Applicator with small nozzle distance

Abstract

The present invention relates to an applicator, particularly a printhead, for applying a coating agent, particularly paint, to a part, particularly an automobile body part or an add-on part for an automobile body part, the applicator having at least one nozzle row (21) with a plurality of nozzles (22-28) for ejecting the coating agent in the form of a coating agent jet, the nozzles (22-28) being arranged one behind the other in a nozzle plane at a specific nozzle distance (d) along the nozzle row (21), the applicator having a plurality of actuators (35-38, 42-44) for controlling the release of the coating agent through each of the nozzles (22-28), each of the actuators (35-38, 42-44) having an outer dimension (b) along the nozzle row (21). The present invention provides that the nozzle distance (d) between adjacent nozzles (22-28) of the nozzle row (21) is smaller than the outer dimension (b) of each of the actuators (35-38, 42-44) along the nozzle row (21). [Selection diagram] Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an applicator (eg, printhead) for applying a coating (eg, paint) to a part (eg, an automobile body part). [Background technology]

[0002] So-called drop-on-demand printheads are known from the state of the art (e.g. US Pat. No. 5,399,633), which emit droplet jets or successive coating agent jets, the operating principle of these printheads being based on the use of electromagnetic valves. A magnetically driven armature is slidably guided in a coil. The sliding armature can directly form the valve needle or can act on separate valve needles, which, depending on their position, selectively close the valve seat or open it for the emission of the coating agent. Nozzles for the ejection of the coating agent and associated electromagnetic actuators are arranged one behind the other along the nozzle row. Such printheads are also described in US Pat. No. 5,399,633. These known printheads also work with valve pistons moved by electric actuators, whereby the valve pistons move in an internal guide tube (internal coil tube) in the coil. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 9,108,424 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2012 / 058373 [Patent Document 3] European Patent Application Publication No. 0426473 [Patent Document 4] US Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0127955 [Patent Document 5] International Publication No. 2012 / 058373 [Patent Document 6] DE 102014013158 A1 [Patent Document 7] International Publication No. 2010 / 046064 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] As will be explained below with reference to Figures 1-4, a problem with known drop-on-demand printheads is the distance between adjacent nozzles. For example, known drop-on-demand printheads typically have a nozzle plate 1 with a number of nozzles 2-4 arranged along a linear nozzle row 5. Each of the nozzles 2-4 is capable of ejecting a coating agent jet onto the surface of a part 6, as indicated by the arrows in Figures 1 and 2. Control of the delivery of coating agent through the nozzles 2-4 is performed individually by actuators 7-9, which electromagnetically operate valve needles 10-12 and move the valve needles 10-12, respectively, in the direction of the double arrow in Figure 3. In Figure 3, the valve needle 11 is shown in a lowered position, in which position it closes the corresponding nozzle 3 for ejecting the coating agent. Meanwhile, in FIG. 3, the valve needles 10 and 12 are shown in a raised position in FIG. 3, the two valve needles 10 and 12 opening the corresponding nozzles 2, 4 for releasing the coating agent.

[0005] In addition, Figure 3 shows a sealing membrane 13 in the printhead, which fluidly separates the nozzle chamber 14 filled with coating from the actuator chamber 15. The sealing membrane 13 thereby prevents contamination of the actuators 7-9 in the actuator chamber 15 by coating agent from the nozzle chamber 14. The sealing membrane 13 is suspended on a membrane separator 16, which prevents the displacement of one of the valve needles 10-12 from causing a corresponding displacement of an adjacent valve needle 10-12. The membrane separator 16 thus causes a mechanical separation between adjacent valve needles 10-12, such that they can control the release of coating agent through the nozzles 2-4 individually and independently of each other.

[0006] FIG. 4 also shows that adjacent actuators 7-9 are arranged at a certain distance d along the nozzle row 5. The individual actuators 7-9 each have a diameter b, which limits the minimum achievable nozzle distance d downwards. The nozzles 2-4 cannot be arranged close to each other along the nozzle row 5. This can lead to the fact that the coating agent droplets 17-19 from the nozzles 2-4 are released onto the surface of the part 6 and, after application, cannot reach the coherent coating film, since the droplets are too far apart as shown in FIG.

[0007] To solve this problem of the nozzle distance d being too large, it is known from the state of the art to rotate the printhead during operation around a rotation axis 20 perpendicular to the coating path, which is perpendicular to the surface of the part 6 and perpendicular to the drawing plane. As a result, the effective nozzle distance d is reduced in the drawing plane, i.e. perpendicular to the coating path. This rotation of the drop-on-demand printhead allows the coating agent droplets 17-19 on the surface of the part 6 to be very close together so that after application they form a continuous coating film. The rotation of the drop-on-demand printhead thus solves the problem that the minimum nozzle distance d is limited by the diameter b of the actuators 7-9. However, it would be desirable to be able to do so without such a rotation. In particular, it would be desirable to reduce the nozzle distance d in the printhead.

[0008] Regarding the technical background of the present invention, reference should also be made to US Pat. No. 5,399,413, US Pat. No. 5,499,621, US Pat. No. 5,523,363, US Pat. No. 5,523,637, US Pat. No. 5,523,647, and US Pat. No. 5,523,797.

[0009] The invention is therefore based on the problem of creating a correspondingly improved applicator (eg printhead). [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] This problem is solved by an applicator according to the invention.

[0011] The applicator (e.g. printhead) according to the invention is generally suitable for the application of coating agents. The invention is therefore not limited to a specific coating agent with regard to the type of coating agent applied. Preferably, however, the printhead is designed for the application of paint. Alternatively, however, the coating agent can also be an adhesive or a sealant or an insulating material. The applicator according to the invention can therefore also be designed as an adhesive applicator or a sealant applicator.

[0012] It should also be mentioned that the printhead according to the invention is generally suitable for applying a coating agent (e.g. paint) to a particular part. The invention is also not limited with respect to the type of part to be coated. However, preferably, the applicator according to the invention is designed for applying a coating agent (e.g. paint) to an automobile body part or to an additional part of an automobile body part.

[0013] The applicator (e.g. print head) according to the present invention firstly has a nozzle row with a plurality of nozzles, preferably arranged along the nozzle row in a common nozzle plane, in accordance with the state of the art, for applying the coating agent in the form of a jet each time.

