Milling device for removing material and / or soiling from fixed surfaces

Abstract

The invention relates to a milling device (10) for removing coatings and / or contaminants applied to paved surfaces (12), in particular road markings applied to traffic areas, comprising: - at least one outer hood-shaped housing (14); - at least one inner hood-shaped housing (16) enclosed by the outer hood-shaped housing (14); - at least one mechanical milling device (20) arranged within the inner housing (16) and driven by a drive (18), which is configured to mechanically mill off the coating to be removed at least section by a predetermined dimension, wherein the milling device (20) has at least one milling head (22) rotatable about a rotary axis (X), wherein the milling head (22) has at least one milling structure (24) designed for milling off the coating to be removed;- a suction nozzle (26) connected to the outer housing (14), which can be connected to a suction device (28); and - a skirt (30) arranged outside the outer housing (14) and surrounding the outer housing (14), which has an opening (32) for suction air on a side of the skirt (30) facing away from the traffic surface between the skirt (30) and the outer housing (14); wherein the two housings (14, 16) are open towards the traffic surface in a working position of the milling device (10), wherein the at least one milling head (22) projects from the open housings (14, 16) towards the traffic surface for milling off the coating, wherein during milling the coating is extracted through a space (34) formed between the housings (14, 16) and through the suction nozzle (26), and wherein the milling device (10) is movable relative to the traffic surface.;

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a milling device for removing coatings and / or contamination applied to fixed surfaces.

[0002] Paved surfaces are defined as areas stabilized by materials such as asphalt, concrete, or paving stones to create durable and load-bearing structures. Examples of paved surfaces include traffic areas (roads, sidewalks), playing fields, runways, parking lots, parking garages, industrial sites, railway stations, concrete roads, and concrete structures (such as bridges).

[0003] When applied to paved surfaces, the coating can consist of materials such as adhesive tape, sprayed plastic, cold plastic, thermoplastic, rubber, paint, or epoxy resin materials, for example, in the form of road markings or tire abrasion, such as that from aircraft on a runway. A wide variety of other coatings are conceivable for paved traffic areas, such as cargo that has spilled onto the road surface in an accident, which constitutes a coating, for example, spilled paint, and / or dirt.

[0004] Removing such coatings from paved surfaces is often a complex and costly process. Using conventional mechanical milling devices, several operations are required to remove the coating. These operations include both the actual milling of the coating and the subsequent collection or extraction of the removed material. Furthermore, multiple milling passes are often necessary to continuously approach the underlying surface and prevent damage, i.e., over-milling with excessive material removal and the resulting impairment of the underlying surface. The removal of the milled coating is carried out in a separate operation using a sweeper / vacuum machine, which is moved across the paved surface after the milling process.

[0005] Furthermore, with known mechanical milling machines, it can happen that not only the material being removed, but also the underlying surface is abraded and / or damaged. This can lead to irreversible damage to the surface structure. Such damage can particularly impair the durability, appearance, and function of the surface, which is especially undesirable for functional surfaces such as roads, bridges, and runways.

[0006] It is an object of the invention to provide a milling device that enables the efficient and precise removal of coatings and / or contaminants applied to fixed surfaces. A further object of the invention is to provide a milling device with which damage to the surface underlying the coating can be effectively avoided.

[0007] These problems are solved according to the invention by the features of independent claim 1. Further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

[0008] The invention relates to a milling device for removing coatings and / or soiling applied to paved surfaces, in particular road markings applied to traffic areas, comprising: at least one outer hood-shaped housing; at least one inner hood-shaped housing enclosed by the outer hood-shaped housing; at least one mechanical milling device arranged within the inner housing and driven by a drive, which is configured to mechanically mill off the material to be removed at least section by a predetermined dimension, wherein the milling device has at least one milling head rotatable about a rotary axis, wherein the milling head has at least one milling structure designed for milling off the material to be removed; a suction nozzle connected to the outer housing, which can be connected to a suction device; and a skirt arranged outside the outer housing and surrounding the outer housing, which has an opening for suction air on a side of the skirt facing away from the traffic surface between the skirt and the outer housing; wherein the two housings are open towards the traffic surface in a working position of the milling device, wherein the at least one milling head projects from the open housings towards the traffic surface to mill off the coating, wherein during milling the milled coating is extracted through a space formed between the housings and through the suction nozzle, and wherein the milling device is movable relative to the traffic surface.

[0009] With the milling device according to the invention, the coating can be milled from the bonded surface and the milled-off coating simultaneously extracted. The extraction of the milled-off coating occurs directly and immediately at the milling point during the milling process. The mechanical milling and extraction of the milled-off coating can be performed in a single operation with the milling device according to the invention; that is, a separate operation for collecting or extracting the milled-off coating is not required. The need for a sweeper / vacuum after milling is therefore completely eliminated. In addition, the direct extraction of the milled-off coating or the milled-off particles during the milling process also prevents the milled-off particles from being uncontrollably distributed in the vicinity of the milling point and thus into the environment.This prevents the uncontrolled release of fine dust and ensures compliance with legal requirements and / or guidelines, such as the Workplace Directive.

[0010] Furthermore, the milling device according to the invention can mill and standardize the layer thickness of the coating to a predetermined dimension. This allows for a precise and uniform material removal result, thus preventing unwanted damage to the bonded surface.

[0011] A dome-shaped housing can be, in particular, a shell-like structure that is curved and / or domed. The dome-shaped housing can be designed to spatially separate certain areas or components and / or protect them from external influences.

[0012] In the context of this invention, a working position is understood to be an operating state of the milling device in which the milling device actively performs its intended function. This means that all necessary components are ready for operation and the machine is operating within its specifications to perform the desired tasks.

[0013] In this context, a drive is understood to be a device that can convert pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, or chemical energy into mechanical energy and transmit it to the mechanical milling device. The drive can comprise several components, such as motors, gearboxes, and / or couplings, that interact with each other to generate, control, and / or regulate the desired movement of the mechanical milling device. Specifically, the drive can include a hydraulic motor and / or an electric motor.

[0014] A milling head can preferably be a milling tool having a milling structure designed to remove material from a fixed surface in the form of an applied coating. The milling head can thus also be referred to as a "milling tool." In its working position, the milling head can be in milling contact with the coating to be removed. Furthermore, the milling head can comprise a body on whose end face the milling structure is provided. The milling head can be designed as a milling disc. The milling structure can include cutting tools and / or other milling elements. The milling structure can, in particular, be arranged on a milling attachment that is functionally and / or interchangeably connectable to the milling head or milling disc. Furthermore, the milling head can include an interface that can serve for a functional, motion-transmitting, and / or torque-transmitting connection to the drive.The milling structure can be defined, for example, by the shape, number and / or arrangement of the cutting tools and / or milling elements on the milling head.

[0015] The milling head can be designed differently depending on the material being removed. In other words, different milling heads with varying milling structures can be coupled to the milling device. For example, the milling head, or its design and / or geometry, can vary depending on the material to be removed and / or the layer thickness. The milling elements can include, for example, milling blades, milling teeth, milling rollers, milling discs, and / or milling disks.

[0016] The milling head can be interchangeable. The milling head and / or the milling device can have an interface designed for replacing the milling head. This allows for a high degree of flexibility in choosing the working width and infeed, as well as a wide range of applications for the milling device. Furthermore, downtime, for example due to maintenance and / or repair, can be reduced.

[0017] The position of the milling head relative to the outer and inner housings can be adjusted along the axis of rotation to set the thickness of the material to be milled. The milling head's position can thus be adjusted depending on the thickness of the material and the specified material to be removed. This allows for a uniform layer thickness after milling, if desired. The milling unit can therefore include a height adjustment mechanism, enabling the milling head to be adjusted vertically relative to the surface and the material to be removed. This height adjustment can be manual, semi-automatic, and / or fully automatic.

