Protective device for protecting a throughflow device of a painting installation or powder coating installation from soiling, and use of a protective device

Abstract

A protective device (1) for protecting a throughflow device (2A, 2B), in particular having a grid structure, preferably a grate, of a painting installation or powder coating installation from soiling, wherein the throughflow device (2A, 2B) has air flow openings (21) for the throughflow of an air flow, wherein the protective device (1) has a first layer (3), wherein the first layer (3) has a sheet material (4), in particular a film-like and / or plate-like sheet material (4), or is designed as a sheet material (4), wherein the sheet material (4) has discretely designed first air flow enabling means (2A, 2B) which are provided to enable an air flow through the sheet material (4), and wherein the protective device (1) is designed to lie flatly on the throughflow device (2A, 2B), wherein, when it is lying on it, the protective device (1) covers the throughflow device (2A, 2B) flatly, and wherein the air flow from at least some of the air flow enabling means (2A, 2B) towards at least some or through at least some of the air flow openings (21) is enabled.

Description

[0001] title

[0002] Protective device for protecting a flow device of a painting system or powder coating system from contamination and use of a protective device.

[0003] Description

[0004] Technical field

[0005] The invention relates to a protective device for protecting a flow device of a painting system or powder coating system from contamination and the use of a protective device, as well as comprising a first system and a second system comprising the protective device.

[0006] background

[0007] Paint booths and spray booths typically have an extraction system to remove the air laden with paint particles from the work area. The air, carrying the paint particles, flows through and / or past airflow devices, structures, or components such as gratings, perforated screens, etc. The paint particles adhere to these structures, forming a layer of paint that gradually thickens over time. With extended operating periods, the airflow becomes increasingly obstructed by this growing layer of paint. For example, the openings in gratings or perforated screens become progressively blocked until adequate extraction is no longer possible. These structures can be cleaned, for example, using high-pressure cleaning or compressed air blasting to remove the paint layer. However, this is very time-consuming, and depending on market conditions (e.g., current metal prices, labor costs, etc.), it may not be feasible.) for example, it may be more economical to purchase new gratings than to remove the soiled ones.

[0008] EP 2 594 338 A1 discloses a coating designed as a sacrificial layer which can be removed layer by layer from the grating along with the (paint) particles. The coating has brittle properties and serves as a sacrificial layer to protect the underlying material from contamination. A coating contaminated with paint particles is cleaned by mechanical processing of its surface, for example by scraping, tapping, and / or brushing, for example using a steel brush or a broom, by removing an indeterminate proportion of the coating from its surface.

[0009] This has proven disadvantageous because cleaning and recoating the grating remains very labor-intensive and time-consuming. During cleaning, no painting work can be carried out in the paint booth, resulting in undesirable downtime. Such downtime also incurs opportunity costs. Furthermore, it has proven disadvantageous that the paint layer, along with the coating, is removed in clumps during the removal process. These clumps can, on the one hand, block and / or damage equipment downstream of the grating, such as a filter and / or a turbine. On the other hand, if these clumps are stirred up, for example by a wire brush or broom, they can settle on painted surfaces or surfaces to be painted. This can lead to defects in the paintwork.

[0010] From DE9311190U1, a protective cover for gratings is further disclosed, consisting of cover surfaces on the upper narrow sides of grating webs and on the reinforced edge rails, as well as side surfaces on the webs and edge rails. Such a protective cover is adapted to a specific grating and is, for example, not suitable for gratings with a different mesh size. Replacing the protective cover also involves labor.

[0011] The invention therefore aims to provide a protective device for protecting a flow-through device, in particular having a grid structure, preferably a grating, a painting system or powder coating system, from contamination, and to provide a protective device as well as a first system and a second system, wherein the aforementioned problems are overcome, in particular wherein the protective device provides protection for the flow-through device and can be easily and quickly replaced.

[0012] Summary of the invention

[0013] This problem is solved by a protective device according to claim 1. The subject matter of the invention is therefore a protective device, in particular a walkable and / or driveable protective device, for protecting a flow-through device, in particular having a grid structure, preferably a grating, a painting system or powder coating system, from contamination, wherein the flow-through device has airflow openings for flowing with an airflow, wherein the protective device has a first layer, wherein the first layer has a planar structure, in particular a film-like and / or plate-like planar structure, or is designed as a planar structure, wherein the planar structure has discretely formed first airflow enabling means, which are provided to enable an airflow through the planar structure.and wherein the protective device is designed to lie flat on the flow device, wherein the protective device, when in contact, covers the flow device flat, and wherein the airflow from at least some of the airflow enabling means to at least some or through at least some of the airflow openings is enabled.

[0014] This problem is further solved by a first system according to claim 14. The invention therefore relates to a first system comprising the protective device according to the invention and the flow-through device, wherein the protective device rests on the flow-through device, and wherein the flow-through device covers the flow-through device over a surface area, irrespective of the shape and / or the position of the airflow openings, such that the airflow from at least some of the airflow enabling means to some of the airflow openings or through at least some of the airflow openings is enabled.

[0015] This problem is further solved by a second system according to claim 15. The invention therefore relates to a second system comprising the protective device according to the invention and a fastening device for attaching the protective device, in particular for attaching the protective device to an element of the painting system, especially to the flow device.

[0016] This problem is further solved by using a protective device according to claim 16. The invention therefore relates to the use of a protective device for protecting a flow-through device, in particular having a grid structure, preferably a grating, a painting system or powder coating system, from contamination, wherein the flow-through device has airflow openings for allowing an airflow, wherein the protective device has a first layer, wherein the first layer has a planar structure, in particular a film-like and / or plate-like planar structure, or is designed as a planar structure, wherein the planar structure has, in particular discretely formed, first airflow enabling means, which are provided for allowing an airflow through the planar structure, and wherein the protective device is designed to lie flat on the flow-through device.wherein the protective device, when in contact, covers the flow device over its entire surface and wherein the airflow from at least some of the airflow enabling means to at least some or through at least some of the airflow openings is enabled.

[0017] The protective device is designed to cover the flow device over a large area, regardless of the position, in particular the shape and position, of the airflow openings, such that the airflow from at least one, preferably at least some, of the airflow enabling means to at least one, preferably at least some, of the airflow openings or through at least one, in particular some, of the airflow openings is enabled.

[0018] The protective device can be placed on the airflow device without regard to the shape and / or position of the airflow openings, such as the mesh size. It is therefore not necessary to position the protective device in a specific orientation or according to a specific grid spacing to cover the airflow device. Placing or positioning the protective device on the airflow device is thus quick and easy. Unlike, for example, the protective cover known from DE9311190U1, the protective device according to the invention can be used for an airflow device with any mesh size of the airflow openings and any shape of the distributed airflow openings. Furthermore, the protective device according to the invention can be used without further consideration of the structure of the airflow device – e.g.,Remove from the flow device by simply pulling it off, even sideways.

[0019] The sacrificial layer known from EP 2 594 338 Al can also be completely dispensed with.

[0020] The measures according to the invention thus offer the advantage that the protective device can be quickly attached to the flow-through device without significant effort to provide protection against contamination, and furthermore, the protective device can be quickly and easily removed from the flow-through device. The handling of the protective device, as well as the downtime of the system required during handling, are therefore optimized.

[0021] Further, particularly advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention will result from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0022] The protective device is designed to protect a flow-through element in a painting system, particularly a spray booth, powder coating system, or similar equipment. The painting system may have an open or closed work area in which the painting work can take place. Preferably, an extraction device is provided that draws air from the work area, particularly through the flow-through element. An air supply device may also be provided that supplies the work area with fresh air. This fresh air may also be passed through a flow-through element. The flow-through element is a device designed to allow air to flow through it.

[0023] The flow-through device can be designed to demarcate the work area, for example, to separate the work area from the extraction device. The flow-through device can also be designed as a floor covering. For example, the flow-through device can be designed to be walked on by people and / or driven on by vehicles, such as motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of up to 3.5 t or even by motor vehicles over 3.5 t, for example, up to 7.5 t, up to 18 t, or up to 40 t, i.e., by trucks.

[0024] The flow-through device typically has discretely designed airflow openings.

[0025] The flow-through device can, for example, have a lamellar structure and / or a grid structure.

[0026] The grid structure has struts between the airflow openings.

[0027] The flow-through device can, for example, have round holes as airflow openings.

[0028] Preferably, the flow-through device is designed as a grating. The webs of the grating are typically, either completely or partially, designed as bars. A grating usually has edge bars, bearing bars, and cross bars. The grating can be designed, for example, as a welded press-locked grating, a press-locked grating, or a plug-in grating.

[0029] The mesh spacing refers to the measurement from the center of one load-bearing bar to the center of the next, or from the center of one crossbar to the center of the next. The (clear) mesh size results from the mesh spacing and the material thicknesses used and describes the free opening dimensions. The mesh spacing or mesh size between the load-bearing bars and that between the crossbars can differ.

