System comprising two dust modules, interface for connecting the dust modules, and method for extracting dust material from one of the dust modules

Abstract

A system (100) comprising a first dust module (10) and a second dust module (20), the first dust module having a first dust collection container (12) for receiving dust material (SG) and the second dust module having a second dust collection container (22) for receiving dust material. At least one of the two dust modules has a non-lockable pneumatic interface (50) for connecting to another dust module. Via the interface, the dust material can be extracted from the dust collection container of the dust module that has the interface. In a second aspect, the disclosure relates to a non-lockable pneumatic interface of this type for connecting two dust modules. In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a method for extracting dust material from a first dust module, wherein the first dust module is connected to a second dust module by means of the interface and dust material can be extracted from the first dust module into the second dust module.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM COMPRISING TWO DUST MODULES, INTERFACE FOR CONNECTING THE DUST MODULES AND METHOD FOR SUCTION OF DUST FROM ONE OF THE DUST MODULES

[0002] The present invention relates to a system comprising a first dust module and a second dust module, wherein the first dust module has a first dust collection container for receiving dust, and the second dust module has a second dust collection container for receiving dust. At least one of the two dust modules has a non-lockable, pneumatic interface for connecting to the other dust module, wherein the dust can be vacuumed out of the dust collection container of the dust module having the interface via the interface. In a second aspect, the invention relates to such a non-lockable, pneumatic interface for connecting two dust modules.In a further aspect, the invention relates to a method for vacuuming dust from a first dust module, wherein the first dust module can be connected to a second dust module via the interface and dust can be vacuumed from the first dust module into the second dust module.

[0003] Background of the invention:

[0004] Dust collection boxes are known in the prior art that can be connected to a machine tool to extract dust generated during operation directly from the working area of ​​the machine tool or its tool. These dust collection boxes typically have a dust collection container that must be emptied at regular intervals. Emptying the dust collection containers of conventional dust collection boxes, as known from the prior art, is often achieved by removing the entire dust collection box or its dust collection container from the machine tool to dispose of the contents of the dust collection container.

[0005] A disadvantage of the known solutions for emptying dust collection boxes is that they often result in a very high, undesirable dust exposure for the user of the system consisting of machine tool and dust collection box. If the contents of the dust collection container are, for example, poured out or transferred to another container, the dust can spread into the user's surroundings, exposing the user and the environment to high levels of dust. Studies of user behavior have also shown that the dust collection containers or dust collection boxes are often knocked out during emptying, for example by hitting the container that is intended to hold the contents of the dust collection container. This type of behavior poses a significant risk, particularly for the sensitive components of the dust collection box, such as the filter, as it can cause damage to the delicate components.Furthermore, it may happen that the dust collection boxes are not reassembled completely correctly or are not mounted on the machine tool completely correctly. Such incorrect assembly poses a further risk of damage to conventional dust collection boxes, as known from the state of the art. Incorrect assembly can adversely shorten the service life of the dust collection box or its components.

[0006] To overcome the disadvantages and deficiencies described, solutions are also known in the prior art in which the dust collection box or its collection container is permanently connected to an external vacuum cleaner. However, it has been shown that such force-locking and / or form-locking connections between the dust collection box or dust collection container on the one hand and the external vacuum cleaner on the other can also lead to problems. For example, consequential damage can occur, particularly to the filter system of the dust collection box, if a user mistakenly attempts to additionally support the suction of the dust collection box with the external vacuum cleaner by supposedly increasing the overall suction power by switching on the external vacuum cleaner.

[0007] In addition, very high loads can occur at the mechanical interface between the dust collection box and the external vacuum cleaner. The suction hoses used on construction sites or in the area of ​​industrial or construction site vacuum cleaners are often very long and heavy, frequently due to adhering dirt or mud. This initial situation leads to various problems and challenges. For example, the long hoses, which in the case of a fixed mechanical connection are connected to the dust collection box and thus to the machine tool, can pose a safety risk in the form of a tripping hazard. Furthermore, the suction hose can get caught on obstacles on the construction site, so that the forces acting on the mechanical interface become very high and the suction hose may even tear off the interface.It has been shown that the high mechanical loads can lead to short service lives of the force-locking and / or form-locking fixed interfaces. Furthermore, both the connection between the machine tool and the dust collection box, as well as the connection between the dust collection box and the external vacuum cleaner, can be damaged or otherwise mechanically compromised.

[0008] In some cases, very heavy and bulky interface solutions have been proposed to address these problems and create particularly robust, durable, and stable connections between the aforementioned components. However, such heavy and bulky interface solutions have proven to be of little use in practice, as they can significantly complicate the handling of the machine tool due to their high weight and / or large volume. Furthermore, it has been shown that such heavy and bulky interface solutions can be costly and material-intensive to manufacture.

[0009] For example, EP 4 005 452 A1 discloses a cleaning device comprising a vacuum cleaner and a docking station, wherein the docking station is designed to automatically collect dust from the vacuum cleaner.

[0010] WO 2009 019 057 A1 describes a hand-held power tool with a dust extraction device, wherein a dust box of the dust extraction device has an adjustable closing flap that can be opened in the direction of the dust box.

[0011] DE 10 005 976 A1 describes a handheld power tool with a dust extraction system that can be connected to a dust box. The dust box can be closed with flaps that extend into the interior of the dust box.

[0012] The object underlying the present invention is to overcome the above-described deficiencies and disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a dust extraction system in which the dust collection container of a dust module can be emptied particularly easily and simply. Furthermore, emptying the dust collection container should be as dust-free as possible for the user, minimizing their exposure to dust. Furthermore, the dust extraction system to be provided should be easy and convenient to use and handle, and should not pose any safety risks to the user.

[0013] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the subject matter of the independent claims can be found in the dependent claims.

[0014] Description of the invention: According to the invention, a system comprising a first dust module and a second dust module is provided, wherein the first dust module has a first dust collection container for receiving dust, and the second dust module has a second dust collection container for receiving dust. At least one of the two dust modules has a non-lockable, pneumatic interface for connection to the other dust module, wherein the dust can be vacuumed from the dust collection container of the dust module having the interface.

