Metering Module

Abstract

The present invention relates to a metering module (1, 1") for metering a metering material having a plurality of metering valves (4a, 4b), comprising a first valve actuator group (2) having at least two valve actuators (3) arranged alongside one another in a row direction (QR, QR"), the valve actuators (3) each comprising at least one metering head (4) having a discharge element (4a), and a second valve actuator group (5) having at least one valve actuator (3), preferably a plurality of valve actuators (3) arranged alongside one another in a row direction (QR, QR"), the at least one valve actuator (3) also comprising a metering head (4) having a discharge element (4a), wherein the metering heads (4) of the first valve actuator group (2) and the second valve actuator group (5) face one another. Furthermore, the metering module (1, 1") has a metering nozzle arrangement (4') with a plurality of metering nozzles (4b), each metering head (4) being assigned to a metering nozzle (4b) of the metering nozzle arrangement (4') such that the metering nozzle (4b) together with the discharge element (4a) of the metering head (4) forms in each case a metering valve (4a, 4b).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a metering module having a plurality of metering valves in the form of a metering valve group arrangement. [Background technology]

[0002] Metering valves are usually used for metering the material to be metered, generally from liquid to viscous metering substances, in a targeted manner, for example by drop-by-drop or metering-point-like release of the metering material by a discharge element via a metering nozzle of the metering valve. In such a release, a metering point or a "drop" (one drop) is thus located, for example, at a position on the workpiece in a single metering step (very simply expressed in the individual discharge action of the above-mentioned discharge element). The metering valve group arrangement of such metering valves thus serves to be able to simultaneously release the material to be metered, in the simplest case in the form of droplets or drops, at a number of such metering points, for example along a linear metering or drop section of the metering point.

[0003] A fundamentally different form of material application is represented by spraying. In this respect, from DE 10 2010 014 952 A1, for example, a spraying device is known for spraying a liquid or suspension onto the surface of a forming tool. In such a spraying device, in contrast to the metering modules of the type mentioned in the introduction, the material is not actually discharged, but rather exits under pressure so that instead of discrete dot-like application, the material can simply be applied over a large area in the form of a mist by atomization.

[0004] From EP 0 676 247 such metering modules are known, for example as application heads for metered discharge of flowing material, which application heads only have a narrow width. Thanks to their width it is possible to arrange several such application heads next to each other in an adhesive application machine by means of a fixing device. With such an adhesive application machine several metering points can in fact be applied simultaneously along a drop section. However, on a single metering process with the respective adhesive application machine there is a considerable distance between the individual metering points or between the drops, which is at least due to the width of the application head. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve known metering modules. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This object is solved by a metering module according to claim 1 of the appended claims.

[0007] As mentioned above in the introduction, the metering module comprises a plurality of metering valves, which serve to meter or metered release of metering material onto a workpiece or substrate, in particular to simultaneously release a plurality of droplets or metering points along a metering substrate line or metering section, as described above.

[0008] The metering module further comprises a first valve actuator group with at least two valve actuators arranged next to each other in a row direction, each of the at least two valve actuators comprising at least one metering head with a discharge element. As the name already indicates, the discharge element concerns the element that actually discharges or carries away the material in the discharge operation. In addition to the metering head, such a valve actuator also comprises, as usual, in addition, in particular internally, further components. In particular, such a valve actuator can be configured internally, as in the metering system described in DE 10 2021 102 657 A1. However, with the aid of examples of particularly preferred embodiments of the metering valve group arrangement, the embodiment of such a valve actuator will also be described further below in more detail.

[0009] At least two valve actuators means that the first valve actuator group has a plurality, i.e. several, valve actuators arranged alongside or adjacent to one another in the row direction, thus one next to the other.

[0010] The metering module furthermore comprises a second valve actuator group having at least one valve actuator, the second valve actuator group also having a metering head with a discharge element. In the simplest case, the second "valve actuator group" means a group based on a mathematical definition, i.e. a so-called "trivial group" having exactly one element, e.g. exactly one valve actuator.

[0011] However, preferably, the second valve actuator group can have several, thus at least two, valve actuators arranged alongside one another in a row direction, each with at least one metering head having a discharge element. Preferably, the second valve actuator group can therefore be configured correspondingly to the first valve actuator group.

[0012] Here, further according to the invention, the metering head of the first valve actuator group and at least one metering head of the second valve actuator group of the metering module face each other. "Facing each other" is understood to mean that the two valve actuator groups are arranged relative to each other in such a way that their metering heads are located with the discharge elements on contour sides oriented toward each other. That is to say, the two valve actuator groups, or more precisely, their valve actuators, are rotated 180° relative to each other and arranged in a reverse or opposite manner.

[0013] To complete the metering valve, the metering comprises a metering nozzle arrangement or a nozzle group with a number of metering nozzles, where a metering nozzle of the metering nozzle arrangement is assigned to each metering head, so that the metering nozzles respectively form a metering valve together with the discharge element of the metering head.

[0014] The metering nozzles of the metering nozzle arrangement may for example each relate to different metering nozzles which are respectively independent metering nozzles which are for example manufactured as one piece and which in the operating state respectively form metering heads which are removably connected to the valve actuator in association with the discharge elements of the respective metering heads of the valve actuator in which the respective discharge elements are arranged on so-called valve seats or sealing seats in the metering nozzles.

[0015] However, equally, the metering nozzle arrangement may consist of or be made up of several groups of metering nozzles or metering groups of metering nozzles, which may be securely connected to one another at least within the scope of the group, and at the same time releasably connectable as a group to a corresponding group of valve actuators in the number of valve actuators.

[0016] However, as will be explained more precisely further below, preferably all metering nozzles of the metering nozzle arrangement are mounted on or are capable of forming an associated component.

[0017] The metering section already mentioned above means here a metering nozzle arrangement with metering nozzles, an arrangement of metering head parts with discharge elements successive in the row direction of the valve actuator, by means of which several metering points can be simultaneously applied onto the workpiece in a single static metering step, along a metering substance line or along metering sections that are only minimally offset with respect to each other, without the metering nozzle having to be dynamically moved several times for metering, as is the case with individual metering nozzles, or here displaced relative to the workpiece along the line.