[0030] The mesh spacing and mesh size define the shape and position of the airflow openings of flow-through devices such as gratings.

[0031] Discrete airflow facilitators are characterized by their defined boundaries. For example, they can represent openings in a planar structure or form channels with defined boundaries such as walls. In contrast, airflow facilitators that provide only unsystematic flow paths through which air can flow, as is the case with nonwoven filters, are not discrete. However, the device can contain elements or structures within discrete airflow facilitators that are themselves not discrete. For example, discrete airflow facilitators, such as pipes, can incorporate filter materials and / or filter structures, such as filter fleece.However, the airflow enabling means can also be designed without structures or elements that provide unsystematic flow paths.

[0032] A planar structure is a structure, element, or product whose first dimension in a first direction is very thin compared to the two dimensions perpendicular to that first direction. It is therefore a product that extends essentially two-dimensionally. A planar structure can be, for example, a film or a plate. A homogeneous planar structure is preferred.

[0033] The surface structure is designed to cover and / or span the airflow openings in a flat and / or shallow manner.

[0034] The sheet structure can have a homogeneous structure, as is the case, for example, with films such as plastic or metal films. However, the sheet structure can also have an inhomogeneous structure, as is the case, for example, with textile sheet structures. Preferably, the sheet structure of the first layer has a homogeneous structure. However, it can also have an inhomogeneous structure.

[0035] The first layer preferably has a flat shape. The planar structure can be, for example, web-like, ribbon-like, film-like, or foil-like, or as a film, in particular as a natural material film and / or plastic film and / or polymer film and / or plastic film and / or polymer film and / or metal film and / or latex or rubber film. In the context of this invention, a layer refers, for example, to a set or a number of layers or sub-layers that have a structurally or functionally coherent structure. A layer can therefore have several layers that are, for example, identical or similar in structure. The layer can thus have sub-layers.

[0036] A layer is thus characterized by its structural and / or functional features.

[0037] The first layer can be multi-layered. Preferably, the first layer is single-layered.

[0038] A layer can consist of one material or a group of materials, or of different materials or groups of materials. Preferably, the first layer consists of one group of materials, in particular of one material.

[0039] The first layer, particularly the surface structure of the first layer, can also contain or consist of textile materials such as nonwoven fabric. However, the first layer features discretely defined first airflow-enabling elements. Thus, air can flow through clearly differentiated, distinct first airflow-enabling elements.

[0040] The first layer, in particular the surface structure of the first layer, can also be plate-like, sheet-like, or plate-like. The first layer can be a natural material plate, a plastic plate, a polymer plate, a metal plate, and / or a latex or rubber plate. The first layer is particularly preferably a non-woven fiberboard or comprises a non-woven fiberboard.

[0041] Preferably, the first layer, in particular the surface structure of the first layer, is made of non-metallic materials.

[0042] Preferably, the first layer, in particular the sheet structure of the first layer, is realized as a polymer film and / or polymer sheet made of a plastic and / or a natural material. This allows for cost-effective production of the first layer.

[0043] The first layer is flat. Preferably, its width and length are each at least 40 times, in particular 50 times, in particular 100 times, in particular 500 times, in particular 1000 times, greater than its depth or thickness. As discussed below, the first layer may have elements that project from or are suspended from its planar form. The first layer is preferably designed such that it can be reversibly compressed to a depth (thickness) that maintains the aforementioned expansion ratios.

[0044] The first layer is preferably designed to be flexible. Preferably, the first layer is designed to be flexible such that, with an area of ​​1 by 1 meter, when clamped at one end, it bends under its own weight at least to the point where the opposite end is lowered by at least 1 cm, preferably at least 10 cm, particularly preferably at least 15 cm, and especially at least 20 cm. Particularly preferably, the first layer is designed to be flexible such that, under the aforementioned conditions, it hangs essentially vertically. Thus, when placed on the flow-through device, the first layer automatically conforms to its surface. This makes it more difficult for the first layer to slip relative to the flow-through device. This measure therefore increases safety when walking on the protective device.The first layer is therefore preferably supple and flexible.

[0045] Preferably, the protective device is designed to lie flat and / or in a planar manner on the flow-through device.

[0046] The protective device is designed to completely cover the airflow device. This differs from a bulky enclosure or gripping of parts of the airflow device, particularly the webs. Unlike a bulky enclosure or gripping, the protective device rests on and covers the airflow device. The shape of the protective device is therefore independent of the position and / or shape of the airflow openings. The shape of the protective device is only influenced by contact with the airflow device. Thus, no pre-formed shape adapted to the structure of the airflow device is required. In particular, the protective device is free of any negative molds of the airflow device.The protective device therefore does not have a shape that, when not in contact with the flow-through device, forms a negative shape of the flow-through device or parts thereof. The protective device can also completely encase or enclose the flow-through device. In this case, however, the protective device conforms to the contour of the flow-through device instead of enclosing or gripping it voluminously with elements specifically shaped to fit the structure of the flow-through device or the airflow openings.

[0047] The protective device thus only covers the upper sides of the webs of the flow device - in the case of gratings, these are the upper narrow sides - without covering the side surfaces of the webs completely.

[0048] The airflow facilitators of the first layer are discretely formed. This means they are clearly distinguishable from the surrounding structure. For example, the airflow facilitators can be implemented as openings or have openings. The first layer can therefore be perforated, particularly as a perforated film or sheet. These discrete airflow facilitators thus differ, for example, from pure filter fleece, which has randomly formed airflow facilitators that are not discretely separated from the surrounding structure. Filter fleece, for instance, provides a multitude of openings or channels through which air can flow and which extend across the entire surface of the filter fleece.

[0049] Preferably, the first layer between the airflow enabling means has, in particular, planar airflow blocking zones or airflow blocking means or airflow blocking structures that are provided for blocking the airflow.

[0050] The airflow blocking zones protect the underlying structure—that is, when the protective device is used to protect the airflow device—from contamination by air laden with paint particles. Simultaneously, the airflow blocking zone traps the paint particles, thus preventing them from reaching the airflow device. The paint particles are therefore deposited on the airflow blocking zone, preventing them from reaching the airflow device. It should be noted that, depending on the application, particles other than paint particles may also be present, in which case the same principles apply as discussed for paint particles.

[0051] The protective device may have further layers which include, in particular planar, airflow blocking zones or airflow blocking means or airflow blocking structures located between airflow enabling means.

[0052] Preferably, the first layer, and in particular the entire protective device, is designed to cover the flow-through device without being bound to its shape. Preferably, the first layer, and in particular the entire protective device, is designed to cover the flow-through device without the protective device having a structure specifically adapted to the flow-through device that is intended to engage positively with the flow-through device, in particular between and / or around the webs. The protective device is thus preferably designed to cover the flow-through device without a positive fit.

[0053] The fastening device is designed to attach the protective device to a structure or element of the painting system. Preferably, the fastening device is designed to provide a connection between the protective device and the web of the flow-through device.

[0054] The fastening device can be designed to attach the protective device to the flow-through device based on a force of gravity and / or a magnetic force. The fastening device can incorporate a magnet for this purpose. The magnet allows the protective device, for example a grating typically made of iron or steel, to be attached.

[0055] Preferably, the fastening device is designed to pierce and / or cut through the protective device. For this purpose, the fastening device preferably includes a piercing and / or cutting element. This allows for rapid fastening because a hole for attaching the protective device is created directly when the fastening device is attached. Preferably, the fastening device is designed to grip the flow-through device, in particular the web, especially to grip behind and / or underneath it. For this purpose, the fastening device preferably includes gripping elements or gripping elements designed to grip, in particular to grip behind and / or underneath, the flow-through device, especially the web. The gripping elements or gripping elements can, for example, have hinged flaps or be designed as hinged flaps.

[0056] The fastening device can have a first threaded element and a second threaded element, wherein the first threaded element can be screwed onto the second threaded element, wherein when screwing the threaded elements, the fastening device performs a gripping movement, in particular a gripping movement, in order to grip around or behind the flow device by means of gripping elements or rear gripping elements.

[0057] The fastening device can also have a first toothed section and a second toothed section instead of, or in addition to, the first and second threads. When the toothed sections move relative to each other, the fastening device performs a gripping movement, in particular a gripping movement to grip or engage the flow-through device by means of gripping elements. For this purpose, the toothed section can, for example, be designed like a winged corkscrew, so that when the first toothed section moves, the second toothed section connected to the wing moves the wing. The wing forms the gripping or engagement element. The wing presses, for example, against the web and thus pulls the protective device towards the flow-through device and secures it there.

[0058] The fastening device can also be designed to deform elastically and / or plastically in certain areas, so that the deformation leads to a fixation of the fastening device to the flow device.