[0014] It should be mentioned here that the printhead according to the present invention does not emit a spray cone of coating agent from the nozzle, but rather emits a spatially limited jet of coating agent (essentially a continuous jet or a droplet jet) with only a smaller jet spread, and is therefore different from atomizers (e.g. rotary atomizers, air atomizers, etc.) which emit a spray cone of coating agent, but not a spatially limited jet of coating agent.

[0015] It should also be mentioned that the applicator (e.g. print head) according to the invention may have a single row of nozzles, the nozzles being preferably arranged equidistantly, however, it is also possible within the scope of the invention for the print head to have several rows of nozzles, preferably arranged parallel to one another.

[0016] In addition, the printhead according to the invention comprises a number of actuators for opening and closing the nozzles, in accordance with the state of the art and as already explained in the introduction about the state of the art.

[0017] The actuator can be, for example, an electromagnetic actuator, as already explained at the beginning. Alternatively, the actuator can be a piezoelectric actuator or a pneumatic actuator, these being just a few examples. The invention is therefore not limited to a specific actuator type with regard to the technical physical principle of the actuator's operation.

[0018] Here, the present invention is advantageous because the nozzle distance between adjacent nozzles of a nozzle row is smaller than the outer dimension (e.g., outer diameter) of the individual actuators along the nozzle row. Thus, the present invention overcomes the lower limit on the nozzle distance mentioned above, which was pre-imposed by the outer dimension of the individual actuators. Up until now, the nozzle distance between adjacent nozzles of a nozzle row could not be made smaller than the outer diameter dimension of the individual actuators, because there was not enough installation space available for the actuators. It should be mentioned here that the nozzle distance is measured between the centers of the nozzles.

[0019] A reduction in the nozzle distance without changing the outer diameter of the individual actuators is achieved within the scope of the present invention by a hydraulic separation of the applicator, in which the control valves and / or actuators are no longer arranged strictly in the nozzle row, but offset. Thus, the applicator according to the present invention can have a plurality of control valves for controlling the release of the coating agent through the nozzles, whereby the control valves are controlled by the actuators. A hydraulic equalization then provides that the control valves are preferably spatially separated from the associated nozzles and are respectively connected to the associated nozzles via flow channels, allowing a spatial equalization of the nozzles on the one hand and the valves on the other hand. The individual control valves are arranged in a shut-off position that is offset with respect to the side of the nozzle row so that the nozzle distance can be reduced. This offset arrangement of the control valves also allows a lateral offset arrangement of the actuators, as a result of which the nozzle distance is no longer limited by the outer diameter of the individual actuators.

[0020] In one embodiment of the invention, the control valves on either side of the nozzle row are arranged one behind the other in two valve rows on opposite sides of the nozzle row. The nozzles along the nozzle row can then be alternately connected via a flow path with the control valves of the opposing valve rows. For example, the first nozzle of the nozzle row can be connected to a control valve of the left valve row, while the second nozzle of the nozzle row is connected to a control valve of the right valve row. Then the third nozzle of the nozzle row is again connected to a valve of the left valve row, and so on. This allows the nozzle distance of adjacent nozzles along the nozzle row to be reduced to half the outer dimension of the individual actuators.

[0021] In a different configuration of the invention, the flow paths start from the nozzle row in a pull-apart plane perpendicular to the nozzle row in more than two different directions, i.e. at different angles, so that the different directions of the flow paths in the pull-apart plane can include angles of 0°-90°, 20°-70°, 30°-60°, 40°-50° or in particular 0° or 45°, respectively. The nozzles along the nozzle row are then alternatively connected to one of the various flow paths. The actuators are thus arranged at different angular positions in the pull-apart plane and are thus also spatially separated, allowing a greater packing density and a corresponding smaller nozzle distance.

[0022] In a further embodiment of the invention, the actuators are arranged in a number of actuator planes, whereby the actuator planes extend parallel to the nozzle plane and / or to the valve seat plane at different distances from the nozzle or valve seat plane. The actuators in the individual actuator planes can be arranged in a number of actuator rows parallel to the nozzle row and / or to the valve seat row, in particular on both sides of the nozzle row and / or the valve seat row. The actuators can therefore be vertically spaced apart, i.e. arranged at different angles perpendicular to the nozzle plane. In addition, the actuators can also be arranged horizontally spaced apart, i.e. distributed parallel to the nozzle plane. This spatial separation of the actuators in different directions (horizontal and vertical) also makes it possible to reduce the nozzle distance.

[0023] In one embodiment of the invention, the actuators are arranged in a plurality of actuator planes, the actuator planes comprising respective actuator planes extending parallel to the nozzle plane and / or to the valve seat array, and two actuator arrays are arranged on either side of the nozzle array in the respective actuator planes, such that each actuator array includes a plurality of actuators.

[0024] Here, the actuator planes arranged vertically above and below (i.e. perpendicular to the nozzle plane and / or to the valve seat plane) preferably have a horizontal offset from each other, which offset is substantially the same size as the nozzle distance or an integer multiple of the nozzle distance between adjacent nozzles in a nozzle row. However, the offset can also be an integer multiple of the nozzle distance. In addition, the actuators in each actuator row are preferably arranged essentially equidistant.

[0025] It should also be mentioned that the control valves can be located at different distances from the associated nozzles. As a result, the associated flow paths between the control valves and the associated nozzles have different lengths. Different flow path lengths can then lead to different flow behaviors, resulting in different coating agent release from the individual nozzles. However, it is desirable that the delivery of coating agent through the individual nozzles is uniform regardless of the length of the flow path. Therefore, it is possible to compensate for flow paths of different lengths within the scope of the present invention using pressure compensation means, resulting in different nozzles having uniform release behavior regardless of the length of the associated flow path.

[0026] For example, the pressure compensation means may consist of a serpentine, zigzag, spiral or constricting flow path, whereby these pressure compensation means are preferably located in shorter flow paths that would otherwise have lower flow resistance due to the shorter length of the flow path.

[0027] It should also be mentioned that the individual control valves may each have a valve seat that can be closed or opened. The individual valve seats may have a distinct diameter of 50 μm to 1500 μm when open.

[0028] Additionally, each control valve can have a flexible valve member, which can be, for example, a flexible valve membrane, which can then open or close a valve seat by deflecting.

[0029] The present invention provides a variety of options for deflecting the valve member (eg, valve membrane), which are briefly described below.

[0030] In one embodiment of the invention, a sliding plunger is provided which is moved by an associated actuator to urge a valve member (eg, valve membrane) against a valve seat in the closed position, thereby sealing the valve seat.