[0018] By means of the invention, the machine productivity of a superordinate metering machine or metering system equipped with a metering module in the form of a metering valve group arrangement can be increased. On the one hand, the metering material or metering substance can therefore be applied more quickly and therefore in a shorter time on the target surface of the workpiece. On the other hand, more metering material can also be applied at the same time, thus increasing the amount of metering. Thus, in the same time interval, a larger area is provided in a linear path of metering points, for example in the manner of a linear metering line or metering section, in a single metering step. In addition, the metering points can also be arranged closer together.

[0019] Additionally, the configuration according to the invention - a configuration controllable in at least two spatial directions, integrated into a superordinate metering machine or metering system - enables metering methods in 3D printing or "3D printing methods" where material is applied layer by layer. For example, metering material can be repeatedly applied by a parallel method of metering modules in the longitudinal direction of the valve actuator (perpendicular to the row direction over, for example, a horizontal metering area extending in a planar manner), where the metering modules can be moved in the vertical or depth direction in between to apply further layers.

[0020] Further particularly preferred embodiments and further developments of the present invention emerge from the dependent claims and the following description, where it is also possible to combine individual features of different exemplary embodiments or variants in order to form new exemplary embodiments or new variants.

[0021] Preferably, the first and second valve actuator groups of a metering module can extend parallel to each other in the row direction, and these valve actuator groups of metering modules parallel to each other can thus form, for example, a shared (valve actuator) double row, i.e. a double juxtaposition of valve actuators in two parallel (metering valve or valve actuator) rows.

[0022] There may be preferences for the relative placement of valve actuator groups of metering modules relative to one another (eg, in the form of a metering valve group arrangement).

[0023] Preferably, the valve actuator groups are displaceable in the column direction relative to each other.

[0024] For example, the valve actuator groups can be arranged in a linear column direction parallel to one another, e.g., offset or displaced laterally or in the direction of the width of the valve actuators. The valve actuators of one valve actuator group can thus be slightly linearly displaced or slightly parallel to the column direction or the extent of the valve actuator groups relative to the valve actuators of the opposite valve actuator group.

[0025] Particularly preferably, three opposing valve actuators (two from one of the valve actuator groups and one from the other) can face each other in a displaced manner and here can be directly located or adjacent to each other at least in some places, e.g. in the metering head section.

[0026] Such an arrangement of the valve actuators of the valve actuator groups, which are displaced or offset with respect to each other with respect to other valve actuator groups in the metering module in the form of a metering valve group arrangement, allows, for example (by corresponding control during operation), inter alia, application of a group or row of discrete drops (of metering substance) or metering points by the discharge elements of the first valve actuator group on the workpiece, followed in a very simple manner by the application of a second group of metering points or application of a respective further row between the previously applied metering points. For this, in order to apply the second group or row of metering points on the workpiece, it is sufficient to move the two valve actuator groups after the discharge of the first group or the discharge of a row of metering points or drops in the row connection direction of the two valve actuator groups (transversely, preferably perpendicularly to the row direction of the groups) by the spacing between the valve actuator groups relative to the workpiece. In this way, the metering points can be applied at half the spacing with respect to each other along discrete lines of metering points extending in the row direction. A discrete line of metering points means a line in which the metering points are at least somewhat spaced from one another.

[0027] In addition to the above arrangement and such procedures, further by providing sufficiently large discrete metering points, continuous or constant metering sections, and thus metering substance lines, in which the individual metering points are adjacent to one another or at least partially overlap one another, can be applied onto the workpiece very quickly and with a simple linear motion of movement.

[0028] This arrangement (with corresponding control during operation) also enables the formation of a metering substance area extending in a planar, i.e. two-dimensional manner, by the metering module being oriented with continuous release of metering substance in the row connection direction across the workpiece, whereby the metering substance line already described above is spread in the row connection direction into a metering substance area having the width of the metering substance line and any desired length.

[0029] Preferably, the metering heads of the two valve actuator groups can be arranged in one another in an interlocking manner. To this end, the arrangement of the valve actuators can be selected in an appropriate manner. The term "interlocking" means that the valve actuators engage at least partially between each other in the row direction. Further preferred embodiments of the interlocking are additionally explained further below.

[0030] There are also various possibilities for aligning the valve actuators relative to or with each other.

[0031] Preferably, the valve actuators of each valve actuator group may be aligned substantially parallel, alongside one another or with respect to one another. The term "substantially parallel, alongside one another or with respect to one another" refers to an alignment or orientation of valve actuators of the same type, in which each valve actuator of a valve actuator group is oriented or aligned in the same or uniform manner with respect to all other valve actuators of the same valve actuator group.

[0032] Alternatively, the valve actuators in each valve actuator group are preferably aligned at offset angles to each other, which has the advantage that the valve actuators in each group can be aligned to increase the amount of metering for a small number or only one shared metering point.

[0033] Essentially, the alignment of the valve actuators relative to one another is here independent of the progression in the row direction.

[0034] Preferably, the valve actuators in one of the valve actuator groups can be arranged alongside one another in a curved row direction, or in a fan shape, for example when they are aligned at offset angles to one another, so that, for example, they can all be aligned relative to a metering point.

[0035] Particularly preferably, here the valve actuators of at least one valve actuator group can be directed to a common metering point, thus achieving that the valve actuators can be arranged at the same distance relative to the target surface, i.e. the valve actuators are therefore arranged and aligned inclined relative to one another in a cross section in the type of "cylindrical surface".

[0036] Most particularly preferably, the valve actuators of both valve actuator groups can be oriented towards a common metering point, which means that the valve actuators are arranged in a cross section in the type of a "spherical surface" and are aligned at an angle relative to each other or to the centre of a sphere, as will be explained further below with the aid of exemplary embodiments.

[0037] Preferably, the valve actuators in one of the valve actuator groups may be arranged linearly, alongside one another, in a linear or linear column direction.

[0038] Preferably, both valve actuator groups can be configured linearly or even sector-like, but they can also differ, for example, with one valve actuator group as linear and the other valve actuator group as a curved sector.

[0039] Preferably, the valve actuators are capable of contacting at least one further adjacent valve actuator in the row direction (as will be explained further below), in particular with an end section of the valve actuator, or the housings of the respective valve actuators are also capable of abutting each other.