[0059] According to another aspect, the fastening device can have extensions, in particular rod-like extensions. These extensions are designed to pass through the protective device and past the flow-through device. The extensions preferably include the gripping element or the gripping element behind the object and are designed to deform elastically in order to move past the object to be gripped or gripped behind.

[0060] The fastening device is particularly preferably designed such that its projections cross over each other in the relaxed state. The fastening device is designed such that the projections can be moved past the object to be gripped, for example, the bridge, by rotating the device. Once past the object, the projections cross over again due to the restoring force. The crossed sections of the projections thus form the gripping elements or rear gripping elements and provide a fastening that is easy to install and remove. To remove the fastening device, it is pulled away from the object and rotated in the opposite direction.

[0061] According to one aspect of the invention, the protective device preferably comprises a filter element, in particular a planar form, and / or a filter material, in particular a filter fleece, and / or a filter structure, in particular a filter fleece structure, and / or a labyrinth element and / or a labyrinth structure, preferably as part of a second layer or forming a second layer.

[0062] In this context, it has proven advantageous for the protective device to have a second layer, wherein the second layer has second airflow enabling means which are provided to allow an airflow through the second layer, wherein the airflow enabling means are realized by means of the filter element and / or the filter material, and / or a filter structure, and / or a labyrinth element and / or a labyrinth structure, or has a filter element and / or a filter material, and / or a filter structure, and / or a labyrinth structure.

[0063] The second layer preferably forms a sheet structure, preferably a textile sheet structure, particularly preferably comprising or consisting of nonwoven fabric. The second airflow facilitators are preferably distributed and shaped unsystematically, i.e., not discretely shaped. They preferably provide a multitude of unsystematically distributed, i.e., not discretely shaped, flow paths through which air can flow.

[0064] The filter material, filter structure, or filter element provides a multitude of unsystematically distributed, i.e., non-discrete, flow paths through which the air can flow. When air laden with paint particles flows through these paths, the paint particles are deposited on the filter material or structure. As the length of the flow path increases, more paint particles are absorbed by the second layer, and fewer paint particles reach structures located downstream in the direction of airflow.

[0065] The labyrinth element or labyrinth structure is an element or structure that provides an intricate path system for airflow. The labyrinth element or labyrinth structure can be designed as an unbranched or as a branched path system.

[0066] The second layer thus reduces the amount of paint particles that reach structures located behind it, especially the flow-through device, and thus reduces the degree of contamination.

[0067] Together with the first layer, a synergistic effect is achieved. Since the first layer allows air to pass only through the discretely designed airflow facilitators, and the second layer provides a multitude of possible flow paths, longer paths are created that the air must traverse to pass through the first and second layers. These longer paths are created without significantly increasing the thickness of the protective device because the air flows not only primarily perpendicular to the second layer, but also parallel to it. This allows for the capture of more paint particles. Consequently, a relatively thin protective device can be provided that captures a large number of paint particles.The protective device comprising the first layer and the second layer can be designed and used in such a way that the air flows first through the first layer and then through the second layer.

[0068] Preferably, the protective device is designed and used in such a way that the air flows first through the second layer and then through the first layer.

[0069] Preferably, the protective device has a third layer which includes, in particular discretely designed, third airflow enabling means for allowing an airflow through the third layer.

[0070] The third airflow enabling means are preferably discrete in design. These third airflow enabling means can comprise pipes and / or hoses. The pipes or hoses further extend the path through which the air must pass, thus allowing more paint particles to be captured by the protective device.

[0071] The pipes or hoses are preferably positioned and / or bent such that one end protrudes into the second layer. Preferably, the end protrudes, at least partially, parallel to the base of the protective device into the second layer. This directs the airflow, at least partially, in a direction parallel to the base of the protective device, so that the airflow is directed shallowly through the second layer and more paint particles can be captured by the second layer.

[0072] Preferably, the third airflow enabling means have discretely formed openings or holes.

[0073] Preferably, the third layer comprises at least one layer or sub-layer designed as a planar structure, which includes the third airflow enabling means. The third airflow enabling means can be implemented as discrete holes within the planar structure.

[0074] The protective device can generally have the third layer without the second layer. Preferably, however, the protective device has both the second and third layers.

[0075] The protective device comprising a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer has proven particularly effective in protecting the underlying structure from contamination. Preferably, the protective device is configured such that the air flows first through the third layer, then through the second layer, and finally through the first layer. A large proportion of the paint particles are thus deposited on the third layer, leaving only a small portion to pass through the third airflow facilitators to the second layer. At least one path, and in particular a series of paths, is formed between the third airflow facilitators and the first airflow facilitators. The air flowing through the protective device thus transfers the paint particles to the second layer between the third airflow facilitators and the first airflow facilitators.When using a filter structure or filter material, in particular a nonwoven fabric, preferably a filter fleece, or a branched labyrinth structure, the least permeable paths are first coated with color particles and gradually become blocked by the accumulated color. This makes these paths less easily passable, forcing the air to flow through adjacent, still unobstructed paths. This allows for optimal utilization of the second layer, as it is evenly loaded with color over time until it is completely saturated. Further color particles are absorbed by the first layer. Consequently, very few or no color particles reach the flow-through device.

[0076] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous that the third layer has a labyrinth structure, in particular a multi-layered one, or a multi-layered labyrinth element with discretely formed third airflow enabling means.

[0077] This measure allows, on the one hand, a large surface area to be provided that catches heavy paint particles, which, essentially following gravity, fall directly onto the third layer. Simultaneously, as in the context of the labyrinth structure of the second layer, a multitude of pathways are provided through which air can flow, causing the paint particles to settle and thus preventing them from reaching elements behind it. As discussed in the context of the second layer, the labyrinth structure can be designed as an unbranched or a branched path system.

[0078] Preferably, the third layer is designed as a multi-layered, labyrinthine structure. For this purpose, each layer or sub-layer can be designed as a planar structure with discretely formed third airflow enabling means, in particular with discretely formed openings or holes in the planar structure.

[0079] The individual layers or sub-layers of the third layer are preferably formed as planar structures.

[0080] The airflow facilitators, in particular the openings or holes, of the layers of the third layer are preferably positioned offset from one another. The layers arranged in this way form a labyrinth structure, which allows for good airflow and can simultaneously capture paint particles over a large area. Thus, paint particles can be captured over a long operating period without impairing ventilation or airflow.

[0081] Preferably, the layers or sub-layers of the third layer are spaced apart from each other by spacer elements. This keeps the layers apart, allowing air to flow more easily through them.

[0082] It has proven advantageous that the airflow facilitators are designed as openings or holes created by removing, for example, cutting or punching out, parts of the layer, with the spacer elements comprising precisely these removed parts of the layer. This allows the spacer elements to be provided in a resource-efficient manner, resulting in an overall resource-efficient protective device.

[0083] According to another aspect, it has proven advantageous for the third layer to have a labyrinth structure with discretely formed third airflow facilitators, wherein the third layer comprises a filter structure, in particular a filter fleece structure, and / or a filter material, in particular a filter fleece, which is located within the labyrinth structure. The labyrinth structure thus protects the filter structure or the filter material from mechanical stress. The filter structure or the filter material is therefore less compressed. The filter structure or the filter material can thus be loosely and airily located within the labyrinth structure, increasing the surface area within the labyrinth structure on which the color particles can be deposited. Thus, the protective device can capture many color particles while remaining thin.

[0084] If the third layer, exhibiting a labyrinthine structure, contains the filter structure or filter material, then good filtration and thus good protection can still be provided even without the second layer. Omitting the second layer allows for a thinner and more compact protective device.

[0085] According to a further aspect of the invention, it has generally proven advantageous for the first layer and the third layer to enclose the second layer, at least partially, and preferably completely. This means that the air must pass through the first and third airflow facilitators and thus through the paths between them. This allows the second layer to be used across its entire surface to filter paint particles from the air. Preferably, the first and third layers completely enclose the second layer, so that the second layer extends across its entire surface between the first and third layers.

[0086] Preferably, the first layer lies directly adjacent to the second layer. The first layer is therefore preferably arranged directly next to the second layer. The first layer is preferably designed as a sheet structure that directly borders the second layer, in particular the filter fleece.