[0015] The term «non-lockable» in the sense of the invention preferably means that the pneumatic interface is activated by a contact force applied by the user and is deactivated by the absence of a contact force applied by the user. In other words, the "non-lockable" pneumatic interface can be activated by the application of a contact force. Alternatively or additionally, the "non-lockable" pneumatic interface can be deactivated if a contact force is absent, i.e. a user or operator of the proposed system does not apply a contact force to bring the two dust modules into contact with each other or to connect them with each other. With this pneumatic interface, which can be activated by a contact force applied by the user and deactivated by the absence of a contact force applied by the user, the invention departs from the prior art, in which predominantly fixed, i.e.permanently connected dust modules or dust modules in which the temporary contact between the dust modules is brought about or stabilized by means of gravity.

[0016] In contrast to such gravity-based solutions, the connection between the dust modules in the context of the present invention is based on a contact pressure that must be applied by the user in order to establish and maintain the connection between the dust modules. Rather, it is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the dust modules are not connected to one another during operation of the first dust module or a machine tool to which the first dust module is attached. The term "non-lockable" is therefore to be understood in the context of the present invention to mean that the connection between the dust modules, which is mediated by the pneumatic interface, is not permanent and / or that it is not based on gravity, but on a contact pressure applied by the user.According to the invention, it is preferred that when such a contact force is applied, the pneumatic interface is activated, allowing a suction flow, while the pneumatic interface is deactivated when no contact force is applied. The pneumatic interface is then closed, and no exchange occurs between the dust modules, since the fluidic connection between the dust modules is interrupted or blocked by the deactivated pneumatic interface.

[0017] It has been shown that there is a risk of misuse by the user, especially with multi-part dust systems. For example, the user can initiate stationary suction via the dust modules, which can lead to mechanical overload of the pneumatic interface between the dust modules. Such misuse is effectively prevented by the invention because the dust modules are not connected to one another during operation. Rather, a contact force must be applied by the user to establish or maintain the connection between the dust modules using the pneumatic interface. Only when the pneumatic interface is activated is the interface continuous for the suction flow, and only in this case, i.e. when a contact force is applied by the user, can dust be suctioned through the pneumatic interface.

[0018] The invention thus relates to a system with a first dust module and a second dust module, wherein the first dust module has a first dust collection container for receiving dust and the second dust module has a second dust collection container for receiving dust. At least one of the two dust modules has a pneumatic interface for connection to the other dust module, wherein the dust can be suctioned out of the dust collection container of the dust module having the interface via the interface, wherein the pneumatic interface can be activated by a contact force applied by the user and deactivated by the absence of a contact force applied by the user.

[0019] The proposed system has a further safety-relevant advantage. According to the invention, at least one of the two dust modules has a non-lockable, pneumatic interface for connection to the other dust module, whereby the dust can be vacuumed from the dust collection container of the dust module that has the interface via the interface. The term "non-lockable" preferably implies that the user of the system must apply a contact force to activate the interface between the dust modules. If - according to one embodiment of the invention - a dust module is connected to a machine tool, the user of the system generally requires two hands for safe operation of the machine tool. However, this leaves neither hand free to hold the second dust module.This advantageously means that the machine tool cannot be operated and one dust module cannot be vacuumed with the help of the other dust module at the same time. In other words, the non-lockable interface can effectively prevent misuse of the proposed system. For example, misuse can consist of the machine tool on which a dust module is arranged and a second dust module for vacuuming the first dust module being operated at the same time, which can lead to damage to the dust modules and / or the interface. This is particularly the case because strong vibration loads on the dust modules and / or the interface can occur if one dust module is emptied and the machine tool is being used at the same time. Another misuse can consist, for example, in the two dust modules being operated at the same time.This further misuse can also be effectively avoided with the invention and by providing the “non-lockable” interface between the dust modules.

[0020] In addition to preventing mechanical damage to the dust modules and / or the interface due to incorrect use, the invention can also prevent high levels of dust exposure for the user of the proposed system. By requiring the user to only vacuum or empty a dust module when the machine tool to which the dust module is attached is not being used, unwanted dust emissions into the user's environment can be effectively prevented. This keeps the user's environment free of dust and, in particular, the user is not exposed to unwanted dust exposure. It has therefore been found that with the invention and by providing the "non-lockable" interface between the dust modules, simultaneous operation of a dust module on the one hand and the machine tool orof the other dust module on the other side can be effectively prevented. This simultaneous operation can lead to damage to the system and high dust exposure for the user, so it is a key advantage of the system that such misuse—caused by simultaneous operation of the machine tool and dust module, or dust module and dust module—can be particularly effectively prevented. This is particularly due to the contact force required to activate the pneumatic interface between the dust modules.

[0021] The invention ensures particularly low-dust or dust-free emptying of one of the dust modules. Furthermore, the effort required for emptying the dust collection container for the system user can be significantly reduced with the invention, since neither the dust collection container nor the dust module need to be disassembled or dismantled. Furthermore, the dust collection container can be emptied without the dust collection container or other components of the dust module having to be tapped or shaken out. This prevents damage to the dust module and significantly extends its service life. For simplicity, the non-lockable, pneumatic interface is also referred to below as the "interface."

[0022] It is particularly preferred within the meaning of the invention that the interface exists or is arranged between the dust collection container of one dust module and an inlet of the other dust module. In this way, it can be ensured that the dust can be vacuumed out of the dust module that has the interface. For example, the non-lockable pneumatic interface can be a component of the first dust module. In other words, in this exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first dust module has the non-lockable pneumatic interface, via which the first dust module can be connected to the second dust module. It is particularly preferred within the meaning of the invention that the (first) dust collection container of the first dust module can be connected to the inlet of the second dust module.It is then possible for the dust particles located in the (first) dust collection container of the first dust module to be extracted from the first dust module and sucked into the second dust module via the interface. In particular, the dust particles from the first dust module can be sucked into the dust collection container of the second dust module. In other words, dust particles can be transferred or transferred from the first to the second dust module.