[0031] However, in another embodiment of the invention, a pressure chamber is provided that can be subjected to a variable pressure, whereby pressure in the pressure chamber acts on a flexible valve member (e.g., a valve membrane). By applying sufficient pressure to the pressure chamber, the valve member (e.g., a valve membrane) can be pressed against the valve seat, thereby sealing the valve seat. For example, the pressure chamber can be pressed by compressed air.

[0032] It should also be mentioned here that the valve member (e.g., valve membrane) can extend over multiple valve seats, thereby allowing a common valve member to be deflected individually for each valve seat, so that the release of coating agent through each nozzle can be individually controlled.

[0033] Here, the valve member (e.g. valve membrane) can also perform the same function as the sealing membrane mentioned at the beginning with regard to the state of the art, which separates the actuator chamber from the supply line chamber filled with coating agent and thus prevents the actuator in the actuator chamber from being contaminated by the coating agent. The valve member (e.g. valve membrane) therefore has two functions, namely, on the one hand, the function of opening and closing the nozzle and, on the other hand, the function of fluidically separating the actuator chamber from the supply line chamber.

[0034] It should also be mentioned that the individual control valves may each have a return spring, which may preload the plunger into a closed or open position, however, preferably the return spring preloads the plunger into a closed position, i.e. the associated control valve is closed without active actuation.

[0035] In addition, a sliding valve needle can be provided instead of a valve membrane, whereby the valve needle opens or closes the valve seat depending on its position. The valve needle can be pushed through a sealing member (e.g. a sealing membrane), whereby the sealing member separates the actuator chamber from the supply line chamber filled with the coating agent, thereby preventing the actuator in the actuator chamber from being contaminated by the coating agent. This valve needle may have a separate sealing member at its tip.

[0036] It should also be mentioned that the valve needle or plunger, respectively, is moved by an actuator, which may be, for example, an electromagnetic actuator, a piezoelectric actuator or a pneumatic actuator. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to a specific operating principle with regard to the technical physical operating principle of the actuator.

[0037] It should also be mentioned that the individual actuators can be single-acting or double-acting: in the case of a single-acting actuator, the valve needle or tappet is actively moved in only one direction by the associated actuator, while the return movement is performed by a return spring, whereas in the case of a double-acting actuator, both movements in the opposite directions are performed by the associated actuator, and as a result the return spring can be omitted.

[0038] It is also possible for the individual control valves to be located external to the applicator, whereby the control valves are connected to the applicator by fluid lines (eg, hoses).

[0039] The applicator according to the present invention may also have a common supply channel for supplying coating agent to the individual flow paths for the individual valves. For example, the supply channel may have a channel height of 100 μm to 2000 μm, a channel width of 1 mm to 5 mm, and / or a channel length of 1 mm to 100 mm.

[0040] The reduced nozzle distance in accordance with the present invention allows the distance between adjacent valve seats to be at least twice the nozzle distance between adjacent nozzles.

[0041] The flow paths and / or feed channels in the applicator can be manufactured by different manufacturing processes, including the following manufacturing processes: Lithography processes, in particular soft lithography processes, -3D printing, -Sacrificial layer method, -Escargot process, -LIGA process, -thermal adhesive, - Diffusion welding, -Laser ablation, - Laser cutting, - Bonding, hot stamping, -etching process, -injection molding, -Selective laser sintering, -Selective laser melting, - mechanical processes, - A combination of the above methods, should be mentioned as an example.

[0042] The flow paths and / or delivery channels can extend into a substrate (i.e., housing body) formed from a material that is inert to the coating agent. For example, the substrate can be stainless steel, plastic, silicon, or glass. For example, the following plastics: -Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), -Polyetherketone (PEKK), -Polyoxymethylene (POM), -Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), -Polyamide (PA), -Polyethylene (PE), -Polypropylene (PP), -Polystyrene (PS), -Polycarbonate (PC), - cycloolefin copolymers, in particular Topas®, Zeonor® or Zeonex® can be used as a plastic.

[0043] With regard to flow paths, it should be noted that these include angles of 0-90°, 20°-85°, 45°-80°, over at least a portion of their length.

[0044] Furthermore, the flow channel may be at an angle of 0-90° or 45°-90° to the nozzle row, or transversely, in particular perpendicular, over at least part of its length.

[0045] The individual flow paths may each have a channel cross-section with a channel height of 50 μm to 1000 μm or 100 μm to 500 μm.

[0046] On the other hand, the channel width of each flow path is preferably in the range of 50 μm to 1000 μm, or 100 μm to 500 μm.

[0047] The channel length of the individual flow paths is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 50 mm or 0.5 mm to 25 mm. The duct length is preferably short so that the flow path between the shut-off position of the control valve on the one hand and the nozzle on the other hand has the smallest possible volume, thus preventing dripping and providing good dynamic response behavior. Therefore, the volume of the flow path between the shut-off position of the control valve and the nozzle is preferably less than 1 mL, 0.5 mL, 0.1 mL, 0.01 mL or 0.001 mL.

[0048] It should also be mentioned that the flow passages can also have a circular channel cross-section, in particular with a channel diameter of 50 μm to 1000 μm.

[0049] The present invention allows for very small nozzle distances between adjacent nozzles along a nozzle row, thereby allowing the nozzle distance to be less than 3 mm, 2 mm, 1 mm, or even less than 0.5 mm.

[0050] On the other hand, the control valve in the shut-off position is preferably located at a distance of at least 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm or 6 mm from the row of nozzles, allowing spatial separation of the control valve on the one hand and the nozzles on the other hand.

[0051] It should also be mentioned that preferably the nozzles are spaced equidistant along the nozzle row.

[0052] In addition, the present invention does not only claim protection for the applicator described above, but rather also claims protection for a coating robot (e.g., a painting robot) equipped with such an applicator.