[0018] At least one adjusting screw can be provided to adjust the height or position of the milling head along the axis of rotation. This at least one adjusting screw can, for example, be supported directly or indirectly by the outer housing and thus contribute to adjusting the height of the milling head. At least one nut can be arranged on the at least one adjusting screw, which can interact with the at least one adjusting screw to adjust the height or position of the milling head. The at least one adjusting screw can be operated manually, semi-automatically, and / or fully automatically to adjust the position or height of the milling head.

[0019] The outer, hood-shaped housing can function as an extraction bell or hood. From the side of the two hood-shaped housings facing the traffic surface in the working position, ambient air is drawn into the space between the inner and outer hood-shaped housings—that is, between the inner hood-shaped housing and the extraction bell—from an area outside the outer housing. This type of extraction device can also be described as annular gap extraction. The material removed from the traffic surface by the mechanical milling device is drawn in by this ambient air, mixed with the ambient air, and this mixture is then extracted from the milling device through the suction nozzle.Due to the suction through the gap, the milling unit can generate a high air velocity even at low vacuum levels, for example, 20 to 30% or more, and a high air volume. In other words, the milling unit can operate at low vacuum levels, for example, 200 to 300 mbar or more. The resulting airflow carries away even the smallest particles or milled material.

[0020] Up to 35,000 m³ / h of suction air can be extracted using the suction device. During a single operation, the suction device can extract, for example, between 12,000 and 35,000 m³ / h of suction air. Preferably, between 15,000 and 32,000 m³ / h of suction air can be extracted from the milling unit using the suction device. Preferably, the suction device and the suction airflow are infinitely variable. The suction device can be connected to the milling unit via a suction pipe or a suction hose. The suction hose can, for example, be in the form of a suction-pressure spiral hose. The suction hose can be connected to the suction port on the milling unit.

[0021] Due to the described extraction system between the inner and outer housings, and the distance of the outer housing from the traffic surface, no milling material accumulates inside the outer housing. Because of the gap between the extraction system and the traffic surface, milling material or removed coating is continuously transported into the extraction system by an air curtain directly after mechanical milling in a continuous extraction process.

[0022] The suction nozzle can be designed to draw in and / or transport solid particles, liquids, and / or gases. The suction nozzle can be configured to provide optimal flow resistance to ensure efficient transport of the drawn-in milled material or removed material.

[0023] The suction device can be a technical system for generating a vacuum. It can include a pump, a suction blower, a cyclone, a filter, and / or a hose, all fluidically coupled to the suction port. The pump is preferably a vacuum pump configured to optimally adjust the suction power, vacuum, or negative pressure to the specific requirements and / or needs of the milling machine's working environment. This optimizes the efficiency of the extraction process. Cyclones and / or filters can complement the device by enabling effective separation and purification of the extracted air and the removed material.

[0024] An apron can be a device that encloses and / or covers at least a section of an extraction area. The apron can be designed to optimize the extraction process by selectively directing the airflow and particles removed during milling, preventing them from escaping uncontrollably into the environment. This particularly increases the efficiency of the extraction and keeps the work area clean. The apron can have at least one brush element. The apron can also be designed as a brush. The at least one brush element or the brush itself can be made of plastic or a similar material.

[0025] According to a further development, the milling head can be rotated in the working position of the milling device about an axis parallel, perpendicular, and / or angled to the traffic surface. Preferably, the milling head is rotatable in the working position about a rotary axis that runs perpendicular to the traffic surface. In some embodiments, the milling head can adapt to a specific milling position and / or milling orientation. This offers the advantage that precise and uniform machining is always possible, even with complex surface geometries.

[0026] The milling unit may have a drive spindle that extends, at least partially, through the inner and outer housings. The milling head may be attached to a proximal end of the drive spindle. A distal end of the drive spindle may be configured to be coupled to the drive for torque transmission. "Proximal end" refers to the end section of the drive spindle that faces the traffic surface in a working position of the milling unit. "Distal end" refers to the end section of the drive spindle that faces away from the traffic surface in a working position of the milling unit. The drive spindle enables the milling head to be driven and / or controlled precisely and efficiently. The connection between the spindle and the milling head ensures an exact and constant rotational speed, resulting in consistent milling conditions.Furthermore, such a design enables reliable and efficient power transmission as well as high stability during the milling process, which both extends the service life and increases machining accuracy.

[0027] The milling unit can include a bearing assembly for the drive spindle. This bearing assembly can be connected to either the inner or outer housing. The bearing assembly reduces vibrations and resulting inaccuracies during milling, ensuring stable support of the drive spindle during operation. This stability also allows for the safe handling of higher milling head or drive spindle speeds and heavier milling loads, thus increasing the efficiency of the machining process. Furthermore, the bearing assembly can act as a centering device, ensuring that the drive spindle and the milling head are precisely aligned with the surface during machining. A perfectly centered spindle reduces errors caused by milling inaccuracies and ensures consistent machining quality.

[0028] The bearing assembly can comprise an inner bearing housing element and an outer bearing housing element. The outer bearing housing element can be connected to the inner housing and / or the outer housing of the extraction hood. The inner bearing housing element can have a receptacle in which the drive spindle is at least partially received. The inner bearing housing element can include a rolling bearing arrangement for supporting the drive spindle.

[0029] The bearing assembly can be designed such that the position of the milling head along the axis of rotation can be adjusted by means of the bearing assembly. The position of the milling head can thus be adjusted by means of the bearing assembly depending on the thickness of the material being processed and the specified dimension to be removed.

[0030] A sliding guide can be arranged between the inner and outer bearing housing elements. The sliding guide can be designed such that the inner bearing housing element is movable relative to the outer bearing housing element along the axis of rotation. The sliding guide can be designed as a single piece or in multiple parts.

[0031] The bearing assembly may include a locking device for fixing the milling head's set position. The locking device may, for example, include at least one locking screw or at least one locking bolt. The locking device may be configured to fix the milling head's set position relative to the outer bearing housing element and thus relative to the extraction hood. The locking screw may, in particular, extend perpendicular to the drive spindle and / or the bearing assembly.

[0032] The at least one adjusting screw can be arranged to interact with the at least one bearing assembly. The adjusting screw can be configured to change the position or distance of the milling head relative to the fixed surface by turning the screw. The adjusting screw can primarily serve to prevent vertical displacement of the work spindle or milling head relative to the extraction hood during operation of the milling device. Furthermore, the adjusting screw can serve as a limiting device, acting as a stop so that the milling head never falls below or exceeds a predetermined and / or desired distance to the fixed surface. The adjusting screw can preferably extend parallel to the drive spindle and / or parallel to the bearing assembly.The adjusting screw can, for example, be arranged such that it allows the inner bearing housing, together with the milling head and the drive spindle, to be moved relative to the outer bearing housing in order to adjust the position or height of the milling head. Preferably, two adjusting screws can be provided, arranged opposite each other.

[0033] The sliding guide can have at least one recess through which the at least one locking screw or the at least one locking bolt can extend to the inner bearing housing element in order to fix the set position.

[0034] The sliding guide can have at least one stop. This at least one stop can define an end position for setting the position of the milling head.

[0035] The drive spindle, the inner bearing housing element, the bearing arrangement arranged on the inner bearing housing element, as well as elements and components connected to and / or coupled with the drive spindle can form a unit whose position as a unit is adjustable relative to the outer bearing housing element and thus relative to the inner and outer housings of the extraction hood.