[0023] The term "non-lockable" in the sense of the invention means that the first and second dust modules are not connected to one another during operation of the first dust module or of a machine tool to which the first dust module is attached. If the dust collection container of the first dust module is to be emptied, for example, a first end of a suction hose of the second dust module can be brought into contact with the interface of the first dust module and the interface can thus be made permeable to the dust material ("opening the interface"). When the interface is open, dust material can pass from the first dust module into the second dust module, whereby the dust material can in particular be sucked in from the first into the second dust module. The opening of the interface can preferably also be referred to as "pneumatic activation of the interface" in the sense of the invention.It is preferred according to the invention that dust can be transferred from the first to the second dust module via a pneumatically activated interface. Preferably, in the case of a non-lockable interface, a connection between the two dust modules through which dust can pass only exists as long as one dust module is pressed against the other dust module with a contact force. It can also be preferred according to the invention that components of the dust modules are brought into close contact with one another or pressed against one another. The first end of the suction hose, which can be brought into close contact with the interface, can preferably also be referred to as the inlet contact of the second dust module within the meaning of the invention. It is particularly preferred according to the invention that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface can be pneumatically activated, i.e. can be opened, by close contact and / or a contact force.By terminating or removing the close contact, the interface is preferably closed again automatically, whereby an interface designed in this way is preferably referred to as a “self-closing” interface in the sense of the invention.

[0024] Within the meaning of the invention, it may also be preferred for the interface to be opened manually. For example, it is possible for the interface to be closed with a cover, which is removed before the suction process and replaced after the suction process is completed.

[0025] To simplify the description, it is assumed below that at least the first dust module has a non-lockable, pneumatic interface that can be brought into close contact with an inlet contact of the second dust module to create a suction channel and allow dust to be sucked out of the dust collection container of the first dust module. According to the invention, it is preferred that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface is configured to create a suction channel between the first dust module and the second dust module. Preferably, the suction channel only exists as long as a contact force is exerted between the first dust module and the second dust module.It is particularly preferred within the meaning of the invention that a suction channel can be created between the first dust module and the second dust module using the non-lockable, pneumatic interface, via which suction channel dust can be sucked from the first dust module into the second dust module. In other words, a suction channel can exist between the first dust module and the second dust module in order to exchange dust between the dust modules or, in particular, to transfer it from the first dust module to the second dust module. This suction channel can preferably run through the interface of the first dust module. For example, the second dust module can be connected to a suction hose, wherein the first end of the suction hose represents a free end of the suction hose and wherein this first end of the suction hose can be connected to a machine tool, a suction nozzle or the like.It is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the first, front end of the suction hose is referred to as the inlet contact of the second dust module. The second end of the suction hose can preferably be connected to the second dust module via an inlet, in particular via an inlet opening. For example, the second end of the suction hose can open into an inlet opening of the (second) dust collection container of the second dust module, so that dust can be sucked into the dust collection container of the second dust module with the aid of the suction hose. It is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the first end of the suction hose is referred to as the front end and the second end of the suction hose is referred to as the rear end of the suction hose.In this exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first, front end of the suction hose can be connected to the non-lockable pneumatic interface of the first dust module, and dust can be transferred from the first dust module to the second dust module. For this purpose, the dust can be sucked from the (first) dust collection container of the first dust module via the pneumatically activated interface of the first dust module and the suction hose, which is connected, for example, to the second dust module, into the dust collection container of the second dust module. The pneumatic activation of the interface can preferably be achieved by bringing the first end or the inlet contact of the suction hose into close contact with the interface, so that this contact makes the interface permeable to dust. According to the invention, it is preferred that a contact force is exerted by the suction hose of the second dust module on the first dust module orthe interface is exerted, whereby the contact force causes the interface to open and become permeable in order to "let through" dust particles from the first dust module into the second dust module. The close contact between the first end of the suction hose and the first dust module or its interface can advantageously create a suction channel through which dust particles can be sucked out of the first dust module and transferred to the second dust module. Preferably, a stream of dust-laden air can flow through this suction channel, whereby the dust particles can pass from the first dust module into the second dust module with this air stream.

[0026] According to the invention, it is preferred that a sealing force direction of the interface corresponds to a direction of the contact force between the dust modules. For example, the interface of the first dust module can comprise a spring element that can be compressed by the inlet contact of the second dust module to clear the path for the dust-laden air through the interface. When the inlet contact of the second dust module, which is formed, for example, by the front end of the suction hose between the dust modules, is brought into close contact with the interface of the first dust module, the spring element can be compressed and a valve in the interface can be released, allowing the dust-laden air to be sucked through the interface.In the contact state in which the interface is continuous and the interface is in close contact with the inlet contact of the second dust module, a virtual central axis can be laid through the interface and the inlet contact. According to the invention, both the sealing force direction of the interface and the direction of the contact force run along this virtual central axis. The sealing effect within the interface is preferably achieved by pressing the inlet contact toward an interior of the first dust module when the close contact between the first and second dust modules is established.This preferably results in the sealing force direction of the interface and the direction of the contact force between the dust modules pointing in a substantially opposite direction, wherein the sealing force direction and the direction of the contact force between the dust modules preferably coincide with the virtual central axis through the interface and / or through the inlet contact.

[0027] It is further preferred within the meaning of the invention that the interface is designed to be self-closing. This preferably means within the meaning of the invention that the interface is closed without external influence and can be pneumatically activated, i.e. opened, for example, by close contact or a contact force. This close contact can preferably be brought about by contact between the interface and the inlet contact of the second dust module or its suction hose. The inlet contact can, for example, also exert the contact force on the interface, wherein the contact force causes the interface to be opened. It is particularly preferred within the meaning of the invention that the interface closes automatically when the inlet contact of the second dust module is removed from the area of ​​the interface. Preferably, the interface does not open automatically, i.e.dust-permeable, but the interface preferably closes automatically when no contact force is exerted on the interface, i.e. when there is no longer close contact between the first and the second dust module. It is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the suction channel between the dust modules is not maintained or kept open without active external influence. In particular, in the context of the present invention, no device, no frictional connection or no pneumatic force is provided which keeps the interface or the suction channel open when no contact force is exerted or there is no close contact between the dust modules. It is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the interface cannot be locked either by force or by a material fit.

[0028] It is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface can be pneumatically activated by close contact and / or a contact pressure. It is particularly preferred within the meaning of the invention that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface can be mechanically opened by the close contact and / or the contact pressure. The close contact can exist in particular between an interface of the first dust module and an inlet contact of the second dust module. Preferably, the contact pressure can be exerted by the inlet contact of the second dust module on the interface of the first dust module. Alternatively or additionally, the non-lockable, pneumatic interface can be pneumatically opened by a vacuum of the second dust module. In this embodiment of the invention, the interface can be opened by the vacuum that can be generated in the second dust module to suck in dust.For this purpose, the dust module comprising the interface can, for example, have a valve that can be preloaded. It is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the valve is designed as a check valve and is located in the region of the interface of the dust module comprising the interface. However, it can also be preferred within the meaning of the invention that the valve is formed by a duckbill valve. The use of duckbill valves has proven advantageous in the context of the present invention because, on the one hand, the duckbill valves close essentially frictionlessly and, on the other hand, they are self-helping, whereby the negative pressure can reinforce the sealing effect of the valves.

