Media applicator, and system and method for applying media

Abstract

The invention relates to a spray head for a media applicator for discharging at least one medium. The spray head comprises an atomizer device which can be rotated about its longitudinal axis, having a front surface which is directed in the direction of the paint discharge and via which the paint is discharged from the spray head; at least one first media supply for feeding at least one first medium into the spray head; and at least one impact element, which is positioned and designed in such a way that paint particles emerging from the atomizer device impinge on the circumferential impact surface and can be deflected in the direction of the paint discharge, wherein a droplet-reducing passage element can be provided between the atomizer device and the at least one impact element.

Description

[0001] Apson GmbH 1 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP

[0002] Media applicator as well as system and procedure for applying media

[0003] Description

[0004] Field of invention

[0005] The present disclosure relates to a media applicator as well as a system and a method for applying media.

[0006] Background and general description of the invention

[0007] Media applicators and systems for applying media are known. Known systems, such as paint systems for paint lines, include such applicators for dispensing media, for example, paints, and applying them to surfaces to be painted or target surfaces. Media applicators for applying several different media, especially different paints, are also known. However, different media often require different application modes, which cannot be readily implemented with a single media applicator. The as yet unpublished German patent application DE 10 2023 136 383 of the same applicant is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0008] One objective of the embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide a media applicator as well as a system and method for applying media which make it possible to apply different media in a simple manner in a media-specific or user- and / or application-specific manner.

[0009] The focus is on providing a modified droplet distribution when applying the media.

[0010] Another aspect of the object of the present invention is to achieve an improvement in order to provide even finer paint droplets.

[0011] To solve this problem, a spray head for a media applicator for dispensing at least one medium is presented, following a first aspect. The spray head comprises an atomizing device rotatable about a longitudinal axis, with a front surface directed towards the direction of the paint discharge. For example, the paint discharge occurs via the front surface of the spray head. Here, "via the front surface" can be understood, for example, as the medium running along the front surface during discharge. In other words, the medium wets the front surface during paint discharge. On the other hand, in another example, which is implemented in other embodiments of the invention presented here, the paint discharge can occur in the discharge direction in front of the front surface. In this embodiment, the medium does not come into contact with the front surface, or at least not necessarily.While it is possible that some of the medium could come into contact with the front surface during dispensing due to the enormous turbulence within the bell housing, this is neither necessary nor intended. Instead, the medium is discharged radially from the outlet openings and follows a trajectory to the impact element(s). Typically, the atomizing unit is operated at very high rotational speeds, for example, in the range of 10,000 to 60,000 rpm.

[0012] The spray head has at least one first media feed for feeding at least one first medium into the spray head, and at least one impact element which is arranged and configured in such a way that color particles emerging from the atomizing device can hit the impact element and be deflected in the direction of color discharge.

[0013] A droplet-reducing passage element can be arranged between the atomizing device and the impact element. Apson GmbH 2 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP

[0014] The passage element can advantageously be arranged at or adjacent to a media outlet of the atomizing device. For example, the area behind the front plate can be the media outlet, with the medium exiting radially from an opening there and being accelerated by centrifugal force.

[0015] Alternatively or cumulatively, the passage element can be part of the atomizing unit. In other words, the passage element is attached to the atomizing unit or manufactured as an integral part of it and thus rotates together with the atomizing unit.

[0016] Alternatively or cumulatively, the passage element can be designed as a perforated disc. The perforated disc can have a multitude of through holes or slots. Alternatively or cumulatively, the perforated disc can partially cover the media outlet. Alternatively or cumulatively, the media outlet can be arranged radially symmetrically around an atomizer rotation axis.

[0017] The medium used can be paint or varnish. Alternatively or additionally, the spray head can include a rotary bell atomizer or be designed as such.

[0018] At least one of the spray head's impact elements can be statically arranged. In other words, the atomizing unit rotates relative to the impact surface or impact element. In this case, the impact surface is static in the stationary reference frame, whereas the atomizing unit rotates. Alternatively or cumulatively, the rotating impact surface can be arranged on a base body that encloses the atomizing unit. It can therefore be advantageous if the impact elements are arranged to rotate during operation of the spray head. In this case, the impact elements typically rotate around the front surface, for example, at 10,000 to 60,000 rpm, depending on the application.

