Monitoring device for monitoring a treatment system, and treatment system for coating workpieces

Abstract

The invention relates to a monitoring device (100) for monitoring a treatment system (200) for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, in particular, vehicle bodies, with a coating medium, the monitoring device comprising at least one first pressure-measuring device (40) for installation into a filter unit (20), which pressure-measuring device is located downstream of a plurality of filters (30) of the filter unit (20) in a flow direction (90) as intended, and comprising at least one second pressure-measuring device (60) for arrangement in an exhaust-air collection channel (80), the pressure-measuring devices (40, 60) determining a pressure difference in comparison to the atmospheric pressure of the surroundings of the filter unit (20).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] title

[0003] MONITORING DEVICE FOR MONITORING A TREATMENT PLANT AND TREATMENT PLANT FOR COATING WORKPIECES

[0004] The invention relates to a monitoring device for monitoring a treatment plant and a treatment plant for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies.

[0005] State of the art

[0006] Treatment systems for coating workpieces, especially for painting vehicle bodies, typically contain several parallel-flow filter units to capture paint particles from so-called paint overspray. To maintain a defined air balance in the treatment area of ​​the paint booth, loaded filter units must be replaced from time to time to ensure adequate air purification.

[0007] The time to replace a filter unit can be monitored and determined based on various criteria.

[0008] The number of painted workpieces within the filter's service life can be used as a criterion. This is based on an inference about the current load status of the filter unit using empirical values ​​for the fill level as a function of the number of painting cycles. The filter unit can be replaced when a predetermined number of painted workpieces is reached. During commissioning, the relationship between the number of painting cycles within the service life of a filter element and its load status must first be determined. This can take a relatively long time under certain circumstances, particularly since only a few car bodies are treated during the start-up phase of a new treatment system. The replacement time is determined solely based on empirical values ​​for the filter condition at a specific number of cycles.

[0009] Another possible criterion for replacing a filter unit can be an indirect flow measurement by recording a pressure difference for each filter unit, either via the filter unit itself or via a flow resistance associated with that filter unit, such as a measuring orifice. A replacement occurs when a specified pressure or flow rate value is exceeded or undershot.

[0010] However, it is difficult to find a suitable measuring point where, firstly, sufficiently uniform flow conditions exist and, secondly, excessive contamination from paint particles is not expected. Furthermore, advance planning for filter replacement is not possible, as the volume flow through an individual filter unit does not represent a global replacement criterion. A replacement is not necessary as long as sufficient air flows through the other filter modules. Only when the sum of the volume flows falls below the target value does it become apparent that a filter unit, namely the one with the lowest flow rate, should have been replaced.

[0011] Another possible criterion for replacing a filter unit could be a measurement of a static or dynamic pressure immediately downstream of each filter unit. A filter unit can be replaced if the pressure exceeds or falls below a specified value.

[0012] However, this does not allow for advance filter change planning, as the pressure downstream of an individual filter unit does not represent a global change criterion. As the flow rate decreases, the static pressure downstream of the filter unit approaches the pressure in the exhaust air collection duct. However, this pressure is variable as long as a recirculation fan is able to compensate for the increased flow resistance of the filters by increasing its speed. A comparison of the measured values ​​for different filter units only shows the one with the highest flow resistance.

[0013] Another possible criterion for replacing a filter unit can be a combination of a pressure measurement and the number of painting cycles. This allows a pressure difference to be measured across all filter units in a treatment system. Furthermore, the number of painting cycles within the service life of each individual filter unit can be recorded. If a specified pressure loss is exceeded across all filter units, the filter unit with the highest fill level can be identified and scheduled for replacement by evaluating the number of painting cycles.

[0014] However, during commissioning, the relationship between the number of painting cycles within a filter element's service life and its loading condition must first be determined. This can take a relatively long time, especially since only a few car bodies are often available during the ramp-up phase of a new treatment plant.

[0015] Disclosure of the invention

[0016] The object of the invention is to provide a monitoring device for monitoring a treatment plant for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies, which makes it possible to specify an efficient criterion for replacing a filter unit.

[0017] A further object of the invention is to provide a treatment system for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, especially vehicle bodies, with such a monitoring device that makes it possible to specify an efficient criterion for replacing a filter unit. These objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and advantages of the invention emerge from the further claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0018] A monitoring device is proposed for monitoring a treatment system for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies, with a coating medium, comprising at least one first pressure measuring device for installation in a filter unit, which is arranged downstream of a plurality of filters of the filter unit in a designated flow direction, and at least one second pressure measuring device for arrangement in an exhaust air collection duct, wherein the pressure measuring devices determine a differential pressure with respect to the atmospheric pressure of an environment of the filter unit.

[0019] The proposed monitoring device advantageously allows the combination of a pressure loss measurement across all filter units in a treatment plant with an individual pressure measurement for each filter unit. In this way, the pressure loss measurement across all filter units in the treatment plant can be used as a criterion for determining whether a replacement of one or more filter units is necessary: ​​When a maximum differential pressure is reached, at least one of the filter units must be replaced in order to reduce the overall pressure loss and maintain the air volume flow. The individual pressure measurement for each filter unit can be used as a specific criterion for determining which filter unit needs to be replaced. The measurement downstream of the filter unit with the maximum flow resistance due to the highest load shows the highest static or lowest dynamic pressure.

[0020] The pressure values ​​used are preferably differential pressures relative to the ambient pressure of the treatment plant. The static differential pressure is therefore negative, as it is determined on the intake side of a fan.

[0021] This advantageously provides easily measurable parameters that are essentially independent of empirical values ​​and cannot be obtained only when the treatment plant is commissioned. Advantageously, advance planning of a filter change, i.e., a change of one or more filter units, is possible by observing the temporal progression of the differential pressure until the differential pressure limit is reached. When changing one of the filter units, the current load of the filter units not being replaced is known, and if necessary, a further change of filter units can be planned.

[0022] The monitoring device can advantageously be retrofitted to existing treatment plants.

[0023] According to a favorable embodiment of the monitoring device, the monitoring device can further comprise a counter for the filter unit for recording the number and / or duration of completed coating cycles. This can advantageously take into account the use of very thin coating media, which tend not to remain stationary in the filter medium, but rather to sink to a bottom area in the direction of gravity and accumulate there. This can lead to the filter not experiencing a significant increase in pressure loss, but rather to the risk of overflowing the filter in this area, thus contamination of the system.

