow. In particular, compared to prior art filter modules, especially those with baffles, energy savings of at least 30% can be achieved. For example, energy savings of 40% to 50% are also possible compared to prior art designs.

[0026] The filter element can be made of or contain a filament. Specifically, the filter element can contain a natural fiber, such as hemp, jute, and / or raffia. Alternatively, the filament can contain a plastic. The filament is characterized by a continuous fiber that can be joined to form a three-dimensional structure. This can be achieved using 3D printing. Other air-permeable materials are also conceivable.

[0027] The filter element can have a woven or finely structured design, particularly three-dimensional. The thickness of the filter element can be, for example, 10 mm to 200 mm or 50 mm to 200 mm, particularly 10 mm to 50 mm or 10 mm to 20 mm. This allows for the formation of a three-dimensional filter element. The woven structure or filament can consist of interconnected fiber sections with air-permeable spaces between the fibers. The filter element can have varying degrees of fineness or coarseness.

[0028] 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.

[0029] At least one transverse wall is designed as a sandwich panel and features a frame element to which the filter element is attached. For example, the filter element can be fixed to a surface of the frame element. Specifically, the transverse wall has a surrounding frame element to which the filter element can be held. The surrounding frame primarily serves to stabilize the filter element and has little impact on the efficiency of the filtration process, as the frame contributes little or not at all to particle separation. This allows for the provision of a type of sandwich panel with low manufacturing costs. The two elements, frame element and filter element, can be cut to any desired size and then joined together. The elements can be connected to each other, for example, by force-fit or material bonding.In particular, retaining elements such as clamps can be used. Furthermore, the elements can be glued together. In particular, complex folding or cross-walls can be avoided.

[0030] 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.

[0031] According to an advantageous embodiment, the at least one transverse wall can have at least two open sections, so that the airflow from the inlet side towards the outlet side can flow firstly through the filter element and secondly through an open section of the opening. The open sections can be formed as recesses in the filter element. Likewise, at least one open section can be formed next to the filter element, wherein the filter element can be adapted in geometry such that the open section can form a residual area in a cross-sectional plane of the filter module that is not covered by the filter element.

[0032] In an advantageous embodiment, the open sections can be mirrored relative to each other within the filter element. In particular, two open sections are mirrored with respect to a central axis of the transverse wall. The open sections are arranged, in particular, on a first half of the transverse wall, such that a second half of the transverse wall has no open sections. This allows, for example, identical transverse walls to be arranged one behind the other, whereby a filter element can be formed by rotating them relative to each other by 90°, 180°, or 270°, which exhibits high efficiency with a high separation efficiency and very long service life.

[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment, the at least one open section can have the shape of a triangle, rectangle, or a freeform shape. For example, open sections can be formed in, particularly opposite, corner areas of the transverse wall.

[0034] If the open area is formed next to the filter element, the filter element can, for example, have the shape of a partial circle, and the open area a shape which remains outside the partial circle shape up to a rectangular shape.

[0035] The open section can be partially bordered by the frame element and partially by the filter element. The open section can adjoin the frame element and / or be located in a corner of the transverse wall.

[0036] The filter element can also have a frame section, which can extend along the frame element. The frame section of the filter element can serve as a mounting surface for the filter element, allowing the filter element to be attached to the frame element all around. In such an embodiment, the at least one open section is designed as a recess or opening in the filter element.

[0037] According to a further embodiment, the at least one transverse wall can have at least two openings, wherein at least one opening is partially covered by a filter element, so that the airflow from the inlet side towards the outlet side can flow through the openings, firstly through the filter element and secondly through an open portion of the opening. The other opening can be completely covered by the filter element, so that the airflow must pass through the filter element. The filter element of the openings can be formed in one piece, so that the filter element completely covers one opening and is only partially overlapping another. The transverse wall can therefore have a frame element with a web.The remaining web between the two openings is formed with a particularly small width in relation to the width of the opening, in particular in a ratio of 1:10, or greater than 1:10, preferably 1:40 to 1:50, in particular greater than 1:30, or greater than 1:40.