[0053] Further advantageous developments of the invention are given in the dependent claims or are explained in more detail below in conjunction with the description of preferred examples of the invention using the figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0054] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a printhead according to the present invention where the droplets of coating material do not collect as a continuous coating film. [Diagram 2] 2 shows a variation of FIG. 1 using a rotating printhead such that droplets of coating material are collected as a continuous coating film. [Diagram 3] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a conventional printhead. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a print head according to the present invention for explaining nozzle distance. [Diagram 5] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a printhead according to the present invention; [Figure 6] 1 shows a schematic diagram of spatial separation of control valves in the lateral direction. [Figure 7] 1 shows a schematic diagram of pressure compensation means in the individual flow paths. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of lateral pull-off of a control valve. [Figure 9A] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a printhead according to the present invention including a control valve with a tappet-actuated valve membrane in an open position. [Figure 9B] 9B shows the printhead according to FIG. 9A in a closed position. [Figure 10A] FIG. 9B is a variation of FIG. 9A having a pressure chamber for deflecting the valve membrane, showing the valve membrane in an open state. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a variation of FIG. 10A with the valve membrane in a closed state. [Figure 11A] FIG. 9B is a variation of FIG. 9A with a separate valve tappet that slides through the sealing membrane, shown in the open position. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B shows a view according to FIG. 11A with the control valve closed. [Figure 12] 9B shows a variation of FIG. 9A with the control valve located outside the printhead. [Figure 13] 1 shows a schematic diagram of spatial separation of control valves in different directions. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 shows a schematic of the spatial separation of actuators in the vertical and horizontal directions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0055] In the following, with reference to Figures 5 and 8, an embodiment of a printhead according to the present invention will be described, which can be used, for example, for painting automotive body parts.

[0056] A large number of nozzles 22 to 28 are arranged equidistantly in a linear nozzle row 21 .

[0057] Parallel rows of valve seats 29 , 30 lie on either side of the row of nozzles 21 .

[0058] In the valve seat row 29, a number of valve seats 31-34 are arranged at equal distances a. The valve seats 31-34 are each opened and closed by an actuator, whereby the actuators 35-38 close respective valve needles (not shown) to individually open and close the valve seats 31-34.

[0059] In the opposite valve seat row 30, a plurality of valve seats 39-41 are also equidistantly arranged at a distance a. These valve seats 39-41 are also opened and closed via actuators 42-44, which move valve needles (not shown) to open and close the valve seats 39-41, respectively.

[0060] In the figure, the valve seats 31-34 of the upper valve seat row 29 are connected to the corresponding nozzles 22, 24, 26, 28 by flow passages 45-48, respectively.

[0061] The valve seats 39-41 of the valve seat row 30 in the lower part of the figure are correspondingly connected to the corresponding nozzles 23, 25, 27 via the flow passages 49-51.

[0062] In this arrangement, the actuators 35-38 are offset upwards relative to the nozzle row 21 in the figure, while the actuators 42-44 are offset downwards relative to the nozzle row 21 in the figure. This spatial separation of the actuators 35-38 or 42-44 on one side from the nozzle row 21 on the other side allows the nozzle distance d to be reduced compared to the distance a between adjacent actuators 35-38 or 42-44. In particular, the nozzle distance d between adjacent nozzles 22-28 can also be reduced compared to the diameter b of each of the actuators 35-38 or 42-44.

[0063] The cross-sectional view of FIG. 8 also shows a flow passage 45 embedded in the upper side of substrate 52, with supply channel 53 supplying coating material to valve seats 31-34, and extending into substrate 52 like the other flow passages.

[0064] 8 further shows that the flow passage 45 extends over part of its length at an angle α relative to the coating agent jet 54 emerging from the nozzle 22. The angle α may range from 0° to 90°, in particular 0° or 45°.

[0065] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a printhead arrangement with laterally offset valve seats, positioned opposite nozzle row 21 in two valve seat rows 29,30.

[0066] In part, the description corresponds to the previous figures, so the same reference symbols are used for corresponding details, and reference is made to the above description to avoid redundancy.

[0067] Channels 55, 56 are provided which are all the same length. This offers the advantage that the flow resistance of channels 55, 56 is uniform, and as a result the application behavior of the individual nozzles is also uniform.

[0068] FIG. 7 shows a variant of the schematic diagram according to FIG. 6, so that to avoid repetition, reference is made to the above description, using the same reference numerals for corresponding details.

[0069] A special feature of this example is that the printhead has a long flow path 57 and a short flow path 58. This is problematic because the flow resistance of the short flow path 58 is usually lower than that of the long flow path 57, leading to a correspondingly different application behavior. Therefore, in the short flow path 58 pressure compensation means 59 are arranged, which in this embodiment consist of the short flow path 58 which is a serpentine path.

[0070] In the following, an embodiment according to Figures 9A and 9B is described, where Figure 9A shows the control valve in an open position, while Figure 9B shows the control valve in a closed position.

[0071] The figure shows a schematic detail of the printhead in the region of a nozzle 60 through which a coating agent jet 61 can be delivered to a part 62 .

[0072] Nozzle 60 is connected to a valve seat 64 laterally offset relative to nozzle 60 via a passage 63 which extends into a substrate 65. A supply channel 66 is embedded in the surface of substrate 65 and leads to valve seat 64.

[0073] In addition, the valve membrane 67 is fixed on the substrate 65 by a membrane clamp 68, whereby the valve membrane 67 is deflectable between an open position according to FIG. 9A and a closed position according to FIG. 9B.

[0074] The valve membrane 67 is deflected by a valve stem 69 which is guided in a plunger guide 70 and can be moved in the direction of the double arrow by an actuator.

[0075] The valve stem 69 is urged downwardly into a closed position by a return spring 71. In the closed position, shown in Figure 9B, the valve stem 69 presses the valve membrane 67 onto the valve seat 64, sealing it.

[0076] The lateral offset between the nozzles 60 and the valve seats 64 reduces the nozzle distance (ie, perpendicular to the drawing plane) between adjacent nozzles.

[0077] 10A and 10B show a variation of the embodiment of FIGS. 9A and 9B, so to avoid repetition, the same reference numerals are used for appropriate details and reference is made to the above description.

[0078] A special feature of this embodiment is that the valve membrane 67 is not deflected by the plunger 69 but by the pressure in a pressure chamber 72 which can be pressurized using compressed air.

[0079] 11A and 11B show a further modification of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, and therefore, to avoid repetition, the same reference numerals are used for relevant details and reference is made to the above description.

[0080] A special feature of this example is that the valve seat 64 is not closed by the valve membrane 67. Rather, a valve needle 73 passes through the valve membrane 67 and is movable in the direction of the double arrow, carrying a separate sealing member 74 at its tip. In the closed position according to Fig. 11B, the sealing member 74 then seals against the valve seat 64. In the open position according to Fig. 11A, the valve needle 73 with the sealing member 74 is lifted off the valve seat 64 and opens it.