[0024] According to a favorable embodiment of the monitoring device, the first and second pressure measuring devices can comprise at least one pressure measuring device, in particular a differential pressure measuring device, a measuring sensor, and a connecting line, in particular a flexible connecting line, between the measuring sensor and the pressure measuring device. The measuring sensor expediently serves to record the pressure value at the desired location in the filter unit. The pressure can be transmitted via the connecting line, in particular a flexible one, to the pressure measuring device, which can be arranged at a favorable location in the filter unit or the treatment system. According to a favorable embodiment of the monitoring device, the measuring sensor can have a measuring tube, in particular a bent measuring tube, whose free opening points in the direction of flow.In order to meet the requirement of a sensor with a measuring tube pointing downwards and thus in the direction of flow, the sensor can be designed with a bent tube which has a low-contamination opening in the direction of flow.

[0025] According to a favorable embodiment of the monitoring device, the measuring sensor can have a measuring nozzle for detachable connection to a housing of the filter unit. In particular, the measuring nozzle can be magnetic. In this way, the measuring sensor for pressure measurement can be mounted at a convenient location in the filter unit and removed again if the filter unit is replaced, so that the measuring sensor can continue to be used in the replaced filter unit. The measuring sensor can also be easily removed for cleaning purposes.

[0026] According to a favorable embodiment of the monitoring device, the measuring tube can have a connecting piece for connecting the measuring tube to the connecting line. The connecting piece can be used to conveniently connect the connecting line to the measuring tube. If necessary, the connecting line can also be removed again to replace the measuring tube or connecting line.

[0027] According to a further aspect of the invention, a treatment system for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies, with a monitoring device is proposed. The treatment system comprises at least one treatment chamber with an inlet for supplying air into the treatment chamber, a plurality of parallel-flow filter units with at least one filter, which filters the air discharged from the treatment chamber. The air filtered by the filter units is guided into a common exhaust air collection duct. The monitoring device has at least one first pressure measuring device for each filter unit, which is arranged downstream of the at least one filter of the filter unit. The monitoring device further has at least one second pressure measuring device, which is arranged in the exhaust air collection duct.The pressure measuring devices determine a differential pressure to the ambient atmospheric pressure.

[0028] The proposed treatment system comprises a treatment chamber, for example, a paint booth, which is supplied with supply air via an inlet. The air flowing out of the treatment chamber is filtered by a plurality of parallel filter units, each with at least one filter. The filtered air flows from the filter units into a common exhaust air collection duct. Pressure measuring devices of the monitoring device are arranged in each filter unit downstream of the at least one filter and in the exhaust air collection duct.

[0029] The monitoring device thus advantageously allows for the combination of a pressure loss measurement across all filter units in the treatment plant with an individual pressure measurement for each filter unit. In this way, the pressure loss measurement across all filter units in the treatment plant can be used as a criterion for determining whether a filter change, i.e., a replacement of one or more of the filter units, is necessary.

[0030] When a maximum differential pressure is reached, at least one of the filter units must be replaced to reduce the overall pressure loss and maintain the air flow rate. The individual pressure measurement for each filter unit can be used as a specific criterion for determining which filter unit should be replaced. The measurement after the filter unit with the maximum flow resistance due to the highest load shows the highest static or lowest dynamic pressure.

[0031] The pressure values ​​used are preferably differential pressures relative to the ambient pressure of the treatment plant. The static differential pressure is therefore negative, as it is determined on the intake side of a fan. This advantageously provides easily measurable values ​​that are essentially independent of empirical values ​​and cannot be obtained only when the treatment plant is commissioned.

[0032] Advantageously, advance planning for a filter change is possible by monitoring the differential pressure over time until the differential pressure limit is reached. When replacing one of the filter units, the current load of the filter units not being replaced is known, and if necessary, further filter unit changes can be planned.

[0033] According to a favorable design of the treatment system, the treatment system can further include a counter for each filter unit to record the number and / or duration of completed coating cycles. This can advantageously be taken into account when using very thin coating media, which tend not to remain stationary in the filter medium, but rather to sink to a bottom area in the direction of gravity and accumulate there. This may result in the filter not experiencing a significant increase in pressure drop, but rather in the risk of overflowing the filter in this area, thus contamination of the system.

[0034] Different criteria may apply to coating media, such as paints, with different behaviors. A distinction must be made between "liquid" and "non-liquid" coating media, such as paints.

[0035] Liquid or low-viscosity coating media are still sufficiently fluid in the filter that they run down the filter structure, collecting in the base area of ​​the filter units and thus only slightly impeding the flow through the filter material. However, at a certain load, the filter elements must be replaced in this case to prevent the filters from "overflowing" and the associated contamination of the system components. In contrast, non-liquid coating media are no longer fluid in the filter. As the filter load increases, they increasingly clog the filter structure and thus significantly increase the flow resistance. In this case, the filters are replaced at a certain load in order to continue to maintain the required volume flow through the entire filter assembly.

[0036] With regard to filter monitoring, the following two scenarios can apply depending on the paint behavior.

[0037] In the case of coating media where filter loading is associated with a significant increase in flow resistance, the global differential pressure across all filter units in a treatment system or treatment zone increases with increasing filter loading until a specified setpoint is reached or exceeded. When the setpoint is reached or exceeded, a decision is then made, based on the pressure measurement for each filter unit, also known as a trolley, as to which trolley needs to be replaced.

[0038] When using liquid / very liquid coating media, it can happen that the coating medium separated in the filter does not remain in the filter where it was separated, but collects at the bottom of the individual filters of a filter unit due to its low viscosity and gravity. A significant increase in the global differential pressure is therefore not to be expected, even when the filter or filter unit is loaded. In this case, the changeover criterion is the coating medium content of each filter unit, calculated using a counting device. This can in particular be a counter device, such as a skid counter, which records the number of carriers (skids) carrying a workpiece to be treated and introduced into the treatment system for coating.

[0039] If one of the filter units in the treatment plant or treatment zone exceeds a defined weight limit in terms of coating media content (e.g., 120 kg), it must be replaced. The calculation can be based on a generally linear relationship, determined, for example, during commissioning, between the number of coating cycles within the service life of a filter element and its loading status. Both scenarios can be reliably captured if a combination of, on the one hand, global pressure loss measurement across all filter units in a treatment plant or treatment zone, with individual pressure measurement for each filter unit (trolley), and, on the other hand, a counting device (e.g., skid counter) is available.