[0029] According to the invention, it is preferred that the check valve is constructed in several parts. A check valve constructed in several parts can preferably comprise a plastic part, a seal, and a spring element. The plastic part can be movable and, when actuated, can open the path or the suction channel so that the dust can be sucked from the first dust module into the second dust module. The seal can be designed to seal the suction channel when the interface and / or the check valve is / are closed. The spring element can generate a preload which can preferably contribute to the interface being constructed in a self-closing manner and closing itself again when no contact force is transferred from the inlet contact of the second dust module to the first dust module, i.e. when there is no close contact between the dust modules.The check valve can preferably also be designed as a single piece within the meaning of the invention. In this case, the check valve can comprise a single-piece elastomer component that has both a sealing effect and function, as well as a spring effect and function. If the check valve is designed as a single piece, it can advantageously combine the various effects and functions that the check valve is intended to fulfill in one part, namely the elastomer component. This allows for simple design and assembly of the interface.

[0030] It has been shown that the interface allows for the dust to be extracted from the dust module that has the interface without disassembly, dust, or damage. In other words, the dust collection container of the dust module that has the interface can be emptied using the interface without disassembly, dust, or damage, so that the first dust module can continue to be operated after it has been emptied, for example, to extract dust from a work area of ​​a machine tool. In particular, the invention can ensure particularly simple and safe emptying of the dust collection container of the dust module that has the interface, while simultaneously providing a cost-effective, compact, and lightweight design for the dust module.

[0031] According to the invention, it is preferred that the first dust module is a dust collection box on a machine tool. Such dust collection boxes are known per se in the prior art and can, for example, be connected to hammer drills in order to vacuum up the dust generated when working with the machine tool. The dust is preferably generated in a working area of ​​the machine tool or its tool, wherein a suction pipe can be arranged between the dust collection box and the working area of ​​the machine tool. The dust collection box can, for example, have a suction unit with which a negative pressure can be generated, which is used to vacuum up dust and dirt. The dust collection box can, for example, be arranged on an underside of the machine tool.It is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the machine tool on which the dust collection box can be arranged during operation of the machine tool is not a component or is an optional component of the proposed system. The required components of the system, however, are the first dust module, the second dust module and the non-lockable, pneumatic interface, which is arranged on at least one of the dust modules. It can also be preferred within the meaning of the invention that all dust modules of the system have a non-lockable, pneumatic interface. In the case of this embodiment of the invention, the term "non-lockable" means that the first and second dust modules are not connected to one another during operation of the first dust module or of the machine tool to which the first dust module can be connected.

[0032] According to the invention, it is preferred that an assembly state of the system corresponds to a working state of the system. According to the invention, this preferably means that the dust can be transferred from the first to the second dust module (“working state”), particularly when the two dust modules are connected to each other (“assembly state”). The term “working state” is preferably independent of the working state of the machine tool.

[0033] The second dust module can, for example, be formed by an industrial or construction site vacuum cleaner, which is preferably referred to as a "separate vacuum cleaner" within the meaning of the invention. Industrial or construction site vacuum cleaners are also known per se and usually have a suction unit, such as a turbine, to create a vacuum and thus a suction flow. The suction unit can be driven by a motor of the industrial or construction site vacuum cleaner. The suction flow can be used to suck dust or the like into a dust collection container. For this purpose, the industrial or construction site vacuum cleaner can comprise a suction hose, which can be connected at its first, front end to a machine tool or a suction nozzle and at its second, rear end to the industrial or construction site vacuum cleaner, its suction head, or its dust collection container.Furthermore, the industrial or construction site vacuum cleaner can have filters for cleaning the suction flow and for protecting the motor and / or the suction unit of the industrial or construction site vacuum cleaner. Preferably, the dust collection container of the second dust module ("second dust collection container") has a larger capacity than the dust collection container of the first dust module ("first dust collection container"). This allows the first dust collection container to be emptied or the dust from the first dust module to be vacuumed repeatedly without having to empty the second dust collection container. Thus, the second dust module can be used as a large dust collection container on a construction site. Within the meaning of the invention, it can also be preferred for a construction site to have a plurality of machine tools with a plurality of first dust modules.The plurality of first dust modules can each have a non-locking, pneumatic interface and can be emptied into the dust collection container of the second dust module. For example, the first dust module can also be designed as a vacuum cleaner robot, so that the second dust module can serve as a base station for receiving dust. Within the meaning of the invention, it can also be preferred for the proposed system to comprise, in addition to a second dust module, a first dust module designed as a dust collection box for a machine tool, as well as a further first dust module, wherein the further first dust module is designed as a vacuum cleaner robot. The first dust modules each comprise a first dust collection container with a non-locking, pneumatic interface, wherein the dust collection containers of the first dust module can be emptied into the second dust module via the interface in a particularly simple, dust-free and uncomplicated manner.Thus, the invention can provide a system for particularly low-dust or dust-free disposal of dust or dust material from smaller, preferably mobile first dust modules, wherein the emptying takes place into a second, preferably larger, dust module.

[0034] In one embodiment, the invention can be a system comprising at least two dust modules, each of which has a collection container, with at least a first dust module having a non-lockable pneumatic interface located on the collection container as an inlet interface for another dust module. The collection container can preferably be arranged between the inlet interface and a filter of the dust module. Within the meaning of the invention, it is preferred that the filters of the "subsequent" dust modules each have increasing particle retention capacities. In other words, the filter of the second dust module is preferably designed to hold more dust than the filter of the first dust module. Within the meaning of the invention, the dust modules can preferably also be referred to as vacuum cleaner modules.