[0040] Thus, in the simplest configuration (with minimum profile requirements), two adjacent valve actuators of each of the valve actuator groups, arranged next to each other, can be in contact with each other or can be adjacent to each other, for example along a profile side, i.e. profile side to profile side, forming, so to speak, a "valve actuator pair". Basically, they can be arranged here on the remaining profile side in almost any desired way, for example with connections etc. With such "valve actuator pairs", which are arranged at least as pairs in a compact and very close proximity, a relatively close double row of metering points can be formed very simply along the metering section, where the metering points are metered at least always in pairs in one step, close to each other and next to each other. For double application amounts, a second valve actuator pair of a second valve actuator group can be arranged according to the invention. Here, the valve actuators are, for example, engaged, glued, clicked or otherwise screwed to each other.

[0041] However, the above description of valve actuator pairs is not to be considered limiting, and thus, for example, valve actuators can be in close contact in larger groups as well.

[0042] For example, in the case of two linear valve actuator groups, or in the case of two valve actuator groups that are curved in the same way, the valve actuator may be in contact with at least one further valve actuator.

[0043] Similarly, the double row valve actuator groups may, for example, be arranged, preferably almost directly, on the shorter contoured sides (described below) of the respective valve actuators facing each other and therefore may be spaced apart only by the gap width, for example at a relatively small distance from each other relative to the length of the valve actuators.

[0044] Particularly preferably, as will be explained further below with the aid of a particularly preferred exemplary embodiment, the valve actuators or metering heads of the two valve actuator groups can even be arranged deeply interlocked into one another, such that the metering heads form shared linear metering sections with discharge elements and metering points spaced apart from one another, so that the two valve actuator groups are pressed into one another in a sawtooth manner in the row connection direction. Further advantages of such an interlocked arrangement of the two valve actuator groups relative to one another will additionally be explained further below.

[0045] That is, all valve actuators other than the first and the last two outermost valve actuators of the two groups can be arranged or interlocked (at least in the area of ​​the metering head or in the valve actuator bay section) in such a way that they engage with their discharge elements in the center, respectively, between two opposing discharge elements of two valve actuators of the other valve actuator group. Thus, a further metering point can be applied between two metering points of a valve actuator group without a momentary movement of the upper metering system, so that the distance between the metering points is halved compared to the distance between the discharge elements in the case of only one valve actuator group with valve actuators oriented in only one direction. Thus, a very small distance, here, for example half, is created between the metering points, which is in any case smaller than the distance previously possible with the known configurations of the prior art. This is because there the smallest possible distance between the individual metering points is always limited to the thickness or width of each individual valve, i.e. a closer arrangement is not possible.

[0046] In this respect, it can be stated that with respect to the curved row direction, the valve actuators or metering heads of the two valve actuator groups can also be, for example, deeply interlocked into one another in such a way that the metering heads with the discharge elements then form metering sections of metering points spaced apart from one another that extend on a circular arc.

[0047] In addition, the metering module is not limited to the interlocking of the discharge elements into each other, which are thus fitted, but in many cases a smaller, only slight interlocking will achieve the corresponding effect as an almost straight application line or as a metering section of the metering substance (without such a moving movement in the row connection direction, as already described above). This depends on the setting and the amount of metering substance or metering substance, i.e. how large the area of ​​the metering point is on the workpiece.

[0048] Thus, for example, in the case of smaller interlocking, at least slightly wavy metering sections of the metering points may be achieved, where the wavy shape would be visible depending on the size of the metering points if only available on an enlarged view. In particular, in applications not related to essentially 100 percent straight metering substance lines, wider valve actuators or wider metering heads may also be used, which therefore cannot be arranged very deeply interlocked into one another at the same metering point distance. However, the metering points of such wider valve actuators may still be arranged significantly closer to one another than in the case of only a group of valve actuators arranged alongside one another in a shared orientation.

[0049] Preferably, the valve actuator groups, or the individual valve actuators of a valve actuator group, are each displaced or offset by preferably half the width of the valve actuator, so that they can be positioned as accurately as possible within normal tolerances relative to one another.

[0050] Such an arrangement allows for the application of groups or rows of discrete metering points spaced half a distance apart from each other (with respect to the distance between two valve actuators of a valve actuator group arranged alongside each other).

[0051] Alternatively, or in addition, the valve actuator groups may be arranged displaced relative to one another, for example in a linear row direction, by the width of an end section of the valve actuator, as described below.

[0052] There are also preferred possibilities of arrangement of the valve actuators of the valve actuator groups: Basically, each of said valve actuators can be configured such that in top view it has a square outline.

[0053] However, in order to be able to arrange or group, in particular align, the valve actuators with their metering heads with the discharge elements very close to each other at the smallest possible distance, preferably the valve actuators can have a substantially rectangular, in particular a substantially elongated boundary or contour, i.e. a boundary or contour with two shorter contour sides and two longer contour sides. The term "substantially rectangular" is understood to mean that the valve actuators can be formed rectangular on one of the shorter contour sides, except for the end sections, the metering heads forming the end sections with the discharge elements. That is to say, the valve actuators can be narrower behind the discharge elements in the region of the discharge elements in the transverse or row direction (where the further valve actuators of the valve actuator group are also adjacent to each other and aligned transversely via the respective valve actuators) than in the remaining part in the longitudinal direction (either in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction or in the direction away from each other parallel to the valve actuator group).

[0054] Preferably, the shorter profile size, and therefore the broad or lateral side, has or can reach a length that is at most two-thirds, particularly preferably at most one-half, of the length of the longer profile side, and therefore the longitudinal side.

[0055] Preferably, the metering head with the discharge element of the valve actuator can each project in a bay-like manner at the respective valve actuator, for example by means of the end section already mentioned above, projecting in a bay-like manner from the remaining profile of the valve actuator on one of the shorter profile sides, i.e. forming a bay section including the discharge element, thus forming only a part of the profile side. The discharge element can here be arranged centrally along the shorter profile side of the bay section of the valve actuator.

[0056] Preferably, the valve actuator may have a maximum width (shorter contour side or width side) of at most 30 mm. The maximum width is the width at the thickest point of the valve actuator. Particularly preferably, the valve actuator may have a maximum width of at most 20 mm, and most particularly preferably, a maximum width of at most 10 mm.

[0057] Preferably, the valve actuator can have half the width, or half the above-mentioned maximum width, at the nozzle head having the ejection element or the entire housing side of the ejection element, and can therefore be formed off-centre, for example only by the first or second half of the above-mentioned width.