[0040] The counter can be used to record the number of coating cycles that have taken place during the filter unit's service life. A software module assigned to the filter unit's current location in the coating system can be advantageously used. This module establishes a reference between the current counter reading and a counter target value, which assumes that the target weight for the coating media content specified for this filter unit has been reached.

[0041] Typically, a filter unit is docked at specific locations within the coating system or coating zone, with the presence of the filter unit at the dock being automatically detected, for example, by a proximity switch. Optionally, the filter unit can additionally or alternatively have a detection device for identifying the individual filter unit, such as an RFID chip, a barcode, or the like.

[0042] To reset the counter device, in the case of a coating cycle-based change criterion, i.e. taking into account, in particular additionally, the count value of the counter device, it can be reset based on different criteria.

[0043] The counter can be reset if the filter unit has been removed from the dock, i.e., from its location in the coating system or coating zone. In this case, a signal from a proximity sensor in the filter unit dock is missing.

[0044] It's also convenient to check whether a filter change has actually taken place when a filter unit is reattached. This can be done by checking whether a filter unit has been docked with unloaded or less loaded filters. This will usually be a different filter unit, but could also be the same filter unit if it has been fitted with fresh filters in the meantime.

[0045] Filters with lower loads result in lower readings from the first and second pressure gauges. Therefore, in principle, both these readings can be used for verification. Especially with liquid coating media, the first pressure gauge can generally be more sensitive, as it is related to the individual filter unit. Therefore, this measurement can be used preferably, but not necessarily.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the counting device can be reset manually, for example by resetting the counter on a visualization of the counting device.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, the counter can be automatically reset. Using an RFID reader on the filter unit dock, the RFID tag of each filter unit is detected and checked. If the RFID tag of the newly docked filter unit differs from that of the previously docked filter unit, it can be assumed that the filter unit has been changed, and thus the filter has been replaced.

[0048] Advantageously, pressure measurement can be used for each filter unit, and based on the differential pressure before and after the filter unit change, it can be determined whether the same filter unit has been undocked and re-docked, or whether a filter change was actually performed. In the latter case, the counter can be reset automatically. Since a pressure drop is to be expected during a filter change even with liquid or very liquid coating media, especially paints, this is a favorable criterion for resetting the counter in the case of liquid and non-liquid coating media, as docking of the same filter unit is detected.

[0049] According to a favorable embodiment of the treatment system, the first and second pressure measuring devices can comprise at least one pressure gauge, in particular a differential pressure gauge, a measuring sensor, and a connecting line, in particular a flexible connecting line, between the measuring sensor and the pressure gauge. The measuring sensor is expediently used to detect the pressure value at the desired location in the filter unit. The pressure can be transmitted via the connecting line, in particular a flexible one, to the pressure gauge, which can be arranged at a favorable location in the filter unit or the treatment system.

[0050] According to a favorable design of the treatment plant, the measuring sensor can have a measuring tube, in particular a bent measuring tube, with its free opening facing the direction of flow. This allows the static and dynamic pressure values ​​to be reliably determined.

[0051] According to a favorable embodiment of the treatment system, the measuring sensor can be arranged in an exhaust air duct of the filter unit downstream of the at least one filter of the filter unit. This advantageously allows the pressure loss downstream of the at least one filter to be determined in an area where the flowing air is loaded with a low paint load, thus ensuring a favorable service life for the measuring sensor before it needs to be replaced.

[0052] According to a favorable embodiment of the treatment system, the filter unit can have at least two filters arranged one above the other in a vertical direction, through which air flows in parallel. The filtered air is guided vertically downwards in the exhaust air duct to an outlet which is arranged vertically below the at least two filters. The measuring sensor is arranged in a region of the exhaust air duct at the same height as the upper of the at least two filters. For low-contamination differential pressure measurement, a measuring point in the upper region of the filter unit is recommended. At this point, a low paint load can be expected, since the filtered air from the individual filters is sucked downwards and the measuring sensor therefore only comes into contact with the filtered air from the upper filters.According to a favorable design of the treatment system, the filter unit can comprise at least two filters arranged horizontally next to each other. The measuring sensor is located in a section of the exhaust air duct between the at least two filters. A low paint load can be expected at this location, since the filtered air from the individual filters is extracted downwards, and the measuring sensor thus only comes into contact with the filtered air from the upper filters.

[0053] According to a favorable embodiment of the treatment system, a housing of the filter unit can have an opening for passing the measuring sensor, in particular the measuring tube, into the housing. This allows the measuring sensor to be easily mounted on the filter unit and easily removed when changing a filter unit or for cleaning purposes.

[0054] According to a favorable design of the treatment system, the housing can have an adapter plate with the opening. In particular, the opening can be designed as an asymmetrical elongated hole. Alternatively or additionally, the adapter plate can have a positioning pin for positioning the sensor. To ensure correct alignment of the sensor, it is also advisable to design the opening as an asymmetrical elongated hole, so that, for example, one end of the elongated hole ends at a right angle, or to provide it with a positioning pin.

[0055] According to a favorable embodiment of the treatment system, the measuring sensor can have a measuring nozzle for detachable connection to the housing, in particular to the adapter plate. In particular, the measuring nozzle can be magnetic. This allows the measuring sensor to be easily mounted on the filter unit and easily removed when changing a filter unit or for cleaning purposes.

[0056] According to a favorable design of the treatment system, the measuring tube can have a connecting piece for connecting the measuring tube to the connecting line. When the measuring tube is properly installed, the connecting piece is located outside the housing. The connecting piece allows the connecting line to be conveniently connected to the measuring tube. If necessary, the connecting line can also be removed again to replace the measuring tube or connecting line.

[0057] According to a favorable embodiment of the treatment system, the filter unit can be designed to be replaceable. The pressure gauge is arranged on a part connected to the treatment system, in particular a plug-in device for the filter unit. This allows the filter unit to be easily replaced by removing the sensor and connecting line from the filter unit, leaving it with the pressure gauge, which is arranged on the treatment system.