[0081] The valve membrane 67 only serves to separate the supply channel 66 filled with coating agent from the actuator chamber, so that the actuator chamber is not contaminated by the coating agent in the supply channel 66 .

[0082] FIG. 12 shows a further variant of the embodiment according to FIGS. 9A and 9B, so that to avoid repetition, the same reference numerals are used for corresponding details and reference is made to the above description.

[0083] A special feature of this embodiment is that the control valve is separate from the printhead and is connected to the printhead via a hose 75.

[0084] FIG. 13 shows another possible embodiment of a printhead 76 for applying a spray of coating material 77 from a nozzle 78 to a part 79 .

[0085] Here, the nozzles 78 are connected to the valve seats at different angular orientations (i.e. perpendicular to the drawing plane) alternating along the nozzle row via channels 80-84. The drawing plane thus forms a separation plane whereby the channels 80-84 point in different directions, thus allowing spatial separation and, in turn, a reduction in the nozzle distance d.

[0086] Finally, FIG. 14 shows a schematic representation of the spatial separation of the actuators in both the vertical direction (ie perpendicular to the nozzle plane) and the horizontal direction (ie parallel to the nozzle plane).

[0087] Here, two actuator columns are illustratively arranged parallel to each other and parallel to the nozzle column in the three actuator planes.

[0088] In the upper actuator plane, the right actuator row includes, by way of example, two actuators a.1.1 and a.1.2, while the other actuator row includes, by way of example, two actuators b.1.1 and b.1.2.

[0089] The same applies to the intermediate actuator plane, where the two actuator rows each have, by way of example, two actuators a.2.1, a.2.2 and b.2.1 and b.2.2, respectively. 。

[0090] Finally, the lower actuator plane also includes, by way of example, two actuator rows each comprising two actuators a.3.1, a.3.2 and b.3.1, b.3.2.

[0091] It should be mentioned here that the number of actuators in each actuator column may in practice be much greater than that shown and described above for illustrative purposes.

[0092] The present invention is not limited to the preferred embodiment described above. Rather, a large number of variations and modifications are possible that utilize the ideas of the present invention and therefore fall within the scope of the present invention. In particular, the present invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims, independently of the claims cited in each case, and without the specific features of the main claims. Thus, the present invention encompasses a great number of different inventive aspects that enjoy protection independently of each other, and without the specific technical teaching of the main claims.

[0093] [Note] [Appendix 1] 1. An applicator, in particular a printhead, for applying a coating agent, in particular a paint, to a part, in particular to an automotive body part or an add-on part for an automotive body part, comprising: a) at least one nozzle row (5; 21) having a plurality of nozzles (2-4; 22-28; 60; 78) for ejecting said coating agent in the form of a coating agent jet (54; 61; 77), and b) a plurality of actuators (7-9; 35-38, 42-44; a.1.1-b.3.2) for controlling the release of said coating agent through each of said nozzles (2-4; 22-28; 60; 78); Equipped with the nozzles (2-4; 22-28; 60; 78) are arranged behind each other in the nozzle plane at a specific nozzle distance (d) along the nozzle row (5; 21); The actuators (7-9; 35-38, 42-44; a.1.1-b.3.2) each have an outer dimension (b) along the nozzle row (5; 21), c) the nozzle distance (d) between adjacent nozzles (2-4; 22-28; 60; 78) of the nozzle row (5; 21) is smaller than the outer dimension (b) of each of the actuators (7-9; 35-38, 42-44; a.1.1-b.3.2) along the nozzle row (5; 21); An applicator comprising:

[0094] [Appendix 2] a) the applicator has a plurality of control valves (31-34, 39-41) for controlling the release of the coating agent through the nozzle, the control valves (31-34, 39-41) being actuated by the actuators (7-9; 35-38, 42-44; a.1.1-b.3.2); b) the control valves (31-34, 39-41) are spatially separated from their associated nozzles (22-28) and are connected to their associated nozzles (22-28) via flow paths (45-51), respectively, in order to enable spatial separation of the nozzles (22-28) on the one hand and the control valves on the other hand; and c) the control valves (31-34, 39-41) are arranged in shut-off positions laterally offset relative to the nozzle row (5) to reduce the nozzle distance (d); 2. The applicator of claim 1,

[0095] [Appendix 3] a) the control valves (31-34, 39-41) are arranged on either side of the nozzle row (21) in the two valve rows (29, 30) that face each other with respect to the nozzle row (21); and b) the nozzles (22-28) are alternately connected along the nozzle row (21) to the control valves (31-34, 39-41) of the opposing valve row (29, 30) via the flow paths (45-51); 3. The applicator of claim 2.

[0096] [Appendix 4] a) the flow paths (80-84) depart in more than two different directions from the nozzle row in a plane of separation perpendicular to the nozzle row; and / or b) the different directions of the channels (80-84) in the separation plane include angles of 20° to 70°, 30° to 60°, 40° to 50°, or 45°, respectively; and c) the nozzles (78) are alternately connected to one of the different flow paths (80-84) along the nozzle row; 3. The applicator of claim 2.

[0097] [Appendix 5] a) the actuators (a.1.1 to b.3.2) are arranged in a number of actuator planes, the actuator planes extending parallel to the nozzle plane and / or the valve seat plane at different distances from the nozzle plane and / or the valve seat plane, and / or b) the actuators (a.1.1 to b.3.2) in the respective actuator planes are arranged in a number of actuator rows parallel to the nozzle row (5; 21), in particular on both sides of the nozzle row (5; 21) and / or the valve seat row, 5. An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

[0098] [Appendix 6] a) the actuators (a.1.1 to b.3.2) are arranged in a plurality of actuator planes, each of which extends parallel to the nozzle plane and / or the valve seat row; and b) two actuator rows are arranged on either side of the nozzle row and / or the valve seat row in each of the actuator planes, and each of the actuator rows includes a plurality of actuators (a.1.1 to b.3.2); 6. The applicator of claim 5,

[0099] [Appendix 7] a) the actuator planes, which are vertically arranged above one another, are horizontally offset relative to one another by substantially the same value as a nozzle distance (d) between adjacent nozzles in the nozzle row, or by an integer multiple of said nozzle distance; and / or b) the actuators in the array are substantially equidistantly spaced; 7. The applicator of claim 6,