[0087] The first layer preferably has airflow-blocking zones or airflow-blocking elements that make contact with the second layer, in particular the filter fleece, over a large area. The airflow-blocking zones or airflow-blocking elements thus have a surface area that is contacted by the second layer at multiple points, not just at specific locations. The second layer preferably rests on top of the airflow-blocking zones or airflow-blocking elements. The airflow-enabling elements of the first layer, in particular designed as openings, are preferably located directly adjacent to the second layer, in particular to the filter fleece. Thus, the air flowing through the second layer is retained in the second layer via a path (the flow path) leading to the airflow-enabling elements, where the color particles can be captured by the second layer.The path is therefore longer than if the airflow facilitators were positioned at a distance from the second layer. This measure thus makes it possible to filter more paint particles from the passing air. If the protective device, for example, is positioned as a floor-level protective device on top of a flow-through device, the air laden with paint particles can penetrate the second layer, particularly the filter fleece, from above. However, because the second layer is largely bounded below by the first layer, especially its airflow-blocking zones, the air cannot flow through the second layer in a largely vertical direction, but must flow horizontally through the second layer towards the next airflow facilitator, in particular the opening.On the way there, the paint particles are absorbed by the protective device, so that after passing through the airflow enabling means, the air contains few or no paint particles and thus can no longer contaminate the flow device or other components behind it.

[0088] Preferably, the third layer is directly adjacent to the second layer. The third layer is therefore preferably arranged directly next to the second layer.

[0089] The layers can be designed to be separable. This allows for the replacement of individual layers, for example, if one layer is contaminated while other layers can still be used. However, because this is quite labor-intensive, the layers are preferably bonded together and can therefore be replaced as a unit.

[0090] It has therefore proven advantageous that at least the first layer is bonded to the second layer in a materially bonded manner, in particular by gluing and / or welding.

[0091] Preferably, the second layer is also bonded to the third layer by a material bond. If no second layer is provided, the first layer can be bonded to the third layer by a material bond.

[0092] The layers are preferably designed such that their expected service life corresponds to the expected service life or usage period of the other layers. Service life or usage period refers to mechanical stress and / or contamination. For example, the second layer can be designed as a filter fleece, the thickness of which is adapted to the airflow-enabling means of the first and / or third layer, so that the layers simultaneously reach their maximum ink load during normal operation.

[0093] According to a further aspect of the invention, the protective device, in particular the first layer of the protective device, has a closing mechanism which is designed to close an airflow enabling means of the protective device, in particular the first airflow enabling means of the first layer, as a result of contacting the protective device with the flow device, in particular in certain areas.

[0094] Preferably, the area directly at the contact point and / or adjacent to the contact point is sealed.

[0095] Preferably, the airflow enabling means each have the closing mechanism or are designed as airflow enabling means or are intended to interact with the closing mechanism.

[0096] For example, the airflow-enabling device can be designed as a flexible tube or hose that is compressed when placed on a body of the flow-through device, such as the bridge. This prevents the airflow towards the body or bridge, thus preventing paint particles from flowing towards it.

[0097] It has proven particularly advantageous that the closure mechanism comprises a tab-like and / or tongue-like and / or strip-like and / or flap-like closure element or closure means, which is designed for closing, in particular partially, the airflow enabling means, especially an opening of the airflow enabling means. The closure mechanism can be implemented by means of a U-shaped and / or C-shaped cutout in the surface structure, in particular in the surface structure of the first layer.

[0098] The closing element is preferably designed to close upon contact with the structure of the flow-through device, in particular with the web. For example, upon contact with the structure of the flow-through device, e.g., the web, the closing element is pushed away from this structure and thus closes the airflow-enabling means, at least partially.

[0099] Preferably, the first layer has the closure elements so that, upon contact with the flow device, in particular its bridge, the closure elements are directly prevented from unfolding by the device or its bridge.

[0100] The airflow facilitator preferably has an opening, designed as a hole or opening in the surface structure. The closing element is preferably positioned such that it rests on the opening in some areas or lies within the opening in others. In some areas, the closing element is preferably connected to the surface structure. The closing element can thus be positioned relative to the opening like a striking or penetrating tongue. The closing element is preferably designed to close the opening similarly to a diaphragm valve or a reed valve known from two-stroke engines. The closing mechanism thus provided, on the one hand, prevents the airflow through the airflow facilitator, at least in some areas, if, for example, the bridge is located behind the closing mechanism, and covers the bridge behind it, at least in some areas, thus preventing contamination.On the other hand, the closure mechanism allows an unobstructed flow of air through the airflow enabling means if only the airflow openings, i.e., no bridge, are located behind the closure mechanism.

[0101] The closure element can be designed as a separate element from the surface structure, particularly the surface structure of the first layer, and can be made of a different material. For example, the closure element can be made of a more flexible material than the surface structure. The closure element can be partially connected to the surface structure, for example, by gluing, to create a flap-like closure. The more flexible material allows the closure element to be easily opened and closed, thus ensuring good coverage when a ridge is present behind it, and allowing it to bend away (open) more easily when no ridge obstructs the bending path, thereby ensuring good airflow.

[0102] Preferably, the closure element is designed as part of the sheet structure, in particular as part of the sheet structure of the first layer, especially as a cutout and / or a segment of the sheet structure. This allows for simple and therefore quick and cost-effective manufacturing of the closure elements. For example, the closure elements can be punched or cut out of the sheet structure. The closure elements can, for example, be C-shaped or U-shaped.

[0103] The locking elements can be produced, for example, by means of a punch or die of a stamping machine, in particular as a result of a stroke movement.

[0104] The locking elements are preferably produced using rotary die-cutting.

[0105] The surface structure, which includes the closure elements, can be connected to the other layers, for example by gluing.

[0106] Preferably, the sheet-like structure from which the closure elements are formed is designed as a polymer film or polymer foil. The sheet-like structure is preferably thin, for example, with a material thickness of less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.3 mm, less than 0.2 mm, or less than 0.15 mm. In particular, the sheet-like structure has a material thickness of less than or equal to 0.3 mm.

[0107] Another aspect of the invention relates to the airflow blocking zones. An advantage of using the flat structure is that paint particles are deposited on the surface in a substantially normal manner. If the airflow-enabling elements are formed as holes in the flat structure, only a few paint particles are deposited in the holes, since in this case there is only a small surface area where the paint particles can settle. Furthermore, paint layers deposited in the holes break off when the protective device is subjected to stress, for example, when the protective device is walked on or when the protective device is deformed when the extraction system is switched on. Thus, the paint is deposited in layers on the flat structure without obstructing the airflow-enabling elements.The larger the surface area of ​​the structures onto which the color particles can settle, the fewer color particles even reach underlying structures, such as further layers or the airflow device. Therefore, it has proven advantageous for the airflow-blocking zones to occupy a large portion of the surface area, or for the airflow-enabling elements to be as small as possible.

[0108] In tests, a grating in a paint booth was gradually covered with a non-flowable film, and the pressure in the extraction duct leading to the extraction device, as well as the flow velocity there, were measured. The tests showed that both pressure and flow velocity remained largely unaffected by the covering until the grating was 91% covered.

[0109] It has therefore proven advantageous for at least one layer of the protective device to have, in particular, flat airflow-blocking zones or airflow-blocking means or airflow-blocking structures that block the flow of air, wherein the airflow-blocking zones occupy between 30% and 91%, in particular between 50% and 91%, in particular between 60% and 91%, in particular between 70% and 91%, in particular between 80% and 91%, in particular between 80% and 90% of the layer's contact area. The airflow-blocking zones can, for example, occupy 40%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 75%, or 85% of the layer's contact area. The larger the area occupied by the airflow-blocking zones, the better they protect by ensuring that the paint particles are captured over a larger area.

[0110] The at least one layer of the protective device preferably has airflow blocking means which together provide a flow cross-section that occupies at least 9.0%, in particular at least 9.3%, preferably at least 10.0%, and most preferably at least 11.0% of the clamping area of ​​the layer.

[0111] The clamping surface is the area that the layer occupies when it is laid flat.

[0112] Preferably, the airflow-blocking zone, airflow-blocking means, or airflow-blocking structure occupies at least a circular area of ​​the layer with a radius of 0.2 mm, particularly 0.3 mm, preferably 0.4 mm, in which it is formed as a flat surface and blocks the flow through the layer. The airflow-blocking zone need not be circular and can, for example, have surface elements extending beyond this preferred minimum area. This minimum area allows for particularly efficient flat absorption of the color particles, resulting in a color layer growing perpendicular to the surface.

[0113] If the airflow blocking zone is designed as discussed, this results in the paint particles being captured across a wide area without disrupting the airflow. The protective device thus creates a sufficiently low pressure differential so that the extraction system is not impaired. The pressure differential is the difference in pressure measured before and after the protective device with active extraction. Depending on the design of the protective device, for example, if filter materials such as nonwoven fabric are used, it is advantageous to make the flow cross-section through the first layer correspondingly larger and the airflow blocking zones of the first layer correspondingly smaller. In this way, the airflow blocking zones can, for example, cover up to 80% or 85% of the layer's surface area.

