Cleaning apparatus and cleaning method for the steam cleaning of tools, tool cleaning device and automated tool processing system

Abstract

The invention is based on a cleaning apparatus (34) for the steam cleaning of tools (10), at least comprising: a cleaning region (12) for receiving at least part of a tool (10) to be cleaned, and a cleaning nozzle element (14) having at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16", 16"'), the cleaning nozzle element (14) surrounding an axial portion of the cleaning region (12) radially, preferably annularly or virtually annularly, and the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16", 16"') being at least provided to discharge cleaning steam inwards into the cleaning region (12) and in an at least substantially uniform distribution around a circumference of the cleaning region (12). The invention is characterized in that the cleaning apparatus (34) has a suction unit (18) for extracting at least the cleaning steam from the cleaning region (12), the suction unit being located below a receiving opening (22) of the cleaning region (12) for insertion of the tool (10) to be cleaned into the cleaning region (12) and below the cleaning nozzle element (14), in an axial direction (20) of the cleaning nozzle element (14) and / or of the cleaning region (12).

Description

[0001] Cleaning device and cleaning method for steam cleaning of tools, tool cleaning device and automated tool processing system

[0002] State of the art

[0003] The invention relates to a cleaning device according to the preamble of claim 1, a tool cleaning device according to claim 25, a tool processing system according to claim 29 and a cleaning method according to the preamble of claim 30.

[0004] A cleaning device for steam cleaning of tools, comprising at least a cleaning area for receiving at least one part of a tool to be cleaned, and a cleaning nozzle element with at least one cleaning nozzle, wherein the cleaning nozzle element radially encloses an axial section of the cleaning area, preferably in a ring shape or nearly in a ring shape, and wherein the at least one cleaning nozzle is provided at least to discharge a cleaning steam inwards into the cleaning area in a manner that is distributed at least substantially uniformly along a circumference of the cleaning area, has already been proposed.

[0005] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic device with advantageous properties with regard to a tool cleaning process (e.g., cleaning duration, maintenance effort, operating and / or acquisition costs, and / or cleaning result). This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of the independent and dependent claims, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

[0006] Advantages of the invention

[0007] The invention relates to a cleaning device for steam cleaning of tools, in particular shank tools, comprising at least: a cleaning area for receiving at least one part, in particular a major part, of a tool to be cleaned, and a cleaning nozzle element with at least one (one or more than one) cleaning nozzle, wherein the cleaning nozzle element radially encloses an axial section of the cleaning area, preferably in an annular or nearly annular manner, and wherein the at least one (one or more than one) cleaning nozzle is provided at least to discharge a cleaning steam inwards into the cleaning area in a manner that is distributed at least substantially uniformly along a circumference of the cleaning area.

[0008] It is proposed that the cleaning device include an extraction unit for extracting at least the, in particular, used cleaning steam from the cleaning area. This unit is arranged axially below a receiving opening in the cleaning area for inserting the tool to be cleaned into the cleaning area and below the cleaning nozzle element. This enables an advantageous tool cleaning process. Advantageously, easily accessible steam cleaning of the tool is made possible. In particular, the extraction system advantageously allows operation as an open system, preferably as a system without a closable steam cleaning chamber. This advantageously accelerates the cleaning process, especially an automated cleaning process.Advantageously, particularly thorough cleaning can be achieved, especially by generating a flow through the extraction system that enhances the cleaning effect of the cleaning vapor. Advantageously, a particularly low-maintenance cleaning device can be provided, especially compared to liquid-based cleaning systems. Advantageously, the proposed invention allows for particularly high extraction velocities, so that no or virtually no cleaning vapors (possibly containing dissolved contaminants) can escape. This is particularly advantageous in the vicinity of other sensitive equipment, such as a tool measuring device and / or a tool presetting device, since the (dirty) cleaning vapors could contaminate or dampen these devices and thereby negatively affect their function or accuracy.

[0009] The tools that can be cleaned by the cleaning device are designed in particular as shank tools, preferably rotary shank tools, for example drills, milling cutters, profile tools and / or reamers, wherein preferably a shank of the shank tools is provided for mounting in a tool holder opening of a tool chuck. The tools could also be surgical tools, micro tools, diamond tools for stone processing or threading tools. The cleaning area is in particular the area of ​​the cleaning device in which a substantial cleaning effect is achieved during normal operation of the cleaning device. In particular, the cleaning area is formed / defined by a shape and / or arrangement of the cleaning nozzle element and / or the cleaning nozzle.The cleaning area is specifically designed for the insertion, preferably axial insertion, of the part of the tool to be cleaned, preferably at least one working area of ​​the tool, and preferably at least nearly the entire tool. "Designed" is understood to mean specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is designed for a specific function is understood to mean that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating condition. The cleaning nozzle element is specifically designed as a component comprising one or more cleaning nozzles. In particular, the cleaning nozzle element also has at least one connection for a supply line for the cleaning steam or a feedstock for generating the cleaning steam. The cleaning steam is preferably water vapor without cleaning agents.Alternatively, the addition of cleaning agent(s) or the use of a steam base other than water is also conceivable. Preferably, the cleaning device includes a steam generator or is connectable to one. Preferably, the cleaning steam exiting the cleaning nozzle is pressurized. Preferably, the cleaning steam exiting the cleaning nozzle is discharged at a pressure exceeding atmospheric pressure. The cleaning nozzle preferably extends in a nozzle plane perpendicular to an axial direction of the cleaning device. In particular, the cleaning steam exits the cleaning nozzle in a direction pointing towards the center of the cleaning area. Preferably, the cleaning device has only a single cleaning nozzle element.

[0010] In particular, all cleaning nozzles of the cleaning nozzle element are located in a single nozzle plane. Alternatively, however, a superimposed arrangement of two or more than two cleaning nozzle elements and / or cleaning nozzles in the axial direction of the cleaning device / cleaning area is also conceivable.