[0036] The position of the milling head along the axis of rotation can be adjusted manually or automatically.

[0037] In some embodiments, the bearing assembly can be encapsulated, thus protecting it from dirt, dust, and / or moisture. This results in a longer service life and improved reliability of the milling unit.

[0038] According to a further development, the milling device can have a chassis and rolling elements, in particular wheels, mounted on it. The rolling elements can contact the road surface when the milling device is in its working position. These rolling elements ensure that the two housings maintain a constant distance from the road surface when the milling device is in its working position. The rolling elements can be designed in various ways, provided the aforementioned purpose is fulfilled. They can also be designed as circulating chains. If wheels are used, it is conceivable that they could be steerable.

[0039] Particularly good results can be achieved with the milling device when, in its working position, an opening in the outer and / or inner housing facing the traffic surface forms a flat opening surface. Thus, a flat opening surface of the outer or inner housing faces the traffic surface. Preferably, the flat opening surface of the outer and / or inner housing is arranged parallel to the traffic surface. This results, particularly with regard to the arrangement of the outer housing relative to the traffic surface, in a constant distance between the outer housing and the traffic surface, considering the entire circumferential boundary of the flat opening surface of the outer housing. The same applies analogously to the inner housing, with the advantages described above.

[0040] At least the distance between the outer housing and the traffic area or paved surface can be adjustable. The distance between the inner and outer housings can also be variable. The adjustment of the distance to the traffic area, at least of the outer housing, can depend on the surface being treated and / or the type of coating being removed.

[0041] In some embodiments, the flat opening surface of the inner housing can be positioned at a greater distance from the traffic surface than the flat opening surface of the outer housing. The flat opening surface of the outer housing is thus positioned closer to the traffic surface than the flat surface of the inner housing. This greater distance of the inner housing from the traffic surface allows the distant application to be directed more efficiently to the air drawn in through the outer housing.

[0042] According to some embodiments, in the working position of the milling device, the flat opening surface of the outer housing is arranged, for example, at a distance of 10 mm to 60 mm, preferably 20 mm to 30 mm, and particularly preferably 25 mm from the traffic surface. This results in a relatively small gap between the outer housing and the traffic surface, through which ambient air is drawn into the interior of the outer housing, specifically the space between the inner and outer housings. This leads to high airflow velocities in this area, ensuring that the removed material is optimally conveyed by the high-velocity airflow.

[0043] The mechanical milling unit can be extracted dry. The mechanically milled material or particles are extracted dry from the milling area. The milled material can then be directed into a designated tank and collected there.

[0044] According to further training, the apron can make contact with the traffic surface all around when the milling unit is in its working position. The apron prevents particles generated when removing the coating from the traffic surface from endangering people standing next to the milling unit.

[0045] In particular, the skirt can be designed to be flexible. It preferably has flexible skirt segments. The skirt or skirt segments are arranged upright in the working position of the milling unit relative to the traffic surface. The use of skirt segments is advantageous because the skirt is intended to seal against the traffic surface, and in the case of minor irregularities in the traffic surface, the skirt segments can follow these irregularities better with regard to sealing than a one-piece skirt. The one-piece skirt can also be designed in a brush shape, as mentioned above.

[0046] The opening for suction air between the skirt and the outer housing can preferably be designed as a circumferential annular opening. The annular opening offers the advantage of uniform and effective suction through a large surface area. Compared to point suction, the annular opening allows for a uniform distribution of the suction, which increases the efficiency of the suction and minimizes the formation of eddy currents. Such a suction system can subsequently also be referred to as annular gap suction.

[0047] The space formed between the housings can be designed as an annular space. This allows for relatively homogeneous flow conditions when the suction air passes through the space.

[0048] According to further training, the space formed between the housings can be divided into intermediate zones, so that milled material flows from these zones into the suction nozzle. The milling unit thus has intermediate zones for the differential flow of suction air and milled material, in order to achieve optimal extraction results.

[0049] The space formed between the housings can be divided into compartments by partitions. In particular, two partitions can be provided. These can create a central extraction chamber, which is connected to a guide tube located inside the suction nozzle, and two lateral compartments that open directly into the suction nozzle.

[0050] From the perspective of optimal flow conditions in the area of ​​the two housings, it is considered particularly advantageous if the flat opening surface of the inner and / or outer housing is circular, with the axis of rotation of the drive spindle or milling head passing through the center of the circle. This design results in further optimized flow due to the symmetrical arrangement of the circular opening surfaces and the axis of rotation of the drive spindle or spray bar.

[0051] According to further training, the milling device can have a frame equipped with a mounting for storage, in particular a pivotable mounting of the milling device on a motor vehicle. The milling device can be, in particular, a retrofittable special accessory for motor vehicles, especially trucks, used for road maintenance. If this motor vehicle has a milling device and a suction device, this motor vehicle equipped with the milling device can be used to excellent effect for removing material applied to paved road surfaces. It is only necessary to connect the motor vehicle's suction device to the suction nozzle of the milling device, and then...The drive of the milling device can be functionally connected, for example, via electrical and / or hydraulic lines, and, for example, the vehicle's oil connections can be connected to a hydraulic drive of the milling device for adjusting the height of the milling unit or milling head. By controlling the components of the milling device, the driver of the vehicle can rotate the milling head at a predetermined speed and activate the vehicle's suction system, so that air is drawn in through the suction nozzle of the milling device and / or the distance of the milling device, or just the distance of the milling head, relative to the road surface and / or independently of the suction hood or the outer and / or inner hood-shaped housing can be adjusted. It is also conceivable that the aforementioned components and their operating parameters could be automatically controlled and / or regulated.

[0052] Due to the swiveling mounting of the milling unit in the vehicle, the milling unit can assume a non-working position in which it is essentially folded upwards, allowing the vehicle to be driven in the usual manner. When the milling unit is swiveled downwards into its essentially horizontal position, it assumes the working position, in which the vehicle, and thus the milling unit, can be activated to remove the coating applied to the road surface.

[0053] In some embodiments, the milling device can also be mounted on an autonomous and / or remotely controlled vehicle. Automation ensures more precise and continuous material removal, increases safety, and leads to long-term cost savings through reduced labor and resource requirements.

[0054] According to further training, the milling device can include sensors designed to detect the layer thickness of the material being milled or removed before and / or during the milling process. The sensors can preferably employ non-contact methods, such as optical measurements like lasers, or mechanical methods, such as measuring wheels. Measuring layer thickness during milling offers the advantage of real-time monitoring of machining accuracy. Continuous measurement of the layer thickness allows deviations from a target value to be detected immediately, enabling corrections to be made to ensure uniform material removal. This optimizes the milling process and minimizes rework. Furthermore, it allows for more precise adjustment of the milling parameters.

[0055] The milling unit can also include a control unit designed to adjust operating parameters, in particular the distance of the milling device relative to the paved surface and / or the material to be removed, according to the measured layer thickness and / or a target value. Continuous adaptation of operating parameters, such as the rotational speed of the milling head, the distance of the milling head to the traffic surface, the feed rate, etc., ensures uniform material removal. This optimizes the milling process and minimizes rework.

[0056] The milling unit can include a camera system designed to precisely and visually capture the workpiece to be removed and to detect deviations in its position or shape in real time. The camera system can determine the exact location of the workpiece and automatically correct the position of the milling unit or the milling path based on the data. This ensures consistently precise alignment of the milling unit and / or makes its operation more efficient.

[0057] The milling device can be configured to reduce the original layer thickness of the material to be removed as much as possible by means of the mechanical milling device, i.e., for example, by a reduction of 50% to 95%. Preferably, the original layer thickness is reduced by 75% to 95% by means of the mechanical milling device.