[0114] In general, it has proven advantageous for the protective device to be designed such that it provides a pressure differential of up to 390 Pa without contamination. Preferably, the protective device is designed such that it provides a pressure differential of at least 30 Pa without contamination. The protective device can, for example, be designed to provide a pressure differential of 40 Pa, 50 Pa, 60 Pa, 70 Pa, 80 Pa, 90 Pa, 100 Pa, 110 Pa, 120 Pa, 130 Pa, 150 Pa, 200 Pa, 300 Pa, 350 Pa, or 380 Pa. It has proven particularly advantageous if the protective device provides a pressure differential of 70 Pa to 140 Pa without contamination. The pressure difference can be reduced, for example, by selecting the airflow blocking zones, the flow cross-sections, the filter material and / or the amount of filter material, the density of the filter material, the thickness of the filter material, etc.The filter material is influenced or adjusted by the design of the closure mechanism. By selecting the pressure differential, a protective device is provided that, at the beginning of its service life, exhibits a pressure differential corresponding to that of a slightly clogged filter layer. The paint system is therefore precisely designed for such a pressure differential, ensuring no performance losses. Over the operating period, however, the pressure differential increases only slowly due to the aforementioned measures. For example, the paint particles accumulate across the surface of the first and / or third layer, thus preventing any significant reduction in the pressure differential. This measure therefore allows for a nearly constant pressure differential over a long operating period. Consequently, optimal filter performance is maintained throughout the operating time.

[0115] The pressure difference can be determined by measuring the pressure before and after the protective device while the extraction system is active. The difference between the two pressures, i.e., the pressure difference, can then be calculated from the pressures before and after the protective device. Alternatively, the pressure difference can be determined directly, for example, using a pressure gauge, where the pressure difference before and after the protective device is measured.

[0116] According to a further aspect of the invention, at least one layer, preferably the entire protective device, can be designed to be statically chargeable, in particular consisting of a statically chargeable material. Thus, some particles are attracted to the static material and therefore captured particularly efficiently. For example, an electret filter can be used as the filter.

[0117] Preferably, at least one layer, and preferably the entire protective device, is designed to be antistatic, in particular made of antistatic material. This reduces the risk of sparks being generated, which in certain situations can lead to deflagration and / or fire. This measure thus increases safety in the paint shop. For this purpose, the protective device can include an antistatic device or be designed to be connected to an antistatic device. For example, the protective device can have an electrically conductive conductor structure, such as wires. The conductor structure can, for example, be positioned within the protective device in such a way that it acts as a Faraday cage. This prevents unwanted sparking.

[0118] Preferably, the protective device consists of antistatic materials and / or is treated to be antistatic. The protective device preferably incorporates antistatic agents.

[0119] According to a further aspect of the invention, the protective device comprises a connecting structure and / or connecting means and / or a connecting element for connecting the protective device to another protective device. The connecting means can, for example, comprise a hook-and-loop fastener and / or an adhesive strip. Preferably, at least one layer, more preferably a planar structure comprising a layer, is longer than the other layers, such that a portion of this layer extends beyond the other layers. This portion preferably comprises the connecting means. The portion can, for example, form a flap that can be placed over the adjacent protective device to connect the two protective devices.

[0120] The connecting element is preferably designed for reversible joining, for example by means of a reversible adhesive bond or a reversible form-fitting connection, for example by means of a hook and loop fastener, of the protective devices. This allows for easy replacement of individual protective devices, so that, for example, more heavily soiled protective devices can be replaced without having to remove the less soiled protective devices.

[0121] The protective devices can be designed to be laid out in a plate-like manner. They can also be designed for positive locking connections. This can be achieved, for example, using a click system, as is used in laminate flooring, or a tongue-and-groove system. The connecting elements can also have indentations and / or protrusions, such as puzzle-piece-like features, to provide a positive locking connection.

[0122] In summary, the protective device is preferably designed such that it can be placed on the flow-through device regardless of its shape. Only after being placed does the protective device adapt, if necessary, to the shape of the flow-through device, for example, due to gravity and / or a pressure difference, such as from suction. The flow-through device is therefore preferably designed to adapt to the shape of the flow-through device only upon contact with it.

[0123] The sheet structure of the first layer, the third layer, or one of the layers of the third layer, or even a further layer, can be in the form of a film and / or a sheet. As discussed at the beginning, the sheet structure can consist of a natural material film and / or plastic film and / or polymer film and / or plastic film and / or polymer film and / or metal film and / or latex or rubber film.

[0124] The fabric can consist of cotton and / or synthetic blend fibers. In particular, the fabric can include a nonwoven material designed to form airflow-blocking zones. To provide these airflow-blocking zones, the nonwoven material is preferably compressed. The fabric can also include a nonwoven material coated with a polymer film. The fabric can be in the form of a nonwoven film or sheet.

[0125] The flat structure may also contain, for example, cardboard and / or paper, or consist of cardboard or paper.

[0126] The sheet material can consist of, for example, polyester, propylene, polypropylene, polyethylene (e.g., high-density or low-density polyethylene), and / or vinyl.

[0127] The flat structure preferably occupies a maximum of one

[0128] Heights of 3 cm, 30 mm, 25 mm, 20 mm, 18 mm, 15 mm, 12 mm, 10 mm, 8 mm, 5 mm, or 4 mm are specified. It should be noted that the first layer may also have a multi-layered labyrinth structure with discretely formed third airflow facilitators.

[0129] The second layer can also include a spacer or spacers. For example, the second layer can consist of a filter fleece material that is partially replaced by the spacers. This allows the filter fleece material to be laid loosely and airily, while the spacers, under mechanical stress—for example, when the protective device is walked on—direct the force acting on the device away from the filter fleece material. This ensures an airflow independent of the load.

[0130] In summary, the surface structure of the protective device, and in particular the entire protective device, with the possible exception of the optional locking mechanism, is designed to be flat, preferably planar and / or slab-like. This allows the protective device to be positioned independently of the airflow opening. This enables quick installation and removal of the protective device. Preferably, the surface structure, and in particular the entire protective device, including the optional locking mechanism, is designed to be planar. In addition to the aforementioned advantage, this results in particularly good accessibility of the protective device because unevenness is avoided.

[0131] For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that further layers, even between the layers discussed, can be provided without departing from the scope of the invention. Layers can also be used multiple times to enhance the technical effects, in particular the effects synergistically generated by two adjacent layers. For example, filter material, in particular nonwoven fabric, comprising two or more layers, or consisting of filter material, in particular nonwoven fabric, can be provided, each separated from the other by layered planar structures with discrete airflow-enabling means, in particular openings.

[0132] These and other aspects of the invention become apparent from the figures discussed below. As discussed at the outset, the flow-through device can be designed as a floor covering. The protective device is therefore preferably designed to protect the flow-through device designed as a floor covering. Consequently, the protective device itself is preferably designed as a floor-protecting device. The protective device thus preferably forms a floor covering itself. The flow-through device, which forms the floor covering, is typically particularly exposed to contamination by paint particles, since, on the one hand, gravity directs the paint particles to this very floor covering, and on the other hand, extraction often occurs through the floor covering. Using the protective device to protect the flow-through device designed as a floor covering allows this area, which is otherwise heavily exposed to contamination, to be specifically protected from contamination.

[0133] A flow-through device designed to protect the floor covering is accordingly designed to be walkable. Preferably, the protective device is designed to be drivable. The protective device is preferably designed to be walked on by people and / or driven on by vehicles, for example, motor vehicles with a total weight of up to 3.5 t or even motor vehicles over 3.5 t, for example, up to 7.5 t or up to 18 t or up to 40 t, i.e., by trucks.

[0134] The fact that the protective device is designed to be walkable means that it can be walked on without sustaining damage. In particular, it means that the protective device is designed in such a way that the structure of the protective device which provides a path for airflow remains essentially intact after the protective device has been walked on. This structure can be realized, for example, by the airflow-enabling means and, in the case of multiple layers, by the air-permeable area between the layers, such as the filter fleece.

[0135] Preferably, the protective device is designed to return its shape to its original shape, i.e., the shape before being walked on, after being subjected to stress by walking on it.

[0136] The protective device is therefore preferably designed to be elastically deformable, at least in some areas, so that after a load which deforms the protective device in such a way that the airflow is affected, it at least partially returns to its original shape, preferably completely.

[0137] Preferably, the filter material, e.g., the filter material of the second layer, is designed and / or positioned in the protective device in such a way as to return the protective device to its original shape, i.e., the shape before it was walked on, after being subjected to stress by walking on it.

[0138] What has been discussed regarding walking on the protective device applies accordingly to driving over it with a vehicle, whereby the load is provided by a vehicle and the protective device is designed for precisely this load.

[0139] To provide a protective device for a walk-in flow-through device, i.e., a protective device that is itself walkable, it is preferably free of components that deform irreversibly under this load. Therefore, the protective device is preferably free of filter paper, in particular free of accordion filter paper.