[0100] [Appendix 8] a) the distance between the control valve and the associated nozzle is partially different, so that the flow paths (57, 58) are partially different distances apart; and / or b) the flow paths (57, 58) comprise pressure compensation means (59) for compensating for the different distances, the pressure compensation means (59) at least partially compensating for different pressure losses along the different lengths of the flow paths (57, 58); and / or c) the pressure compensation means (59) in particular in the flow path where the distance from the nozzle to the valve seat is shorter, c1) a meandering path; c2) Zigzag flow channel shape; c3) a spiral channel shape, and / or c4) narrowing of the flow path, Equipped with 8. An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

[0101] [Appendix 9] a) each of the control valves has a valve seat (31-34, 39-41; 64) that can be selectively closed or opened; and / or b) each of the valve seats (31-34, 39-41; 64) has a distinct diameter of 50 μm to 1500 μm, 9. An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

[0102] [Appendix 10] a) a flexible valve member (67), in particular a valve membrane (67), is provided, said valve member (67) being adapted to selectively open or close said valve seat (64) depending on its deflection; and / or b) due to the deflection of the valve member (67), b1) a displaceable plunger (6) is provided which, in the closed position, presses the valve member (67) against the valve seat (64) thereby sealing the latter, or b2) a pressure chamber (72) is provided which applies an adjustable pressure to the valve member (67) to selectively press the valve member (67) against the valve seat (64) thereby sealing or opening the valve seat (64); and / or c) the valve member (67) extends over a plurality of the valve seats (64) and is individually deflectable for each of the valve seats (64); and / or d) the valve member (67) separates an actuator chamber from a supply line chamber filled with coating agent, thereby preventing the actuators (7-9; 35-38, 42-44; a.1.1-b.3.2) in the actuator chamber from being contaminated by the coating agent; and / or e) each of the control valves has a return spring (71) which biases the plunger (69) into a closed or open position; 10. The applicator of claim 9,

[0103] [Appendix 11] a) a displaceable valve needle (73) is provided, said valve needle (73) selectively opening or closing said valve seat (64) depending on its position; and / or b) the valve needle (73) passes through a sealing member (67), in particular a sealing membrane (67), which separates an actuator chamber from a supply line chamber filled with coating agent, thereby preventing the actuator in the actuator chamber from being contaminated by the coating agent; and / or c) the valve needle (73) has a separate sealing member (74) at its tip; 11. The applicator of claim 10,

[0104] [Appendix 12] The valve needle (73) or the plunger (69) is actuated by one of the actuators (7-9; 35-38, 42-44; a.1.1-b.3.2), in particular a) an electromagnetic actuator; b) a piezoelectric actuator; or c) pneumatic actuators; are displaced by, respectively. 12. The applicator according to claim 10 or 11,

[0105] [Appendix 13] a) the actuators (7-9; 35-38, 42-44; a.1.1-b.3.2) are each single-acting and actively move the valve needle (73) or the plunger (69) in only one direction, while the valve needle (73) or the plunger (69) moves in the opposite direction due to a return spring (71); or b) the actuators (7-9; 35-38, 42-44; a.1.1-b.3.2) are each double-acting and actively move the valve needle (73) or the plunger (69) in both directions; 13. The applicator of claim 12,

[0106] [Appendix 14] the control valve is arranged outside the applicator and is connected to the applicator by a fluid line (75), in particular by a hose (75); 14. An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

[0107] [Appendix 15] a) the flow paths (45-51; 63; 80-84) are supplied with the coating agent from the supply channels (66, 53); and / or b) the supply channels (66, 53) have a channel height of between 100 μm and 2000 μm; and / or c) the supply channels (66, 53) have a channel width of between 1 mm and 5 mm; and / or d) the supply channel (66, 53) has a channel length of 1 mm to 100 mm; 15. An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

[0108] [Appendix 16] a) adjacent valve seats (31-34, 39-41; 64) of the control valve are arranged parallel to the nozzle row (5; 21) at a first interval (a); b) adjacent nozzles (2-4; 22-28; 60; 78) are arranged along the nozzle row (5; 21) at a second interval (d); and c) the first spacing (a) between adjacent valve seats is at least twice as large as the second spacing (d) between adjacent nozzles (2-4; 22-28; 60; 78); 16. An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

[0109] [Appendix 17] The flow paths (45-51; 63; 80-84) and / or the supply channel (66) may include the following: a) lithographic processes, in particular soft lithographic processes; b)3D printing; c) sacrificial layer method; d) Escargot process; e) the LIGA process; f) thermal bonding; g) Diffusion welding, h) laser ablation; i) Laser cutting, j) Bonding, hot stamping, k) etching process; l) injection molding, m) selective laser sintering; n) selective laser melting; o) mechanical processes; p) a combination of the above methods; 3. The method of manufacturing a semiconductor device according to claim 1 , 17. An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

[0110] [Appendix 18] The flow paths (45-51; 63; 80-84) and / or the supply channel (66) extend in a substrate (65) made of a material inert to the coating agent, in particular the following materials: a) stainless steel, b) plastics, in particular b1) Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), b2) Polyetherketone (PEKK), b3) polyoxymethylene (POM), b4) Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), b5) Polyamide (PA), b6) Polyethylene (PE), b7) Polypropylene (PP), b8) Polystyrene (PS), b9) Polycarbonate (PC), b10) cycloolefin copolymers, in particular Topas®, Zeonor® or Zeonex®, c) silicon, d) Glass formed from one of 18. An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