[0011] The axial direction preferably extends axially through the center of the cleaning area, the cleaning nozzle element, the cleaning nozzle, and / or the cleaning device. The axial direction points particularly opposite to an insertion direction in which tools must be moved for positioning within the cleaning area. The axial direction points particularly along a removal direction in which tools must be moved for removal from the cleaning area after completion of the cleaning process. In particular, an area or object is considered to be axially below another area or object if, upon imagining a path along the axial direction pointing opposite to the insertion direction, the area or object is passed before the other area or object.In particular, the extraction unit is arranged axially on one side of the cleaning nozzle element, opposite the side from which the tool is inserted into the cleaning area during normal operation. Specifically, the tool is inserted into the cleaning area by passing through the imaginary receiving opening. The receiving opening closes off the cleaning area axially (upwards). Specifically, the tools are inserted into and removed from the cleaning area from the same side. The cleaning area is preferably at least substantially cylindrical. "A substantial portion" is understood to mean, in particular, 51%, preferably 75%. "Annular" is also understood to mean, in particular, circular.The term "near-ring-shaped" includes, in particular, shapes that deviate from a perfect circle but are reminiscent of a circle to those skilled in the art, such as polygonal shapes with a very large number (>10) of sides or slightly elliptical / slightly oval shapes. The cleaning nozzle element preferably surrounds the cleaning area in a radial direction. The radial direction preferably extends perpendicular to the axial direction. "Spent cleaning steam" is, in particular, cleaning steam that has already passed through the tool to be cleaned and / or the cleaning area. The extraction unit is specifically designed to generate an extraction flow pointing in the direction of insertion.A substantially uniformly distributed output can be achieved, in particular, by one or more circumferentially extending slot nozzles or by several point nozzles / (oval or round) hole nozzles arranged regularly in the circumferential direction, whose gas output fans out and touches or overlaps the tool. A uniformly distributed output is also, in particular, an output produced by regularly spaced nozzles aligned in the same axial direction.Furthermore, it is proposed that the extraction unit have a hollow body arranged directly adjacent to the cleaning nozzle element, preferably without gaps, in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the cleaning nozzle, the cleaning nozzle element, and / or the cleaning area, preferably in the insertion direction in which tools must be moved to position themselves within the cleaning area. This hollow body forms a radially enclosed extraction channel, at least for the cleaning steam previously emitted from the cleaning nozzle. This allows for the advantageous removal of dissolved dirt particles. Moreover, it advantageously prevents cleaning steam from escaping the cleaning device, thereby enabling operation as an open system, preferably without a closable steam cleaning chamber.Furthermore, it is advantageous to achieve a flow of cleaning steam along a surface of the tool to be cleaned, thereby advantageously creating a wiping effect, which in turn leads to optimized cleaning performance. The hollow body is preferably at least substantially (straight) tubular. The extraction channel is preferably at least substantially (straight) cylindrical. However, alternative channel shapes are also conceivable for the extraction channel. The hollow body, in particular the extraction channel of the hollow body, preferably has an axial extent that is larger, preferably significantly larger, than the axial extent of the cleaning nozzle element. "Significantly larger" is understood to mean, in particular, at least 50% larger, preferably at least twice as large, and preferably at least three times as large.Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the hollow body, and in particular its extraction channel, has an axial extent approximately equal to that of the cleaning nozzle element. Specifically, the extraction channel has a cross-section that corresponds to the cross-sections of the tools to be cleaned. This can advantageously improve the cleaning effect, especially the aforementioned "wiping effect." Furthermore, this advantageously increases the extraction velocity, at least locally, thereby reducing the escape of cleaning vapor, particularly used vapor, in the direction of extraction.

[0012] If at least one cleaning nozzle is ring-shaped or nearly ring-shaped, a particularly uniform cleaning effect can be advantageously achieved across the entire circumference of the cleaning area. The cleaning nozzle element can also be ring-shaped or simply have a ring-shaped opening. In this case, the cleaning nozzle is preferably a continuous ring-shaped cleaning nozzle / a ring-shaped cleaning nozzle. The cleaning nozzle in this case preferably has a continuous ring-shaped nozzle opening.

[0013] Alternatively, one, two, or more than two interruptions in the circumferential cleaning nozzle or an annular arrangement of nozzle holes are also conceivable. If, in this case, the cleaning nozzle element has at least three or more than three separate cleaning nozzles, and in particular if the at least three separate cleaning nozzles are arranged on a circle around the axial direction of the cleaning area, preferably such that they generate a gas flow that is at least substantially annular, the advantageous effect of an annular nozzle can be approximated, while at the same time simple manufacturing and / or high stability of the cleaning nozzle element can be achieved. Preferably, the separate cleaning nozzles are uniformly spaced apart in the circumferential direction. Preferably, the separate cleaning nozzles lie in a common nozzle plane.Preferably, the separate cleaning nozzles are at least substantially identical to each other. In particular, the separate cleaning nozzles are arranged on a circle. Specifically, the separate cleaning nozzles are arranged on a circle such that an adequately homogeneous annular gas flow is generated during cleaning (and in the drying operation described below) of the cleaning device. The annular nozzle element can have significantly more than three nozzles in the circumferential direction, e.g., more than 6, more than 10, more than 19, or more than 29. The separate cleaning nozzles can be designed as slot-shaped nozzles (e.g., as circular segment nozzles).

[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed that the at least three cleaning nozzles arranged on a circle around the axial direction of the cleaning area, viewed from a perspective along the axial direction, are arranged at angular intervals of approximately 360° / n, where n is the total number of separate cleaning nozzles of the cleaning nozzle element. This advantageously ensures that an adequately homogeneous annular gas flow is generated at the tool, particularly without the need for slot nozzles, the construction and / or flow design of which can be more complex. For example, if the cleaning nozzle element has three cleaning nozzles, the angular distance between any two adjacent cleaning nozzles is approximately 120°. If the cleaning nozzle element has four cleaning nozzles, the angular distance between any two adjacent cleaning nozzles is approximately 90°.For example, if the cleaning nozzle element has five cleaning nozzles, the angular distance between any two adjacent cleaning nozzles is approximately 72°. If the cleaning nozzle element has six cleaning nozzles, the angular distance between any two adjacent cleaning nozzles is approximately 60°. If the cleaning nozzle element has eight cleaning nozzles, the angular distance between any two adjacent cleaning nozzles is approximately 45°.

[0015] If the at least three (four, five, six, eight, or more than eight) separately separated cleaning nozzles each have a point-shaped or circular nozzle opening, serving in particular at least as a steam outlet (and as a dry air outlet), a simple design can advantageously be achieved with a nevertheless at least substantially uniform cleaning steam output, especially for "wiping" the tools to be cleaned. Advantageously, known and proven nozzle shapes can be used. Advantageously, the total number of cleaning nozzles in the cleaning nozzle element is a positive divisor of 360. However, other totals are also conceivable. Oval nozzle openings can also preferably be understood as circular nozzles in this context.

[0016] Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning nozzles project radially into the cleaning area, in particular extending beyond an inner wall of the cleaning area that radially (circumferentially) delimits it. This advantageously allows for simple and / or precise alignment and / or positioning of the nozzle openings. Advantageously, the radial position of the nozzle openings can be optimized for specific tools / tool ​​diameters to be cleaned. In particular, the inner wall is a physical wall that inwardly delimits a cavity of the hollow body, especially the cleaning area enclosed by the hollow body. Specifically, surface normals of the inner wall of the cleaning area / hollow body point toward the axial direction / central axis of the cleaning area running centrally through it. Preferably, the axial direction overlaps with the central axis of the cleaning area.Preferably, the central axis passes through a center of the receiving opening and through a center of a suction opening of the cleaning area located at an opposite end of the hollow body / cleaning area.

[0017] If the radial positions of the cleaning nozzle openings within the cleaning area are adjustable, flexible adaptation to different tool sizes / diameters can be advantageously achieved. This allows for high flexibility and / or high individual cleaning performance. Preferably, the cleaning nozzles / nozzle openings of the cleaning nozzles are movable radially towards or away from the central axis / center of the cleaning area, and thus, in particular, towards a tool located within the cleaning area. Specifically, the cleaning nozzles can be retracted deeper into or further out of the cleaning area.