[0058] Furthermore, the milling device may include a limiting device designed to restrict movements of the milling device to a defined area and thus prevent over-milling or malfunction.

[0059] In a further development, the mechanical milling device can include a water jet device. The water jet device can be positioned downstream of the milling device. The water jet device can be arranged on the milling device such that it is located at a predetermined distance behind the milling device in the direction of travel.

[0060] The combination of mechanical milling and waterjet cutting offers several advantages. The mechanical milling unit can remove a predetermined amount of material from the road surface, thus reducing the remaining material to a uniform thickness. The waterjet can then be used to completely remove this remaining material without damaging the surface. This prevents damage to the paved surface.

[0061] Phantom markings, such as incompletely removed road markings, and / or negative markings where imprints or indentations remain visible in the surface despite the removal of the road markings, can confuse drivers (e.g., car drivers) regarding the actual traffic flow. With the milling device according to this embodiment, which includes a mechanical milling unit and a water jet device, phantom markings and / or negative markings can be almost completely avoided by the complete and gentle removal of the road markings. This also leads to greater road safety.

[0062] The water jet device can be configured to spray abrasive fluid at a defined and / or variable pressure, temperature, and / or flow rate, at least section by section, onto the coating to be removed. The abrasive fluid can be sprayed directly onto the coating to be removed at high pressure, generated, for example, by a high-pressure pump, resulting in very high removal efficiency and, in the case of road markings, high marking removal efficiency.

[0063] The waterjet system can be configured to completely remove any residual material not milled off by the milling machine. The combination of mechanical pre-milling and subsequent waterjet milling results in precise and gentle surface finishing. During mechanical pre-milling, material is removed to achieve a predetermined residual layer thickness of the material to be removed, thus simplifying the subsequent processing with the waterjet system.

[0064] Preferably, the coating to be removed is milled or pre-milled to a minimum thickness during the mechanical milling process, just enough to prevent the underlying bonded surface from being affected and / or damaged by the mechanical milling device. Thus, the mechanical milling device preferably removes the majority of the coating, so that only minor post-processing with the waterjet device is necessary to completely remove the coating without affecting and / or damaging the underlying surface.

[0065] Waterjet milling can effectively and gently remove all remaining residues of the coating after mechanical milling. Operating parameters such as pressure and / or feed rate of the waterjet can be precisely adjusted to the remaining and / or specified layer thickness after mechanical pre-milling, ensuring complete coating removal while leaving the road surface undamaged. This combination of mechanical milling and subsequent waterjet milling can significantly improve the quality of the final result, i.e., the complete removal of the coating, thus preventing, for example, the aforementioned phantom markings. Furthermore, such a combined process can significantly reduce processing time.

[0066] The milling unit and the water jet unit can have separate suction devices and / or hood-shaped housings. This allows for dry extraction of the milling unit and wet extraction of the water jet unit. Such a configuration is particularly effective and ensures that the road surface is almost dry and free of removed material after the applied coating has been removed. Furthermore, this prevents or reduces silting.

[0067] The dry particles extracted using the mechanical milling device and the wet particles extracted using the water jet device can be collected separately in individual containers. This allows for separate disposal of the dry and wet residues, which is often simpler. However, it is also possible to collect both the dry and wet particles in a single container.

[0068] Furthermore, the separate extraction systems for the mechanical milling machine and the waterjet milling machine, as described above, allow the extraction parameters for both to be set independently. For example, different extraction pressures can be set.

[0069] According to a further development, the milling device and the waterjet device can be arranged on the same frame. The milling device and the waterjet device can be spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis of the frame. This design offers the advantage of precise and / or synchronized operation. Furthermore, such an embodiment has a particularly compact design, which ensures quick and easy handling before, during, and / or after operation or maintenance.

[0070] In some embodiments, the milling setup can include multiple milling fixtures and / or waterjet devices. The use of multiple mechanical milling fixtures and / or waterjet devices (nozzles) significantly increases the efficiency, quality, and / or flexibility of the milling process. With multiple milling and / or waterjet devices, different areas can be milled and / or blasted simultaneously, reducing machining time. Furthermore, redundancy in the devices can reduce the risk of failure and / or achieve a greater milling width. A greater milling width is synonymous with a larger area that can be machined with the milling setup.

[0071] The present invention further relates to a vehicle comprising a milling device of the type described above.

[0072] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for removing coatings and / or soiling applied to paved surfaces, in particular road markings applied to traffic areas, using a milling device of the type described above. The milling method according to the invention offers the advantages explained above with regard to the milling device.

[0073] The process may include the following steps: A) Commissioning of the milling device; and B) Mechanical milling of the material to be removed to a uniform and / or predefined layer thickness using the mechanical milling device.

[0074] In some embodiments, the method may additionally include the following optional step: C) Removal without residue of the coating not removed by the milling device in step B) using the water jet device.

[0075] The commissioning step should encompass all technical steps required to prepare the milling unit for use. This may include precise alignment. In particular, the milling unit can be moved from a transport position to a working position during this step.

[0076] In milling step B), the material to be removed can be mechanically milled down to a uniform and / or predefined layer thickness. This optimally and gently prepares the material for residue-free removal from the bonded surface. Water jet step C) efficiently and, above all, gently removes any remaining material not removed in step B).

[0077] For example, in the case of tire abrasion on runways or similar coatings on similar paved surfaces, the surface can be cleaned of the residue using a water jet device. The suction from the milling unit also dries the surface directly. This is a significant advantage, especially for runways, as they are immediately ready for use again, undamaged and dry, after the coating has been removed.

[0078] According to a further development of the procedure, the process can include the following steps: X1) Measuring the layer thickness of the material to be removed, wherein step X1) is performed before, after and / or during step B); and X2) Setting operating parameters of the milling device according to the measurement data determined in step X1) and / or a predefined target value.

[0079] By taking measurements and subsequently adjusting the operating parameters for the milling device, the milling process can be optimally tailored to the actual conditions. Furthermore, deviations can be detected and corrected early on.

[0080] According to further training, the procedure can include the following steps: Y1) Measuring the layer thickness of the residual coating remaining after step B), wherein step Y1) is performed after step B); and Y2) Setting the operating parameters of the water jet device (68) according to the measurement data determined in step Y2).

[0081] In addition to steps C), Y1) and / or Y2), the procedure may include the following step: D) Examination of the surface for quality requirements.

[0082] The inspection according to step D) can, for example, include a final optical and / or visual inspection. This ensures a precise examination of the area or the bonded surface from which the material was removed, guaranteeing the quality and reliability of the milling process. By using modern technologies such as camera systems, laser scanners, and image processing, even the smallest deviations, irregularities, and / or residues of the material being removed, which are often invisible to the naked eye, can be detected. This significantly reduces rework, optimizes the milling process, and / or increases its efficiency. Furthermore, the final inspection contributes to compliance with specifications.

[0083] The devices and methods according to the invention are not to be limited to the applications and embodiments described above. In particular, they may have a different number of individual elements, components, and units to achieve a functionality described herein. Furthermore, values ​​within the specified limits of this disclosure are also to be considered disclosed and freely usable.

[0084] The present invention is described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and use them meaningfully in combination within the scope of the claims.

[0085] If more than one instance of a particular object exists, only one of them may be identified with a reference symbol in the figures and description. The description of this instance can then be applied to the other instances of the object. If objects are named using numerical terms, such as first, second, third object, etc., these serve to identify and / or classify objects. Thus, for example, a first object and a third object, but not a second object, may be included. However, numerical terms could also indicate a number and / or sequence of objects.