[0038] The bridge between the openings can therefore serve to a minimal extent to trap particles, but preferably it serves to stabilize the filter element if the latter has a special geometry, such as a partial circle or a full circle. However, an embodiment without such a bridge is preferable. The bridge therefore does not form a baffle, so that the airflow through the bridge is essentially unaffected, i.e., it can flow through the filter element without being affected by the bridge. The bridge and the frame element can be made from a single piece of paper material, so that the openings can be easily punched or cut out.

[0039] According to a further embodiment, the at least one transverse wall can have more than two openings, wherein at least one opening is completely covered with the filter element and at least one opening is partially covered with the filter material, so that an open partial area remains in at least one opening.

[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment, a plurality of transverse walls can be arranged parallel to one another in the receiving element, wherein, in the case of transverse walls arranged one behind the other, at least one open section of a transverse wall is offset from an open section of an adjacent transverse wall. For example, the open section of the first transverse wall can be located in a left section, particularly in a first half, of the transverse wall, and the open section of the second transverse wall can be located in a right section, particularly in a second half, of the transverse wall. In a third transverse wall, the open section can be located in an upper section of the transverse wall, which can, in particular, overlap the left and right sections. In a fourth transverse wall, the open section can be located in a lower section of the transverse wall, which can, in particular, overlap the left and right sections.A fifth transverse wall can correspond to the first transverse wall, and the arrangement can be repeated any number of times.

[0041] For example, identical cross walls can be arranged one behind the other, rotated by 90° to each other, in order to distribute the open areas within the filter module all around.

[0042] In other words, several transverse walls are preferably arranged one behind the other in such a way that the open section is formed at different positions on the transverse wall. These positions can be adjacent and / or overlap. This allows the airflow to be slowed down differently at different locations. In particular, a less cleaned section of the airflow can reach a transverse wall located further towards the outlet, thus optimizing the efficiency of the filter module. All transverse walls can therefore contribute significantly to cleaning the airflow.

[0043] According to an advantageous embodiment, the filter element can have at least three, and in particular three to twelve, transverse walls. The transverse walls can, for example, all have the same open sections, but arranged offset from one another. Likewise, the open sections can decrease in size so that a desired degree of purification or efficiency of the filter module can be achieved. Such an arrangement can be described as a progressive design.

[0044] In one embodiment, the transverse walls can be 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. A reverse arrangement is also conceivable. The filter module can thus be adapted to the number of particles present, thereby preventing blockages.

[0045] In another embodiment, the transverse walls can all be arranged at equal intervals. The different filter strengths can be achieved through the size and geometry of the open section and the filter element.

[0046] According to an advantageous embodiment, the respective open section of adjacent transverse walls can be arranged at different positions on the transverse wall. These different positions can overlap when the transverse walls are stacked on top of each other. Furthermore, the different positions can be adjacent to each other when the transverse walls are stacked on top of each other.

[0047] According to an advantageous embodiment, the open sections of successively arranged transverse walls can decrease in size from the inlet side to the outlet side. This allows the filtration efficiency to be adjusted from the inlet side to the outlet side solely by openings in the filter element, and thus, in particular, solely by the geometry of the filter element, without the need to modify a transverse wall made of an airtight material by creating openings or similar features. Specifically, the open sections of successively arranged transverse walls are oriented at 180° angular relative to each other, resulting in a filter optimized in terms of filtration performance, particularly in separation behavior, service life, and energy consumption.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the at least one transverse wall can be oriented transversely to a connecting plane between the inlet side and the outlet side. This allows the transverse wall to be oriented transversely to an airflow. Preferably, the transverse wall is oriented orthogonally to the airflow.