[0018] Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning device include a nozzle positioning device for coupled, preferably synchronized, adjustment of the radial positions of the nozzle openings of several, preferably all, cleaning nozzles of the cleaning nozzle element. This advantageously allows for a high degree of uniformity of the cleaning steam flow and / or the dry air flow. Advantageously, a good (especially round) annular shape of the cleaning steam flow and / or the dry air flow can be achieved. In particular, the nozzle positioning device is designed to control, monitor, and / or generate at least substantially uniform extension and / or retraction of all coupled cleaning nozzles. Specifically, all coupled cleaning nozzles are (always) at least substantially the same distance from the central axis / axial center of the cleaning area.The term "at least substantially" is to be understood in particular as "at least within the limits of manufacturing tolerances." Specifically, the spacing of the cleaning nozzles from the tools to be cleaned is always selected such that (instead of merely spot cleaning of the tool surfaces) a particularly uniform, preferably annular, distribution of the cleaning steam and / or drying air can be achieved on the tool surface. The spacing of the cleaning nozzles from the tools to be cleaned is preferably selected such that every point on a tool surface extending over the entire circumference of the tool lies within the cleaning steam stream and / or the drying air stream of at least one of the cleaning nozzles. The cleaning nozzles can be manually or automatically / motorized adjustable.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that at least the cleaning steam emitted by the at least one cleaning nozzle, preferably the cleaning steam emitted by the cleaning nozzles, be a pressurized, in particular at least substantially annular, cleaning steam jet, especially a hot cleaning steam jet. This advantageously allows for a particularly good and efficient cleaning effect. In particular, the cleaning steam is significantly warmer than room temperature, preferably warmer than 80°C and preferably 100°C or warmer. In particular, the cleaning device can have or be connected to a steam jet system, which is preferably designed to generate and / or emit the cleaning steam, preferably the cleaning steam jet. The steam jet system preferably generates the steam, e.g., by heating, and then pressurizes it, e.g., by a compressor.

[0020] If the cleaning steam jet has a working pressure of 5 bar or more, preferably 8 bar or more, a particularly good cleaning performance and, in particular, a particularly good ratio of cleaning performance to energy consumption can be advantageously achieved.

[0021] Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning nozzle element be designed, at least after the cleaning steam has been discharged, to discharge drying air, intended for drying the tool to be cleaned, evenly distributed along the circumference of the cleaning area, at least via the at least one cleaning nozzle, preferably via the cleaning nozzles. This advantageously enables particularly good and efficient cleaning. A compact and simple design of the steam-based cleaning device is also advantageously possible. In particular, the cleaning nozzle element or a system connected to the cleaning nozzle element, e.g., a supply line system, comprises a switching unit with a switching element, e.g., a switching valve, which allows switching between cleaning steam and drying air.It is also conceivable that the switching unit comprises two switching valves which can independently switch the cleaning steam or the drying air onto the supply system, whereby the two switching valves preferably cannot be switched on simultaneously. In particular, this ensures that the drying air and the cleaning steam are discharged from the same cleaning nozzle(s) at different times.

[0022] If the drying air emitted by at least one cleaning nozzle, preferably by all cleaning nozzles, is a compressed air jet, particularly one that is at least substantially annular, rapid and efficient drying can be advantageously achieved and / or the cleaning effect can be further enhanced. In particular, the cleaning device can have or be connected to a compressed air system, which is preferably designed to generate and / or emit the compressed air jet. It is conceivable that the same compressor is used to generate the pressure for both the cleaning steam jet and the compressed air jet.

[0023] Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning device includes the supply system for delivering cleaning steam and drying air to the cleaning nozzle, wherein the supply system includes the switching unit for switching between a supply of cleaning steam to the cleaning nozzle and a supply of drying air to the cleaning nozzle. This advantageously enables particularly effective and efficient cleaning. A compact and less complex design of the steam-based cleaning device is also advantageously possible. In particular, the supply system is connected to a port on the cleaning nozzle element. Additionally, it is proposed that the cleaning nozzle element, with the cleaning nozzle, be arranged in a positionally fixed manner, at least in the axial direction, and preferably in a positionally and rotationally fixed manner, relative to a housing or base body of the cleaning device.This allows for a stable and simple design, which is advantageous. It also simplifies automated assembly.

[0024] If at least the cleaning nozzle or at least three cleaning nozzles are designed by the cleaning nozzle element such that the cleaning steam exiting the cleaning nozzle(s), and in particular the drying air, forms a conically inwardly tapering flow, especially an annular flow, a particularly good cleaning effect can be advantageously achieved, especially by generating or enhancing the aforementioned wiping effect. Advantageously, the annular flow creates a negative pressure area in the center of the cleaning zone, thereby drawing ambient air into the main flow towards the extraction unit. Advantageously, the annular flow generates a conical 360° ring of cleaning steam or drying air that flows along a surface of the tool to be cleaned and thereby effectively wipes away dirt or moisture generated by the cleaning steam from the surface.In particular, the cleaning nozzle forms an air wipe. Specifically, the main outflow directions of the cleaning steam exiting the cleaning nozzle(s) are oriented obliquely around the axial direction. Specifically, the cleaning nozzle(s) have an angled surface at an upper nozzle boundary, which deflects the outflows accordingly.

[0025] If the flow, particularly the annular flow, tapers conically inwards towards the extraction unit, a particularly effective cleaning and / or drying effect can be advantageously achieved. Furthermore, it is proposed that the orientations of the nozzle openings of the at least three cleaning nozzles be adjustable, allowing the flow to assume different mean outflow angles to the axial direction, preferably varying from 90°. This advantageously allows for optimal cleaning and / or drying for different tool geometries. Additionally, the orientations of the nozzle openings can be advantageously selected to minimize the escape of cleaning vapor from the receiving opening (for the tool currently being cleaned). The orientations of the nozzle openings could be adjustable manually or automatically.

[0026] If the cleaning steam is intended, particularly in addition to disinfection, especially sterilization, of the tool to be cleaned, its use in the medical field, e.g., for cleaning surgical instruments, can be advantageously enabled. For this purpose, the cleaning steam advantageously has a temperature above 100°C.

[0027] It is further proposed that the extraction unit has a collection device arranged axially (immediately and / or directly) below the cleaning area, with at least one collection surface for chips, dirt, liquids, etc., extending obliquely to the axial direction and preferably opening into a drain. This advantageously allows for direct dirt removal. Advantageously, at least partial self-cleaning of the cleaning device can be achieved. In particular, the collection surface comprises an obliquely extending channel / drainage channel, which preferably opens into the drain. Specifically, the collection surface is impermeable to gases and / or vapors, at least in the area of ​​the channel / in a centrally extending area along the incline. Specifically, the collection surface in the area of ​​the channel / in the centrally extending area along the incline is designed as a closed sheet metal / plastic component.Furthermore, it is proposed that the collection surface have at least one area permeable to gases and / or vapors. This allows the suction effect of a fan located downstream of the collection surface to be advantageously transferred to the cleaning area. In particular, a design that is advantageous in terms of flow and / or safety can be achieved. Specifically, the collection surface has the area permeable to gases and / or vapors laterally adjacent to the channel / drainage trough, preferably on one or both sides. The area permeable to gases and / or vapors is preferably designed as a perforated sheet metal / plastic part or as a grid. The collection surface is preferably formed by a single / monolithic component. The collection surface is preferably arranged within a fully enclosed collection container formed by the collection device.The collection surface preferably extends between all side walls of the collection container. The collection surface preferably divides the interior of the collection container into at least two separate interior sections. The channel / drainage channel preferably extends between two opposite side walls of the collection container.