[0058] Such valve actuators of a first valve actuator group can therefore be arranged laterally equally alongside one another with a second actuator valve group that is identically configured or matched, at least in terms of contour, and when arranged in a mirror manner with the metering head discharge elements, the valve actuators face opposite one another, so that in the transverse direction (or row direction) along the double row of the metering module, for example in the form of a metering valve group arrangement, the discharge elements of the valve actuators of the first valve actuator group alternate with the discharge elements of the valve actuators of the second valve actuator group, with the respective metering valves being offset with respect to one another alternately in two directions. Overall, such valve actuators with particularly narrow metering heads can be arranged very compactly with a halved nozzle spacing with respect to one another. The metering substances can therefore be arranged alongside one another at a closer distance than the actual width of the respective contour sides of the valve actuators would allow in space.

[0059] Preferably, the ejection elements can here be arranged interlocked into one another perpendicular to the width direction or transverse direction of the valve actuators, in the row connection direction of the two valve actuator groups, and advantageously are located very close adjacent to one another.

[0060] As already mentioned above, the metering nozzles of the metering nozzle arrangement can be mounted on or in the associated component. Preferably, the metering nozzle arrangement of the metering module can comprise a nozzle unit having a number of metering nozzles which are either removably integrated in the nozzle unit or which can be inserted therein.

[0061] Here, in addition to the metering nozzle arrangement, as will be further described below, the nozzle unit may also comprise further parts or functional areas, such as, for example, a nozzle material supply or parts thereof (e.g., a suitable channel structure to the metering nozzle, etc.).

[0062] A particularly preferred nozzle unit can be configured in the form of a nozzle plate, for example with a metering nozzle or a region with a predefined nozzle position for a metering nozzle already formed in the nozzle unit, but the nozzle unit is not limited to being plate-like and can be configured in an approximately two-dimensional shape. Preferably, the nozzle unit here can be connected to at least two valve actuators, in particular to each individual valve actuator, in order to mechanically couple or connect all valve actuators to one another, like a clasp or bridge. Particularly preferably, the nozzle unit here can be connected to the valve actuators by removable fastening means, for example a screw.

[0063] Preferably, the nozzle unit can be configured in the form of a nozzle plate curved in the shape of a circular arc, particularly preferably in the form of a nozzle plate in the shape of a cylindrical segment, which is conceivable, for example, in the case of valve actuators arranged in the shape of a sector.

[0064] By means of a nozzle unit, such as for example a nozzle plate, for fastening the individual valve actuator groups or valve actuators of the valve actuator groups (for example also simply via a plug-in connection for even faster coupling or decoupling), the metering module (preferably in the form of a complete metering valve group arrangement) can be provided as a finished component with a number of plug-in positions for a variable number of valve actuators. For maintenance and cleaning purposes, the customer himself can easily and quickly exchange the individual valve actuators with minimal time wastage. If necessary, a place can be reserved on the nozzle unit for the attachment of a specific control unit for the metering module or the control unit can already be arranged thereon, in order to be able to actuate the valve actuators of the metering module in a superordinate metering system or robot for spatial control via connection by a joint or individual control unit for metering. The nozzle unit can then also serve for fastening the metering module to the metering system or to the robot.

[0065] Preferably, the metering module may further comprise a common metering material supply for at least some of the metering nozzles of the metering nozzle arrangement, preferably on or in the nozzle unit. The individual metering material supply connections of the individual metering nozzles of the metering nozzle arrangement for a continuous supply of metering material from a metering material container or tank, e.g. a cartridge, may be connected or coupled to such metering material supply, either in series or individually, via a suitable channel structure.

[0066] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the metering nozzle arrangement may comprise a plurality of independent metering nozzles, each of which may be separately and individually connected to at least two valve actuator groups, in particular to an individual valve actuator. The independent metering nozzles are particularly preferably separately and removably connectable to at least two valve actuator groups, in particular to an individual valve actuator.

[0067] The invention will be described again in more detail below on the basis of exemplary embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like components are given the same reference signs in the various figures, and which are generally to be understood as schematic illustrations, generally not drawn to scale. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0068] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a metering module according to the present invention in the form of a metering valve group arrangement, with the nozzle unit removed; FIG. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1; [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a side view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1; [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 coupled to a nozzle unit; [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a longitudinal section through the nozzle unit of FIG. 4 with two linked valve actuators (partially shown), without the reservoir and compressed air supply. [Figure 6] 3A-3D are longitudinal cross sections through a further exemplary embodiment of a metering module according to the invention in the form of a sector-shaped metering valve group arrangement and with nozzle units adapted and connected accordingly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0069] 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a metering module 1 according to the invention in the form of a metering valve group arrangement 1 (wherein the nozzle unit 20 is not coupled). In the following, the metering valve group arrangement 1 will be designed without loss of generality as a metering valve row arrangement 1, as in the exemplary embodiment the valve actuator groups 2, 5 each comprise at least two valve actuators 3, each arranged or aligned in a double row.

[0070] The metering valve train arrangement 1 according to the first exemplary embodiment has, on the one hand, five valve actuators 3 arranged next to each other in the transverse direction QR and forming a first valve actuator train 2. On the other hand, opposite to the longitudinal direction LR and offset thereto in the transverse direction QR, five further valve actuators 3 are arranged forming a second valve actuator train 2. The metering valve train arrangement 1 of the present exemplary embodiment consequently forms a mutually identical double train 2, 5 of ten valve actuators 3, for example as shown in the present exemplary embodiment. The valve actuators 3 of both valve actuator trains 2, 5 are here arranged with their respective metering heads 4 interlocked with each other, the metering heads 4 each having a discharge element 4a for metering metering material onto a workpiece. As can be seen in FIG. 2 with the help of a view from below on the metering valve train arrangement 1, the above-mentioned interlocking is such that the discharge elements 4a jointly form a straight metering section D. As will be explained additionally further below, the ejection element 4a is here configured in the form of an elongated tappet 4a having a tappet tip at its leading end on the workpiece side and a tappet head at its rear end on the lever side.

[0071] With respect to a number of identical valve actuators 3, in a representative manner, below with the help of an individual valve actuator 3, its (illustrated) outer configuration will be described in more detail, and its not shown inner configuration will be subsequently described in somewhat less detail.