[0035] The present invention consists in particular in that at least one of the two dust modules, for example, the first dust module, has a non-lockable pneumatic interface with which the dust collection container of the dust module having the interface can be vacuumed. The term "vacuum" in this context preferably means that the dust collection container of the dust module having the interface can be emptied using the interface by vacuuming or transferring the dust contained in the dust collection container via the pneumatically activated interface into the dust collection container of the other dust module, which, for example, does not have a non-lockable pneumatic interface.As a result, the dust is preferably transferred or reloaded, preferably from the smaller dust collection container of the first dust module, which in this exemplary embodiment has the interface, into the larger dust collection container of the second dust module. In the sense of the invention, it is particularly preferred that the proposed system has a dust collection box for a machine tool as the first dust module and an industrial or construction site vacuum cleaner as the second dust module, wherein at least the dust collection box has a non-lockable pneumatic interface so that dust can be vacuumed from the dust collection container of the dust collection box via the interface into the dust collection container of the industrial or construction site vacuum cleaner. In one exemplary embodiment of the invention, the first dust module of the proposed system is a dust collection box for a machine tool and the second dust module is a separate vacuum cleaner.At least the first dust module can have the non-lockable, pneumatic interface, wherein the non-lockable, pneumatic interface is present in the dust collection container of the first dust module. It is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the dust module having the non-lockable, pneumatic interface can be emptied via the interface without having to be disassembled. The dust module having the non-lockable, pneumatic interface is preferably the first dust module, which can be emptied particularly easily and with little or no dust using the invention. If, for example, the first dust module has the non-lockable, pneumatic interface, this feature preferably means within the meaning of the invention that the first dust module does not have to be disassembled in order to be emptied.In particular, it is not necessary to remove the dust collection container or any filter unit that may be present from the dust module. Instead, the first dust module can be emptied through close contact with the second dust module or by the second dust module or one of its components exerting a contact force on the first dust module. This is because the close contact or contact force can open the interface between the dust modules, creating a suction channel between the dust modules. Dust can then pass from the first dust module into the second dust module through this suction channel, allowing the first dust module or its dust collection container to be emptied or vacuumed away. In this way, the invention can provide a very time-saving and uncomplicated way of emptying a dust module, such as a dust collection box for a machine tool.If the first dust module is formed by a dust collection box for a machine tool, it is particularly not necessary in the context of the invention to remove the dust collection box from the machine tool when the dust collection container of the dust collection box is to be emptied. Rather, the dust collection container can advantageously remain on the dust collection box so that operation of the machine tool can be continued or resumed particularly quickly. In the sense of the invention, it is preferred that the dust collection box can be emptied both when the machine tool is in operation and when the machine tool is switched off. The dust collection box is preferably emptied when the dust collection box is switched off, since in this state the emptying can be combined with filter cleaning.This approach is useful because, when the dust collection box is switched off, backwashing can occur, in which an air stream flows through the filter. The air stream is designed to loosen any filter cake from the filter. This can further simplify and increase the efficiency of working with the machine tool.

[0036] According to the invention, it is preferred that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface be self-closing. This can be achieved, for example, by providing a preferably pre-tensionable check valve, as described above. According to the invention, it is particularly preferred that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface comprises a valve for opening or closing the suction channel.The term "self-closing" in the sense of the invention preferably means that the interface allows the passage of dust and dust-laden air through the interface when there is close contact between the inlet contact of the second dust module and the interface of the first dust module, whereby the interface closes again almost automatically when the inlet contact of the second dust module is removed from the interface area of ​​the first dust module, thereby ending the close contact between the dust modules. In the sense of the invention, it is preferred that the valve or its spring element is pre-tensioned during normal suction operation of the dust collection box and is opened against the pre-tension when the dust collection box is emptied due to the close contact between the dust modules.

[0037] For example, the inlet contact of the second dust module can be formed by a front end of a suction hose, which can be inserted into an opening in the interface of the first dust module. A contact force can be exerted on the interface to open the valve against the preload. The interface is thereby opened while the valve is in the tensioned state, so that dust and / or dust-laden air can pass through the interface from the first into the second dust module in this open state ("working state of the interface"). In other words, the interface can be opened by moving the valve from a preloaded or initial position to a tensioned state, wherein the tensioned state of the valve preferably corresponds to the working or open state of the interface.By pulling the suction hose out of the interface opening, the close contact between the dust modules and the working state can be terminated by the valve being relaxed due to the absence of inlet contact and springing back from the tensioned state to its initial or pre-tensioned position.

[0038] It is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the preload of the valve can have different functions. Firstly, the preload is preferably used to close the valve. In this case, it is preferred within the meaning of the invention that the valve is returned essentially completely from the open state to the closed state. Due to the preload and in order to preferably close the valve essentially completely, it is necessary, friction can advantageously be overcome with the invention, wherein overcoming the friction requires a force that is preferably greater than zero. Furthermore, the preload can prevent the valve from opening undesirably automatically. This is because the negative pressure in the dust box exerts an opening force on the valve, with the preload of the valve counteracting the negative pressure.

[0039] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a pneumatic interface between a first dust module and a second dust module, wherein the interface is designed to be non-lockable. The terms, definitions, and technical advantages introduced for the system preferably apply analogously to the pneumatic interface. The pneumatic interface can preferably be designed to be self-closing and to create a suction channel between the first dust module and the second dust module. In other words, the non-lockable, pneumatic interface can be used to create a suction channel between the first dust module and the second dust module, via which suction channel dust can be sucked from the first dust module into the second dust module.Preferably, the non-lockable, pneumatic interface can comprise a check valve for opening or closing the suction channel, wherein the check valve can be formed in one or more parts. According to the invention, it is preferred that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface can be pneumatically activated by close contact and / or a contact force, wherein the non-lockable, pneumatic interface is located in the dust collection container of the first dust module of the proposed system.

[0040] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a method for vacuuming dust from a first dust module, wherein the first dust module is a component of the proposed system. The terms, definitions, and technical advantages introduced for the system and the pneumatic interface preferably apply analogously to the vacuuming method. The method for vacuuming dust is characterized by the following method steps: a) providing a first dust module, wherein at least the first dust module has a non-lockable, pneumatic interface for connecting the first dust module to a second dust module, b) connecting the first dust module to the second dust module via the interface, c) vacuuming dust from the first dust module using the interface.