[0111] [Appendix 19] a) the flow passage (45-51; 63; 80-84) has, at least over a portion of its length, an angle (α) with respect to the coating agent jet (54; 61; 77) of between 0° and 90°, between 20° and 85°, between 45° and 80°, and / or b) the channels (45-51; 63; 80-84) extend, at least over part of their length, at an angle (α) between 0° and 90° or between 45° and 90° to the nozzle row (5; 21), or laterally, in particular perpendicularly, and / or c) said flow passages (45-51; 63; 80-84) extend, at least over a portion of their length, at an angle (α) between 0° and 90° or between 45° and 90°, in particular at a right angle, to said coating agent jet (54; 61; 77) and extend perpendicular to said nozzle row (5; 21); and / or d) the channels (45-51; 63; 80-84) each have a channel cross-section with a channel height of 50 μm to 1000 μm or 100 μm to 500 μm, and / or e) the flow paths have a channel cross-section with a channel width of 50 μm to 1000 μm or 100 μm to 500 μm, respectively; and / or f) the flow paths (45-51; 63; 80-84) have a channel length of 0.1 mm to 50 mm or 0.5 mm to 25 mm, respectively; and / or g) the channels (45-51; 63; 80-84) have a circular channel cross-section, in particular with a channel diameter of 50 μm to 1000 μm, and / or h) the flow path (45-51; 63; 80-84) between the shutoff position of the control valve and the nozzle (2-4; 22-28; 60; 78) has a small volume of less than 1 mL, 0.5 mL, 0.1 mL, 0.01 mL, or 0.001 mL, respectively; and / or i) the nozzle distance (d) along the nozzle row (5;21) is less than 3 mm, 2 mm, 1 mm or 0.5 mm; and / or j) the control valve is positioned at a distance of at least 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm or 6 mm from the nozzle row (5;21); and / or k) the nozzles (2-4; 22-28; 60; 78) are arranged at equal intervals along the nozzle row (5; 21); 19. An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

[0112] [Appendix 20] A coating robot, in particular a painting robot, comprising: 20. The applicator according to claim 1, A coating robot comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1 Nozzle Plate 2~4 nozzles 5 nozzle rows 6 parts 7~9 Actuator 10~12 Valve needle 13 Sealing film 14 Nozzle chamber 15 Actuator Chamber 16 Membrane separation section 17~19 Coating agent droplets 20 Rotational Axis 21 nozzle rows 22~28 nozzles 29, 30 Valve seat row 31~34 Valve seat 35~38 Actuator 39~41 Valve seat 42~44 Actuator 45~48 Channel 49~51 Channel 52 Substrate 53 Supply Channel 54 Coating agent jet 55, 56 Flow path 57 Long Channel 58 Short Channel 59 Pressure compensation means 60 Nozzles 61 Coating agent jet 62 parts 63 Flow Path 64 Valve seat 65 Substrate 66 Supply Channel 67 Valve membrane 68 Membrane Clamp 69 Valve tappet 70 Plunger Guide 71 Return spring 72 Pressure Chamber 73 Valve needle 74 Valve needle sealing member 75 Horse 76 Printhead 77 Coating agent jet 78 Nozzle 79 parts 80~84 Channel a.1.1 Actuators in the right actuator row of the upper actuator plane a.1.2 Actuators in the right actuator row of the upper actuator plane b.1.1 Actuators in the left actuator row of the upper actuator plane b.1.2 Actuators in the left actuator row of the upper actuator plane a.2.1 Actuators in the right actuator row of the middle actuator plane a.2.2 Actuators in the right actuator row of the middle actuator plane b.2.1 Actuators in the left actuator row of the middle actuator plane b.2.2 Actuators in the left actuator row of the middle actuator plane a.3.1 Actuators in the right actuator row of the lower actuator plane a.3.2 Actuators in the right actuator row of the lower actuator plane b.3.1 Actuators in the left actuator row of the lower actuator plane b.3.2 Actuators in the left actuator row of the lower actuator plane α Angle between the flow passage and the coating material jet β Angle between the flow path and the nozzle row a Distance between adjacent actuators b Actuator diameter d Nozzle Distance

Claims

1. 1. An applicator for applying a coating material to a part, comprising: a) at least one nozzle row (21) having a plurality of nozzles (22-28; 60; 78) for ejecting said coating agent in the form of a coating agent jet (54; 61; 77), said nozzles (22-28; 60; 78) being arranged one behind the other in the nozzle plane at a specific nozzle distance (d) along said nozzle row (21); and b) a number of actuators (a.1.1 to b.3.2) for controlling the release of said coating agent through each of said nozzles (22 to 28; 60; 78); Equipped with b1) the actuators (a.1.1 to b.3.2) each have an outer dimension (b) along the nozzle row (21); b2) the actuators (a.1.1-b.3.2) are arranged in a plurality of actuator planes, each of which extends parallel to the nozzle plane at a different distance from the nozzle plane; c) the nozzle distance (d) between adjacent nozzles (22-28; 60; 78) of the nozzle row (21) is smaller than the outer dimension (b) of each of the actuators (a.1.1-b.3.2) along each of the nozzle rows (21); d) the actuators (a.1.1 to b.3.2) in each of the actuator planes are arranged in a number of actuator rows parallel to the nozzle rows (21), e) the actuators arranged vertically above one another are horizontally offset relative to one another by substantially the same value as a nozzle distance (d) between adjacent nozzles in the nozzle row, or by an integer multiple of said nozzle distance; An applicator comprising:

2. a) said applicator comprises a plurality of control valves (31-34, 39-41) for controlling the release of said coating agent through said nozzles, said control valves (31-34, 39-41) being actuated by said actuators (a.1.1-b.3.2); b) the control valves (31-34, 39-41) are spatially separated from the associated nozzles (22-28), respectively, and are connected to the associated nozzles (22-28) via flow paths (45-51), in order to enable spatial separation of the nozzles (22-28), on the one hand, and the control valves, on the other hand; and c) the control valves (31-34, 39-41) are arranged in shut-off positions laterally offset relative to the nozzle row (21) to reduce the nozzle distance (d); 2. The applicator of claim 1.

3. a) the control valves (31 to 34, 39 to 41) are arranged on either side of the nozzle row (21) in the two valve rows (29, 30) that face each other with respect to the nozzle row (21); and b) the nozzles (22-28) are alternately connected along the nozzle row (21) to the control valves (31-34, 39-41) of the opposing valve rows (29, 30) via the flow paths (45-51); 3. The applicator of claim 2.

4. a) the flow paths (80-84) depart in more than two different directions from the nozzle row in a plane of separation perpendicular to the nozzle row; and / or b) the different orientations of the flow channels (80-84) in the plane of separation each include an angle of 20° to 70°, 30° to 60°, 40° to 50°, or 45°; and c) the nozzles (78) are alternately connected to one of the different flow paths (80-84) along the nozzle row; 3. The applicator of claim 2.

5. a) the actuators (a.1.1-b.3.2) are arranged in a plurality of actuator planes, each of which extends parallel to the nozzle plane and / or the valve seat row; and b) two actuator rows are arranged on either side of the nozzle row and / or the valve seat row in each of the actuator planes, each of the actuator rows including a plurality of actuators (a.1.1 to b.3.2); 2. The applicator of claim 1.

6. a) the actuators in the array are spaced substantially equidistant; 2. The applicator of claim 1.