[0072] Although the operational metering row arrangement 1 is used in the orientation shown in FIG. 1, i.e., primarily metering on the workpiece is performed substantially using gravity and therefore in the metering direction DR, or downward as opposed to the depth direction TR, relative directional information such as "upper", "lower", "upper", "lower", "lateral", "short side", "longitudinal side", "front", "rear", etc., herein, as in the entire document, optionally refers to the representation in the figure.

[0073] Each valve actuator 3 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped housing 8 extending in three orthogonal spatial directions, namely a transverse direction QR, a longitudinal direction LR and a depth direction TR. The rectangular parallelepiped housing 8 is itself approximately rectangular in profile, as shown in bottom view in Figure 2, i.e. it comprises two shorter profile sides 6 (in the transverse direction QR) and two longer profile sides 7 (in the longitudinal direction LR) having a length l.

[0074] At the top (above the depth direction TR) several lines or connections leave the cuboid housing 8 for operation, at least in the coupled state of the valve actuator 3. In addition to two lines or cables 9 for data exchange with a control unit (not shown here), three further connections are located at the top of the housing 8 for supplying the power required in operation (e.g. for integrated heating) and for operation and monitoring of the piezoelectric elements, namely a plug-in connection of a supply channel 15 and two plug-in connections of two discharge channels 16 for a cooling medium for cooling the valve actuator 3. The cooling medium can be, for example, a gas, such as air, but also a cooling liquid. By the individual central introduction and double discharge of the cooling medium both at the two outer sides of the two actuators (described below) at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction, the back pressure of the cooling medium can be minimized and therefore the cooling capacity or cooling effect of the cooling can be maximized.

[0075] The arrangement of the valve actuator 3 according to the present invention, in particular with respect to the metering valve train arrangement 1, is configured such that the width b of the housing 8 of the valve actuator 3, the width b of the valve actuator 3 and thus the overall lateral extent in the lateral direction QR, is as narrow as possible.

[0076] A particularity in the sense of a further local narrowing in the lateral direction QR is presented by the already described metering head 4 or the entire housing side of the valve actuator 3, which faces the other valve actuator row 2, 5, respectively, on the side of the metering head 4 (thus, for example, the left housing side of the right-hand valve actuator 3 in FIG. 3).

[0077] The metering head 4 or the entire housing side in the region of the metering head 4 (and therefore in particular also the part in the depth direction TR above the actual metering head 4) therefore projects only in the middle in the manner of a "bay-like extension" or in the manner of a bay section 3e on the respective shorter contour side 6, so that the housing side as a whole is narrowed. Here, in the housing side of the metering head 4 the housing 8 is continuous from top to bottom, i.e. is configured narrower in the bay section 3e at the end side in the transverse direction QR or in the end section 3e than the remaining housing 8. It then has only half the width b' of the metering head 4, preferably only approximately half the width b of the remaining valve actuator 3.

[0078] Thus, with a housing side narrowed or "tapered" in the lateral direction QR, the valve actuator 3 abuts at least one opposing valve actuator 3 of the other valve actuator rows 2, 5. More precisely, it can be arranged such that it protrudes with a narrowed bay section 3e between two similarly "tapered" housing sides, and thus between two similarly narrowed bay sections 3e of two opposing valve actuators 3 of the other valve actuator rows 2, 5.

[0079] The metering heads 4 of the valve actuators 3 are therefore arranged side by side with one another in an interlocking manner, substantially packed together. Thus, in this arrangement according to the invention, the valve actuators 3 of the valve actuator rows 2, 5, respectively, lie with their metering heads 4 laterally flat on the metering heads 4 of the valve actuators 3 of the other valve actuator rows 2, 5. Due to this structural configuration and arrangement, the spacing between the individual metering heads 4 is further reduced, and thus the spacing between the individual metering points. In particular, due to the use of the same metering substance in all metering nozzles, this small spacing can be utilized to generate closely coupled quasi-continuous drop sections of the metering points. Depending on the size of the droplets, such droplets then have almost no spacing with respect to one another and therefore form a continuous metering substance line of metering substance, if applicable, as already described above.

[0080] On the remaining housing side other than the above-mentioned narrowing, i.e. in the wider part, the valve actuator 3 is configured to be consistently wider or thicker as described, as will be seen in particular in Fig. 1. Furthermore, a cover plate 10 is further placed from the outside on the housing 8. It covers or protects, among other things, a processor board or a control board arranged in the middle of the longitudinal direction LR for controlling the valve actuator 3 inside the valve actuator 3. In addition, among other things, an insulation board for insulation with respect to the actuator (as will be explained below), a connection board, a Hall sensor board, and a voltage supply for the valve actuator 3 can also be integrated into the housing 8.

[0081] In order to hold the tappet 4a of the valve actuator 3 and guide it in a suitable manner for the discharge movement (in the direction of the nozzle opening), the nozzle head 4 also comprises a tappet centering screw for guided reception of the tappet 4a, which is held or received by the metering head 4 in an annular manner. In order to mount the tappet 4a elastically in the valve actuator 3, a tappet spring is placed between the tappet head of the tappet 4a and the tappet centering screw. By means of a fluid positioning 11 on the underside of the valve actuator 3, the tappet 4a mounted on the tappet centering screw is held here in tension against the lever of the valve actuator 3 (here placed above it in the housing 8).

[0082] Internally, the metering valve train arrangement 1 can be constructed in particular like the metering system of DE 10 2021 102 657 A1. Here, within the housing 8 of the valve actuator 3, a lever tiltably mounted at a lever support is located directly on the tappet head, which is actuated alternately around its tilt axis (directly to the left and right of the tilt axis or back and forth) by a tilting moment and is operated by two piezoelectric elements or actuators arranged tilted with respect to each other and located at two actuator engagement sites on the lever. The entire movement mechanism (i.e. the lever support via the lever for the two actuators) is supported or prestressed here by a spring element, here configured, for example, as a leaf spring assembly, against or in the housing. For a detailed construction, reference is therefore made to DE 10 2021 102 657 A1, the contents of which are incorporated in this respect.

[0083] For metering operations in a metering system (not shown here), a valve actuator group formed from rows 2, 5 of valve actuators 3 each with their metering heads 4 to form a metering valve row arrangement 1 is connected to a nozzle unit 20, more particularly to a metering nozzle 4b of a metering nozzle arrangement 4', for example in the region of the nozzle unit 20.