[0049] According to an advantageous embodiment, the transverse walls can be arranged parallel to each other. This allows all transverse walls to be oriented perpendicular to the airflow, so that the airflow is not significantly deflected in the direction of flow by the transverse walls.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the transverse walls can be connected to each other at at least one side edge via a longitudinal connection, forming a continuous filter insert. This allows for a modular system, where the filter insert can be inserted into the receiving element as a single unit. The longitudinal connection can be pivotally attached to the transverse walls, allowing the filter insert to be pushed together so that the transverse walls are parallel and touching for transport. For example, two longitudinal connections can be arranged on opposite sides, into which the transverse walls are inserted. The frame elements can be used, in particular, for attachment to the longitudinal connection.

[0051] According to further training, the transverse walls can run over a complete length between the inlet side and the outlet side and / or at least one longitudinal wall can run over a complete width of the receiving element, so that only one filter insert spans an interior space of the receiving element.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the inlet side of the receiving element can have at least one opening, with the filter element spanning the opening with at least one open section of at least one transverse wall nearest the inlet side. This allows the airflow to be cleaned to impinge completely on the filter element without contact with an impermeable element, such as a transverse wall with several smaller openings. Such an open airflow design can increase the service life and separation efficiency of the filter module by at least 100% compared to known filter modules with several smaller openings in the transverse wall.

[0053] 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 receiving element is made of cardboard. Such a filter module can be easily disposed of, in particular incinerated, even with adhering particles. Furthermore, the manufacturing costs are minimal.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment, the filter element can be made of a filament, a nonwoven fabric, and / or a natural fiber. The filter element can contain a woven fabric, nonwoven fabric, or the like, which is also recyclable. The filter element can have a woven or finely structured form, which is particularly three-dimensional and can contain the aforementioned materials.

[0055] According to an advantageous embodiment, 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 opening. Advantageously, this makes it possible to determine when a filter module needs to be replaced. If, for example, the velocity of the purified airflow is below a threshold value, it can be assumed that the filter module is so contaminated that hardly any air can flow through it.

[0056] According to a further development, a chamber can be arranged on the outlet side within the intake element, which serves to hold a filter element. In this way, a fine filtration stage can be created that filters out the smallest particles from the airflow.

[0057] 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.

[0058] According to another idea, a method for assembling a filter module can be provided. Prior to assembly, a substantially two-dimensional structure without cavities can be created by fully contacting at least one longitudinal connection with the transverse walls. During assembly, this structure is transformed into a three-dimensional structure with spaced-apart transverse walls, without bending the transverse walls or at least one longitudinal connection.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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

[0061] 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 Different embodiments of transverse walls of a filter element; Fig. 2 Different embodiments of transverse walls of a filter element; Fig. 3 Different embodiments of transverse walls of a filter element; Fig. 4 Different embodiments of transverse walls of a filter element; Fig. 5 An embodiment of a filter element; Fig. 6 An embodiment of a filter module in a schematic representation; Fig. 7 An isometric representation of a filter element; Fig. 8 A side view of the filter assembly made of Fig. 7in a folded state; Fig. 9 a top view of embodiments of the filter module; Fig. 10 a top view of embodiments of the filter module; Fig. 11 further embodiments of transverse walls of a filter element; Fig. 12 an embodiment of a filter element; Fig. 13 further embodiments of transverse walls of a filter element; Fig. 14 further embodiments of transverse walls of a filter element; Fig. 15 further embodiments of transverse walls of a filter element; Fig. 16 an embodiment of a filter module in an isometric view with a detailed view of a closure element; Fig. 17 further embodiments of transverse walls of a filter element.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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

[0064] The Figures 1 to 4Figure 1 shows different embodiments of transverse walls 7 of a filter insert 6. The transverse walls 7 each have an opening 8 in a frame element 11, the opening 8 forming almost the entire surface of the transverse wall 7. The filter element 9 has two open sections 10, which in this embodiment are arranged symmetrically with respect to a horizontal or vertical axis. It is also conceivable to form the openings asymmetrically. Furthermore, each transverse wall 7 can have only one open section 10, as shown by way of example in Figure 1. Fig. 13 or 14 shown.