[0019] In this context, a circumferential impact surface means that the impact element(s) or the impact surface radially surrounds the outlet opening(s) for the medium. In other words, in the radial direction, which generally corresponds to the outlet direction of the medium from the outlet opening(s), the circumferential impact surface acts as an obstacle or impact zone for the medium. "Circular" does not necessarily mean that the entire radial circumference is closed by the impact surface – this is the case in some of the presented designs, while in others, particularly the majority of profiled impact elements, air gaps are incorporated. Due to the immense rotational speed, however, the majority of impact elements, from a physical perspective, appear almost like a radially closed surface. This effect can be further enhanced by interlocking or overlapping the impact elements.They are arranged in an overlapping manner, so that the entire imaginary cylinder surface, which is thereby radially around the exit opening(s), is actually covered by impact elements or impact surfaces.

[0020] The circumferential impact surface can have a conical surface curvature in certain sections. For example, the entire impact surface can be conical. The shape and nature of the surface curvature of the impact surface can influence the trajectory and the droplet size distribution of the medium. Alternatively or cumulatively, the circumferential impact surface can have a concave surface curvature in certain sections. Alternatively or cumulatively, the circumferential impact surface can be provided with coarse knurling.

[0021] The pass-through element can extend beyond the front surface in the direction of ink discharge. For example, the front surface can form a front edge. Alternatively or cumulatively, the pass-through element can protrude from the front surface.

[0022] The passage element can have a medium flow direction. The medium used can pass through the passage element in a radial direction. Alternatively or cumulatively, the passage element can form a rotating baffle or baffle element for the medium used. A rotating baffle or baffle element may influence the trajectory and / or particle size of the droplets. Apson GmbH 3 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP

[0023] The spray head can have a plurality of at least two impact elements. Advantageously, it can be designed such that the rotating bell on which the impact surface is arranged is conceptually separated into a plurality of at least two parts. As a conceptual approximation, one could use the example of a conventional bell being split into several separate, finger-like segments. Based on this approximation, it can be understood that the bell thus formed is transformed into an open bell. Each of these segments can then be referred to as a separate impact element.

[0024] In other words, the majority of at least two impact elements can be discrete impact elements. Discrete impact elements are understood to be physically separate components. It may be sufficient if the individual impact elements are spaced apart from each other, at least in the area of ​​their respective impact surfaces (the area where the medium hits the impact element) and / or in the area of ​​the electrode tips of the impact elements.

[0025] Furthermore, an air gap is preferably arranged between each pair of adjacent impact elements. The air gap separates or distances the impact elements adjacent to it from one another.

[0026] A radially open bell can be formed by means of multiple, at least two, impact elements. Such a radially open bell can offer significant advantages in itself. For example, the flow of the medium is no longer restricted. In a radially closed bell, saturation occurs if the flow of the medium is too high. The bell then fills with the medium. The excess material introduced into the bell cannot be dispensed in the direction of the paint application. With an open bell, on the other hand, a particularly fast material application is possible when a large amount of medium needs to be applied, for example, when comparatively thick coats of paint are required.

[0027] The majority of at least two impact elements can be advantageously aerodynamically shaped. For example, the impact elements can be designed in the form of propeller blades or impact wings. The aerodynamic shape of the impact elements can generate its own airflow. Thus, the impact elements can not only be designed to deflect the medium and direct it towards the paint discharge, but can also provide or generate a guiding airflow that directs the medium towards the paint discharge.

[0028] The majority of at least two impact elements can project beyond a rotating bell housing in the direction of ink discharge. In other words, the at least two impact elements extend beyond the rest of the bell housing in the direction of ink discharge. These at least two impact elements can be arranged at an angle to the direction of ink discharge, meaning they are neither parallel nor perpendicular to it. For example, it is preferred if the impact elements spread outwards in the direction of ink discharge.

[0029] The majority of at least two impact elements radially enclose the front surface, at least partially or in sections.

[0030] The majority of at least two impact elements can each be designed in such a way that they can be electrically charged during operation of the spray head.