[0041] According to the invention, it is particularly preferred that the dust is sucked from the first dust module into the second dust module via the interface, wherein the interface can be opened by exerting a contact force and / or by close contact between the interface of one dust module on the one side and an inlet contact of the other dust module on the other side. When the interface is open, a suction channel can be formed between the first dust module and the second dust module, via which suction channel dust can be sucked from the dust collection container of the first dust module into the dust collection container of the second dust module. For this purpose, there can preferably be a pressure difference between the dust modules. According to the invention, it is particularly preferred if, when the interface is open, there is a stronger negative pressure in the second dust module than in the first dust module.This pressure difference allows the dust to be sucked out of the dust collection container of the first dust module and into the dust collection container of the second dust module. The phrase "a stronger negative pressure" in the sense of the invention preferably means that, in absolute terms, the pressure in the second dust module is lower than in the first dust module. This results from the fact that the negative pressure is specified in negative numbers, so that a "stronger negative pressure" is associated with a greater distance from a pressure p = 0 bar. For example, the negative pressure in the second dust module can be -100 millibars (mbar), while the negative pressure in the first dust module can be, for example, -50 mbar. If the interface is opened, i.e. pneumatically activated, under such pressure conditions, the dust is sucked from the first dust module into the second dust module due to the pressure difference.In other words, under these pressure conditions, the suction channel is formed in such a way that a pressure equalization flow is created from the first to the second dust module, with which the dust can be transported from the first to the second dust module.

[0042] According to the invention, it is preferred that the first dust module and the second dust module have filters with which the air or suction flow can be cleaned. The filters can be used to clean the air of the suction flow of dust and the like, so that only cleaned and / or filtered air flows through the suction unit. This can advantageously extend the service life of the suction unit, since the suction unit and its components are effectively protected from contamination and damage by the provision of the filters. According to the invention, it is particularly preferred that the filter of the second dust module ("second filter") has a higher dust retention capacity than the filter of the first dust module ("first filter"). According to the invention, this means that the dust-laden air flow, particularly in the second dust module, can be particularly well cleaned of dust and dust particles.

[0043] It is preferred in the sense of the invention that the second dust module has an inlet contact which can be brought into close contact with the non-lockable, pneumatic interface of the first dust module, so that a suction channel is formed between the first dust module and the second dust module.

[0044] Further advantages emerge from the following description of the figures. The figures, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into further meaningful combinations. In the figures, identical and similar components are numbered with the same reference numerals. They show:

[0045] Fig. 1 View of a preferred embodiment of the system

[0046] Fig. 2 Sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the first suction module

[0047] Fig. 3 Sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the pneumatic, non-lockable interface

[0048] Fig. 4 Representation of a preferred embodiment of the system with a first and a second suction module

[0049] Fig. 5 Representation of a preferred embodiment of the system with a first, a second and an n-th suction module

[0050] Implementation examples and figure descriptions:

[0051] Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of the system 100. It shows a machine tool 110 with a tool 112. The machine tool 110 can be, for example, a drill or chisel hammer, wherein the tool 112 of the machine tool 110 can be used to machine a substrate. When working with the machine tool 110, dust can be generated in a work area, i.e., where the tool 112 of the machine tool 110 is machining the substrate. The dust can also comprise larger particles, wherein the mixture of dust and particles is referred to as dust material SG within the meaning of the invention. The dust material SG can be vacuumed up by a first dust module 10. The first dust module 10 can - as shown by way of example in Figure 1 - be arranged on an underside of the machine tool 110 and, in particular, be mechanically connected to the machine tool 110.The first dust module 10 has a dust collection container 12, which is preferably referred to as the "first dust collection container" within the meaning of the invention. The dust material SG can be sucked into the first dust module 10 via a suction pipe from the work area of ​​the machine tool 110 and collected in the dust collection container 12 of the first dust module 10. The suction is effected by a negative pressure, which can be generated by a suction unit 16 (see Fig. 4) of the first dust module 10. In addition, the first dust module 10 can have a filter 14 (see Fig. 2ff) or a filter unit with which the dust-laden air can be filtered before it reaches the suction unit 16 of the first dust module 10. To empty the dust container 12, the dust module 10 can be separated from the machine tool 110, particularly in conventional systems; Thus, the dust module 10 can be detachably connected to the machine tool 110.

[0052] The subject of the present invention is that a dust module 10 has a pneumatic, non-lockable interface 50 via which the dust collection container 12 of the first dust module 10 can be emptied. The interface 50 is preferably located in the collection container 12 of the first dust module 10. For this purpose, an inlet contact 29 of a second dust module 20 can be brought into close contact with the interface 50. The second dust module 20 can be an industrial or construction site vacuum cleaner. The second dust module 20 can also have a suction unit 26 with which a negative pressure can be generated. Dust can be sucked in with the aid of the negative pressure through a suction hose 40, wherein the suction hose 40 has a front, first end 42 and a rear, second end 44.The rear end 44 of the suction hose 40 can be connected to the second dust module 20, and a suction nozzle (not shown) or a machine tool 110 can be attached to the first end 42. The front end 42 of the suction hose 40 can also serve as an inlet contact 29 and be inserted into an opening in the interface 50 of the first dust module 10. The insertion of the front suction hose 42 of the suction hose 40 into the interface 50 is preferably referred to in the sense of the invention as establishing close contact between the dust modules 10, 20. Since the suction hose 40 is preferably connected to the second dust module 20, the front end 42 of the suction hose 40 is preferably also referred to as the "inlet contact 29 of the second dust module 20." However, it can just as well be preferred in the sense of the invention for an inlet contact 29 to be arranged immediately or directly on the second dust module 20.Such an inlet contact 29, which is arranged directly on the second dust module 20, can be formed, for example, by a protruding hollow cylinder that can be inserted into an opening of the interface 50 to open the interface 50 and allow dust to pass through. The term "dust-permeable" in the sense of the invention means that dust, dust particles (SG), and / or dust-laden air can pass through the interface 50 and thus pass from the first dust module 10 into the second dust module 20.