[0065] The open sub-areas 10 are shown as examples of square, triangular, or rectangular openings in the filter element 9. Other geometries, for example as in Fig. 13 or Fig. 14 are equally conceivable.

[0066] The embodiments show a filter element 9 attached to a frame element 11. The filter element 9 can be bonded to the frame element, for example, by adhesive, particularly at specific points or continuously. Alternatively, fixing means, such as clamps, can be used. The filter element 9 can, particularly in the area of ​​the open sections 10, have a frame section that can be contacted with the frame element 11. The frame section can extend along the frame element 11. The frame section of the filter element 9 can serve as a mounting surface for the filter element, allowing the filter element to be attached to the frame element all around. An embodiment without the frame element 11 is also conceivable, as shown in [reference to relevant figure]. Figs. 13 and 14 shown as an example.

[0067] The execution according Fig. 1 For example, a transverse wall 7 shows large open sections 10, where the size of the sections is shown in the Figs. 2 to 4 decreases in size. For example, cross walls with coarse filtration can be used. Fig. 2 , a medium filter, for example Fig. 3 , and fine filtration, for example Fig. 4 , be trained.

[0068] The cross walls of the Figs. 1 to 4 They have a filter element 9 in which two open sub-areas 10 are formed. The open sub-area 10 can also be formed next to the filter element 9, as shown in Fig. 11 , 15 or 17 shown.

[0069] As in Fig. 4 The following can be shown: on the lateral edge sections of the transverse wall 7, recesses 23 and projections 24 can be arranged, in particular on the frame element 11 or also on the filter element 9. The transverse walls 7 can therefore be connected to each other via longitudinal connections 14, as shown for example in Fig. 7As shown. Longitudinal connections 14 can therefore be attached to opposite side areas of the transverse walls 7. For example, four longitudinal connections 14 can be arranged, with the transverse walls having, for example, receptacles 23 and recesses 24 as shown. Fig. 4 (b) can exhibit.

[0070] In Fig. 5 An arrangement of the cross walls is shown one behind the other, so that a filter element can be formed. The filter properties can be arranged sequentially from coarse to fine, as shown in the example. Likewise, at least one embodiment can be designed according to Fig. 1The filter element is positioned in front of the transverse wall 7 shown on the left. When the filter module is operated with such a filter element, the air initially flows through all transverse walls 7, as these are made of a filter material that is, in particular, at least partially, air-permeable. The entire surface of the transverse wall can therefore be traversed, and the filter module has no baffles. Therefore, the entire cross-section of the transverse wall can be used for particle separation. As the particles are separated, the surface area of ​​the filter element increases, and the filter material eventually becomes saturated. Advantageously, a baffle is only formed in the saturated state. In other words, the baffle can be formed, as it were, from the separated particles.The open section 10 advantageously allows air to flow through the transverse wall even when it is saturated, so that the transverse walls 7 arranged behind it are also continuously exposed to airflow and can contribute to the separation process. In this way, the entire filter element can gradually become saturated. Therefore, the filter modules need to be replaced much later than with known filter modules that have baffle walls from the outset. The filter according to the invention can therefore capture a significantly larger quantity of particles.

[0071] In the version shown in Fig. 5 The transverse walls are arranged rotated 90° to each other, so that the open sections of 10 adjacent transverse walls 7 are either arranged next to each other or partially overlap.

[0072] The in Fig. 5 The transverse walls shown can also be used for recordings 23 and setbacks 24, as in Fig. 4 (a) or 4 (b) shown.

[0073] The arrangement of the transverse walls 7 from Figs. 1 to 4 can be just like in Fig. 12 It should be shown so that the transverse walls are arranged rotated 180° relative to each other.

[0074] Fig. 6 Figure 1 shows a filter module 1 with a receiving element 2 and a filter insert 6 with an open lid 29. An opening 13 is arranged on the inlet side 3, which can, for example, correspond to the opening 8 (not shown) of the transverse wall 7 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 to ensure the fastest possible discharge of the purified air 4b.