[0031] The impact elements have a distal end. The distal ends of the impact elements can be shaped as electrodes. An advantageous electrode shape may involve the ends of the impact elements being tapered or rounded. In particular, the electrode design offers optimal delivery or influencing of the electrostatic field.

[0032] During operation of the spray head, a plurality of electric fields may form, which superimpose on each other, with each impact element acting as an electrode in particular.

[0033] The majority of at least two impact elements can be configured to provide an airflow towards the ink discharge point during operation and / or rotation of the impact elements. This airflow can be achieved, for example, by equipping the impact elements with an aerodynamic design. If the impact elements themselves provide the airflow, the otherwise necessary guide air can potentially be saved or reduced.

[0034] The spray head can further comprise a paint nozzle, wherein the at least one first medium is fed from the media supply into the paint nozzle. The paint nozzle can further comprise at least one media outlet, so that the medium can exit the paint nozzle during operation of the spray head.

[0035] The paint nozzle can also be designed to carry an electrostatic charge to influence the spray pattern of the paint particles. Alternatively or additionally, the paint nozzle can be designed as an electrode. Alternatively or additionally, the paint nozzle can be arranged concentrically in the spray head. Alternatively or additionally, the paint nozzle can protrude further from the spray head in the direction of paint discharge than the front surface.

[0036] In other words, one end face of the paint nozzle can be designed as an electrode, thus significantly altering the electrostatic field in the area of ​​the bell. Consequently, a high-voltage field is no longer present only along the perimeter of the bell, but a pole or electrode can also be positioned in the center of the bell using the paint nozzle. A multipole arrangement can therefore be implemented.

[0037] The majority of at least two impact elements can radially enclose the paint nozzle at least partially or in certain areas, arranged in such a way that the medium can exit the paint nozzle and strike the impact elements.

[0038] The medium typically exits the paint nozzle in a radial direction or in a substantially radial direction.

[0039] At least one impact element is preferably configured to rotate.

[0040] The spray head may further have means for feeding at least a second medium, different from the first medium, into the same spray head, so that the first medium and the second medium can be applied with the spray head.

[0041] The present description also covers a media applicator, in particular configured as a robot arm, comprising a spray head, in particular configured as described above. The spray head comprises an atomizing device rotatable about its longitudinal axis, with a front surface directed towards the direction of the paint discharge, through which the paint discharge from the spray head takes place, at least one first media supply for feeding at least one first medium into the spray head, and a circumferential impact surface arranged and configured such that paint particles exiting the atomizing device strike the circumferential impact surface and can be deflected in the direction of the paint discharge.

[0042] A droplet-reducing passage element can be arranged between the atomizing device and the surrounding impact surface.

[0043] The present description also covers a method for applying a medium by means of a media applicator, in particular as described above, wherein the method comprises at least the following steps: feeding at least one first medium into the media applicator for dispensing from the at least one first media outlet, rotating an atomizing device at high speed, dispensing the medium from the atomizing device, allowing the medium to pass through a droplet-reducing passage element as it is dispensed from the atomizing device, and allowing the media droplets formed by the atomizing device and the passage element to rebound from an impact surface, and applying the at least one first medium by means of the spray head with the aid of an air shower.

[0044] The aforementioned high speed is, for example, in the range of 10,000 to 60,000 rpm.

[0045] The media applicator can be designed, in particular, as part of a media application system or a media application plant. In this context, a medium can, in principle, be any conductive medium that can be applied via the media applicator, such as, in particular, liquid, gas, gel, smoke, vapor, powder, or a mixture thereof.

[0046] The media applicator can be designed to dispense one or more media, optionally via a spray head or nozzle connected to the outlet, to apply the media(s) to a target surface. For example, in a particularly specific case, the media applicator can be configured to dispense two different media simultaneously. Advantageously, a mixture of the two media can form in the spray head. The spray head or nozzle can be designed as part of the media applicator or as a separate component. The media applicator can be designed, in particular, as a bell or gun within a paint system or coating system, to dispense one or more paint colors as media and apply them to a surface or target area to be painted.In particular, the media applicator may include at least one media inlet for connection to a media supply line. Specifically, the at least one media inlet may be designed to be connected to the media supply line and sealed against the medium via a screw, twist, or plug connection and / or a quick-release mechanism.