[0140] In summary, the protective device preferably forms a walkable and / or drivable floor cover for covering the flow-through device in order to protect it from contamination. The protective device is preferably designed to capture as many paint particles as possible. Furthermore, the protective device preferably directs those paint particles that do manage to pass through it past or through the flow-through device, thus essentially preventing the paint particles from settling on the flow-through device.

[0141] Character description

[0142] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures and exemplary embodiments, to which, however, the invention is not limited. In the various figures, identical components are designated with identical reference numerals. They show schematically:

[0143] Fig. 1A shows a first flow-through device, designed as a grating; Fig. IB shows a second flow-through device, designed as an expanded metal grid;

[0144] Fig. 2A shows a sectional view of the first flow-through device;

[0145] Fig. 2B shows a sectional view of the second flow-through device;

[0146] Fig. 3A shows a first embodiment of a protective device on the first flow-through device;

[0147] Fig. 3B the protective device on the second flow-through device;

[0148] Fig. 4A shows a sectional view of the first flow-through device and the protective device;

[0149] Fig. 4B shows a sectional view of the second flow-through device and the protective device;

[0150] Fig. 5 shows a second embodiment of the protective device;

[0151] Fig. 6 shows the protective device according to Fig. 5 on a flow-through device;

[0152] Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of the first flow-through device and the protective device according to Fig. 5;

[0153] Fig. 8 shows a third embodiment of the protective device;

[0154] Fig. 9 shows a fourth embodiment of the protective device;

[0155] Fig. 10 shows a top view of a multi-layered labyrinth structure;

[0156] Fig. 11 shows a fifth embodiment of the protective device based on the labyrinth structure;

[0157] Fig. 12 shows a perspective view of the labyrinth structure under construction;

[0158] Fig. 13 shows a sixth embodiment of the protective device based on the labyrinth structure;

[0159] Fig. 14 shows a seventh embodiment of the protective device based on the labyrinth structure;

[0160] Fig. 15 shows an eighth embodiment of the protective device based on the labyrinth structure;

[0161] Fig. 16 shows a ninth embodiment of the protective device;

[0162] Fig. 17 shows a tenth embodiment of the protective device;

[0163] Fig. 18 shows a first embodiment of a fastening device which fastens the protective device;

[0164] Fig. 19 shows a second embodiment of the fastening device which secures the protective device; Fig. 20 shows a third embodiment of the fastening device which secures the protective device.

[0165] Description of the exemplary implementations

[0166] Figure 1A shows a first airflow device 2A designed as a grating. The first airflow device has webs 20. The webs 20 are designed as support bars 20A, cross bars 20B, and edge bars 20C. The webs 20 create airflow openings 21 for airflow. For clarity, reference numerals are shown only once. Figure 1A shows the first airflow device 2A in the direction of airflow D. The direction of airflow D runs opposite a normal direction Z, which is perpendicular to the plane spanned by the first airflow device 2A. Together with the first parallel direction X and the second parallel direction Y, which run parallel to the plane spanned by the first airflow device 2A, the normal direction Z forms a right-handed Cartesian coordinate system K. The normal direction Z runs against the force of gravity.The flow device 2A is designed (here and in the following figures) as a floor grating.

[0167] Figure 2A shows a sectional view of the first flow-through device 2A. The first flow-through device 2A is designed to be flowed through from top to bottom in the orientation shown in Figure 2A. The section of the sectional view therefore runs parallel to the flow direction D.

[0168] Behind the flow device 2A, i.e. in flow direction D after the flow device 2A, there is a lower pressure than in front of the flow device 2A, so that an airflow in flow direction D occurs.

[0169] Figure 1B shows a second flow-through device 2B designed as an expanded metal grid. The second flow-through device 2B also has webs 20 which span the airflow openings 21.

[0170] Figure 2B shows a sectional view of the second flow-through device 2B. As with the first flow-through device 2A, air also flows through the airflow openings 21 of the second flow-through device 2B in the flow direction D.

[0171] Figure 3A shows a first embodiment 1A of a protective device 1, which has a first layer 3 designed as a first planar structure 4. In this example, the planar structure 4 is designed as a film, specifically a polymer film. The planar structure 4 has discretely formed first airflow enabling means 5, which are designed as openings or holes in the planar structure 4. Between the airflow enabling means 5 are airflow blocking zones 6, which locally block the airflow and / or deflect it towards the airflow enabling means 5.

[0172] In Figure 3A, the protective device 1 covers the first flow-through device 2A completely. The air can flow between at least some of the airflow enabling means 5 towards or through at least some of the airflow openings 21.

[0173] The protective device 1 and the flow-through device 2A form a first system 101.

[0174] Figure 4A shows a sectional view of the first flow-through device 2A and the protective device 1 shown in Figure 3A. Figure 3B shows the protective device 1 of Figure 3A. In Figure 3B, however, the protective device 1 completely covers the second flow-through device 2B.

[0175] Figure 4B shows a sectional view of the second flow device 2B and the protective device 1 shown in Figure 3B.

[0176] The protective device 1 covers both the first airflow device 2A and the second airflow device 2B, whereby in both cases the airflow from at least some of the airflow enabling means 5 to or through at least some of the airflow openings 21 is enabled. Even if the protective device 1 were offset along the first parallel direction X and / or the second parallel direction Y and / or rotated about the normal direction Z, the airflow from at least some of the airflow enabling means 5 to or through at least some of the airflow openings 21 would still be enabled. The protective device 1 is thus designed to cover the airflow device over a surface area, regardless of the shape and position of the airflow openings, such that the airflow from at least some of the airflow enabling means 5 to or through at least some of the airflow openings 21 is enabled.

[0177] Typically, several flow-through devices 2A and / or 2B are located in a paint shop. These are usually arranged side by side. The protective device 1 can completely or partially cover a flow-through device 2A or 2B. The protective device 1 can also cover several flow-through devices 2A and / or 2B. The protective devices 1 can, for example, be laid as a floor covering, independent of the arrangement of the flow-through devices 2A and / or 2B.

[0178] The protective device 1 can, for example, be provided on a roll. This can be suspended, for example, at one end of the painting system so that the protective device 1 can be pulled off to cover the floor. The protective device 1 can also, for example, be provided as a set of several pieces. Preferably, this set includes at least two pieces of the protective device 1 with differently arranged airflow facilitators 5 in order to cover different areas of the airflow device 2A and 2B, respectively, while maintaining the same positioning.

[0179] In Figures 3A, 4A and 3A and 4B, the protective device 1 covers a portion of the airflow device 2A and 2B, respectively. When painting is carried out in the airflow direction D in front of the protective device 1, the air becomes laden with paint particles. These paint particles flow and / or fall towards the protective device 1. A large proportion of the paint particles settle on the airflow-blocking zones 6 of the protective device 1, where they form a paint layer that grows thicker in the normal direction Z with increasing operating time. In this embodiment, some paint particles can still pass through the airflow-enabling means 5 to the ribs 20. If the accessible ribs 20 become so dirty that a decrease in extraction performance is noticeable, the protective device 1 can be repositioned slightly or replaced with another part of the set with differently arranged airflow-enabling means 5.Thus, the airflow enabling means 5 are now located above uncontaminated struts 20, and painting can continue without any loss of extraction performance, with a large proportion of the paint particles again being captured by the airflow blocking zones 6. The service life of the flow device 2A, 2B is therefore significantly increased because a large proportion of the paint particles are captured by the protective device 1.

[0180] Figure 5 shows a further second embodiment 1B of the protective device 1 comprising a closing mechanism 7, which is designed to partially close the airflow enabling means 5 of the first layer 3 as a result of contact with the flow-through device 2A. For this purpose, the closing mechanism 7 has a flap-like closing element 8. The closing element 8 is designed as part of the first surface structure 4 of the first layer 3. Specifically, it is an arc-shaped cutout from the surface structure 4. In this embodiment, the surface structure 4 is a flexible film, so that the closing element 8 is moved in the flow direction D by gravity and / or a pressure difference during suction, unless it is prevented from doing so by the flow-through device 2A.

[0181] Figures 6 and 7 show the protective device 1 of Figure 5 laid flat on the flow-through device 2A. Figure 6 shows the flow-through device 2A with protective device 1 in the flow direction D. Figure 7 shows a section of a sectional view running parallel to the flow direction D.

[0182] At the points where the closure elements 8 contact the flow-through device 2A, the closure elements 8 are supported by the flow-through device 2A against the flow direction D, so that the closure elements 8 at least partially close off the airflow enabling means 5 corresponding to each closure element 8, thus inhibiting or even blocking the airflow towards the flow-through device 2A, specifically towards the web 20. The closure element 8 covers the web 20 in this area. Paint particles are therefore captured by the surface structure 4 and largely prevented from reaching the flow-through device 2A.