[0058] According to a favorable design of the treatment system, the insertion device can have a receptacle for the measuring sensor. In particular, the insertion device can have a receptacle for the magnetic measuring nozzle. The measuring sensor can be temporarily accommodated in the receptacle during a filter unit replacement to avoid further disruption to the replacement process.

[0059] According to a favorable embodiment of the treatment system, at least part of the connecting line with the measuring sensor can be arranged vertically when the measuring sensor is accommodated in the receptacle. A receptacle for the magnetic measuring nozzle can be provided in a vertical frame area of ​​the insertion device, where it can be suspended in a kind of parking position during the filter unit change, thus ensuring that the flexible connecting line, for example, a pressure hose, runs elongated and vertically downwards along the vertical frame area without loops during this time.

[0060] According to a further aspect, a method for operating a treatment system for coating workpieces with a coating medium, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies, with a monitoring device is proposed. The treatment system comprises a treatment chamber with an inlet for supplying air into the treatment chamber, a plurality of parallel-flow filter units with at least one filter, which filter the air discharged from the treatment chamber, wherein the air filtered by the filter units is guided into a common exhaust air collection duct.The monitoring device comprises at least one first pressure measuring device for each filter unit, which is arranged downstream of the at least one filter of the filter unit, and at least one second pressure measuring device arranged in the exhaust air collection duct. The pressure measuring devices determine a differential pressure relative to the atmospheric pressure of the surroundings of the filter units. Additionally, the monitoring device can comprise a counter device that determines the number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by the filter unit.

[0061] The method determines at least one criterion for replacing a filter unit, wherein the criterion comprises at least one of the following variables: a first limit value of the first pressure measuring device of the filter unit, a second limit value of the second pressure measuring device of the treatment system, and limit values ​​for the number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by the filter unit, which are determined in the counting device of the filter unit. Furthermore, the method outputs a signal for replacing at least one filter unit if the at least one criterion is met.

[0062] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, the signal to replace the filter unit can be output if the measured value of the second pressure measuring device exceeds the second limit value and the measured value of the first pressure measuring device of this filter unit has the highest value of the first pressure measuring devices of the filter units. Alternatively, the signal to replace the filter unit can be output if the measured value of the first pressure measuring device of the filter unit exceeds the first limit value. Alternatively, the signal to replace the filter unit can be output if the number and / or duration of coating cycles performed on the filter unit exceeds the limit values.In this way, the filter unit replacement intervals can be adjusted depending on the use of low-viscosity or non-viscosity coating media in the treatment plant in order to operate the treatment plant advantageously according to various specified criteria.

[0063] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, the counter can be reset when the filter unit is removed from the treatment system and when a lower measured value is determined by the first and / or second pressure measuring device upon reconnection to the treatment system, and / or by manually resetting the counter, and / or by automatically detecting a digital signal from the filter unit by the counter when the filter unit is docked to the treatment system. This ensures that the current values ​​of the counter are available as a criterion for changing filter units.

[0064] According to a favorable design of the process, criteria for replacing a filter unit, in particular the limit values ​​of the first and second pressure measuring devices as well as the number and / or duration of coating cycles performed, can be defined depending on predefined input variables for the operation of the treatment plant, in particular costs and / or CO2 emissions. This allows the treatment plant to be operated in a cost-optimized and / or environmentally friendly manner, depending on the specifications.

[0065] According to a favorable embodiment of the method, the predeterminable input variables can comprise at least one of the following variables: working price for electricity, price of a filter, personnel costs per filter change process, disposal costs per filter or filter unit, CO2 emissions per kWh or per filter, in particular including production and disposal of a filter.

[0066] Through an optimization calculation, the numerical value for the differential pressure that minimizes annual operating costs can be specified as the criterion for filter replacement. With a favorable design of the process, the criteria for replacing a filter unit can be adjusted based on current and / or past operating data from the treatment plant. In particular, the criteria can be adjusted based on automatically recorded operating data and / or manually entered operating data. The additional operating data can be advantageously used, in particular, to derive the need for consumables, personnel costs, or energy depending on the criterion.

[0067] According to a further aspect of the invention, a computer program product is proposed, comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, at least cause the computer to, in particular automatically, determine at least one criterion for replacing a filter unit when operating a treatment system for coating workpieces with a coating medium, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies, wherein the criterion comprises at least one of the following variables: a first limit value of a first pressure measuring device of the filter unit, a second limit value of a second pressure measuring device of the treatment system, limit values ​​for a number and / or duration of coating cycles carried out by the filter unit;to output information for initiating a replacement of one or more filter units if the at least one criterion is met, in particular if a measured value of the first pressure measuring device of the filter unit exceeds the first limit value, and / or if a measured value of the second pressure measuring device exceeds the second limit value, and / or if a number and / or duration of coating cycles carried out on the filter unit exceeds the limit values;

[0068] Advantageously, the proposed computer program product can comprise a software module that controls the treatment plant in such a way that the criterion for replacing consumables, such as a filter in a filter unit, is automatically adjusted regularly or continuously so that the operating effort, for example, costs or CO2 emissions, is minimized. The adjustment of the criterion can be achieved, for example, by calculating the total effort depending on predefined input variables such as the electricity price, the filter price, personnel costs per filter change, disposal costs per filter, or, for example, corresponding values ​​for CC>2 emissions per kWh or per filter, including production and disposal.

[0069] In addition, current or, in particular, past operating data can be used to adjust the criterion, providing information about the change in effort depending on the criterion. This can include automatically recorded operating data such as continuously recorded differential pressures, in particular a pressure loss measurement across all filter units in a treatment plant or treatment zone, with individual pressure measurements for each filter unit, and / or manually entered operating data such as filter loads after a filter unit has been replaced.

[0070] The additional operating data can be used in particular to derive the need for consumables, personnel costs or energy depending on the criterion.

[0071] For example, the historical data could be the increase in pressure loss across filters as a function of a certain number of process cycles, such as the number of coating cycles. Based on this trend, it is possible to calculate, for example, how frequently the filters would have to be replaced per year if they were replaced at certain differential pressures. At the same time, the annual energy requirement for overcoming the differential pressure for these scenarios can be calculated.