[0084] FIG. 4 shows a nozzle unit 20 configured as a nozzle plate 20 in a perspective bottom view.

[0085] To explain the internal working, the nozzle plate 20 is again shown in FIG. 5 in a longitudinal section through the nozzle plate 20 along the VV section line, without the container and the compressed air supply hose (which can also be equipped with a heating connection cable, if necessary). As an example, here in FIG. 5 (here on the right side), only two valve actuators 3 of the valve actuator rows 2, 5 are shown at least partially connected to the nozzle plate 20, so that the structure of the nozzle plate 20 can be better seen. This makes it clear how the connection of the valve actuators 3 with the metering nozzles looks approximately inside and thus how the ejection elements 4a are arranged or located on the so-called sealing or valve seats in the nozzle chambers 4b' of the metering nozzles 4b. In fact, in the configuration in FIG. 4, all metering nozzles 4b are connected to the metering heads 4 or valve actuators 3 of the valve actuator rows 2, 5, respectively.

[0086] Here, the metering valve train arrangement 1 is arranged or placed with the tappet 4a of the valve actuator 3 on the nozzle plate 20 of the metering nozzle arrangement 4' in the metering position, whereby the tappet 4a of the valve actuator 3 extends into the metering nozzle 4b, respectively, in the nozzle plate 20 with the formation of a valve seat or sealing seat, or into the seal of the metering nozzle 4b, respectively. For sealing between the valve actuator 3 and the metering nozzle 4b, more particularly between the tappet 4a and the nozzle chamber 4b', i.e. at the top of the metering nozzle 4b, a corresponding seal, for example a ring seal or a membrane seal (not shown here), is placed, which is then located in a ring-like manner between the nozzle chamber 4b' and the tappet 4a in the coupled state of the valve actuator 3 with the nozzle plate 20 (as shown in FIG. 4).

[0087] As can be seen with the aid of figure 4, the valve actuators 3 of the metering module 1 are removably screw-fixed to the nozzle plate 20 by means of screws 26 which are screwed through the nozzle plate 20 and into the valve actuators 3. In order to fix the metering module 1 together with the nozzle plate 20 integrally on the metering system for metering operations, the nozzle plate 20 can itself be fixed, for example by means of screws 27, on a robot arm of a superordinate metering system.

[0088] The nozzle plate 20 further comprises an integrated nozzle material supply 21 or channel structure 21 from a container 22 or tank 22 to the metering nozzles 4b for a sufficient and constant supply or guidance of metering material for the valve actuators 1 from a shared container 22. The channel structure 21 here leads from the container 22 via a vertical channel into the interior of the nozzle plate 20, from where a horizontal channel leads to the metering nozzles 4b. Since the metering nozzles 4b corresponding to the valve actuators 3 of the valve actuator rows 2, 5 are deeply interlocked into each other so that all the metering nozzles 4b are located in a straight line, it is sufficient for the channel structure 21 to be a single channel extending horizontally through the nozzle plate 20, connecting all the metering nozzles 4b or nozzle chambers 4b' of the metering nozzles 4b with each other and supplying them with metering material.

[0089] However, the channel structure is not limited to the exemplary embodiment shown. Essentially the nozzle plate can have any desired number of channels. For example, a particular channel can extend to each nozzle chamber of each metering nozzle. Alternatively or additionally, for example, further channels extending parallel to the column direction and exiting perpendicular to the column direction from one or more channels can also branch off to individual nozzle chambers or groups of nozzle chambers.

[0090] Further, the nozzle chambers of the metering nozzles of each row can be fed by corresponding feed channels, for example in groups, or connected to at least one reservoir.

[0091] Alternatively or additionally, for example, the metering nozzles of a metering valve can be supplied in groups or rows, for example individually, with preferably different materials or metering materials (for example from a corresponding number of containers).

[0092] The metering material supply 21 is provided with an opening midway between the container 22 and the metering nozzle 4b, more particularly at the branch of the nozzle unit 20 into the nozzle chamber 4b' of the metering nozzle 4b, which is closed by a closing element 24 at least during normal metering operation. The opening can be opened when cleaning of the channels of the metering material supply 21 is to take place. This opening is also useful during the introduction of the metering material supply 21 or the channel structure 21 into the nozzle unit 20, in particular when the channel structure 21, which here consists of channels extending for example vertically or horizontally to the metering nozzle, is opened.

[0093] Alternatively, or additionally, the nozzle plate can be manufactured or printed, for example by a 3D printing method, especially when it has a more complex channel structure, for example one of the variations described above.

[0094] As further shown in Fig. 4, the nozzle plate 20 here additionally comprises a reservoir 22 which can be actuated by pressure via a pressure supply. Since the metering process is generally very temperature-sensitive, a temperature control of the nozzle plate 20 or of the nozzle plate 20 via heating or cooling is conceivable. This can be done centrally, i.e. for the entire nozzle plate 20, or over the individual target surfaces of the valve actuator 3. An additional temperature control of the reservoir 22 and of any supply lines or piping between the reservoir 22 and the nozzle plate 20 is further optionally conceivable, but is not explicitly presented in the exemplary embodiment.

[0095] Below the above-mentioned valve actuator 2, furthermore a heating element 12 having a temperature sensor 12 is arranged on the fluid positioning 11 and in a connected state with the metering nozzle arrangement 4' of the nozzle unit 20 heats the nozzle chamber 4b' of the metering nozzle 4b on the nozzle unit 20, in particular when the tappet 4a is moved in operation through the nozzle chamber 4b' into the nozzle opening 25 of the metering nozzle 4b into an open or closed position. The heating element 12 is here screwed onto the fluid positioning 11 by means of at least one screw 14.

[0096] FIG. 6 shows, in longitudinal section, a further exemplary embodiment of a metering module 1″ according to the invention in the form of a sectorial or curved metering valve train arrangement 1″ comprising a nozzle unit 20″ in the form of a nozzle plate 20″. The exemplary embodiment shown here can be made in substantially the same way as the exemplary embodiment described above, except for the differences specified below.