7. a) the distance between the control valve and the associated nozzle is partially different, so that the flow paths (57, 58) are provided at partially different distances; and / or b) the flow paths (57, 58) comprise pressure compensation means (59) for compensating for the different distances, the pressure compensation means (59) at least partially compensating for different pressure losses along the different lengths of the flow paths (57, 58); and / or c) said pressure compensation means (59) comprising: c1) a tortuous path; c2) a zigzag channel shape; c3) a spiral channel shape, and / or c4) narrowing of the flow path; Equipped with 7. An applicator according to any one of the preceding claims.

8. a) each of the control valves has a valve seat (31-34, 39-41; 64) that can be selectively closed or opened; and / or b) each of said valve seats (31-34, 39-41; 64) has a distinct diameter of 50 μm to 1500 μm; 8. An applicator according to any one of the preceding claims.

9. a) a flexible valve member (67) is provided, said valve member (67) selectively opening or closing said valve seat (64) in response to deflection of said valve member (67); and / or b) due to said deflection of said valve member (67), b1) a displaceable plunger (6) is provided which, in the closed position, presses said valve member (67) against said valve seat (64), thereby sealing the latter, or b2) a pressure chamber (72) is provided, said pressure chamber (72) being adapted to apply an adjustable pressure to said valve member (67) to selectively press said valve member (67) against said valve seat (64) thereby sealing said valve seat (64) or opening said valve seat (64); and / or c) the valve member (67) extends over a plurality of the valve seats (64) and is individually deflectable for each of the valve seats (64); and / or d) the valve member (67) separates an actuator chamber from a supply line chamber filled with coating agent, thereby preventing the actuators (a.1.1-b.3.2) in the actuator chamber from being contaminated by the coating agent; and / or e) each of the control valves has a return spring (71) which biases the plunger (69) into a closed or open position; 9. The applicator of claim 8.

10. a) a displaceable valve needle (73) is provided, said valve needle (73) selectively opening or closing said valve seat (64) depending on its position; and / or b) the valve needle (73) passes through a sealing member (67) which separates an actuator chamber from a supply line chamber filled with coating agent, thereby preventing the actuator in the actuator chamber from being contaminated by coating agent; and / or c) the valve needle (73) has a separate sealing member (74) at its tip; 10. The applicator of claim 9.

11. the valve needle (73) or the plunger (69), respectively, is displaced by one of the actuators (a.1.1-b.3.2), 11. An applicator according to claim 9 or 10.

12. a) the actuators (a.1.1-b.3.2) are single-acting and actively move the valve needle (73) or the plunger (69), respectively, in only one direction, while the valve needle (73) or the plunger (69) moves in the opposite direction due to a return spring (71), or b) said actuators (a.1.1-b.3.2) are each double-acting and actively move said valve needle (73) or said plunger (69) in both directions; 12. The applicator of claim 11.

13. The control valve is disposed outside the applicator and is connected to the applicator by a fluid line (75).

13. An applicator according to any preceding claim.

14. a) the flow paths (45-51; 63; 80-84) are supplied with said coating agent from a supply channel (66, 53); and / or b) the supply channels (66, 53) have a channel height of between 100 μm and 2000 μm; and / or c) the supply channels (66, 53) have a channel width of between 1 mm and 5 mm; and / or d) said supply channels (66, 53) have a channel length of between 1 mm and 100 mm; 14. An applicator according to any preceding claim.

15. a) adjacent valve seats (31-34, 39-41; 64) of the control valve are arranged parallel to the nozzle row (21) at a first interval (a); b) adjacent nozzles (22-28; 60; 78) are spaced along the nozzle row (21) at a second spacing (d); and c) the first spacing (a) between adjacent valve seats is at least twice as large as the second spacing (d) between adjacent nozzles (22-28; 60; 78); 15. An applicator according to any preceding claim.

16. The flow paths (45-51; 63; 80-84) and / or the supply channels (66) may be: a) a lithography process; b) 3D printing; c) the sacrificial layer method; d) Escargot process; e) the LIGA process; f) thermal bonding; g) diffusion welding; h) laser ablation; i) laser cutting; j) bonding, hot stamping, k) an etching process; l) injection molding; m) selective laser sintering; n) selective laser melting; o) mechanical processes; p) a combination of the above methods; 3. The method of claim 2, 16. An applicator according to any preceding claim.

17. the flow paths (45-51; 63; 80-84) and / or the supply channels (66) extend in a substrate (65) made of a material inert to the coating agent; 17. An applicator according to any preceding claim.

18. a) said flow passage (45-51; 63; 80-84) has, at least over a portion of its length, an angle (α) with respect to said coating agent jet (54; 61; 77) of between 0° and 90°, between 20° and 85°, between 45° and 80°, and / or b) said channels (45-51; 63; 80-84) extend, at least over part of their length, at an angle (α) between 0° and 90° or between 45° and 90° to said nozzle row (21) or transversely; and / or c) said flow passages (45-51; 63; 80-84) extend, at least over a portion of their length, at an angle (α) between 0° and 90° or between 45° and 90° to said coating agent jet (54; 61; 77) and perpendicular to said nozzle row (21); and / or d) the channels (45-51; 63; 80-84) each have a channel cross-section with a channel height of 50 μm to 1000 μm or 100 μm to 500 μm, and / or e) the flow paths have a channel cross-section with a channel width of 50 μm to 1000 μm or 100 μm to 500 μm, respectively; and / or f) said channels (45-51; 63; 80-84) have a channel length of 0.1 mm to 50 mm or 0.5 mm to 25 mm, respectively; and / or g) the flow paths (45-51; 63; 80-84) have a circular channel cross-section; and / or h) the flow path (45-51; 63; 80-84) between the shut-off position of the control valve and the nozzle (22-28; 60; 78) has a small volume of less than 1 mL, 0.5 mL, 0.1 mL, 0.01 mL, 0.001 mL, respectively; and / or i) the nozzle distance (d) along the nozzle row (21) is less than 3 mm, 2 mm, 1 mm or 0.5 mm; and / or j) the control valve is positioned at a distance of at least 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm or 6 mm from the nozzle row (21); and / or k) said nozzles (22-28; 60; 78) are equally spaced along said nozzle row (21); 18. An applicator according to any preceding claim.

19. A coating robot, 19. A method for treating a skin rash comprising the steps of: A coating robot comprising:

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