[0028] It is further proposed that the extraction unit comprise at least one gas conveying device, in particular a fan / blower, which is designed to convey gases from the interior of the collection container of the collection device. In a flow path extending from the cleaning area to the fan, upstream of the fan, at least one condensation element, preferably a condensation grid, is arranged, preferably horizontally / perpendicular to the axial direction of the cleaning area, and separately from the collection surface. This advantageously allows for the separation of any liquid that forms a component of the cleaning vapor. It also advantageously prevents larger quantities of the cleaning vapor from entering the vicinity of the cleaning device. The collection container is preferably replaceable and / or emptied.The gas conveying device preferably generates a suction effect from the extraction unit. The flow path can have several curves and / or bends. This allows for a compact design. The condensation grid can be a metal grid. Liquid from the vapor flowing through the condensation grid can condense on the grid elements and form droplets, which can then drip into a collection tray formed by the collection container of the collection device.

[0029] Furthermore, it is proposed that the collection device, in particular the collection container, form a collection tray at an axial (lower) end, especially for condensation liquid, which has a drain valve, preferably float-controlled. This advantageously allows the condensate from the cleaning steam to be reliably collected and disposed of / reused.

[0030] Furthermore, a tool cleaning device is proposed, comprising a cleaning unit and a tool holding device, which is designed to hold the tool to be cleaned during the cleaning process. This enables an efficient tool cleaning process. Advantageously, easily accessible steam cleaning of the tool is facilitated. This can advantageously accelerate a cleaning process, particularly an automated cleaning process. The tool holding device can be manually operated, designed as a gripper (e.g., a single-axis or two-axis gripper) that can be loaded manually or by an automated robot gripper, or it can be an automated robot gripper.

[0031] If the tool holding device is designed to automatically introduce the held tool, particularly with the tool working area leading, into the cleaning area and / or to repeatedly move it up and down in parallel / antiparallel directions during the cleaning process, a safe, thorough, and / or rapid tool cleaning can be advantageously achieved. The tool working area is, for example, a cutting edge or other workpiece machining surface / edge of the tool.

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, if the tool holding device has a swivel axis designed to automatically rotate the held tool by 180° to allow opposite (axial) ends of the tool to be inserted into the cleaning area, a particularly thorough automated tool cleaning can be achieved. The swivel axis can be part of the robot gripper that directly loads the tool holding device, or it can load a simpler gripper device, such as a single-axis gripper (i.e., one without a swivel axis) or a two-axis gripper (i.e., one with a swivel axis), designed to insert the tool to be cleaned into the cleaning area.

[0033] Additionally, it is proposed that the tool holding device be designed to automatically rotate the held tool around a tool rotation axis, which, particularly during cleaning operation, overlaps at least substantially with the axial direction / central axis of the cleaning nozzle element and / or the cleaning area. This advantageously enables effective cleaning.

[0034] Furthermore, an automated tool processing system, in particular an automated tool clamping, tool measuring and tool setting system, for example as described in the German patent application with application number 10 2019 115 607.6 under the name "Multi-clamping and measuring and / or setting station for tools", is proposed, together with the tool cleaning device and with a handling robot at least for loading the tool cleaning device, in particular the automated robot gripper, and at least one of the following devices: tool clamping device (of the automated tool processing system), tool measuring device (of the automated tool processing system) and / or tool setting device (of the automated tool processing system) with tools.A "handling robot" is understood to mean, in particular, an industrial robot, preferably an articulated robot, especially one with at least three, preferably at least four, preferably at least five, and most preferably at least six independently movable robot joints. In particular, the handling robot is designed to be separate from and / or distinct from the tool holding device of the tool cleaning device. A "tool clamping device" is understood to mean, in particular, a device designed to mount a tool into a tool holder and / or to remove a tool from a tool holder. In particular, the tool clamping device is a tool clamping and / or tool unclamping device.In particular, the tool clamping device is designed to activate, especially adjust, the clamping mechanism of a tool chuck and / or to deactivate, especially release, the clamping mechanism of the tool chuck. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the automated tool machining system has several different tool clamping devices designed for different tool clamping methods. In particular, the handling robot is designed to load the tool clamping device(s), i.e., in particular to insert tools and / or tool chucks into and / or remove them from the tool clamping devices. A "tool measuring device" is understood to mean, in particular, a device that is designed to automatically, at least partially, detect at least one length, at least one angle, at least one contour, and / or at least one external shape of a tool, especially by optical means.A "tool presetting device" is understood to be, in particular, a device designed to automatically set at least one tool length. Specifically, the handling robot is intended to load the tool presetting device and / or the tool measuring device. The automated tool processing system includes a higher-level control unit, which, in addition to the tool cleaning device and the handling robot, may also be involved in controlling the tool clamping device, the tool measuring device, and / or the tool presetting device. Furthermore, the components of the automated tool processing system are arranged within a common system enclosure.

[0035] In addition, a cleaning method for steam cleaning of tools, in particular shank tools, using the cleaning device is proposed, wherein the cleaning device comprises at least the following components: the cleaning area for receiving at least a part of a tool to be cleaned, the cleaning nozzle element with at least the cleaning nozzle, wherein the cleaning nozzle element radially encloses an axial section of the cleaning area, preferably in an annular or nearly annular manner, and wherein, in at least one cleaning step, the cleaning steam is discharged inwards into the cleaning area from the at least one cleaning nozzle, distributed at least substantially uniformly along the circumference of the cleaning area, and wherein, at least during the cleaning step, at least the cleaning steam, in particular the consumed steam, is extracted from the cleaning area by the extraction unit.The air is extracted in the axial direction of the at least one cleaning nozzle / cleaning nozzle element, located below the receiving opening of the cleaning area and below the cleaning nozzle element itself. This enables an advantageous tool cleaning process. Advantageously, easily accessible steam cleaning of the tool is made possible. Furthermore, it is proposed that in at least one subsequent cleaning step following the cleaning step and the output of cleaning steam, the drying air intended for drying the tool to be cleaned is evenly distributed along the circumference of the cleaning area by the at least one cleaning nozzle. This advantageously achieves rapid and efficient drying and / or further enhances the cleaning effect.

[0036] The cleaning device, tool cleaning equipment, automated tool processing system, and cleaning method according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the cleaning device, tool cleaning equipment, automated tool processing system, and cleaning method according to the invention may, to achieve a functionality described herein, comprise a different number of individual elements, components, process steps, and units than the number specified herein.

[0037] Drawings

[0038] Further advantages become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0039] They show:

[0040] Fig. 1 is a schematic and highly simplified representation of an automated tool machining system with a tool cleaning device; Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the tool cleaning device in an exemplary design as a standalone unit.

[0041] Fig. 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a dirty tool and the cleaning device with a cleaning nozzle element, which has a single ring-shaped cleaning nozzle.

[0042] Fig. 4 shows an alternative cleaning nozzle element which, instead of a single ring-shaped cleaning nozzle, has three separate cleaning nozzles.

[0043] Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of the cleaning device with a tool inserted into a cleaning area of ​​the cleaning device.