[0086] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic side view of a truck equipped with a milling device according to a first embodiment, in the working position; Fig. 2 a schematic view of the truck according to Fig. 1, wherein the milling device is in a transport position; Fig. 3 a schematic side view of a truck equipped with a milling device according to a second alternative embodiment; Fig. 4 a perspective view of the milling device according to Fig. 1 without chassis; Fig. 5 a top view of the milling device according to Fig. 4 Fig. 6 shows a sectional view of a longitudinal section of the milling device according to Fig. 5 ; Fig. 7 a top view of the milling device according to Fig. 1 with chassis; Fig. 8 a view of the milling device according to Fig. 7 from below; Fig. 9 a side view of a longitudinal section of the milling device according to Fig. 7 Fig. 10: A top view of a section of the milling device in cross-section; Fig. 11: A perspective view of a milling device of a further embodiment without a chassis; Fig. 12: A sectional view of a longitudinal section of the milling device according to Fig. 11Fig. 13 a perspective view of the milling device with a water jet device of a further embodiment; Fig. 14 a top view of the milling device with the water jet device according to Fig. 13 ; Fig. 15 a view of the milling device with the water jet device according to Fig. 13 from below; Fig. 16 a side view of the milling device with the water jet device according to Fig. 13 ; Fig. 17 a sectional view of a longitudinal section of the milling device with the water jet device according to Fig. 13 Fig. 18 a side view of a milling device with a positioning device; Fig. 19 a flowchart of a method for operating the milling device according to Figure 13 Fig. 20 shows a flowchart of a method for operating the milling device according to Figure 13 .

[0087] The Figs. 1 and 2Figure 1 shows a truck 66 with a front cab 72 and a rear functional unit 74. The truck 66 has a front axle 76 with steerable wheels 78 and a rear axle 80 with wheels 82. In the region of a front section 84 of the truck 66, a milling device 10 according to a first embodiment is pivotably mounted in a receptacle 86 connected to the truck 66 and extending in the transverse direction of the truck 66. The milling device 10 comprises a mechanical milling unit 20 and is mounted in a chassis 40, which is pivotably mounted in the receptacle 86 about a horizontal axis arranged parallel to the axles 76, 80 of the truck 66. The chassis 40 comprises a frame 62 in which the milling unit 20 is mounted, as well as steerable rollers 42.

[0088] The truck 66 also has a suction device 28, shown here only schematically. A rigid but flexible suction hose 88 forms part of the suction device 28 and is connected to the milling unit 10 in its working position. Using the suction device 28, for example, up to 32,000 m³ / h of suction air can be extracted from the milling unit 10 through the suction hose 88. The suction capacity of the suction device 28 can be continuously adjusted.

[0089] The functional unit 74 also includes a collection container (not illustrated) for collecting and / or purifying the mixture of removed coating material and air conveyed through the suction hose 88.

[0090] In Fig. 1The milling device 10 is shown in a working position. In this position, the milling device 10 is arranged essentially parallel to a paved surface 12, in this case a traffic surface. In this operating state, the milling device 10 can remove material applied to the traffic surface.

[0091] Fig. 2 Figure 1 shows the milling unit 10 in a transport position. In this position, the milling unit 10 is folded against the front of the truck 66 or upwards. In this state, the suction hose 88 is disconnected from the milling unit 10 and partially retracted.

[0092] Fig. 3 Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of a truck 66 equipped with a milling device 10 according to a second embodiment. The essential difference to the one described in the Figures 1 and 2The embodiment shown is characterized in that the milling device 10 has, in addition to the mechanical milling device 20, a downstream water jet device 68, which can also be referred to as a water jet milling machine. The water jet device 68 is arranged behind the mechanical milling device 20 in the direction of travel. Figure 3 This shows an alternative or additional arrangement position for the milling device 10 on the vehicle 66.

[0093] Another difference from those described above Figures 1 and 2 The problem lies in the positioning of the milling unit 10. The milling unit 10 according to the Figures 1 and 2 is arranged in a front section 84 of the truck 66, whereas the milling device 10 according to Fig. 3The milling unit 10 is arranged under the truck 66 or suspended from the truck floor 90. It should be noted that the depicted positioning of the milling unit 10 is merely an example. Depending on the application, the milling unit 10 can also be positioned in other advantageous areas of the vehicle 66, such as on an arm or boom in front of the vehicle, as shown in the following. Figures 1 and 2 The milling device 10, as shown, can be arranged on the sides and / or rear of the vehicle 66. Accordingly, the milling device 10 according to the second embodiment can also be arranged in front of the truck 66, as in the first embodiment. The milling device 10 according to the second embodiment can also be moved between a working position and a transport position.

[0094] In the Figures 4 to 6 Various views of the milling device 10 are shown, wherein Fig. 4 a perspective view, Fig. 5a top view and Fig. 6 A sectional view of the milling device 10 is shown. For clarity, the following are shown in the Figures 4 to 6 The chassis 40 and the frame 62 are hidden.

[0095] The milling device 10 comprises an outer hood-shaped housing 14 and an inner hood-shaped housing 16. The outer hood-shaped housing encloses the inner hood-shaped housing 16. Furthermore, the milling device 10 comprises a drive 18 and the mechanical milling device 20 coupled thereto, which is configured to mechanically mill off the material to be removed, at least section by section, to a predefined and / or uniform layer thickness. The milling device 20 extends, at least section by section, through the center point M of the hood-shaped housings 14 and 16.

[0096] One or more cables 92 or lines are connected to the milling device 20. The cable 92 can connect the milling device 10 to a control unit (not shown) and / or a power supply unit, thus enabling data exchange and / or power transmission, for example, hydraulically and / or electrically. It should be noted that the cable 92 shown is merely an example and the milling device or the truck may have other cables and lines not shown here.

[0097] In Figure 6To the left of the milling device 20, the milling unit 10 has a suction port 26. The suction port 26 is connected to the outer housing 14. At the point where the suction port 26 connects to the outer housing 14, the outer housing 14 has an opening, so that, starting from an opening of the suction port 26 facing away from the outer housing 14, there is a passage to the interior of the outer housing 14.

[0098] The suction nozzle 26 includes an interface 94 at the opening facing away from the outer housing 14, which is designed to be connected to a suction device 28.

[0099] Outside the outer housing 14, which functions as an extraction bell, a skirt 30 is arranged around the outer housing 14. The skirt 30 has a plurality of skirt elements 48, which are mounted in a frame extension 96. In the working position of the milling unit 10, the skirt 30 makes circumferential contact with the traffic surface. The frame extension 96 and the skirt 30 are attached to the outer housing 14 by means of fastening devices 98. The fastening devices 98 simultaneously ensure that the skirt 30 is radially spaced from the outer housing 14 by a distance d. This spacing creates an annular opening 50 for air drawn in during operation. The milling unit 10 has a circular cross-section, as shown in particular in Figure 5 can be seen.

[0100] The milling device 10 comprises a drive spindle 36 and a bearing assembly 38. The bearing assembly 38 serves to support the drive spindle 36. The drive 18 can be designed as a hydraulic motor or an electric motor. The drive 18 is rotationally fixed to the drive spindle 36. The drive spindle 36 extends section by section through the outer housing 14 and the inner housing 16 to the milling head 22. The drive spindle 36 is connected to the milling head 22 at an end 100 opposite the drive 18, or at its proximal end section 138. With respect to the working position of the milling device 10, the drive spindle 36 is arranged essentially perpendicular to the traffic surface.