[0053] With the suction hose 40, in particular, a contact force can be exerted on the interface 50, with which the interface 50 is opened, i.e. made permeable to dust-laden air. In other words, dust-laden air or dust material SG can be sucked out of the collection container 12 of the first dust module 10 through the opened interface 50. This allows the collection container 12 of the first dust module 10 to be emptied particularly easily and inexpensively. In particular, it is not necessary to dismantle the dust collection container 12 or the entire first dust module 10 from the machine tool 110. Rather, the dust collection container 12 and the first dust module 10 can remain on the machine tool 110 when the dust collection container 12 is emptied. When the interface 50 between the dust modules 10, 20 is open, the dust material SG can be transferred from the first dust module 10 to the second dust module 20.By opening the interface 50, a suction channel 52 can advantageously be formed between the dust modules 10, 20 in order to transfer dust SG from one dust module 10 to the other dust module 20. The suction channel 52 preferably runs through the interface 50 and the suction hose 40 and temporarily connects the dust collection containers 12, 22 of the dust modules 10, 20 to one another while the interface 50 is open.

[0054] The second dust module 20 has a filter 24 with which the dust-laden air can be cleaned before it reaches the suction unit 26 and is then blown out via the outlet opening 28. In addition, the second dust module 20 has an inlet opening 27 and an outlet opening 28, wherein the inlet opening 27 and the outlet opening 28 of the second dust module 20 are referred to as the "second inlet opening" and the "second outlet opening". Air can be sucked into the second dust module 20 through the inlet opening 27, wherein the suction hose 40 can be connected to the inlet opening 27 with its rear end 44. The filtered air can be blown out of the second dust module 20 through the outlet opening 28. The second dust module 20 further comprises a dust collection container 22, which can be referred to as a “second dust collection container” in the sense of the invention.Dust SG can be collected in the second dust collection container 22. In particular, the dust that is extracted from the first dust module 10 via the interface 50 and the suction hose 40 can be collected in the dust collection container 22 of the second dust module 20.

[0055] Figure 2 shows a sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the first suction module 10. In particular, Fig. 2 shows the dust collection container 12, as well as the filter 14 and the interface 50. When the interface 50 is open, dust material SG can pass from the first dust module 10 into the second dust module 20, wherein the dust material SG in particular passes through the suction channel 52 which is opened up by the interface 50. The suction of the dust material SG from the first dust module 10 can be made easier in particular by there being a stronger negative pressure, i.e. a lower absolute pressure, in the second dust module 20 than in the first dust module 10. This results in a compensating flow when the interface 50 is open, with which the dust material SG can be sucked out of the dust collection container 12 of the first dust module 10.

[0056] The interface 50 can comprise a valve 54 and a spring element 56, as well as sealing elements (not shown). The valve 54 can be designed, for example, as a check valve. When the inlet contact 29 of the second dust module 20 is inserted or pressed into an opening of the interface 50, the check valve 54 opens, allowing dust, dust particles (SG), and / or dust-laden air to be sucked out through the interface 50. For the purposes of the invention, pushing the inlet contact 29 into the interface 50 is preferably referred to as establishing "close contact" between the inlet contact 29 of the second dust module 20 and the interface 50 of the first dust module 10. The inlet contact 29 of the second dust module 20 exerts in particular a contact force F (see Fig. 3) on the check valve 54, so that the valve 54 is displaced in the direction of an interior of the dust collection container 12 of the first dust module 10.The displacement of the valve 54 causes the formation of the suction channel 52, through which the dust material SG can pass from the first dust module 10 into the second dust module 20. The interface 50 can further comprise a spring element 56, with which the valve 54 is closed again when the inlet contact 29 is removed from the area of ​​the interface 50 or when there is no longer close contact between the inlet contact 29 of the second dust module 20 and the interface 50 of the first dust module 10.

[0057] Figure 3 shows a sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the pneumatic, non-lockable interface 50. In the upper half of Fig. 3, the interface 50 is shown in the closed state, while in the lower half of Fig. 3 the interface 50 is shown in the open state. The upward-pointing arrow represents the contact force F and its direction. The inlet contact 29 of the second dust module 20 can be inserted into an opening in the first dust module 10 in order to open the interface 50, wherein this opening in the first dust module 10 is preferably also referred to as the opening of the interface 50. When the interface 50 is closed, the contact force F is 0 Newton (N), i.e. the inlet contact 29 of the second dust module 20 exerts essentially no force on the interface 50 or on the valve 54 contained in the interface 50.As a result, the spring element 56 of the valve 54 is preferably in a preloaded state, in which the spring element 56 of the valve 54 is preloaded with a preload force S. The opening of the interface 50 preferably occurs by bringing the inlet contact 29 of the second dust module 20 into close contact with the interface 50 or with the valve 54 in the interface 50. As a result, a contact force F is exerted on the interface 50 or the valve 54, and the valve 54 is opened.

[0058] In particular, the valve 54 can be pushed through the inlet contact 29 in an upward spatial direction, i.e., within the meaning of the invention, preferably in the direction of an interior space of the dust collection container 12 of the first dust module 10. This axial movement of the valve 54 can also, in particular, tension the spring element 56 of the interface 50, so that it is in the tensioned state when the interface 50 is open (see lower half of Fig. 3). When the interface 50 is open, a suction channel 52 is advantageously formed through the interface 50, through which dust material SG and dust-laden air can be sucked out of the first dust module 10. In this way, the dust collection container 12 of the first dust module 10 can be emptied easily and without dismantling the dust module 10. The path of the dust-laden air and the dust material SG through the suction channel 52 is indicated in the lower half of Fig. 3 by the curved, downward-pointing arrow.By (pre-)tensioning the spring element 56 of the interface 50, the interface 50 can be designed to be self-closing. When the close contact between the inlet contact 29 and the interface 50 is no longer maintained, the spring element 56 preferably relaxes again and, together with the valve 54, closes the suction channel 52. As a result, when the interface 50 is closed, no dust-laden air or dust particles SG can be exchanged between the dust modules 10, 20.

[0059] Figure 4 schematically shows a preferred embodiment of the system 100 with a first dust module 10 and a second dust module 20. The first dust module 10 is shown in the upper half of the image, while the second dust module 20 is shown in the lower half. The preferred embodiment of the first dust module 10 shown in Fig. 4 has an inlet opening 17 and an outlet opening 18 through which air can be sucked into the dust module 10 and later blown out. The sucked-in dust material SG can be collected in the dust collection container 12, wherein the non-lockable, pneumatic interface 50 can be arranged in the dust collection container 12. The first dust module 10 also has a filter 14 and a suction unit 16.The arrows with the different fillings indicate that the dust content of the air decreases more and more as it passes through the dust module 10, either because the dust remains in the dust collection container 12 or because the air passes through the filter 14, where it is filtered, so that the dust content decreases.