[0097] In contrast to the exemplary embodiment described above, the nozzle plate 20" is formed curved at least in the region of the metering nozzles 4b, so that the valve actuators 3 are not arranged perpendicular to the column direction QR in the same two-dimensional plate parallel to one another (as is the case in the exemplary embodiment described above), but rather are fan-shaped or tilted, with the metering directions tilted relative to one another along the curved column direction QR", at shared metering points where they overlap in a longitudinal cross-section.

[0098] In particular, for this purpose, on the one hand, the upper side of the nozzle plate 20″, on which the valve actuator 3 is connected to the metering nozzle 4b, as in the above-described exemplary embodiment as well, is configured to be slightly curved upwards in the area of ​​the metering nozzle 4b. On the other hand, the lower side of the nozzle plate 20″ is also recessed in an upwardly curved shape in the area of ​​the metering opening 25″ of the metering nozzle 4b, so that the nozzle plate 20″ in the longitudinal section between the upper and lower sides has the shape of a sector of a circular ring having a uniform thickness. Within the sector of the circular ring of the nozzle plate 20″, the metering nozzles 4b are arranged radially between the upper and lower sides towards an imaginary centre point of the sector of the circular ring. In this respect, it will be stated that, as in the above exemplary embodiment as well, the two rows of metering nozzles 4b for the valve actuators 3 of the valve actuator rows 2, 5 are again interlocked into each other so deeply that all the metering nozzles 4b are located in a line and thus connected to each other with the individual horizontal channels of the channel structure 21 or metering material supplies 21.

[0099] Here, by way of example, the five valve actuators 3 of the two valve actuator rows 2, 5 are connected with a slight angular offset relative to one another to metering nozzles 4b formed radially on the surface of the nozzle plate 20″, with the metering heads 4 lying almost flat on the surface of the nozzle plate 20″ and with the discharge elements protruding into the metering nozzles 4b. Here, the three valve actuators 3 of the first valve actuator row 2 (at the front in the longitudinal section) and the two remaining valve actuators 3 of the second valve actuator row 5 (at the rear in the intermediate space between the two of the three valve actuators 3 in the longitudinal section) are interlocked into one another in such a way that, as viewed from above (not shown), all five valve actuators 3 are located on the metering line.

[0100] With appropriately selected spacing relative to the workpiece surface, this arrangement with offset metering valves allows individual metering points (at the intersection of the metering jets) to be achieved.

[0101] Alternatively, or in addition, several metering points located as close or as close to each other as desired with variable distances to the target surface can also be positioned or metered on the workpiece.

[0102] For the metering module 1" according to the second exemplary embodiment, mixtures are also of interest in principle, i.e. for example a metering substance consisting of several components is used, whereby these components in the corresponding channel structure can advantageously only be mixed during metering on the workpiece.

[0103] The metering system in operation is capable of controlling or moving the metering module 1, 1″ in the form of a metering nozzle row arrangement 1 accordingly to the desired metering position relative to the workpiece, where the metering material can then be released by a corresponding metering action of the tappet 4a in a targeted manner out of the metering nozzle 4b, or the nozzle chamber 4b′ of the metering nozzle 4b, and can be metered very precisely depending on the opening cross-section or diameter of the nozzle opening 25.

[0104] For the discharge of the metering material or metering substance, the operating mechanism in the valve actuator 3 then generates and transmits a corresponding discharge-and thus a retraction movement of the tappet 4a towards the tappet head for the deflection of the tappet 4 in the metering direction QR already described above.

[0105] The above-mentioned configuration has the advantage that by means of the valve actuator 3 of the metering valve train arrangement 1, 1" in operation, the desired metering material can be applied or released from one or more nozzle chambers 4b' of one or more metering nozzles 4b to the appropriate position, successively, simultaneously or alternately, on the workpiece in small or large amounts. For this, the metering valve train arrangement 1, 1" is accordingly controllable. In each metering or in each metering process, at least one drop of the desired metering material, which can be completely metered in terms of amount, is released in the metering direction DR through the opening cross-section of the selected metering nozzle 4b or through the already mentioned nozzle opening 25, which is indirectly controlled by the fast movement or tappet action of the tappet 4a via a lever and driven by an actuator operating in a mirror-reversed manner. For this reason, in order to be able to easily and quickly set the metering amount and the metering configuration for the different fields of application in particular, the nozzle opening 25 can also be configured in the form of a changeable nozzle insertion in the metering nozzle 4b.

[0106] Finally, it is pointed out once again that the device described here above in detail merely relates to an exemplary embodiment that can be modified in various ways by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, several metering valve group arrangements, in particular a metering valve train arrangement according to a first exemplary embodiment and a further metering valve train arrangement according to a second exemplary embodiment, can also be arranged in the metering system and / or obviously more valve actuators can be arranged in the metering valve train arrangement. Moreover, the use of the indefinite article "ein" or "eine" does not exclude that the relevant feature can also be present in multiple ways. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 1, 1” Metering Module / Metering Valve Group Arrangement / Metering Valve Row Arrangement 2 First Valve Actuator Row 3 Valve Actuator 3e End section, Bay / Bay section 4 Metering head 4a Discharge element / tappet 4' Metering nozzle arrangement 4b Metering nozzle 5 Second Valve Actuator Row 6 Shorter Contour Sides 7 Longer Contour Sides 8. Cabinet 9 Cable 10 Cover plate 11 Fluid Positioning 12 Heating Elements 14 Screw 15 Supply channel for cooling medium 16 Discharge channel for cooling medium 20, 20” nozzle unit / nozzle plate 21 Metering material supply / channel structure 22 Containers / Tanks 23 Compressed air supply hose 24 Closure elements 25, 25” nozzle opening 26 Screw for fixing the valve actuator on the nozzle unit 27 Screws for mounting the metering module on the upper metering system AA cutting line b Valve actuator width b' Width / diameter of metering head of valve actuator l Valve actuator length D. Linear metering section DR Metering Direction S T The first axis of symmetry of the actuator's plane of symmetry LR Longitudinal QR horizontal / column, linear QR” column direction, curved TR Depth direction

Claims

1. A metering module (1, 1″) for metering a metering material, said module having a plurality of metering valves (4a, 4b), The metering module (1, 1 ″) comprises: a first valve actuator group (2) having at least two valve actuators (3) arranged next to each other in a row direction (QR, QR″), each of the valve actuators (3) comprising at least one metering head (4) having a discharge element (4a); a second valve actuator group (5) having at least one valve actuator (3), the at least one valve actuator (3) also comprising a metering head (4) having a discharge element (4a); having the metering heads (4) of the first valve actuator group (2) and the second valve actuator group (5) face each other; a metering nozzle arrangement (4') having a plurality of metering nozzles (4b), each metering head (4) being assigned to a metering nozzle (4b) of said metering nozzle arrangement (4') such that the metering nozzle (4b) forms in each case a metering valve (4a, 4b) together with the discharge element (4a) of said metering head (4), said valve actuator groups (2, 5) being arranged displaced relative to one another in a row direction (QR, QR″), the metering heads (4) of the two valve actuator groups (2, 5) are arranged interlocked into each other; Metering module (1,1").