[0101] The bearing assembly 38 is connected to the outer housing 14 and the inner housing 16. For this purpose, the bearing assembly 38 has a bearing housing 120, which may be made up of multiple parts. An outer bearing housing element 122 is connected to both housings 14 and 16 and can be supported at least on the outer housing 14. The outer bearing housing 122 forms a milling head mount. An inner bearing housing element 124 carries rolling bearings 126, which serve to support the drive spindle 36. The outer bearing housing 122 can radially surround the inner bearing housing 124, at least partially.

[0102] In the Fig. 6In the illustrated embodiment, the milling device 10, or more precisely the bearing device 38, comprises a sliding guide 128 between the inner and outer bearing housing elements 122, 124. The sliding guide 128 is designed to allow the position of the milling head 22 relative to the extraction hood 104, which includes at least the inner and outer hood-shaped housings 14, 16, to be adjusted along the axis of rotation X. The direction of adjustment of the milling head 22's position is indicated by the double arrow H. In this way, the amount of material to be removed from the material to be milled by the milling head 22 can be set. In other words, the sliding guide 128 allows the milling head 22's penetration depth into the material to be milled, or the distance of the milling head 22 to the fixed surface beneath the material, to be adjusted.

[0103] The inner bearing housing element 124, together with the drive spindle 36 and the milling head 22, can be moved along the axis of rotation to adjust the position of the milling head 22. Two locking screws 164 are provided for adjusting the position of the milling head 22. The locking screws 164 serve to securely fix the milling device 20 in a set position. The locking screws 164 are accessible from outside the outer housing 14 and can be operated from the outside to adjust and fix the position of the milling head 22.

[0104] The sliding guide 128 can, as in Figure 6The guide is formed by several sliding elements 128a and 128b, as shown. However, it is also conceivable that the sliding guide 128 is a single piece. The sliding elements 128a and 128b are arranged radially between the bearing housing elements 122 and 124. The sliding element 128b has a recess 130. Alternatively, the sliding element 128b can also be shorter than the sliding element 128a.

[0105] An adjusting screw 132 is arranged on the outer bearing element 124. The adjusting screw 132 is located inside the inner housing 16. The adjusting screw 132 can be actuated from outside the outer bearing housing element 122. The distance of the milling head 22 relative to the fixed surface 12 can be adjusted via the adjusting screw 132. The adjusting screw 132 extends radially outwards through the outer bearing housing element 122 towards the inner bearing housing element 124. The adjusting screw 132 interacts with the recess 130 and extends through the recess 130 to the inner bearing housing element 124. The adjusting screw 132 can fix the set relative position of the milling head 22, or of the unit formed by the inner bearing housing element 124, the drive spindle 36, and the milling head 22, relative to the outer bearing housing element 122 and thus to the housings 14 and 16 of the extraction hood 104.A clamping force can thus be generated via the adjusting screw 132, which holds the described unit in the set position. The sliding guide 128 can have a stop 134 that defines an end position of the milling head 22 relative to the housings 14, 16 or the extraction hood 104. According to the illustrated embodiment, the stop 134 can be formed on the sliding element 128b. When the adjusting screw 132 comes into contact with the stop 134, this marks the end position of the milling head 22 relative to the extraction hood 104.

[0106] A milling disc 102 of the milling head 22 extends perpendicularly to the drive spindle 36 and is detachably attached to the radially widening proximal end section 138 of the drive spindle 36 by means of the fastening screws 136. During operation of the milling device 20, the milling head 22 rotates about the axis of rotation X passing through the drive spindle 36. In the working position of the device or the milling unit 10, the two housings 14, 16 are open towards the traffic surface. The outer housing 14 and the inner housing 16 each form a flat opening surface 46. The two opening surfaces 46 extend in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation X of the milling device 20 and are thus, with respect to the working position of the milling unit 10, arranged essentially parallel to the traffic surface. The distance between the opening surface 46 of the outer housing 14 and the traffic area is smaller than the distance between the opening surface 46 of the inner housing 16.

[0107] The milling head 22, in its working position, with a milling disc 102 having a milling structure or milling attachment 24, extends through the opening surfaces 46 towards the traffic surface containing the material to be milled. The milling structure 24 of the milling head 22 comes into contact with the material to be removed in order to reduce the layer thickness of the material to a predetermined dimension. This ensures that the material has a consistent layer thickness.

[0108] Due to the arrangement of the two housings 14, 16 relative to each other, a space 34 is formed between them, through which milled material can be extracted. For this purpose, the milling device 10 has the suction nozzle 26, a first end of which is connected to the outer housing 16 and opens into the space 34 between the outer housing 16 and the inner housing 14.

[0109] Fig. 7 shows a top view of the milling device according to Fig. 1 , wherein the milling device is arranged on the frame 62 and the chassis 40. The frame 62 can be configured to be connected to a lifting device or to a Fig. 1 The depicted image 86 is to be attached by a hinge.

[0110] Fig. 8 shows a view of the milling setup according to Fig. 7 From below. Visible is the rotatable milling head 22 of the mechanical milling device 20, which is arranged coaxially with the skirt 30, the outer hood-shaped housing 14 and the inner hood-shaped housing 16. On the milling plate 102, which is oriented towards the traffic surface in the working position, the milling head 22 has the milling structure 24 with milling elements 106.

[0111] Fig. 9 shows a longitudinal section of the milling device according to Fig. 7with a schematically drawn flow path of the suction air drawn in from the environment. The flow path is sketched by arrows 118. The direction of inflow of the suction air between the skirt 30 and the outer housing 14 into the space 34 is, in the area of ​​the opening surface 46, directed opposite to the radially outward centrifugal movement of the coating removed from the traffic surface 22 by means of the milling device 20, so that the suction air drawn between the outer housing 14 and the inner housing 16 into the space 34 carries away the mechanically milled coating and this mixture is extracted from the milling device 10 along arrows 118 through the extraction nozzle 15 by means of the extraction device 28.

[0112] Fig. 10Figure 1 shows a top view of a section of the milling unit in cross-section. Suction air at negative pressure is drawn from the suction port 26 of the milling unit 10 via the suction hose 88 of the truck 66, as indicated by arrows 118. This suction air, as shown by arrows 118 and the associated flow lines, enters the area between the milling unit 10 through the annular opening 50 from outside the unit through the annular opening 50. Fig. 10 the apron 30 (not shown) and the outer housing 14, and from there through the opening surface 46 of the outer housing 14. Subsequently, due to the arrangement of partitions 54, the suction airflow divides into intermediate spaces 52a,b,c and passes from intermediate space 52b through the guide tube 58 to the suction nozzle 26, or via intermediate spaces 52a and 52c directly into the suction nozzle 26.

[0113] The direction of inflow of the suction air from the space 34 between the skirt 30 and the outer housing 14 into the outer housing 14 in the area of ​​the opening surface 46 is thus directed opposite to the radially outward spinning motion of the coating removed from the traffic surface, so that the suction air flowing into the space 34 between the outer housing 14 and the inner housing 16 carries the removed coating with it, whereby this mixture of suction air and removed coating leaves the suction nozzle 26 and is drawn by the suction hose 88 into the functional unit 74 of the truck 1.

[0114] In the Figures 11 and 12 Another embodiment of a milling device 10 is shown, in which, among other things, the adjusting screws 140 of the height adjustment mechanism for the milling head 22 are shown.