[0047] The media applicator can comprise one or more media supply lines with at least two media outlets for dispensing the media. In particular, the media supply lines can be configured, at least partially, as flow channels formed in a base body of the media applicator, extending between at least one media inlet and at least one media outlet. The media applicator can be configured, in particular, to dispense the at least two media via a spray head comprising at least two spray units designed for media-specific application.

[0048] The media applicator can be further designed by having the spray head comprise a first spray unit and a second spray unit, wherein the first media outlet releases the first medium into the first spray unit and wherein the second media outlet releases the second medium into the second spray unit, so that the first medium can be applied by means of the first spray unit of the spray head and the second medium by means of the second spray unit of the spray head.

[0049] In particular, the media applicator comprises media supply lines with at least one first media outlet for feeding at least one first medium into a first spray unit of a spray head and with at least one second media outlet for feeding at least one second medium into a second spray unit of the spray head. The at least one first medium can be applied by means of the first spray unit of the spray head, and the at least one second medium can be applied by means of the second spray unit of the spray head.

[0050] The media applicator thus allows different media to be applied in a media- or application-specific manner without having to change the media applicator or the spray head / spray body. In particular, the media applicator also makes it possible to apply at least two different media simultaneously, as explained above.

[0051] The at least one first media outlet can be configured to dispense the at least one first medium into a media receiving area of ​​the first spray unit, and the at least one second media outlet can be configured to dispense the at least one second medium into a media receiving area of ​​the second spray unit. This ensures, in particular, that each medium is assigned a specific spray unit of the spray head, so that each medium can be applied in an application-specific manner using a dedicated spray unit.

[0052] The media feed lines can be designed so that at least one first medium and at least one second medium can be transported via separate paths within the media applicator. Separating the media paths significantly reduces the risk of cross-contamination between the media. Apson GmbH 6 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP

[0053] The media feed lines can be designed such that at least one first medium and at least one second medium can be transported at least partially via shared paths within the media applicator. By at least partially utilizing these shared paths, the design of the media applicator can be simplified. For example, different media can be introduced into the media applicator via a common media inlet, thereby reducing the number of required inlets and the complexity of the media applicator.

[0054] The media supply lines can include at least one branch that can be separated by means of at least one valve. In particular, the media supply lines can be designed such that the media can be fed serially or sequentially into a common media inlet. Parallel feeding of the two media (i.e., running them side by side) is also possible. The at least one separable branch can, for example, be disconnected before a media change. This prevents the media from mixing in the area of ​​the at least one separable branch, even if they share the media inlet.

[0055] The media supply lines can include at least one central path for transporting media. In particular, the media applicator can have a substantially axially symmetrical base body, with the central path extending substantially along the axis of symmetry of the base body of the media applicator. The central path represents the shortest path between a central media inlet and a central media outlet and can be flushed or cleaned relatively easily.

[0056] The media supply lines can include at least one peripheral or decentralized path for transporting media. In particular, the peripheral path can be designed such that sufficient space remains between the central path and the decentralized path for an air turbine to drive the air to the spray head.

[0057] The media applicator can include at least one flushing liquid line leading into at least one media supply line. The flushing liquid line can be designed, in particular, to be connected to a flushing liquid supply in order to flush the media supply lines of the media applicator, especially before a media change or before a prolonged interruption of operation.

[0058] In some embodiments, the spray head is designed as part of the media applicator. In particular, the spray head can be positioned downstream of the at least two media outlets of the media applicator in such a way that the at least two media can be applied by means of the spray head.

[0059] The spray head can be designed as a dual rotary atomizer bell with an outer first spray unit or first rotary atomizer bell and an inner second spray unit or second rotary atomizer bell. In particular, the two spray units can be designed so that they can be operated or controlled independently of each other, allowing the media fed into them to be applied sequentially or in parallel as needed.

[0060] In particular, the media applicator can include at least one outer media outlet for supplying at least one media chamber of the first rotary atomizer bell and at least one inner media outlet for supplying one media chamber of the second rotary atomizer bell. In particular, both rotary atomizer bells can thus be supplied with the appropriate media for application without having to disrupt the essentially symmetrical structure of the dual rotary atomizer bell.