[0072] By subsequently weighting the requirements with the specified input variables, such as filter prices, filter change costs (personnel costs), and electricity costs, annual operating costs can be determined based on the differential pressure criterion. An optimization calculation can then be used to specify the differential pressure value that minimizes annual operating costs as the filter change criterion. By continuously recording the pressure increase as a function of the number of coating cycles, it is possible to react immediately to changes in the underlying coating process. For example, using a different coating medium, such as paint, can result in a significantly faster or slower increase in pressure loss, meaning that more or fewer filters are used, the costs of which offset the energy costs.

[0073] To enable automatic adjustment of the criterion, it may be advantageous to fully utilize the technically feasible range of this criterion at least once to create a database for the optimization calculation. For example, it may be advantageous to replace the filter units at least once only when the maximum permissible differential pressure is reached in order to determine the rate of increase in the differential pressure as a function of the number of coating cycles.

[0074] According to a further aspect of the invention, a device for data processing is proposed, comprising means for, in particular automatically, executing

[0075] (a) Determining at least one criterion for replacing a filter unit, wherein the criterion comprises at least one of the following variables: a first limit value of a first pressure measuring device of the filter unit, a second limit value of a second pressure measuring device of a treatment plant, limit values ​​for a number and / or duration of coating cycles carried out on the filter unit;

[0076] (b) Outputting information to prompt replacement of one or more filter units if the at least one criterion is met, in particular if a measured value of the first pressure measuring device of the filter unit exceeds the first limit value, and / or if a measured value of the second pressure measuring device exceeds the second limit value, and / or if a number and / or duration of coating cycles performed on the filter unit exceeds the limit values. With such a data processing device, the treatment plant can advantageously be controlled according to determined criteria in such a way that, for example, environmental or cost considerations are favorably met.

[0077] drawing

[0078] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0079] Examples include:

[0080] Fig. 1 shows a treatment system for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies, with a monitoring device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0081] Fig. 2 shows a longitudinal section through a filter unit with a pressure measuring device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0082] Fig. 3 shows a longitudinal section through a measuring sensor of a pressure measuring device mounted in a housing of a filter unit;

[0083] Fig. 4 is a plan view of an adapter plate of a housing of a filter unit with an opening for a measuring sensor;

[0084] Fig. 5 is a plan view of the adapter plate according to Fig. 4 with the measuring sensor mounted;

[0085] Fig. 6 is a plan view of a filter unit with mounted pressure measuring device in a plug-in device of a treatment plant;

[0086] Fig. 7 is a plan view of the filter unit according to Fig. 6 with pressure measuring device in a receptacle on the insertion device;

[0087] Fig. 8 is a flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 9 is a flowchart of a method according to another

[0088] Embodiment of the invention; and

[0089] Fig. 10 a device for data processing according to a

[0090] Embodiment of the invention.

[0091] Embodiments of the invention

[0092] The figures show only examples and are not to be understood as limiting.

[0093] Before describing the invention in detail, it should be noted that it is not limited to the specific components of the device and the specific method steps, as these components and methods may vary. The terms used herein are intended only to describe particular embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. Furthermore, when the singular or indefinite articles are used in the description or claims, this also refers to the plural of these elements, unless the overall context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0094] The directional terminology used below, including terms such as "left," "right," "top," "bottom," "before," "behind," "after," and the like, is intended solely to enhance understanding of the figures and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the invention. The components and elements depicted, as well as their design and use, may vary according to the considerations of a person skilled in the art and may be adapted to specific applications.

[0095] Figure 1 shows a treatment system 200 for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies, with a monitoring device 100 according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0096] The treatment system 200 comprises a treatment chamber 10 with an inlet 12 for supplying air into the treatment chamber 10, as well as four parallel-flow filter units 20, each with at least one filter 30, which filter the air discharged from the treatment chamber 10. The air filtered by the filter units 20 is guided into a common exhaust air collection duct 80, from which the air flows out through an outlet 82. The flow direction 90 is indicated by arrows.

[0097] The monitoring device 100 has at least one pressure measuring device 40 for each filter unit 20, which is arranged downstream of the at least one filter 30 of the filter unit 20. Furthermore, the monitoring device 100 has at least one pressure measuring device 60, which is arranged in the exhaust air collection duct 80. The pressure measuring devices 40, 60 each determine a differential pressure with respect to the ambient atmospheric pressure.

[0098] The monitoring device 100 further comprises a counting device 70 for each filter unit 20 for recording a number and / or duration of coating cycles performed.

[0099] Figure 2 shows a longitudinal section through a filter unit 20 with a pressure measuring device 40 according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0100] The filter unit 20, which is designed as a movable cart or trolley, has, for example, six filters 30, three of which are arranged one above the other in a vertical direction L and two of which are arranged horizontally next to each other. The housing 26 of the filter unit has corresponding inlets 22 so that air can flow through the filters in parallel. The flow direction 90 is indicated by arrows.

[0101] The path taken by the air to be filtered from the treatment room 10 through the filter unit 30 is U-shaped. The spray booth air flows horizontally into the filter unit 20 and first flows through the filters 30.

[0102] The spray booth air then flows through a filter mat mounted behind it and is only then deflected downwards on the rear side of the housing 26, before exiting the housing 26 again horizontally in the bottom area of ​​the housing, but in the opposite direction to the inflow, in the direction of the exhaust air collection duct 80. The filtered air is thus guided in the exhaust air duct 28 behind the filters 30 in the vertical direction L downwards to an outlet 24, which is arranged in the vertical direction L below the filters 30.

[0103] For a low-contamination differential pressure measurement, a measuring point in the upper area of ​​the filter unit 30, at the level of the two topmost filters 30, is recommended. At this point, a low paint load can be expected, since the filtered air from the individual filters 30 is sucked downwards, and the sensor 42 thus only comes into contact with the filtered air from the two topmost filters 30.

[0104] The measuring sensor 42 of the pressure measuring device 40 is therefore expediently arranged in a region of the exhaust air duct 28 at a height of the two upper filters 30 downstream of the two filters 30.

[0105] A counting device 70 for recording the number and / or duration of completed coating cycles is symbolically depicted in the lower part of the filter unit 20. Conveniently, the counting of the number and / or duration of completed coating cycles can be performed not in a physical counting device 70 located in the filter unit 20, but rather via a control system (PLC) based on a signal provided by the controller of an application system that dispenses the coating medium, for example, a painting robot.