[0115] Two adjusting screws 140 are provided for adjusting the position of a milling head 22. The adjusting screws 140 extend through a flange 162 towards a flange 154 on an outer housing 14. The flange 162 is connected to an inner bearing housing 120. The ends of the adjusting screws 140 contact the flange 154 and are supported by it. Nuts 156 are arranged on the adjusting screws 140, on which the flange 162 rests or against which it is supported. The nuts 156 are located on the adjusting screws 158 between the flange 162 and the flange 154 on the outer housing 14. The distance of the milling head 22 relative to the mounted surface 12 can be adjusted via the adjusting screws 140 and the respective nuts 156. The locking screws 164 serve to securely fix the milling device 20 in the set position.The locking screws 164 and the adjusting screws 140 are accessible outside the outer housing 14 and can be operated from the outside to adjust and fix the position of the milling head 22.

[0116] Fig. 13 Figure 1 shows a perspective detail view of the milling device 10 according to a further embodiment. The essential differences between the milling device 20 and the waterjet device 68 lie in the use of different milling methods and the infrastructure required for them. According to this embodiment, both the waterjet device 68 and the mechanical milling device 20 each have their own extraction hood 104, and the preceding explanations regarding the extraction hood 104 also apply here. However, it is also conceivable that both devices 20 and 68 have a common extraction hood 104.

[0117] The water jet device 68 has a suction port 26 separate from the mechanical milling device 20. In some embodiments, the suction of the water jet device 68 and the milling device 20 can be spatially separated, so that the negative pressure in both devices 68 and 20 can be set independently. In this way, the traffic surface can be reliably dried after the removal of the coating. However, embodiments are also conceivable in which the suction lines of the two devices 68 and 20 are combined.

[0118] To make the milling device 10 as compact as possible, the water jet device 68 and the mechanical milling device 20 are arranged or designed in a mirrored manner. This ensures that the extraction port 26 of the water jet device 68 and the extraction port 26 of the mechanical milling device 20 are spaced as far apart as possible.

[0119] Fig. 14 shows a top view of the milling device 10 according to Fig. 13 The arrow V indicates the feed direction, i.e., the direction in which the milling unit 10 moves or is moved during a machining operation. The mechanical milling unit 20 is arranged opposite the feed direction V on the frame 62 or the chassis 40 in front of the water jet device 68. During a machining operation, as indicated by the feed direction V, the material is first processed with the mechanical milling unit 20 before the water jet device 68 subsequently removes the material completely. Both devices 20 and 68 preferably have the same size milling and / or extraction area.

[0120] In Fig. 15 The figure shows a view of the milling device 10 from below. The different milling tools of the mechanical milling device 20 and the waterjet device 68 are clearly visible. The Figure 15The mechanical milling device 20, arranged on the left, comprises a milling head 22 with milling elements or milling attachments 106, whereas the water jet device 68 has a rotatable spray bar 110 equipped with spray nozzles 108. When the spray bar 110 is rotating, abrasive fluid 70 is supplied to the spray nozzles 108 under high pressure of up to 3000 bar through the spray bar 110 and discharged in the direction of the roadway.

[0121] Fig. 16 shows a side view of the milling device 10 according to Fig. 13 For improved visibility and precision during a milling process, the milling unit includes 10 light sources (112). These increase the visibility of the substrate during milling operations, especially at night.

[0122] The chassis 40 is configured such that the milling unit 10 always takes over the steering movement of the vehicle 66 to which it is coupled. However, embodiments are also conceivable in which the chassis 40 has its own positioning function and can thus maneuver completely independently of the steering maneuvers of the vehicle 66 and / or position the milling unit 10. This can be achieved, for example, via a hydraulic actuator system that largely decouples the chassis 40 from the movements of the vehicle 66. Furthermore, the chassis can include rear-axle steering, which particularly increases the maneuverability of the milling unit.

[0123] Fig. 17 shows a longitudinal section of the milling device 10 according to Fig. 16 In addition to the mechanical milling device 20, which is already described in detail in Fig. 6The longitudinal section of the water jet device 68 has been shown. Both devices are mounted in the chassis 40 with rolling means 42 in the form of wheels 44.

[0124] The water jet device 68 includes a drive (not shown herein), configured, for example, as a hydraulic motor. An output shaft 114 of the hydraulic motor is non-rotatably connected to the spray bar 110. How Fig. 17As can be seen, the spray bar 110 has several spray nozzles 108. The output shaft 114 is arranged upright to the traffic surface, essentially perpendicular to it, with respect to the working position of the milling unit 10. The spray bar 110 is arranged perpendicular to the output shaft, and the spray nozzles 108 of the spray bar 110 are directed downwards towards the traffic surface, preferably forming a spray cone from each spray nozzle 108 (relative to a non-rotating state of the spray bar), the axis of rotation of which runs parallel to the axis of rotation of the output shaft 114.

[0125] The arrows 116 illustrate the flow direction of the high-pressure jet fluid 70 through the spray bar 110 to the spray nozzles 108.

[0126] Furthermore, in Fig. 17Arrows 118 indicate the flow path of the suction air drawn in from the environment during operation of the milling device 10. The direction of inflow of the suction air between the skirts 30 and the outer housings 14 into the space 34 is, in the area of ​​the opening surfaces 46, opposite to the radially outward centrifugal motion of the material removed by the devices 20, 68, so that the suction air drawn into the space 34 between the outer housings 14 and the inner housings 16 carries away the removed material and, if applicable, blasting fluid 70, and this mixture is extracted from the milling device 10 through the suction nozzles 26 along the direction indicated by arrows 118.

[0127] Fig. 18Figure 1 shows a milling device 10 with a positioning device 152. The milling device 10 is connected to the positioning device 152 via a coupling device 150. The milling device 10, coupled to the positioning device 152 via a coupling device 150, is shown in this Figure 18 shown merely as an example for each milling device 10, as, for example, shown above in the Figures 4 to 19The positioning device 152 comprises a receptacle 86, which is configured to be coupled to a motor vehicle 66. A first articulated arm 142 extends from the receptacle 86. The first articulated arm 142 is preferably pivotally connected to the receptacle 86 at a proximal end section 160, such that the first articulated arm 142 can be pivoted, in particular, in a horizontal plane or parallel to the mounted surface 12. A second articulated arm 143 is pivotally connected to the first articulated arm 142 at a distal end section 158 of the first articulated arm 142 by means of a joint 144. The second articulated arm 143 has a shorter arm length than the first articulated arm 142. The second articulated arm 143 is configured to pivot in a vertical plane.

[0128] The coupling device 150 is designed as a joint. The coupling device can have two articulation axes g1 and g2, about which the milling device 10 is articulated and thus movably connected to the positioning device 152. The coupling device 150, designed as a joint, thus enables the milling device 10 to align itself with the fixed surface to be machined. The milling device 10 can align itself via the coupling device 150 so that all rollers 42 contact the surface and the predetermined distance between the milling device 10 and the surface being machined is maintained. The milling device 10 is thus largely decoupled from the vehicle 66 and can "float" freely on the surface to be machined via the rollers 42.

[0129] Furthermore, in Figure 18It can be seen that the positioning device 152 incorporates connections, for example electrical and / or hydraulic connections, which can serve as supply lines for the milling device 20 and the water jet device 68. In this way, supply lines can be protected from external influences in a space-saving manner.

[0130] It should be noted at this point that the milling device 10 and / or the water jet device 68 can also be mounted on one of the in Fig. 18 The positioning device 152 and / or chassis 40 shown in the embodiment may be arranged differently and may appear advantageous to the person skilled in the art.

[0131] The positioning device 152 can preferably be arranged on one or more advantageous areas of the vehicle 66, such as on the sides, front and / or rear of the vehicle 66.