[0061] The spray head can also be designed as a hybrid spray head. In particular, the spray head can comprise an outer first spray unit designed as a rotary atomizer bell and an inner second spray unit designed as an air atomizer with horn air and atomizer air. In particular, the two spray units can be designed so that they can be operated independently of each other, so that the media fed into them can be applied sequentially or in parallel with the same or different media using horn air and atomizer air, either independently of each other or depending on the media, as required, by means of the rotary atomizer bell or the air atomizer.

[0062] A second aspect proposes a system for applying media. This system can be configured, in particular, as a coating system or coating unit for applying paints. The system comprises at least one media applicator as described in the first aspect, at least one media supply unit, and at least one pump unit. The media supply lines of the media applicator are connected to the media supply unit via at least one media supply line, and the pump unit is designed to deliver the at least two media to the media applicator via this at least one media supply line. The system also allows for the flexible application of different media in different application modes using a single media applicator.

[0063] A third aspect proposes a method for applying media. This method can be carried out, in particular, using a system according to the second aspect, comprising a media applicator for dispensing at least two media. According to the method, in one process step, at least one first medium is fed into the media applicator from at least one first outlet. In another process step, at least one second medium can be fed into the media applicator from at least one second outlet. In a process step, the at least one first medium can be applied using the first spray unit of the spray head. In a process step, the at least one second medium can be applied using the second spray unit of the spray head.The spray units of the spray head can be designed, in particular, to operate independently of one another and to apply the at least one first medium and the at least one second medium in a medium-specific or application-specific manner. Thus, different media with different application modes can be applied flexibly using a single media applicator.

[0064] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the figures, wherein identical and similar elements are partially provided with the same reference numerals and the features of the different exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another.

[0065] Brief description of the characters: It shows:

[0066] Fig. 1 shows a schematic partial cross-section through a media applicator according to a first

[0067] Example of implementation,

[0068] Fig. 2 shows a schematic partial cross-section through a spray head according to an exemplary embodiment,

[0069] Fig. 2a Partial cross-section through a spray head according to a further embodiment,

[0070] Fig. 2b Partial cross-section through a spray head according to yet another embodiment,

[0071] Fig. 2c Partial cross-section through a spray head according to a further embodiment with knurled

[0072] Impact surface

[0073] Fig. 3 shows a schematic partial cross-section through a media applicator according to a further

[0074] Example of implementation,

[0075] Fig. 4 Sectional view of another embodiment of a media applicator,

[0076] Fig. 5 Top view from the direction of the media discharge of an embodiment of a media applicator,

[0077] Fig. 5a Top view as Fig. 5, showing media discharge, Apson GmbH 8 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP

[0078] Fig. 6a Cross-section of a novel paint nozzle for a media applicator,

[0079] Fig. 6b Cross-section of another novel paint nozzle for a media applicator,

[0080] Fig. 6c Further cross-section through a paint nozzle,

[0081] Fig. 6d Further cross-section through a paint nozzle,

[0082] Fig. 7 Spray pattern of a novel paint nozzle,

[0083] Fig. 8 Cross-section of another embodiment of a novel paint nozzle,

[0084] Fig. 9 Beam pattern,

[0085] Fig. 10 shows a schematic flowchart of a process according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0086] Detailed description of the invention

[0087] Fig. 1 shows a schematic cross-section through a media applicator 1 according to a first embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the media applicator 1 has a substantially axially symmetrical base body 2 with a first end 3 and a second end 4, or front end or application side, opposite the first end 3. A recess 5 with an air turbine 6 accommodated therein is provided in the central region of the base body 2.

[0088] At the first end 3 of the main body 2, a first media inlet 8 is provided. At the second end 4 of the main body 2, a first media outlet 9 and a second media outlet 10 are provided. The first media inlet 8 is connected to the first media outlet 9 via the central media line 11.