[0075] Fig. 7Figure 1 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 each other. At one lateral end of the transverse walls 7, they can be connected to each other via longitudinal connections 14, also referred to as centering clamps. For this purpose, each of the transverse walls 7 can have recesses 23 and projections 24, particularly on the frame element 11 or on the filter element 9. The three-dimensional structure can be created by means of the longitudinal connections 14. The longitudinal connection 14 can, for example, have recesses 22 into which an operator can insert their fingers. This makes it easier to install the longitudinal connections 14. Advantageously, the longitudinal connection 14 also has a fold 25 that extends over its length.When an operator reaches into the recesses 22 with their fingers, the longitudinal connection 14 folds along the crease 25, making it easier to position. Preferably, the longitudinal connection 14 is slightly longer than the distance between the two receptacles 23, so that it can be securely clamped between them.

[0076] Fig. 8 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 connections 14 in order to create a two-dimensional structure according to Fig. 8 a three-dimensional structure according to Fig. 7To 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 are therefore not bent. Overall, the filter insert 6 thus exhibits high stability. Furthermore, the folded filter insert can be easily transported. This allows for a volume reduction of > 30%, and in particular between 30% and 80%, depending on the design and features of the transverse walls.

[0077] Fig. 9Figure 6(a) shows two top views of two further embodiments. The direction of the airflow 4 is indicated by the arrows. Each of the airflows 4 is a laminar flow, without any meandering diversion to adjacent airflows, i.e., parallel or perpendicular to the transverse walls 7, and therefore, in the illustration, no deflection of the airflow to the left or right. Thus, an open airflow can be implemented, whereby the airflow can be guided completely through air-permeable material within the filter element 6. In Figure 6(a), the receiving element 2 has a chamber 15 at the outlet side 5, in which a filter element 16, in particular referred to as a post-filter, is arranged. This allows the air 4a to be purified in a final step.

[0078] Fig. 10 (a) and 10 (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, the distribution of the particles over the entire filter element 6 can be specifically adapted, so that the filter module 1 can be used effectively for a particularly long period of time.

[0079] Each cross wall of the Figs. 9 and 10 can, for example, as in Figs. 1 to 4 11 to 15 or 17 be trained.

[0080] Fig. 11Figure 1 shows two further embodiments of how open sections 10 can be formed in the openings 8. A web is provided between the openings 8, which can be connected to the frame element 11, in particular integrally. The web is comparatively thin, so that it serves only to stabilize the filter element 9, but is not designed for particle separation. Accordingly, the open airflow is not impaired by the web. The web can form a fraction of the surface area of ​​the transverse wall 7, in particular in a ratio of 1:20 to 1:50, preferably 1:20 to 1:25 or 1:30 to 1:40. Fig. 11 (a) Open sub-areas 10 are formed in all openings. The filter element 9 is circular in shape, so that each opening 8 is partially covered by a semi-circular filter element 9. This allows for open airflow through the open sub-areas 10 at the corners. Fig. 11 (b)The upper opening 8 is formed without a filter element 9, while the lower opening is spanned with a filter element 9.

[0081] Fig. 12 shows adjacent transverse walls 7 with open partial areas 10 in a further embodiment according to Fig. 13 The open sections 10 of each transverse wall 7 are arranged in different positions on the transverse wall 7, wherein, in this embodiment, the open sections 10 of the transverse walls 7 do not overlap when the filter element 6 is assembled. The air to be cleaned can thus be filtered as described above. Fig. 5 describe being cleaned, whereby a high degree of efficiency can be achieved.

[0082] Different variants can also be combined, so that an element consists of Fig. 1 behind or in front of an element made of Fig. 2, 3 , 4 , 11 , 13, 14 or 15can be arranged. Likewise, one or more transverse walls 7 can be arranged between or at the end, in which no open section 10 is provided, but the transverse wall 7 is completely spanned by the filter element 9. In this way, a progressive structure can be implemented in particular.

[0083] For example, 8 to 12 transverse walls 7 can be arranged one behind the other. A different number is also conceivable. The distances between the transverse walls 7 can decrease towards the exit side.