[0106] With the help of the counting device 70, the count of the coating cycles that have taken place within the previous service life of the filter unit 20 can be recorded. Typically, a filter unit 20 is docked at specific locations of the coating system 200 or coating zone, whereby the presence of the filter unit 20 at the dock is automatically detected. The filter unit 20 can optionally have detection means, such as an RFID chip, a barcode, or the like.

[0107] In the case of a coating cycle-based replacement criterion, i.e., taking into account, in particular, the count value of the counter 70, the counter 70 can be reset based on various criteria. Preferably, the counter 70 is reset as soon as a filter unit 20 is reconnected after being disconnected, if a lower pressure is measured after reconnection than before disconnection. If the pressure is not lower after disconnection and reconnection, it can be assumed that the same filter unit 20 was reconnected, i.e., no replacement has taken place.

[0108] In the latter case, the counter 70 can be reset automatically. Since a pressure drop is to be expected during the filter change even with liquid or very liquid coating media, especially paints, this is a favorable criterion for resetting the counter 70 in the case of liquid and non-liquid coating media, since docking of the same with the filter unit 20 is detected.

[0109] Alternatively or additionally, the counting device 70 can be reset manually, for example by resetting the counter on a visualization of the counting device 70.

[0110] Alternatively or additionally, the counter 70 can be automatically reset. Using an RFID reader on the filter unit dock, the RFID tag of each filter unit 70 is detected and checked. If the RFID tag of the newly docked filter unit 70 differs from that of the previously docked filter unit 70, it can be assumed that the filter unit 20 has been replaced, and thus the filter has been replaced.

[0111] Figure 3 shows a longitudinal section through a measuring sensor 42 of a pressure measuring device 40 mounted in a housing 26 of a filter unit 20.

[0112] The housing 26 of the filter unit 20 has an opening 32 for passing the measuring sensor 42 into the housing 26.

[0113] The measuring sensor 42 can advantageously be equipped with a pressure measuring tube 44, which is designed as a bent measuring tube 44 and points downward in the vertical direction L, thus having a low-contamination opening 45 in the flow direction 90. To meet the requirement of a measuring point with a measuring tube 44 pointing downward and thus in the flow direction 90, the measuring sensor 42 is designed with a bent measuring tube with a 90° bend.

[0114] The measuring tube 44 has a connecting piece 46 for connecting the measuring tube 44 to a connecting line 52 for pressure transmission. When the measuring tube 44 is properly installed, the connecting piece 46 is located outside the housing 26.

[0115] The measuring sensor 42 is also expediently equipped with a magnetic measuring nozzle 48 for detachable connection to the housing 26 of the filter unit 20, so that it can be easily removed and reattached when changing the filter unit 30 and for cleaning purposes.

[0116] In order to guarantee correct alignment of the measuring sensor 42, it is furthermore advisable to design the opening 32 for this as an adapter plate 34 with an asymmetrical elongated hole, for example, one end of the elongated hole can end at a right angle or the adapter plate 34 can be provided with a positioning pin.

[0117] Figure 4 shows a top view of the adapter plate 34 of the housing 26 of the filter unit 20 with the opening 32 in the form of an elongated hole for a measuring sensor 42. Figure 5 shows a top view of the adapter plate 34 according to Figure 4 with the measuring sensor 42 mounted.

[0118] Figure 6 shows a plan view of a filter unit 20 with mounted pressure measuring device 40 in a plug-in device of a treatment plant.

[0119] The pressure measuring device 40 comprises at least one pressure measuring device 50, in particular a differential pressure measuring device 50, a measuring sensor 42 and a connecting line 52, in particular a flexible connecting line 52, which can be designed as a flexible pressure hose, between the measuring sensor 42 and the pressure measuring device 50. The filter unit 20 is designed to be exchangeable as a so-called trolley, wherein the pressure measuring device 50 is arranged on a part connected to the treatment system 200, in particular an insertion device 170 for the filter unit 20.

[0120] In order to display the measurement signal with visualization, a differential pressure measuring device 50 is permanently arranged on the treatment system 200 near each filter unit 20, for example in the vertical frame area 174 of a slide-in device 170 or in the horizontal frame area 172 above a swing door of the housing 26. From this differential pressure measuring device 50, a flexible pressure hose 52 is attached as a connecting line 52 with a magnetic measuring nozzle 48 to the respective housing 26 of the filter unit 20. In the vertical frame area 174, there can also be a receptacle 54 for the magnetic measuring nozzle 48, where it can be suspended in a kind of parking position during the replacement of the filter unit 20, thus ensuring that the pressure hose 52 runs elongated and vertically downwards along the vertical frame area 174 without loops during this time.Thus, at least a part of the connecting line 52 with the measuring sensor 42 is arranged in the vertical direction L when the measuring sensor 42 is received in the receptacle 54.

[0121] This situation can be seen in Figure 7 in the top view of the filter unit 20 according to Figure 6 with the measuring sensor 42 in the receptacle 54 on the insertion device 170.

[0122] Figure 8 shows a flowchart of a method for operating a treatment system 200 for coating workpieces with a coating medium, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies, with a monitoring device 100. The method comprises, in a first step S100, determining at least one criterion for replacing a filter unit 20. The criterion can comprise at least one of the following variables: a first limit value of a first pressure measuring device 40 of the filter unit 20, a second limit value of a second pressure measuring device 60 of the treatment system 200, and limit values ​​for a number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by the filter unit 20.

[0123] During the coating process, the measured values ​​of first pressure measuring devices 40 of a number n of filter units 20 are continuously determined in steps S_1 to S_n. The number n of filter units can be selected by the person skilled in the art as needed. In parallel, in step S130, measured values ​​of the second pressure measuring device 60 of the treatment system 200 are determined. Furthermore, the number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by the filter units 20 are determined in parallel.

[0124] In step S102, a continuous check is performed to determine whether the measured value of the second pressure measuring device 60 exceeds the second limit value. If this is the case, a check is performed in step S104 to determine which filter unit 20 has the highest measured value. The system then branches to step S110, where the signal to replace this filter unit 20 is output.

[0125] If the second limit value of the second pressure measuring device 60 is not exceeded in step S102, a check is performed in step S106 to determine whether a measured value of a first pressure measuring device 40 of a filter unit 20 exceeds the first limit value. If this is the case, a signal to replace this filter unit 20 is output in step S110.