2. A metering module as described in claim 1, wherein the second valve actuator group (5) has a plurality of valve actuators (3) arranged next to each other in a row direction (QR, QR'').

3. the first valve actuator group (2) and the second valve actuator group (5) extend parallel to each other in a row direction (QR, QR″); The metering module of claim 1 .

4. The first valve actuator group (2) and the second valve actuator group (5) are adjacent to each other. The metering module of claim 3.

5. the valve actuators (3) of each valve actuator group (2, 5) are aligned substantially parallel alongside one another or aligned angularly offset with respect to one another; The metering module of claim 1 .

6. the valve actuators (3) in one of the valve actuator groups (2, 5) are arranged linearly next to each other in a straight row direction (QR) or the valve actuators (3) in one of the valve actuator groups (2, 5) are arranged fan-like next to each other in a curved row direction (QR″); The metering module of claim 1 .

7. At least the valve actuators (3) of one valve actuator row (2, 5) are directed to a common metering point.

7. The metering module of claim 6.

8. The valve actuators (3) of both valve actuator groups (2, 5) are directed to a common metering point.

7. The metering module of claim 6.

9. The valve actuator (3) is in contact with at least one further valve actuator (3) adjacent in the row direction (QR, QR"); The metering module of claim 1 .

10. said valve actuator groups (2, 5) are arranged displaced relative to one another in the row direction (QR) by half the width (b) of a valve actuator (3) and / or by the width (b') of an end section (3e) of the valve actuator (3); The metering module of claim 1 .

11. The valve actuator (3) has a generally rectangular profile (6, 7). The metering module of claim 1 .

12. The valve actuator (3) has a substantially rectangular contour (6, 7) having a longer contour side (7) and a shorter contour side (6). The metering module of claim 11.

13. said shorter profile side (6) has a length which is at most two-thirds the length of said longer profile side (7); 13. The metering module of claim 12.

14. The shorter profile side (6) has a length that is at most half the length of the longer profile side (7).

13. The metering module of claim 12.

15. The metering head portion (4) of the valve actuator (3) protrudes in a bay shape. The metering module of claim 1 .

16. The valve actuator (3) has a maximum width (b) of at most 30 mm. The metering module of claim 1 .

17. In the metering head portion (4), the valve actuator (3) has a width (b') that is half the maximum width (b).

17. The metering module of claim 16.

18. the metering heads (4) of the valve actuators (3) of the two valve actuator groups (2, 5) are arranged interlocked into each other such that they form a shared linear metering section (D); The metering module of claim 1 .

19. The metering nozzle arrangement (4') comprises: a nozzle unit (20, 20″) having a plurality of metering nozzles (4b), said metering nozzles (4b) being either integrated into said nozzle unit (20, 20″) or capable of being removably inserted into said nozzle unit (20, 20″); having The metering module of claim 1 .

20. The nozzle unit (20, 20") is capable of being coupled to at least two valve actuator groups (2, 5).

20. The metering module of claim 19.

21. The nozzle unit (20, 20") is capable of being coupled to an individual valve actuator (3).

21. The metering module of claim 20.

22. The metering nozzle arrangement (4') comprises: a plurality of different metering nozzles (4b) each individually connectable to at least two valve actuator groups (2, 5); Equipped with The metering module of claim 1 .

23. The metering nozzle arrangement (4'), a plurality of different metering nozzles (4b) which can be separately and individually connected to respective valve actuators (3); Equipped with 23. The metering module of claim 22.

24. The metering module according to claim 19, comprising a common metering material supply (21) for at least some of the metering nozzles (4b) of the metering nozzle arrangement (4').

25. A metering module (1, 1") for metering a metering material, comprising a plurality of metering valves (4a, 4b), The metering module (1, 1 ″) comprises: a first valve actuator group (2) having at least two valve actuators (3) arranged next to each other in a row direction (QR, QR″), each of the valve actuators (3) comprising at least one metering head (4) having a discharge element (4a); a second valve actuator group (5) having at least one valve actuator (3), the at least one valve actuator (3) also comprising a metering head (4) having a discharge element (4a); having the metering heads (4) of the first valve actuator group (2) and the second valve actuator group (5) face each other; a metering nozzle arrangement (4') having a plurality of metering nozzles (4b), each metering head (4) being assigned to a metering nozzle (4b) of said metering nozzle arrangement (4') such that the metering nozzle (4b) forms in each case a metering valve (4a, 4b) together with the discharge element (4a) of said metering head (4), said valve actuator groups (2, 5) are arranged displaced relative to one another in the row direction (QR) by half the width (b) of a valve actuator (3) and / or by the width (b') of an end section (3e) of the valve actuator (3); Metering module (1,1").

26. A metering module (1, 1") for metering a metering material, comprising a plurality of metering valves (4a, 4b), The metering module (1, 1 ″) comprises: a first valve actuator group (2) having at least two valve actuators (3) arranged next to each other in a row direction (QR, QR″), each of the valve actuators (3) comprising at least one metering head (4) having a discharge element (4a); a second valve actuator group (5) having at least one valve actuator (3), the at least one valve actuator (3) also comprising a metering head (4) having a discharge element (4a); having the metering heads (4) of the first valve actuator group (2) and the second valve actuator group (5) face each other; a metering nozzle arrangement (4') having a plurality of metering nozzles (4b), each metering head (4) being assigned to a metering nozzle (4b) of said metering nozzle arrangement (4') such that the metering nozzle (4b) forms in each case a metering valve (4a, 4b) together with the discharge element (4a) of said metering head (4), The metering head portion (4) of the valve actuator (3) protrudes in a bay shape. Metering module (1,1").

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