[0060] The second dust module 20 also has an inlet opening 27 and an outlet opening 28, as well as a dust collection container 22, a filter 24, and a suction unit 26. By connecting it to the second dust module 20, the interface 50 of the first dust module 10 can be opened, creating a suction channel 52 between the dust modules 10, 20, via which dust material SG can be transferred from the first dust module 10 to the second dust module 20. The suction channel 52 between the dust modules 10, 20 can preferably run through the interface 50 and the suction hose 40. According to the invention, it is preferred that the interface 50 has a substantially circular cross-section. Other cross-sectional shapes are also conceivable, such as an elliptical or oval cross-section. The cross-section can also be angular, for example, rectangular.If the cross-section of the interface 50 is substantially circular, it may be preferred within the meaning of the invention for the diameter of the interface to be in a range of 2-6 cm, preferably between 2.5 and 5 cm, and particularly preferably between 3 and 3.8 cm. Figure 5 schematically shows a preferred embodiment of the system 100 with a first dust module 10, a second dust module 20, and a third dust module 70, which represents n additional dust modules. The system 100 shown in Figure 5 essentially corresponds to the system 100 shown in Figure 4. However, the system 100 is expanded by a further dust module 70, wherein the additional dust module 70 represents a plurality of dust modules with which a system 100 comprising two dust modules 10, 20 can be expanded. For example, a system 100 can comprise two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or more dust modules.If the system 100 comprises, for example, eight dust modules, the dust modules 1 to 7 can each comprise a non-lockable, pneumatic interface 50, while the eighth dust module serves to receive the dust material SG from the dust modules 1 to 7. The dust modules 1 to 7 can preferably be connected one after the other to the eighth dust module, so that dust-laden air and the dust material SG can be transferred from the dust modules 1 to 7 to the eighth dust module. The transfer of the dust material SG preferably takes place using the interface 50 or through the suction channel 52 formed between the dust modules 10, 20, 70. It can also be preferred within the meaning of the invention that the dust material SG of the first dust module 10 is transferred to the second dust module 20 and the dust material of the second dust module 20 to the third dust module 70, and so on. Such a situation is shown, for example, in Fig.5, wherein the suction channel formed between the second dust module 20 and the further dust module 70 is preferably referred to as "suction channel 62" within the meaning of the invention. In the exemplary embodiment of the system 100 shown in Fig. 5, both the first dust module 10 and the second dust module 20 have an interface 50 for transferring the dust material SG, while in particular the second dust module 20 and the further dust module 70 can have inlet contacts 29 (not shown) with which the interface of the n-1st dust module can be opened.

[0061] The third or further dust module 70, shown in Fig. 5, also has an inlet opening 77 and an outlet opening 78, as well as a dust collection container 72, a filter 74, and a suction unit 76. List of reference symbols

[0062] 10 first dust module

[0063] 12 Dust collection container of the first dust module, “first dust collection container”

[0064] 14 filters in the first dust module

[0065] 16 Suction unit in the first dust module

[0066] 17 Inlet opening of the first dust module

[0067] 18 Outlet opening of the first dust module

[0068] 20 second dust module

[0069] 22 Dust collection container of the second dust module, “second dust collection container”

[0070] 24 filters in the second dust module

[0071] 26 Suction unit in the second dust module

[0072] 27 Inlet opening of the second dust module

[0073] 28 Outlet opening of the second dust module

[0074] 29 Admission contact

[0075] 40 suction hose

[0076] 42 front end of the suction hose

[0077] 44 rear end of the suction hose

[0078] 50 pneumatic non-lockable interface

[0079] 52 suction channel

[0080] 54 Valve

[0081] 56 spring element

[0082] 62 Suction channel between the nth and (n+1)th dust module

[0083] 70 n-th dust module

[0084] 72 Dust collection container of the nth dust module, “nth dust collection container” 74 Filter in the nth dust module

[0085] 76 Suction unit in the nth dust module

[0086] 77 Inlet opening of the first dust module

[0087] 78 Outlet opening of the first dust module 100 System

[0088] 110 Machine tool

[0089] 112 Machine tool tool

[0090] F An pressing force

[0091] S Preload force

Claims

Patent claims 1. System (100) comprising a first dust module (10) and a second dust module (20), wherein the first dust module (10) has a first dust collection container (12) for receiving dust (SG) and the second dust module (20) has a second dust collection container (22) for receiving dust (SG), characterized in that at least one of the two dust modules (10, 20) has a non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50) for connection to the other dust module (20, 10), wherein the dust (SG) can be sucked out of the dust collection container (12, 22) of the dust module (10, 20) that has the interface (50).

2. System (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50) is designed to be self-closing.

3. System (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50) is designed to create a suction channel (52) between the first dust module (10) and the second dust module (20).

4. System (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that the suction channel (52) only exists as long as a contact force F is exerted between the first dust module (10) and the second dust module (20).

5. System (100) according to one of claims 3 or 4, characterized in that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50) comprises a valve (54) for releasing or closing the suction channel (52).

6. System (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that the valve (54) is designed as a check valve and / or in one or more parts.

7. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50) can be pneumatically activated by a close contact and / or a contact force F.

8. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first dust module (10) is a dust collection box for a machine tool and the second dust module (20) is a separate vacuum cleaner.

9. System (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that at least the first dust module (10) has the non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50), wherein the non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50) is present in the dust collection container (12) of the first dust module (10).

10. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dust module (10, 20) having the non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50) can be emptied via the interface (50) without being dismantled.

11. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second dust module (20) has an inlet contact (29) which can be brought into close contact with the non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50) of the first dust module (10), so that a suction channel (52) is formed between the first dust module (10) and the second dust module (20).

12. Pneumatic interface (50) between a first dust module (10) and a second dust module (20) for extracting dust (SG) from the first dust module (10) Method for extracting dust (SG) from a first dust module (10), wherein the first dust module (10) is a component of a system (100) according to one of the preceding claims and wherein the method is characterized by the following method steps: a) providing a first dust module (10), wherein at least the first dust module (10) has a non-lockable, pneumatic interface (50) for connecting the first dust module (10) to a second dust module (20), b) connecting the first dust module (10) to the second dust module (20) via the Interface (50), c) Suction of dust (SG) from the first dust module (10) using the interface (50).

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