[0044] Fig. 6 shows a schematic flowchart of a cleaning process for steam cleaning of tools using the cleaning device.

[0045] Fig. 7 shows the cleaning device with a further alternative cleaning nozzle element, which also has three separate cleaning nozzles instead of a single annular cleaning nozzle, in a top view.

[0046] Fig. 8 shows the other alternative cleaning device in a perspective view,

[0047] Fig. 9 shows a vertical sectional view through the cleaning device, allowing a lateral view into the cleaning area.

[0048] Fig. 10 shows a schematic perspective view of the tool cleaning device with the cleaning apparatus in an exemplary design that can be integrated into the automated tool processing system and

[0049] Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective sectional view of the tool cleaning device from Figure 10. Description of the exemplary embodiments

[0050] Figure 1 shows a schematic and highly simplified representation of an automated tool machining system 48, which is configured as a multi-clamping, measuring, and / or setting station as described in German patent application 10 2019 1 15 607.6. The automated tool machining system 48 is an automated tool clamping, measuring, and setting system. In addition to a multi-clamping, measuring, and / or setting station from German patent application 10 2019 1 15 607.6, the automated tool machining system 48 includes a tool cleaning device 36 (see, inter alia, Figure 2). Furthermore, the automated tool machining system 48 can alternatively or additionally include further components / devices, particularly automated ones, such as...The automated tool processing system 48 includes a (laser) marking device for marking tools 10 or tool chucks, a (laser) marking device for laser marking tools 10 or tool chucks, a feature recognition device for tools 10 or tool chucks, such as a Weldon recognition device, or a balancing device for automated balancing of tools 10 or tool chucks. The automated tool processing system 48 includes a handling robot 50. The handling robot 50 is positioned at a central location within the automated tool processing system 48, from which the handling robot 50 has access to all the devices of the automated tool processing system 48 listed below. The handling robot 50 is used for the automatic loading of the tool cleaning device 36 and / or all other devices of the automated tool processing system 48 with tools 10 (see, among others, Fig.2) and / or provided with tool chucks. The handling robot 50 is designed for removing tools 10 and / or tool chucks from the tool cleaning device 36 and / or from all other devices of the automated tool processing system 48. The automated tool processing system 48 includes at least one tool clamping device 52, e.g., a shrink-fit clamping device, for at least semi-automated clamping of tools 10 into tool chucks. The automated tool processing system 48 may include further tool clamping devices for the same or for other clamping methods. The automated tool processing system 48 includes a tool measuring device 54. The tool measuring device 54 is designed as a tool assembly and tool measuring device. The tool assembly and tool measuring device is designed for at least semi-automated setting and / or optical measurement of tools 10 and / or tool chucks.The automated tool processing system 48 also includes, by way of example, a cooling unit 60 for the automated cooling of previously heated tool chucks. The automated tool processing system 48 also includes, by way of example, a tool assembly unit 62 for the automated assembly of multi-part tools 10. The automated tool processing system 48 also includes, by way of example, a balancing station 64 for the at least partially automated balancing of tool units formed from a tool 10 and a tool chuck. The individual components of the automated tool processing system 48 are at least partially enclosed by a common housing 66.

[0051] Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of the tool cleaning device 36. The tool cleaning device 36 can form a part / component / device of the automated tool processing system 48, as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, the tool cleaning device 36 can be a standalone device, as shown in Figure 2, or combined with individual auxiliary devices. The tool cleaning device 36 has a tool holding device 38. The tool holding device 38 is designed to hold the tool 10 currently being cleaned. The tool holding device 38 can grasp and manipulate the tool 10 by means of a robot gripper 68.The robot gripper 68 can have gripper fingers 82 which are grooved on their contact surfaces, thus enabling at least partial cleaning of the tool 10 within the gripping range of the robot gripper 68, particularly when the gripper fingers 82 are immersed in a cleaning area 12 of a cleaning device 34 of the tool cleaning device 36 during the cleaning process, so that the entire tool 10 (e.g., including a tool shank of the tool 10) is moved through the cleaning area 12 (even without repositioning or pivoting). Alternatively, repositioning or pivoting during cleaning is also conceivable. The tool holding device 38 is designed to hold the tool 10 during a cleaning process performed on the tool 10 by the tool cleaning device 36.

[0052] The tool holding device 38 can grip the tool 10 at one end 44, as shown in Fig. 2, leaving only the opposite end 46 of the tool 10 free. Alternatively, the tool holding device 38 could grip the tool 10 in a central area, leaving only both ends 44, 46 of the tool 10 free. The tool 10 has a working area 40. As indicated in Fig. 2, the tool holding device 38 is designed to insert the held tool 10, with the working area 40 leading, into the cleaning area 12 of the cleaning device 34 of the tool cleaning unit 36. The tool holding device 38 is designed to automatically insert the tool 10 into the cleaning area 12 of the cleaning device 34.The tool holding device 38 is designed to automatically move the tool 10 repeatedly up and down during the cleaning process in directions 70 parallel / antiparallel to an axial direction 20 of the cleaning device 34. The tool holding device 38 has a pivot axis 42. The pivot axis 42 is designed at least to automatically pivot the held tool 10 by 180° in order to allow, particularly when it is gripped in the central area by the robot gripper 68, the insertion of the two opposite ends 44, 46 of the tool 10 into the cleaning area 12 of the cleaning device 34.

[0053] The tool cleaning device 36 includes the cleaning device 34. Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective view of the cleaning device 34 with a tool 10 contaminated by dirt 72 (e.g., lint, dust, oil, chips, or grinding residue) shortly before the tool 10 is inserted into the cleaning area 12 of the cleaning device 34. The cleaning device 34 is designed for steam cleaning of tools 10, particularly shank tools. The cleaning device 34 includes the cleaning area 12. The cleaning area 12 is designed to receive at least a portion of the tools 10 to be cleaned. The cleaning device 34 includes a cleaning nozzle element 14. The cleaning nozzle element 14 radially surrounds an axial section of the cleaning area 12. The cleaning nozzle element 14 encloses the axial section of the cleaning area 12 in an annular manner.The cleaning nozzle element 14 comprises a cleaning nozzle 16. The cleaning device 34 comprises a base body 32. The base body 32 also forms at least part of a base body 32 of the tool cleaning device 36. The cleaning nozzle element 14 with the cleaning nozzle 16 is arranged in a positionally and rotationally fixed manner relative to the base body 32.

[0054] The cleaning nozzle 16 is designed to discharge cleaning steam inwards into the cleaning area 12, distributed at least substantially uniformly along its circumference. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the cleaning nozzle 16 is annular in shape. The cleaning steam discharged by the cleaning nozzle 16 is a pressurized jet of cleaning steam. The cleaning steam jet is at least substantially annular and directed at least partially towards the center of the cleaning area 12. The cleaning steam jet has an operating pressure of 5 bar or more. The cleaning steam is intended for disinfection, in particular sterilization, of the tools 10.The cleaning nozzle element 14 is designed to emit drying air, distributed evenly around the circumference of the cleaning area 12, following the output of the cleaning steam via the cleaning nozzle 16. The drying air is intended to dry the tool 10 to be cleaned. The drying air emitted by the cleaning nozzle 16 is a jet of compressed air. The compressed air jet is at least substantially annular. The compressed air jet is oriented in the same direction as the cleaning steam jet. The compressed air jet is at least substantially annular and directed at least partially towards the center of the cleaning area 12. The cleaning device 34 has a supply system 28 for supplying the cleaning steam and the drying air to the cleaning nozzle 16. The supply system 28 includes a switching unit 30.The switching unit 30 is designed for selective / controllable switching between a cleaning steam supply to the cleaning nozzle 16 and a drying air supply to the cleaning nozzle 16.