[0126] If the check in step S106 determines that no measured value from the first pressure measuring devices 40 exceeds the first limit value, a check is performed in step S108 to determine whether the number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by a filter unit 20 exceeds a limit value. If this is the case, a signal to replace this filter unit 20 is output in step S110. If none of the limit values ​​are exceeded, the continuous determination of the measured values ​​from the first and second pressure measuring devices 40, 60 and the counter device 70 continues.

[0127] If necessary, the counter 70 can be reset when the filter unit 20 is removed from the treatment system 200 and, after reconnecting the filter unit 20, a lower pressure is determined in the first pressure measuring device 40 of the filter unit 20. Alternatively, the counter 70 can be reset by manually resetting the counter 70. Furthermore, the counter 70 can also be reset by automatically detecting a digital signal from the filter unit 20 by the counter 70 when the filter unit 20 is docked to the treatment system 200.

[0128] Criteria for replacing a filter unit 20, in particular the limit values ​​of the first and second pressure measuring devices 40 as well as the number and / or duration of coating cycles performed, can advantageously be defined depending on predeterminable input variables for the operation of the treatment system 200, in particular costs and / or CO2 emissions. The predeterminable input variables can, for example, include at least one of the following variables: electricity price, price of a filter 30, personnel costs per filter change, disposal costs per filter 30, CO2 emissions per kWh or per filter 30, in particular including the manufacture and disposal of a filter 30.

[0129] Furthermore, the criteria for replacing a filter unit 20 can be adjusted based on current and / or past operating data of the treatment plant 200. In particular, the criteria can be adjusted based on automatically recorded operating data and / or manually entered operating data. The method according to the invention can be implemented by means of a correspondingly configured

[0130] Data processing device, for example the inventive

[0131] device for data processing, in particular automatically or semi-automatically. Such

[0132] The data processing device can be, for example, a conventional computer, a conventional workstation, a mainframe computer, or the like. The data processing device can thus comprise, in particular, a processor, a microchip, an integrated circuit, a hardware circuit, or the like for executing a computer program or program code encoding or representing the method. Furthermore, the data processing device can, in particular, have a volatile and / or non-volatile data memory connected thereto, one or more interfaces for receiving and outputting data, and / or the like. The data processing device can have one or more subdevices for executing the individual method steps of the method according to the invention.These sub-devices can be or include corresponding hardware circuits or hardware modules, but also corresponding program parts or program modules of the said computer program, for example an operating program for the data processing device.

[0133] Figure 9 shows a flowchart of the proposed method according to a further embodiment of the invention.

[0134] Step S200 corresponds to step S100 in the flowchart of the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figure 8. During the coating process, in steps S_1 to S_n, the measured values ​​of first pressure measuring devices 40 of a number n of filter units 20 are continuously determined. The number n of filter units can be selected by the person skilled in the art as needed. In parallel, in step S130, measured values ​​of the second pressure measuring device 60 of the treatment system 200 are determined. Furthermore, the number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by the filter units 20 are determined in parallel.

[0135] However, in contrast to the serial sequence shown in Figure 8, the following steps S202, S204, S206, and S208 are executed independently of one another, in particular, in parallel, in the embodiment described in Figure 9. In step S202, a continuous check is performed to determine whether the measured value of the second pressure measuring device 60 exceeds the second limit value. If this is the case, a check is performed in step S204 to determine which filter unit 20 has the highest measured value. The program then branches to step S210, and the signal to replace this filter unit 20 is output.

[0136] In step S206, a check is made to determine whether a measured value of a first pressure measuring device 40 of a filter unit 20 exceeds the first limit value. If this is the case, a signal to replace this filter unit 20 is output in step S210.

[0137] In step S208, a check is made to determine whether the number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by a filter unit 20 exceeds a limit value. If this is the case, a signal to replace this filter unit 20 is issued in step S210.

[0138] If none of the limit values ​​is exceeded, the continuous determination of the measured values ​​of the first and second pressure measuring devices 40, 60 and the counter device 70 is continued.

[0139] Figure 10 shows a schematic representation of a data processing device 300, for example a computer 310, for carrying out a method for operating a treatment system 200 for coating workpieces with a coating medium, in particular for painting, in particular vehicle bodies, with a monitoring device 100.

[0140] The data processing device 300 here comprises a data memory 314, a processor 312 connected thereto, and an interface 316 connected thereto for receiving and outputting data. Furthermore, the data processing device 300 has an interface to external devices 318, such as a network or an external storage system. A computer program 320 that implements the method is stored on the data memory 314. Corresponding program modules 322 are represented here with method steps. Reference numerals

[0141] 10 Treatment room

[0142] 12 Entrance

[0143] 20 filter unit

[0144] 22 Entrance

[0145] 24 Outlet

[0146] 26 housings

[0147] 28 exhaust air duct

[0148] 30 filters

[0149] 32 Opening

[0150] 34 adapter plate

[0151] 40 Pressure measuring device

[0152] 42 sensors

[0153] 44 measuring tube

[0154] 46 connecting pieces

[0155] 48 measuring nozzles

[0156] 50 pressure gauge

[0157] 52 connecting line

[0158] 54 recording

[0159] 60 pressure measuring device

[0160] 70 counting device

[0161] 80 exhaust air collection duct

[0162] 82 Outlet

[0163] 90 Flow direction

[0164] 100 monitoring device

[0165] 170 Insertion device

[0166] 172 horizontal frame area

[0167] 174 vertical frame area

[0168] 200 treatment plant

[0169] 300 data processing device

[0170] 310 computers

[0171] 312 processor

[0172] 314 data storage

[0173] 316 Interface for receiving and outputting data

[0174] 318 external facilities

[0175] 320 computer program

[0176] 322 Program module L vertical direction

[0177] S100, S200 Determine criterion

[0178] S102, S202 Check measured value of second pressure measuring device

[0179] S104, S204 Determine highest measured value first pressure measuring devices

[0180] S106, S206 Check measured values ​​of first pressure measuring devices

[0181] S108, S208 Check number / duration of coating cycle

[0182] S110, S210 Output signal to replace filter unit

[0183] S_1-S_n Determine measured values ​​of the first pressure measuring devices

[0184] S130 Determine measured values ​​of second pressure measuring devices

[0185] S140 Determine number / duration of coating cycle

Claims

Protection claims 1. Monitoring device (100) for monitoring a treatment plant (200) for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, especially vehicle bodies, with a coating medium, comprising at least a first pressure measuring device (40) for installation in a filter unit (20), which is arranged in a desired flow direction (90) downstream of a plurality of filters (30) of the filter unit (20), and at least a second pressure measuring device (60) for arrangement in an exhaust air collection duct (80), wherein the pressure measuring devices (40, 60) determine a differential pressure to the atmospheric pressure of an environment of the filter unit (20).