[0183] Figure 8 shows a further third embodiment 1C of the protective device 1, which, in addition to the first layer 3, has a second layer 9 in the first surface structure 4 with the closure mechanism 7. The second layer 9 comprises a filter material 10, which has a second airflow enabling means 11 formed unsystematically and inhomogeneously. A nonwoven material, in particular a glass fiber nonwoven filter material, is preferably used as the filter material 10. The second layer 9 filters out a portion of the paint particles, so that only a smaller proportion reaches the first layer 3. The filter material 10 also causes turbulence in the flow, which flings the paint particles towards the filter material 10. At the same time, the contact between the filter material 10 and the surface structure 4 creates small obstacles on the surface of the surface structure 4.Thus, fewer particles flow across the fluid-dynamic boundary layer that would otherwise form at the surface of the surface structure 4 and are instead trapped by the surface structure 4 and the filter material 10. The combination of the surface structure 4 and the filter material 10 therefore synergistically leads to a further improvement in the filter effect.

[0184] Filtering the paint particles not only protects the flow-through device 2A from contamination, but also protects or reduces the burden on downstream components. For example, filters, walls, floors, pipes, turbines, etc., of the extraction system become less dirty because the paint particles are filtered out before they even reach these components.

[0185] Figure 9 shows a further fourth embodiment ID of the protective device 1, which, in addition to the layers 3 and 9 shown in Figure 8, has a third layer 12A and a second surface structure 13. The second surface structure 13 has discretely formed third airflow enabling means 14. Furthermore, the second surface structure 13 has surface-formed second airflow blocking zones 15. Figure 9 also shows exemplary paths PI to P4, which the paint particles transported in the airflow follow. The first paths PI are followed, for example, by heavy and large paint particles, as well as paint particles that are blown, for example, by a paint gun towards the flow device 2A. These paint particles thus deposit directly on the second surface structure 13, specifically on its second airflow blocking zones 15.Some color particles follow the second paths P2 or the third path P3 into or through the filter material 10. The third airflow facilitators 14 and the first airflow facilitators 5 are offset from each other in the first parallel direction X and / or the second parallel direction Y. This prevents direct flow through the filter layer 10 against the normal direction Z, and the respective paths P2 or P3 between the respective third airflow facilitator 14 and the first airflow facilitator 5 become correspondingly longer, causing several color particles to become trapped in the filter material 10. The few color particles that do manage to pass through are largely prevented by the closure mechanism 7 from settling on the flow-through device 2A.

[0186] If so much paint accumulates along one of the paths PI to P3 in the filter material 10, for example along the third path P3, that airflow is impeded, the air with its paint particles automatically follows a neighboring path through the filter material 10, such as a fourth path P4. Thus, the filter material 10 is used optimally until it is completely saturated with paint.

[0187] Figure 10 shows a multilayered labyrinth structure 30 with a first layer 34A, a second layer 34B, and a third layer 34C, wherein each layer 34A, 34B, 34C has a planar structure 32A, 32B, and 32C with discretely formed third airflow enabling means 31A, 31B, and 31C, designed as openings. The layers 34A, 34B, and 34C are stacked on top of each other, so that in the view of Figure 10 only the third layer 34C is fully visible. (See Figure 11 for a cross-sectional view through the layers 34A, 34B, and 34C.) In this example, the labyrinth structure 30 has two layers 34A and 34B, although more layers can generally be provided. The airflow enabling means 31A of the lowest first layer 34A and the airflow enabling means 31C of the uppermost third layer 34C are located one above the other, but are separated from each other by the second layer 34B.The airflow enabling means 31B of the second layer 34B are offset from the airflow enabling means 31A and 31C of the first and third layers 34A and 34C in the first parallel direction X and the second parallel direction Y. The airflow enabling means 31B of the second layer 34B are indicated by dotted lines. The surface elements 32A, 32B, and 32C of the individual layers are each spaced apart from one another by spacer elements 33, which are indicated by dashed lines.

[0188] The multilayered labyrinth structure 30 can itself form a protective device 1 with discretely formed third airflow enabling means 31A and 31B. The first planar structure 32A of the first layer 34A thus forms a first layer of the protective device 1.

[0189] Figure 11 shows a section of the labyrinth structure 30, where the labyrinth structure, as a fifth embodiment IE of the protective device 1, protectively covers the flow-through device 2A. The surface structures 32A, 32B, 32C and the spacer elements 33 form a tunnel-like path system through which the air must flow to reach the flow-through device 2A. On its way there, the paint particles in the air are deposited on the surface structures 32A, 32B, 32C and the spacer elements 33.

[0190] Figure 12 shows a labyrinth structure 30 under construction, with the first surface unit 32A of the first layer 34A lying flat on the ground. The spacer elements 33 are located on top of it. The second surface unit 32B of the second layer 34B is partially lifted away from the first layer 34 and the spacer elements 33 to allow a view of the spacer elements 33. For clarity, the reference symbols have been simplified.

[0191] Figure 13 shows a sixth embodiment 1F of the protective device 1, wherein the protective device 1 is constructed according to the protective device 1 of Figure 8, except that the protective device 1 additionally has a third layer 12B, designed as a labyrinth structure 30. The reference numerals of the labyrinth structure 30 are simplified for clarity. However, the structure corresponds to that of the labyrinth structure 30 of Figure 11.

[0192] The labyrinth structure 30 performs the function of the third layer 12B, corresponding to the third layer 12A in Figure 9. Additionally, the labyrinth structure 30 provides the pathway through which the air must flow to reach the flow-through device 2A. This captures further paint particles, thus protecting both the flow-through device 2A and the downstream components. Furthermore, more paint particles are captured before they reach the filter material 10, thereby slowing down the clogging of the filter material 10. This extends the service life of the protective device 1.

[0193] Figure 14 shows a seventh embodiment IG of the protective device 1, which largely corresponds to that of Figure 13. However, the labyrinth structure 30 additionally features a filter material 100. The filter material 100 is located within the path system of the labyrinth structure 30. The filter material 100 can thus filter out further color particles, thereby protecting the flow device 2A and the downstream components.

[0194] Figure 15 shows an eighth embodiment 1H of the protective device 1, in which, unlike the protective device of Figure 14, the filter material 10 is provided without a second layer 9. A large proportion of the paint particles are already filtered out by the filter material 100 in the labyrinth structure 30. This provides a particularly robust protective device 1 that simultaneously and effectively protects the flow-through device 2A. This is advantageous, for example, for applications where increased mechanical stresses are expected, such as when the protective device 1 is regularly driven over by motor vehicles.

[0195] Figure 16 shows a ninth embodiment II of the protective device 1, wherein the protective device 1 comprises the first layer 3, the surface structure 4 with the discretely formed airflow enabling means 5, and the second layer 9 with the filter material. In this embodiment, however, the first layer 3 is arranged in front of the second layer 9 in the flow direction D. Figure 17 shows a tenth embodiment 13 of the protective device 1. As in Figure 9, the protective device 1 is formed in three layers. In contrast to Figure 9, the closing mechanism 7, which is designed to partially close the airflow enabling means 5 of the first layer 3 as a result of contact with the flow device 2A, does not have flap-like closing elements 8, but rather tube-like closing elements 80.The tubular closure elements 80 are made of a thin, flexible polymer and are designed to deform upon contact with the flow-through device 2A in such a way that the airflow through them is impeded or blocked. The tubular closure element 80 is compressed by the bridge 20. The filter material 10 compensates for part of the deformation that occurs, so that no discernible irregularities arise in the uppermost third layer 12A.

[0196] Depending on the situation, e.g., the mechanical stresses to which the protective device 1 is subjected, it may be advantageous to protect it against displacement and / or lifting. A fastening device 40 is preferably provided for this purpose.

[0197] Figures 18 to 19 show exemplary embodiments of the fastening device 40 for attaching the protective device 1, in particular for attaching the protective device 1 to an element of the painting system, especially to the flow device 2A or 2B. The protective device 1 is shown in simplified form in Figures 18 to 19, whereby it can basically be any type of protective device 1, as long as it is pierceable.

[0198] Figure 18 shows a first embodiment 40A of the fastening device 40. In Figure 18, the fastening device 40 is shown in four different positions 45A, 45B, 45C, and 45D relative to the underlying web 20. The fastening device 40 is made of an elastically deformable wire and has two extensions 43 connected by a bridge 44. The ends of the extensions form piercing elements 41 for piercing the protective device 1. Each piercing element 41 transitions into a gripping element 42 of a first gripping element configuration 42A, wherein the gripping elements 41 are designed to grip around or behind the flow-through device 2A, in particular the web 20. The extensions 43 are crossed in the relaxed state to realize the gripping elements 42.