[0132] Fig. 19Figure 1 shows a flowchart of a process for removing coatings and / or contaminants applied to paved surfaces 12 using the milling device 10 described above. In commissioning step A), the milling device 10 is commissioned. This includes all technical steps for preparing the milling device 10 for use. This may involve moving the milling device 10 from a transport position to a working position. Furthermore, it may include precisely aligning the milling device 10 with the traffic surface and the coating to be removed. In milling step B), the coating to be removed is milled to a uniform and / or predetermined layer thickness using the mechanical milling device 20. Subsequently, in waterjet step C), the coating not removed by the milling device 20 in step B) is completely removed using the waterjet device 68.

[0133] Fig. 20shows a flowchart of further training of the procedure according to Fig. 16 The procedure according to Figure 17 In addition to steps A), B), and C), it includes the optional steps X1), X2), Y1), Y2), and D). These are in Fig. 19The steps are linked by dashed arrows. In measuring step X1), the layer thickness of the material to be removed is measured before the material is mechanically milled to a uniform and / or predetermined layer thickness using the mechanical milling device 20 in milling step B). According to setting step X2), the operating parameters of the milling device 10 are set according to the measurement data determined in measuring step X1) and / or a predefined target value. After milling step B) and before waterjet step C), the layer thickness of the material remaining after milling step B) is measured, and the operating parameters of the waterjet device 68 are set in the second setting step Y2) according to the measurement data determined in the second measuring step Y1).

[0134] Following step C), the surface is inspected for quality requirements in inspection step D). The inspection according to inspection step D) can, for example, include an optical or visual final inspection, thereby ensuring a precise check of the area or the bonded surface from which the material to be removed was taken, and guaranteeing the quality and reliability of the milling process.

[0135] The mechanical milling device 20 removes a predetermined amount of the coating to be removed from the road surface and reduces the remaining coating to a uniform thickness. Subsequently, the water jet device 68 can completely remove the remaining coating layer without damaging the surface. The feed rate, pressure, and various other operating parameters of the water jet device 68 can be precisely adjusted to the existing, consistent thickness of the remaining coating layer, ensuring that the road surface is not removed and remains undamaged. Phantom markings, i.e., incompletely removed road markings, which have repeatedly caused confusion for drivers, are almost entirely eliminated by the complete removal of the road markings with the milling device 10 of the invention. The invention thus also leads to greater road safety. Reference symbol list

[0136] 10 Milling device 12 Fixed surface 14 Outer hood-shaped housing 16 Inner hood-shaped housing 18 Drive 20 Mechanical milling device 22 Milling head 24 Milling structure 26 Suction nozzle 28 Suction device 30 Skirt 32 Opening 34 Intermediate space 36 Drive spindle 38 Bearing device 40 Chassis 42 Rollers 44 Wheels 46 Opening 48 Skirt segment 50 Ring opening 52 Intermediate space area 54 Partition 56 Central extraction chamber 58 Guide pipe 62 Frame 64 Mount 66 Motor vehicle 68 Water jet device 70 Blasting fluid 72 Cab 74 Functional unit 76 Front axle 78 Wheels 80 Rear axle 82 Wheels 84 Front section 86 Mount 88 Suction hose 90 Vehicle floor 92 Cable device 94 Interface 96 Frame attachment 98 Mounting device 100 End of drive spindle 102 Milling plate 104 Extraction hood 106 Milling elements 108 Spray nozzles 110 Spray bar 112 Light source 114 Drive shaft 116 Arrow 118 Arrow 120 Bearing housing 122 Outer bearing housing element 124 Inner bearing housing element 126 Rolling bearing 128 Slide guide 128a Sliding element128b Sliding element 130 Recess 132 Adjusting screw 134 Stop 136 Fastening screws 138 Proximal end section 140 Adjusting screw 142 First articulated arm 143 Second articulated arm 144 Joint 148 Connection 150 Coupling device 152 Positioning device 154 Flange 156 Nut 158 ​​Distal end section 160 Proximal end section 162 Flange 164 Locking screw M Center V Directional arrow H Direction of milling head position adjustment g1, g2 Joint axes

Claims

1. Milling device (10) for removing coatings and / or contaminants applied to paved surfaces (12), in particular road markings applied to traffic areas, comprising: - at least one outer hood-shaped housing (14); - at least one inner hood-shaped housing (16) enclosed by the outer hood-shaped housing (14); - at least one mechanical milling device (20) arranged within the inner housing (16) and driven by a drive (18), which is configured to mechanically mill off the coating to be removed at least section by a predetermined dimension, wherein the milling device (20) has at least one milling head (22) rotatable about a rotary axis (X), wherein the milling head (22) has at least one milling structure (24) designed for milling off the coating to be removed; - a suction nozzle (26) connected to the outer housing (14), which is connectable to a suction device (28);and - a skirt (30) arranged outside the outer housing (14) and surrounding the outer housing (14), which has an opening (32) for suction air on a side of the skirt (30) facing away from the traffic surface between the skirt (30) and the outer housing (14); wherein the two housings (14, 16) are open towards the traffic surface in a working position of the milling device (10), wherein the at least one milling head (22) projects from the open housings (14, 16) towards the traffic surface for milling off the coating, wherein during milling the milled coating is extracted through a space (34) formed between the housings (14, 16) and through the suction nozzle (26), and wherein the milling device (10) is movable relative to the traffic surface.; 2. Milling device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the position of the milling head (22) relative to the outer housing (14) and / or the inner housing (16) is adjustable along the axis of rotation (X) to adjust the dimension to be milled of the material to be removed.

3. Milling device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the milling device (10) has a drive spindle (36) which extends at least partially through the inner housing (16) and the outer housing (14), wherein the milling head (22) is attached to the drive spindle (36).

4. Milling device (10) according to claim 3, wherein the milling device (10) has a bearing device (38) for the drive spindle (36), wherein the bearing device (38) is connected to the inner housing (16) or the outer housing (14).

5. Milling device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an opening (46) of outer housing (14) and / or inner housing (16) directed towards the traffic surface in the working position of the milling device (10) forms a flat opening surface, wherein the milling head (22) protrudes through the opening (46) for milling off the coating.

6. Milling device (10) according to claim 5, wherein the milling head (22) in the working position projects through the flat opening surface in the direction of the material to be removed, wherein the flat opening surface of the inner housing (16) is arranged at a greater distance to the traffic surface than the flat opening surface of the outer housing (14).

7. Milling device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening (32) for suction air between the skirt (30) and the outer housing (14) is designed as a circumferential annular opening (50), and / or wherein the space (34) formed between the housings (14, 16) is designed as an annular space.

8. Milling device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - a sensor system configured to measure the layer thickness of the coating to be removed before and / or during a milling operation.

9. Milling device (10) according to claim 8, further comprising: - a control unit which is configured to adjust operating parameters, in particular the distance of the milling device (10) relative to the fixed surface and / or to the material to be removed, according to the measured layer thickness and / or a target value.

10. Milling device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - a water jet device (68) which is connected downstream of the milling device (10) and which is configured to jet jet fluid (70) at a defined and / or variable pressure and / or volume flow at least section by section onto the material to be removed.

11. Milling device (10) according to claim 10, wherein the milling device (10) and the water jet device (68) have separate suction devices (28).

12. Milling device (10) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the milling device (10) and the water jet device (68) are arranged on the same frame (62).

13. Vehicle (66) with a milling device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 12.

14. Method for removing coatings or soiling applied to paved surfaces (12), in particular road markings applied to traffic areas, using a milling device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the method comprises the following steps: A) commissioning the milling device; and B) mechanically milling the layer to be removed to a uniform and / or predefined layer thickness using the milling device.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the method further comprises the following steps: C) Removal without residue of the coating not removed by the milling device in step B) using the water jet device.

Images