[0055] Figure 4 schematically shows an alternative cleaning nozzle element 14, which, instead of a single annular cleaning nozzle 16, has three separate cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'". The three cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" are arranged on a circle around the cleaning area 12 such that they generate a gas flow that is at least substantially annular and directed inwards. Configurations with two cleaning nozzles 16, 16" or with more than three cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" are also conceivable.

[0056] Figure 5 shows a schematic sectional view of the cleaning device.

[0057] 34 with a tool 10 inserted into the cleaning area 12. The cleaning device 34 has an extraction unit 18 (see also Fig. 2). The extraction unit 18 is designed to extract at least the used cleaning steam (and the drying air) from the cleaning area 12. The extraction unit 18 is arranged in the axial direction 20 of the cleaning nozzle 16 / cleaning nozzle element 14 below a receiving opening 22 of the cleaning area 12, which is provided for inserting the tool 10 to be cleaned into the cleaning area 12. Furthermore, the extraction unit 18 is arranged in the axial direction 20 of the cleaning nozzle 16 / cleaning nozzle element 14 below the entire cleaning nozzle element 14. The extraction unit 18 has a hollow body 24.The hollow body 24 is arranged directly adjacent to the cleaning nozzle element 14 in a direction parallel to the axial direction 20 of the cleaning nozzle 16 / cleaning nozzle element 14. The hollow body 24 of the extraction unit 18 forms a radially enclosed extraction channel 26, at least for the cleaning steam (and drying air) previously emitted from the cleaning nozzle 16. The cleaning area 12 extends at least partially into the extraction channel 26. The extraction channel 26 connects directly to the cleaning area 12. Dirt 72, which has been removed from the tool 10 in the cleaning area 12, is discharged via the extraction channel 26. Moisture originating from a surface of the tool 10 is discharged via the extraction channel 26 along with the drying air.

[0058] Figure 5 also shows that the cleaning nozzle 16 is designed by the cleaning nozzle element 14 in such a way that the cleaning steam (and the drying air) exiting the cleaning nozzle 16 forms a conical annular flow that tapers inwards and towards the extraction unit 18 / the extraction channel 26.

[0059] Figure 6 shows a schematic flowchart of a cleaning process for steam cleaning of tools 10 using the cleaning device 34. In at least one process step 74, a soiled tool 10 is gripped by the tool holding device 38. In at least one cleaning step 56, the cleaning steam is discharged from the cleaning nozzle 16 or from the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" into the cleaning area 12, distributed at least substantially uniformly along the circumference of the cleaning area 12. During cleaning step 56, the used cleaning steam is extracted from the cleaning area 12 by the extraction unit 18. During cleaning step 56, the tool 10 is repeatedly moved up and down within the cleaning area 12 by the tool holding device 38.During cleaning step 56, the tool 10 can be rotated by the tool holding device 38 within the cleaning area 12, either as an alternative or in addition to the up-and-down movement. Before cleaning step 56, radial positions and / or orientations of the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" can be set. In at least one further process step 76, the tool 10 can be rotated by 180° and inserted in the opposite direction into the cleaning area 12 and repeatedly moved up and down within the cleaning area 12. In at least one further process step 78, the switching unit 30 is activated, blocking the cleaning steam jet and releasing the compressed air jet. In a subsequent cleaning step 58 following the release of cleaning steam, the cleaning nozzle 16 or 16' is used.The cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" evenly distribute the drying air intended for drying the tool 10 to be cleaned along the circumference of the cleaning area 12. In at least one further process step 80, the cleaned tool 10 is removed from the cleaning area 12 by the tool holding device 38. Alternatively, the task of removing the tool holding device 38 could also be performed manually by an operator of the cleaning device 34. Subsequently, the cleaned tool 10 can be transported by the handling robot 50 to another device of the automated tool processing system 48, e.g., the tool clamping device 52 or the tool measuring device 54. Figure 7 schematically shows the cleaning device 34 with another alternative cleaning nozzle element 14, which also has three separate cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" instead of a single annular cleaning nozzle 16.Alternatively, more than three corresponding cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" would also be conceivable. The three separate cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" are arranged on a circle around the axial direction 20 of the cleaning area 12. The axial direction 20 corresponds to a central axis of the cleaning area 12 that passes through its center. Viewed from the perspective shown in Figure 7 along the axial direction 20, the three cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" arranged on the circle around the axial direction 20 of the cleaning area 12 are arranged at angular intervals 86 to each other, each interval being approximately 360° / n, where n is the total number of separate cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" of the cleaning nozzle element 14. In the case shown, the variable n has the value 3, so the angular distances are 120°.The three separate cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" each have a point-shaped or circular nozzle opening 84. The nozzle openings 84 serve as a steam outlet and a drying air outlet. The cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" project radially into the cleaning area 12. The cleaning area 12 is bounded in the radial direction 120 by an inner wall 88. The cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" project inwards beyond the inner wall 88 of the cleaning area 12. The cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" can each be connected to the supply system 28 via connection elements 118.

[0060] The cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" are arranged to be movable in the radial direction 120. The cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" can be moved into the cleaning area 12 or further out of the cleaning area 12. In Figure 7, the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" are shown by way of example in a state moved maximally into the cleaning area 12. The radial positions of the nozzle openings 84 of the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" are therefore adjustable within the cleaning area 12. The cleaning device 34 has a nozzle positioning device 90 for this purpose. The nozzle positioning device 90 is provided for adjusting the radial positions of the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'". The nozzle positioning device 90 is designed to retract and extend the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'".The nozzle positioning device 90 is designed for the coupled / synchronized adjustment of the radial positions of the nozzle openings 84 of all cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" of the cleaning nozzle element 14 simultaneously. The nozzle positioning device 90 has a cam control 122. The cam control 122 comprises a control disk 124 with guide cams 126 for each of the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'". Each of the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" includes a guide pin 128. The respective guide pins 128 are guided in the guide cams 126. The guide cams 126 extend radially outwards in a spiral pattern. A rotation of the control disc 124 causes a displacement of the guide cams 126, so that the guide pins 128 together with the associated cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" are pushed radially outwards or inwards (depending on the direction of rotation).The ends of the guide guides 126 form end stops for the fully retracted and fully extended positions of the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'". The nozzle positioning device 90 comprises a drive unit 130. The drive unit 130 includes a drive motor 132 or an interface to a drive motor 132. The drive motor 132 is an electric motor. The drive motor 132 generates the drive energy for adjusting the control disc 124. The drive unit 130 includes a gear unit 134. The gear unit 134 is designed to transmit the drive energy / drive movement of the drive motor 132 to the control disc 124. In the example shown in Figure 7, meshing gears are used for this purpose. Figure 8 shows the same cleaning device 24 as in Figure 7 from a different perspective.It can be seen that in this embodiment the control disc 124 surrounds the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" on both sides in the axial direction 20 and identical cam controls 122 are provided on both axial sides.