2. Monitoring device according to claim 1, further comprising a counting device (70) for each filter unit (20) for recording a number and / or duration of executed coating cycles.

3. Monitoring device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second pressure measuring device (40, 60) comprise at least one pressure measuring device (50), in particular a differential pressure measuring device, a sensor (42) and a connecting line (52), in particular a flexible connecting line (52), between sensor (42) and pressure measuring device (50).

4. Monitoring device according to claim 3, wherein the sensor (42) has a measuring tube (44), in particular a cranked measuring tube (44), the free opening (45) of which points in the direction of flow (90).

5. Monitoring device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the sensor (42) has a measuring port (48) for detachable connection with a housing (26) of the filter unit (20), in particular wherein the measuring port (48) is magnetically formed. Monitoring device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the measuring tube (44) has a connecting piece (46) for connecting the measuring tube (44) to the connecting line (52). Treatment system (200) for coating workpieces, in particular for painting, especially vehicle bodies, with a monitoring device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least a treatment chamber (10) with an inlet (12) for supplying air into the treatment chamber (10), a plurality of parallel-flow filter units (20) with at least one filter (30) which filter the air discharged from the treatment chamber (10), wherein the air filtered by the filter units (20) is directed into a common exhaust air collection duct (80), wherein the monitoring device (100) has at least one first pressure measuring device (40) for each filter unit (20).which is arranged downstream of the at least one filter (30) of the filter unit (20), wherein the monitoring device (100) has at least one second pressure measuring device (60) which is arranged in the exhaust air collection duct (80), wherein the pressure measuring devices (40, 60) determine a differential pressure relative to the atmospheric pressure of the surroundings. Treatment system according to claim 7, further comprising a counting device (70) for each filter unit (20) for recording a number and / or duration of coating cycles performed. Treatment system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the first and second pressure measuring devices (40, 60) comprise at least one pressure gauge (50), in particular a differential pressure gauge, a sensor (42) and a connecting line (52), in particular a flexible connecting line (52), between the sensor (42) and the pressure gauge (50). Treatment system according to claim 9, wherein the sensor (42) has a measuring tube (44), in particular a bent measuring tube (44), the free opening (45) of which points in the flow direction (90). Treatment system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the sensor (42) is arranged in an exhaust air duct (28) of the filter unit (20) downstream of the at least one filter (30) of the filter unit (20). Treatment system according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the filter unit (20) has at least two filters (30) arranged one above the other in a vertical direction (L), through which air flows in parallel, wherein the filtered air is guided downwards in the exhaust air duct (28) in a vertical direction (L) to an outlet (24) which is arranged in a vertical direction (L) below the at least two filters (30), wherein the measuring sensor (42) is arranged in a region of the exhaust air duct (28) at a height of the upper of the at least two filters (30).Treatment system according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the filter unit (20) has at least two filters (30) arranged horizontally side by side, and wherein the sensor (42) is arranged in a region of the exhaust air duct (28) between the at least two filters (30). Treatment system according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein a housing (26) of the filter unit (20) has an opening (32) for passing the sensor (42), in particular the measuring tube (44), into the housing (26). Treatment system according to claim 14, wherein the housing (26) has an adapter plate (34) with the opening (32), in particular wherein the opening (32) is designed as an asymmetrical elongated hole and / or wherein the adapter plate (34) has a positioning pin for positioning the sensor (42). Treatment system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the sensor (42) has a measuring port (48) for detachable connection with the housing (26), in particular with the adapter plate (34), and in particular wherein the measuring port (48) is magnetic. Treatment system according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the measuring tube (44) has a connecting port (46) for connecting the measuring tube (44) to the connecting line (52), wherein the connecting port (46) is arranged outside the housing (26) when the measuring tube (44) is installed as intended. Treatment system according to any one of claims 9 to 17, wherein the filter unit (20) is replaceable, and wherein the pressure gauge (50) is arranged on a part connected to the treatment system (200), in particular a slide-in device (170) for the filter unit (20).Treatment system according to claim 18, wherein the insertion device (170) has a receptacle (54) for the sensor (42), in particular wherein the insertion device (170) has a receptacle (54) for the magnetic measuring probe (48). Treatment system according to claim 19, wherein at least a portion of the connecting line (52) with the sensor (42) is arranged in the vertical direction (L) when the sensor (42) is received in the receptacle (54). Computer program product comprising commands which, when executed by a computer (310), cause the computer to at least, in particular automatically, when operating a treatment plant (200) for coating workpieces with a coating medium, in particular for painting, especially of vehicle bodies, - to determine at least one criterion for replacing a filter unit (20), wherein the criterion includes at least one of the following: a first limit value of a first pressure measuring device (40) of the filter unit (20), a second limit value of a second pressure measuring device (60) of the treatment plant (200), limit values ​​for a number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by the filter unit (20); - to issue information to initiate the replacement of one or more filter units (20) if at least one criterion is met, in particular if a measured value of the first pressure measuring device (40) of the filter unit (20) exceeds the first limit value, and / or if a measured value of the second pressure measuring device (60) exceeds the second limit value, and / or if a number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by the filter unit (20) exceeds the limit values. Device (300) for data processing, comprising means (310, 312, 314, 316, 320, 322) for, in particular automatically, executing - Determining at least one criterion for replacing a filter unit (20), wherein the criterion includes at least one of the following: a first limit value of a first pressure measuring device (40) of the filter unit (20), a second limit value of a second pressure measuring device (60) of a treatment plant (200), limit values ​​for a number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by the filter unit (20); - Outputting information to initiate the replacement of one or more filter units (20) when at least one criterion is met, in particular when a measured value of the first pressure measuring device (40) of the filter unit (20) exceeds the first limit value, and / or when a measured value of the second pressure measuring device (60) exceeds the second limit value, and / or when a number and / or duration of coating cycles performed by the filter unit (20) exceeds the limit values.

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