[0084] Fig. 16Figure 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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 13 on the outlet side 5 can be shaped as described in [reference to relevant figure]. Fig. 6 be formed and initially closed by a removable element.

[0087] In Fig. 17Another embodiment of a transverse wall 7 is shown, wherein the filter element 9 has a triangular or distorted quadrilateral shape. The open section 10 can therefore be arranged adjacent to the filter element, i.e., next to the filter element 9. Preferably, a frame element 11 is provided so that the open section 10 is partially bounded by the frame element 11 and partially by the filter element 9. The filter element 9 can also be attached to the frame element.

[0088] Although the present invention has been fully described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto, but can be modified in a variety of ways. For example, the open sections 10 described above can have different configurations. In particular, the shape can also differ from the shape shown. Likewise, the arrangement of the open sections 10 can differ from the one shown. Reference symbol list

[0089] 1 Filter module 2 Mounting element 3 Inlet side 4 Airflow 5 Outlet side 6 Filter insert 7 Cross wall 8 Opening of the cross wall 9 Filter element 10 Open section 11 Frame element 12 Interior 13 Opening of the inlet side 14 Longitudinal connection 15 Chamber 16 Filter material 17 Side surface 18 Closure element 19 Cavity 20 Top 21 Plate element 22 Recess 23 Mounting of the cross wall 24 Recess 25 Fold 26 Tab 28 Opening of the outlet side 29 Cover

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), comprising at least one filter insert (6) which is incorporated into the receiving element (2), wherein the filter insert (6) has at least one transverse wall (7), and the transverse wall (7) is formed from a filter element (9) which is at least partially permeable to air, an open sub-region (10) being formed in the filter element (9) or alongside the filter element (9) in such a way that the airflow (4) can flow from the inlet side (3) towards the outlet side (5) both through the filter element (9) and through the open sub-region (10), wherein the at least one transverse wall (7) is formed as a sandwich panel and has a frame element (11), the filter element (9) being attached to the frame element (11).

2. Filter module according to claim 1, characterised in that the at least one transverse wall (7) has at least two open sub-regions (10).

3. Filter module according to claim 2, characterised in that the open sub-regions (10) are mirrored with respect to one another in the filter element (9).

4. Filter module (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the at least one open sub-region (10) has the shape of a triangle, rectangle or freeform.

5. Filter module according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that a plurality of transverse walls (7) are arranged mutually parallel in the receiving element (2), and, in the case of transverse walls (7) arranged in succession, at least one open sub-region (10) of a transverse wall (7) is offset from an open sub-region (10) of an adjacent transverse wall (7).

6. Filter module according to claim 5, characterised in that the filter insert (6) has at least two, in particular three to twelve, transverse walls (7).

7. Filter module according to either claim 1 or claim 6, characterised in that the at least one open sub-region (10) of adjacent transverse walls (7) is arranged at different positions on the transverse wall (7) in each case.

8. Filter module according to any of claims 5 to 7, characterised in that the open sub-regions (10) of transverse walls (7) arranged in succession become smaller from the inlet side (3) towards the outlet side (5).

9. Filter module according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the at least one transverse wall (7) is orientated transverse to a connecting plane between the inlet side (3) and the outlet side (6).

10. Filter module according to any of claims 5 to 9, characterised in that the transverse walls (7) are arranged mutually parallel.

11. Filter module according to any of claims 5 to 10, characterised in that the transverse walls (7) are interconnected via a longitudinal connection (14) at at least one side edge, in such a way that a continuous filter insert (6) is formed.

12. Filter module according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that the at least one transverse wall (7) extends over a complete width of the receiving element (2), in such a way that just one filter insert (6) spans an interior (12) of the receiving element (2).

13. Filter module 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), the filter element (9) spanning the opening (13) with the at least one open sub-region (10) of at least one transverse wall (7), which is closest to the inlet side (3).

14. Filter module 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 in that the filter element is made of a filament, a non-woven fabric and / or a natural fibre.