[0089] The base body 2 has media supply lines 11 or flow channels extending between the first end 3 and the second end 4 of the base body 2. The base body 2 may also include an air line 14 connected to an air inlet at the first end 3 of the base body 2. The media applicator 1 has an air ring 18 or adapter at the second end 3 of the base body 2 and a cover or housing 19.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the media applicator 1 comprises a spray head 20 which is coupled to the air ring 18 at the second end 4 of the base body 2. The spray head 20 is designed in the form of a dual rotary atomizer bell and has a first media chamber 22 and a second media chamber 24. The first media outlet 9 opens into the first media chamber 22.

[0091] By controlling the air outlet nozzles located in the air ring 18, different jet cross-sections can be achieved, as shown schematically in Fig. 1.

[0092] Referring to Fig. 2, a more detailed view of the second end 4 of an embodiment of a spray head 20 is shown. A passage element 32 is arranged concentrically and radially around the front face 30. Due to the high rotational speed of the atomizing unit 20, the medium entering the receiving chamber 22 from the opening 9 is flung radially outwards and passes through the passage element 32. The passage element 32 influences the droplet size and / or droplet distribution of the first medium exiting the opening 9 before it impacts the impact surface 40 or 41.

[0093] In the case shown in Fig. 2, the impact surface in the upper part (reference numeral 40) is depicted differently than in the lower part (reference numeral 41). In this case, a spray distribution is achieved in the lower region of the spray outlet (compare Fig. 3) that differs from the spray distribution from the upper region of the spray head 20. Thus, Fig. 2 allows both the conical and the planar surface shape of the impact surface 40, 41 to be depicted in a single figure. Of course, it is possible to design the circumferential impact surface 40, 41 of a spray head 20 in a single, continuous design, for example, completely conically curved or completely planar. Apson GmbH 9 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP

[0094] Furthermore, a second medium can be introduced into a second medium chamber 24 from an opening 10 in the spray head 20 and discharged from the spray head 20.

[0095] Figure 2a shows another design of a spray head 20. In a further development of the embodiment shown in Figure 2, a second distribution plane 36 is provided inside the plane 34. The paint initially passes through the passage element 32, as in the example shown in Figure 2. In this embodiment, the passage element is designed as a perforated distribution disc, which is spaced apart from the outer front surface 30 or is seamlessly connected to the outer front surface 30. Subsequently, the paint passes onto the impact surface 40 or 41 (two different embodiments are shown simultaneously in the figure: in the upper part of Figure 2a, a concave impact surface 40; in the lower part, an inclined impact surface 41).

[0096] A front passage element 34 and an inner passage element 36 are provided. The passage elements 34, 36 are not completely closed surfaces, but rather have fine openings, slots, or knurling (as shown in the figure). The inner and / or outer passage element 34, 36 can also be designed as a scoop or multiple scoops or wings, or other geometrically determined, targeted spray surface. Furthermore, or alternatively, the inner and / or outer passage element 34 directs the paint spray or influences the spray direction 15. As the paint passes through the inner passage element 36 (which may also be designed as an impact surface 36), it is dispersed more finely and then accelerated by centrifugal force onto the impact surface 40 / 41, where the paint is further reduced in size or atomized. The inner front surface 31 also surrounds the rinsing nozzle 9a.Furthermore, identical components as in Fig. 2 are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0097] Fig. 2b shows another embodiment of the bell / bell application device with a stationary inner bell for painting with low pilot air and high painting efficiency. As in the other embodiments, a central painting chamber 22 and a decentralized painting chamber 24 are arranged. The discharge-side interior chamber 38 or the attached interior enclosure 39 could also be attached to the other embodiments shown here. The device 20 has the (turbulent) interior chamber 38. In other words, the enclosure 4 is extended further in the discharge direction to enclose an additional chamber 38. This allows for even greater savings in pilot air and thus a higher coating yield (coating efficiency) to be achieved.

[0098] A perforated deflector 37 is arranged centrally in Fig. 2b for improved distribution of the cleaning agent or air from the rinsing nozzle(s) 9a. The deflector 37 can, for example, be conical, pyramidal, or spherical. The embodiment shown in Fig. 2b also features an annular gap 11a for the medium and an annular gap 14a for air. This embodiment is also equipped with the inner and outer baffle surfaces 34, 36 already shown in Fig. 2a for even finer atomization of the paint. The inner and / or outer passage element 34, 36 can also be designed as a scoop or multiple scoops or wings, or as another geometrically determined, targeted spray surface.