[0061] Figure 9 schematically shows a cutaway view of a hollow body 24 and a view into the cleaning area 12 of the cleaning device 34 of Figures 7 and 8. In the illustrated case, the nozzle openings 84 are oriented obliquely downwards towards the axial direction 20. The orientations of the nozzle openings 84 of the cleaning nozzles 16', 16", 16'" are adjustable in this case. This allows the flows exiting the nozzle openings 84 to assume different mean outflow angles 94 to the axial direction 20, which may differ from 90°.

[0062] Figure 10 schematically shows an external view of a part of a tool cleaning device 36 with the cleaning unit 34 of Figures 7 to 9. The tool cleaning device 36 shown in Figure 10 has an alternative tool holding device 38. The alternative tool holding device 38 is designed, as an alternative or additional function to the tool holding device 38 previously shown and described, for example, in Figure 2, to automatically rotate the held tool 10 about a tool rotation axis 92 of the tool 10. In the illustrated position of the tool holding device 38, the tool rotation axis 92 of the tool 10 overlaps with the axial direction 20 of the cleaning nozzle element 14 and / or the cleaning area 12. The extraction unit 18 of this cleaning device 34 has a gas supply unit 104. The gas supply unit 104 is designed as a fan. The extraction unit 18 has a collection device 98.The collection device 98 is arranged in the axial direction 20 below the cleaning area 12. The collection device 98 is designed to collect chips, dirt, and liquids (e.g., condensate from the cleaning steam). The collection device 98 comprises a collection container 116. The collection container 116 surrounds / forms an interior space 106, which is bounded by the walls of the collection container 116. The gas conveying device 104 is designed to convey gases out of the interior space 106 of the collection container 116 of the collection device 98.

[0063] Figure 11 shows a schematic sectional view of the cleaning device 34 of the tool cleaning device 36 of Figure 10, which allows a view into the interior 106 of the collection container 116. The collection device 98 has a collection surface 96. The collection surface 96 is arranged in the interior 106. The collection surface 96 is arranged at an angle to the axial direction 20. The collection surface 96 runs at an angle to the axial direction 20. The collection surface 96 runs at an angle to both the vertical and the horizontal. The collection surface 96 forms a channel 136. The collection container 116 has a drain 102. The drain 102 is an opening leading out of the interior 106. The collection area 96, in particular the channel 136, opens into the drain 102. Materials collected by the collection area 96, such as shavings, dirt, liquids, etc., can be discharged from the collection container 116 via the drain 102.In addition to the channel 136, which is impermeable to gases and / or vapors, the collection area 96 has a surface area 100 that is permeable to gases and / or vapors. This surface area 100 is arranged laterally on both sides of the channel 136. This surface area 100 is perforated.

[0064] Figure 11 schematically depicts an exemplary flow path 108. During the proper operation of the cleaning device 34, the cleaning steam and / or drying air moves along this flow path 108. The flow path 108 extends from the cleaning area 12, across the catchment area 96, to the gas conveying device 104. Upstream of the gas conveying device 104 in the flow path 108 and downstream of the catchment area 96 in the flow path 108, a condensation element 110 of the collecting device 98 is also arranged. The collecting device 98 incorporates the condensation element 110. The condensation element 110 is designed differently from the catchment area 96 and is arranged separately from it. The condensation element 110 is a condensation grid. The condensation element 110 could also be a condensation mesh or the like. The condensation element 110 is arranged / extended horizontally.The condensation element 1 10 extends perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0065] The collection device 98, in particular the collection container 1 16, has a drip tray 1 12. The drip tray 1 12 is arranged at a lower axial end of the collection container 1 16. The drip tray 1 12 is designed to collect condensation fluid 140. The drip tray 1 12 is designed to collect the liquids / condensates dripping from the collection surface 96, the walls of the collection container 116, and / or the condensation element 1 10. The drip tray 112 has a drain valve 1 14. The drain valve 1 14 is float-controlled. The drain valve 1 14 includes a float 138. The float 138 floats on the surface of the condensation fluid 140. The float 138 opens the drain valve 1 14 automatically as soon as a maximum float height is exceeded.

[0066] Figure 1 1 also schematically shows a light barrier unit 142, which is arranged in a region of the receiving opening 22. The light barrier unit 142 generates a light barrier 144 in the region of the receiving opening 22 and along the axial direction 20 / central axis. The light barrier 144 is designed to detect the insertion of the tool 10 into the cleaning area 12 by means of an interruption of a light path of the light barrier 144.

[0067] Reference sign

[0068] 10 tools

[0069] 12 Cleaning area

[0070] 14 Cleaning nozzle element

[0071] 16 Cleaning nozzle

[0072] 18 Extraction unit

[0073] 20 Axial direction

[0074] 22 Intake opening

[0075] 24 hollow bodies

[0076] 26 Extraction channel

[0077] 28 Supply system

[0078] 30 switching unit

[0079] 32 basic shapes

[0080] 34 Cleaning device

[0081] 36 Tool cleaning device

[0082] 38 Tool holding device

[0083] 40 tool work area

[0084] 42 Swivel axis

[0085] 44 End

[0086] 46 End

[0087] 48 Tool processing system

[0088] 50 handling robots

[0089] 52 Tool clamping device

[0090] 54 Tool measuring device

[0091] 56 Cleaning step

[0092] 58 Cleaning step

[0093] 60 Cooling unit

[0094] 62 Tool assembly device

[0095] 64 Balancing Station

[0096] 66 Enclosure Robot gripper directions of movement dirt

[0097] Process step Process step Process step Gripper finger Nozzle opening Angular distance Inner wall Nozzle positioning device Tool rotation axis Outflow angle Collection area

[0098] Containment system, surface area

[0099] Sequence

[0100] Gas delivery device interior

[0101] Flow path, condensation element, drip tray

[0102] Drain valve, collection container, connection element, radial direction, cam control, control disc, guide cam, guide pins, drive unit, drive motor, gearbox unit, channel, float, condensation fluid, light barrier unit, light barrier

Claims

1. Claims 1. Cleaning device (34) for steam cleaning of tools (10), in particular shank tools, comprising at least: - a cleaning area (12) for receiving at least a part of a tool (10) to be cleaned, and - a cleaning nozzle element (14) with at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”), wherein the cleaning nozzle element (14) radially encloses an axial section of the cleaning area (12), preferably in an annular or nearly annular manner, and wherein the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”) is provided at least for distributing cleaning steam inwards into the cleaning area (12) along a circumference of the cleaning area (12) at least substantially uniformly, characterized by an extraction unit (18) for extracting at least the, in particular used, cleaning steam from the cleaning area (12), which extends in an axial direction (20) of the cleaning nozzle element (14) and / or the cleaning area (12) below a receiving opening (22) of the cleaning area (12) for the insertion of the tool (10) to be cleaned into the cleaning area (12) and below the cleaning nozzle element (14). is arranged.

2. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 1, characterized in that the extraction unit (18) has a hollow body (24) arranged directly adjacent to the cleaning nozzle element (14) in a direction parallel to the axial direction (20) of the cleaning nozzle element (14) and / or the cleaning area (12), which forms a radially enclosed extraction channel (26) at least for the cleaning steam previously emitted from the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”).

3. Cleaning device (34) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one cleaning nozzle (16) is designed in an annular or nearly annular shape.

4. Cleaning device (34) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the cleaning nozzle element (14) has at least three separate cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”).

5. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 4, characterized in that the at least three separate cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”) are arranged on a circle around the axial direction (20) of the cleaning area (12), in particular the cleaning area (12), preferably in such a way that they generate a gas flow that is at least substantially annular.

6. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 5, characterized in that the at least three cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”) arranged on the circle around the axial direction (20) of the cleaning area (12) are arranged at angular distances (86) to each other as seen from a viewing direction along the axial direction (20), each of which is approximately 360° / n, wherein n is a total number of separate cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”) of the cleaning nozzle element (14).

7. Cleaning device (34) according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the at least three cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”) separated from each other each have a point-shaped or circular nozzle opening (84), in particular serving at least as a steam outlet.

8. Cleaning device (34) according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that the cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”) project radially into the cleaning area (12), in particular protrude beyond an inner wall (88) of the cleaning area (12) which radially limits the cleaning area (12).

9. Cleaning device (34) according to one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that radial positions of nozzle openings (84) of the cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”) are adjustable within the cleaning area (12).

10. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 9, characterized by a nozzle positioning device (90) which is provided for a coupled, preferably synchronized, adjustment of the radial positions of the nozzle openings (84) of several, preferably all, cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”) of the cleaning nozzle element (14).

11. Cleaning device (34) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the cleaning steam emitted from the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”) is a pressurized, in particular at least substantially annular, cleaning steam jet.

12. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 11 , characterized in that the cleaning steam jet has a working pressure of 5 bar or more, preferably of 8 bar or more.

13. Cleaning device (34) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning nozzle element (14) is at least provided to discharge, in particular following the output of the cleaning steam, at least via the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”), drying air intended for drying the tool (10) to be cleaned, evenly distributed along the circumference of the cleaning area (12).

14. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 13, characterized in that the drying air emitted from at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”) is a compressed air jet, in particular at least substantially annular.

15. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized by a supply system (28) for supplying cleaning steam and drying air to the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”), wherein the supply system (28) has a switching unit (30) which is provided for switching between a supply of cleaning steam to the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”) and a supply of drying air to the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”).

16. Cleaning device (34) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning nozzle element (14) with the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”) is arranged in a positionally fixed manner at least in the axial direction (20), preferably in a positionally and rotationally fixed manner in the axial direction (20), to a housing or a base body (32) of the cleaning device (34).

17. Cleaning device (34) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the cleaning nozzle (16) or the at least three cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”) are formed by the cleaning nozzle element (14) in such a way that the cleaning steam exiting the cleaning nozzle (16) or the cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”), and in particular the drying air, forms a conically inwardly tapering flow, in particular annular flow.

18. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 17, characterized in that the flow, in particular the annular flow, runs conically inwards towards the suction unit (18).

19. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the orientations of the nozzle openings (84) of the at least three cleaning nozzles (16', 16”, 16'”) are adjustable, so that the flow can assume different mean outflow angles (94) to the axial direction (20), preferably different from 90°.

20. Cleaning device (34) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning steam is provided for disinfection, in particular sterilization, of the tool (10) to be cleaned.

21. Cleaning device (34) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction unit (18) has a collection device (98) arranged in the axial direction (20) below the cleaning area (12) with at least one opening obliquely to the axial direction (20) and preferably opening into a drain (102), has a collection area (96) for chips, dirt, liquids, etc.

22. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 21, characterized in that the collecting surface (96) has at least one surface area (100) permeable to gases and / or vapors.

23. Cleaning device (34) according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the extraction unit (18) has at least one gas conveying device (104) which is at least designed to convey gases out of an interior space (106) of a collection container (116) of the collection device (98), wherein in a flow path (108) extending from the cleaning area (12) to the gas conveying device (104) upstream of the gas conveying device (104) at least one, preferably horizontally arranged, condensation element (110), preferably a condensation grid, of the collection device (98) is arranged, separate from and distinct from the collection surface (96).

24. Cleaning device (34) according to one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that the collecting device (98) forms a collecting tray (112) at an axial end, in particular for condensation liquid, which has a drain valve (114), preferably float-controlled.

25. Tool cleaning device (36) with a cleaning device (34) according to one of the preceding claims and with a tool holding device (38) which is provided at least for holding the tool (10) to be cleaned during a cleaning process.

26. Tool cleaning device (36) according to claim 25, characterized in that the tool holding device (38) is provided to automatically introduce the held tool (10), in particular with a tool working area (40) in front, into the cleaning area (12) and / or to automatically move it repeatedly up and down during the cleaning process in directions of movement (70) parallel / antiparallel to the axial direction (20).

27. Tool cleaning device (36) according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that the tool holding device (38) has a pivot axis (42) which is provided to automatically pivot the held tool (10) by 180° in order to enable the insertion of opposite ends (44, 46) of the tool (10) into the cleaning area (12).

28. Tool cleaning device (36) according to one of claims 25 to 27, characterized in that the tool holding device (38) is provided to rotate the held tool (10) automatically about a tool rotation axis (92) of the tool (10), which, in particular during cleaning operation, overlaps at least substantially with the axial direction (20) of the cleaning nozzle element (14) and / or the cleaning area (12).

29. Automated tool processing system (48), in particular an automated tool clamping, tool measuring and tool setting system, with a tool cleaning device (36) according to one of claims 25 to 28 and with a handling robot (50) for at least loading the tool cleaning device (36) and at least one tool clamping device (52), at least one tool measuring device (54) and / or at least one tool setting device with tools (10).

30. Cleaning method for steam cleaning of tools (10), in particular shank tools, by means of a cleaning device (34), preferably according to one of claims 1 to 24, at least comprising: - a cleaning area (12) for receiving at least a part of a tool (10) to be cleaned, - a cleaning nozzle element (14) with at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”), wherein the cleaning nozzle element (14) radially encloses an axial section of the cleaning area (12), preferably in an annular or nearly annular manner, and wherein, in at least one cleaning step (56), a cleaning vapor is discharged inwards into the cleaning area (12) from the at least one cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16'”) in at least one cleaning step, along a circumference of the cleaning area (12) and distributed at least substantially uniformly, characterized in that, at least during the cleaning step (56), at least the cleaning vapor, in particular the consumed, is extracted from the cleaning area (12) by a suction unit (18),which is arranged in an axial direction (20) of at least one of the cleaning nozzle element (14) and / or the cleaning area (12) below a receiving opening (22) of the cleaning area (12) for the insertion of the tool (10) to be cleaned into the cleaning area (12) and below the cleaning nozzle element (14).

31. Cleaning method according to claim 30, characterized in that in at least one further cleaning step (58) following the cleaning step (56) and the output of cleaning steam, a cleaning nozzle (16, 16', 16”, 16”') is provided for drying the tool (10) to be cleaned. Drying air is distributed at least substantially uniformly along the perimeter of the cleaning area (12).

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