[0199] In the first position 45A, the fastening device 40 is located in the flow direction D in front of the flow device 2A, as shown in the figure above. If the fastening device 40 is now moved in the flow direction D, the piercing elements 41 pierce the protective device 1. The crossed extensions 43 are pushed apart by the web 20. The fastening device 40 is now in the second position 45B. If the fastening device 40, i.e., the bridge 44, is now rotated about an axis in the flow direction D, the fastening device 40 assumes the third position 45C. In the third position 45C, the fastening device 40 is no longer crossed. However, the restoring forces resulting from the deformation press the extensions 43 against the web 20.As the fastening device 40 is moved further in the flow direction D, the extensions 43, once they have passed the web 20, assume their relaxed crossed position. The fastening device 40 is now in the fourth position 45D. The interlocking elements 42 grip the web 20 from below and thus prevent the protective device 1 from lifting off, up to a certain maximum load. At the same time, the displacement of the protective device 1 is prevented. The linear movement of the fastening device 40 in the flow direction D and the rotational movement of the fastening device 40 are shown separately here for easier understanding.However, they can also be carried out together, resulting in less deformation of the fastening device 40 and less stress on the protective device 1 in the area of ​​the holes pierced and / or created by the piercing element 41, because the protective device 1 is thus pulled and / or compressed less.

[0200] The protective device 1 and the fastening device 40 for fastening the protective device 1 to the flow device 2A form a second system 102.

[0201] Figure 19 shows a second embodiment 40B of the fastening device 40. The fastening device 40 has the bridge 44, the extensions 43, and the piercing elements 41. However, the extensions 43 are straight and run parallel to each other. In contrast to the first embodiment 40A of the fastening device 40, the second embodiment 40B is not designed for behind-engaging. The fastening device 40 is moved from a fifth position 45E in the flow direction D, so that the piercing elements 41 pierce the protective device 1 and the fastening device 40 assumes the sixth position 45F. The fastening device 40 thus does not counteract the lifting of the protective device 1 from the flow device 2A. However, the fastening device 40 prevents the protective device 1 from slipping sideways. If the protective device 1 is, for example,Due to gravity and / or the pressure difference in front of and after the protective device 1, the second embodiment 40B of the fastening device 40 enables easy and quick installation and disinstallation.

[0202] Figure 20 shows a third embodiment 40C of the fastening device 40. The fastening device 40 comprises the bridge 44, the extensions 43, and the piercing elements 41. Furthermore, the fastening device 40 has interlocking elements 42 of a second interlocking element design 42B. The interlocking elements 42 are not designed to cross. The interlocking elements 42 are Z-shaped or S-shaped. When moved from a seventh position 45G in the direction of flow D, the piercing elements 41 pierce the protective device 1 and encounter the web 20. Because the piercing elements 41 are at an angle to each other, the extensions 43 are pushed away from each other by the web 20, generating restoring forces. The fastening device 40 is in the eighth position 45H.If the fastening device 40 is moved further in the flow direction D, the interlocking elements 42 move towards each other again due to the restoring forces and engage behind the web 20. Thus, the protective device 1 is secured against lifting and displacement. The protective devices 1 shown in Figures 3A to 20 are preferably designed as walkable and / or driveable floor protective devices.

[0203] Finally, it should be noted once again that the figures described in detail above are only exemplary embodiments, which can be modified in various ways by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. For the sake of completeness, it should also be noted that the use of the indefinite articles "a" or "an" does not preclude the possibility that the features in question may be present multiple times.

Claims

1. Claims 1. Protective device (1), in particular a walkable and / or driveable protective device (1), for protecting a flow device (2A, 2B), in particular having a grid structure, preferably a grating, a painting system or powder coating system from contamination, wherein the flow device (2A, 2B) has airflow openings (21) for flowing with an airflow, - wherein the protective device (1) has a first layer (3), - wherein the first layer (3) has a planar structure (4), in particular a foil-like and / or plate-like planar structure (4), or is designed as a planar structure (4), - wherein the surface structure (4) has discretely formed first airflow enabling means (5) which are provided to enable an airflow through the surface structure (4), and - wherein the protective device (1) is designed to lie flat on the flow device (2A, 2B), wherein the protective device (1) when lying flat covers the flow device (2A, 2B) flat, and wherein the airflow from at least some of the airflow enabling means (5) to at least some or through at least some of the airflow openings (21) is enabled.

2. Protective device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the protective device (1) has a second layer (9), wherein the second layer (9) has second airflow enabling means (11) which are provided to enable an airflow through the second layer (9), wherein the airflow enabling means (11) are realized by means of a filter element and / or a filter material (10), in particular a filter fleece, and / or a filter structure, in particular a filter fleece structure, and / or a labyrinth element and / or a labyrinth structure (30).

3. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective device (1) has a third layer (12A, 12B) which has, in particular discretely designed, third airflow enabling means (14) which are provided to enable an airflow through the third layer (12A, 12B).

4. Protective device (1) according to claim 3, wherein the third layer (12B) has a labyrinth structure (30), in particular a multilayer structure, with discretely formed third airflow enabling means (14).

5. Protective device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the layers of the third layer (12B) are spaced apart from each other by spacer elements (33).

6. Protective device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 5, wherein the third layer (12B) has a labyrinth structure (30) with discretely formed third airflow enabling means (14), wherein the third layer (12B) has a filter structure, in particular a filter fleece structure, and / or a filter material (100), in particular a filter fleece, which is located within the labyrinth structure (30).

7. Protective device (1) according to one of claims 3 to 6 in conjunction with claim 2, wherein the first layer (3) and the third layer (12A, 12B) enclose the second layer (9) at least partially, preferably completely.

8. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims 3 to 7 in conjunction with claim 2, wherein the first layer (3) is directly adjacent to the second layer (9), preferably bonded to it by means of a material connection, in particular glued and / or welded.

9. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective device (1), in particular the first layer (3) of the protective device, has a closing mechanism (7) which is configured to close the airflow enabling means (5, 11, 14) of the To close off the protective device, in particular the first airflow enabling means (5) of the first layer (3), as a result of contacting the flow device (2A, 2B), in particular in certain areas.

10. Protective device (1) according to claim 9, wherein the closure mechanism (7) has a flap-like and / or tongue-like and / or strip-like and / or flap-like closure element (8) designed to close, in particular partially, the airflow enabling means (5, 11, 14).

11. Protective device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the closure element (8) is designed as a part of the surface structure (4), in particular as a part of the surface structure (4) of the first layer (3), in particular as a cutout and / or a segment of the surface structure (4).

12. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one layer (3, 9, 12A, 12B) of the protective device (1) has airflow blocking zones (6) or airflow blocking means or airflow blocking structures which block the flow of air, wherein the airflow blocking zones (6) occupy between 30% and 91%, in particular between 50% and 91%, in particular between 60% and 91%, in particular between 70% and 91%, in particular between 80% and 91%, in particular between 80% and 90% of the clamping area of ​​the layer (3, 9, 12A, 12B).

13. Protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow device (2A, 2B) is designed as a floor covering and is intended to be walked on by people and / or driven on by vehicles.

14. First system (101) exhibiting - the protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims and - the flow-through device (2A, 2B), wherein the protective device (1) rests on the flow-through device (2A, 2B), wherein the flow-through device (2A, 2B) is independent of the The shape and / or position of the airflow openings (21) covers the flow device (2A, 2B) in such a way that the airflow from at least some of the airflow enabling means (5) to some of the airflow openings (21) or through at least some of the airflow openings (21) is enabled.

15. Second system (102) - the protective device (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 13 and - a fastening device (40) for fastening the protective device (1), in particular for fastening the protective device (1) to an element of the painting system, in particular to the flow device (2A, 2B).

16. Use of a protective device (1), in particular a walkable and / or driveable protective device (1), for protecting a flow-through device (2A, 2B), in particular having a grid structure, preferably a grating, a painting system or powder coating system from contamination, wherein the flow-through device (2A, 2B) has airflow openings (21) for flowing with an airflow, - wherein the protective device (1) has a first layer (3), - wherein the first layer (3) has a planar structure (4), in particular a foil-like and / or plate-like planar structure (4), or is designed as a planar structure (4), - wherein the surface structure (4) has, in particular, discretely formed, first airflow enabling means (5) which are provided to enable an airflow through the surface structure (4), and - wherein the protective device (1) is designed to lie flat on the flow device (2A, 2B), wherein the protective device (1) when lying flat covers the flow device (2A, 2B) flat, and wherein the airflow from at least some of the airflow enabling means (5) to at least some or through at least some of the airflow openings (21) is enabled.

17. Use of a protective device (1) according to claim 16, wherein the flow device (2A, 2B) is designed as a floor covering and is intended to be walked on by people and / or driven on by vehicles.

18. Use of a protective device (1) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the protective device (1), in particular the first layer (3) of the protective device, has a closing mechanism (7) which is configured to close the airflow enabling means (5, 11, 14) of the protective device, in particular the first airflow enabling means. (5) of the first layer (3), as a result of contacting the flow device (2A, 2B), in particular in certain areas.

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