[0099] Referring to Fig. 2c, a further embodiment of a spray head 20 is shown, wherein the impact surface 40 is provided with coarse knurling (teeth) 42. In other words, the embodiment of Fig. 2c shows, on the one hand, a radially circumferential impact surface 40, which, however, comprises individual impact elements 42 due to the specific design of the surface shape. In the design shown here, the spray head 20 is furthermore attached to a turbine by means of a thread or by means of a plug connection (coupling). Viewed from the centrally located section line 15, the upper part of the figure is equipped with a plug connection (coupling) for attaching the atomizer 20 to a turbine. The lower part of the atomizer 20, viewed from the centrally located section line 15, is, on the other hand, equipped with a thread for attachment to the turbine. In this design, the passage element 32 is integral with the spray head.Trained at the bell station 20. Apson GmbH 10 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP.

[0100] Referring to Fig. 3, a detailed view of the second end 4 of the spray head 20 is shown, with medium 50, 51 flowing through the spray head 20. The medium exits the opening 9 into the first media chamber 22 and, due to the force acting upon it, can only leave the media chamber 22 through the passage element 32. After passing through the passage element 32, the medium is already more finely dispersed and emerges as a medium shower 51 onto the impact element 40, 41. Upon impact with the impact element 40, 41, the medium is dispersed even more finely and can now be accelerated as an even more finely dispersed medium 50 towards the object 70 to be treated by means of an air shower and, if necessary, electrostatic forces. The air shower can be provided by an air ring 18 via outlet nozzles 52. The air ring 18 is supplied with compressed air via the air line 14.

[0101] A media applicator 1 according to one of the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 3 can, in particular, be configured as part of a system for applying media. The system can, in particular, comprise a media supply unit for providing media to the media applicator and a pump unit, in addition to the media applicator 1. The media supply unit can, in particular, be connected to the media supply lines by means of one or more media supply lines. The pump unit can be configured to convey the media to the media applicator via the media supply lines.

[0102] In particular, the media supply lines can be connected to the media connection 8 of the media applicator as shown in Figure 1.

[0103] The media supply unit or media supply lines can be designed in such a way that at least one first medium and at least one second medium can be provided for the media applicator.

[0104] A second medium can be introduced via a second media inlet and guided to the second media outlet 10 of the media applicator 1. In the embodiments shown, the two media can be introduced into the media inlets essentially simultaneously.

[0105] Thanks to the passage element 32, designed as a rotating bell-shaped perforated disc 32, the medium 50, 51 is formed as a spray pattern or shower after exiting the medium. On the impact surface 40, 41, the paint shower is then further mechanically atomized, and the velocity of the medium particles 50, 51 is further reduced. This allows the guiding air currents, for example from the air ring 18, to have a stronger influence on the shape of the spray mist. Thanks to the passage element 32, significantly smaller spray diameters can be achieved on the object being sprayed. At a painting distance of approximately 200 mm, a spray pattern diameter of less than 100 mm can be achieved. At the same time, a similar maximum diameter can still be achieved due to the stronger influence of the guiding air currents, so that the use of the passage element 32 according to the invention does not entail any disadvantages.The improved application device 1 has already been successfully tested and the desired improvements have been confirmed at the applicant's premises.

[0106] Fig. 4 shows another embodiment of a media applicator 1 with a base body 2, wherein a paint nozzle 80 is arranged in the center along the discharge direction 15. The paint nozzle has several media outlets 82, in the case shown here in the form of several round outlet openings 82 arranged in two planes. The supplied medium can exit through the media outlets 82 in a radial direction 16, where it encounters the impact elements 42, which rotate during operation.

[0107] The bell, with base body 2 and impact elements 42 arranged on it, rotates at high speed, for example at 10,000 to 40,000 rpm. The impact elements 42, or paint rebound pins, are designed as electrodes at a distal end 44. At the distal end 44, the paint rebound pins 42 are geometrically pointed.

[0108] The rebound of the medium 50 off the impact elements 42 creates a paint mist due to the kinetic energy of the

[0109] Beams and by crushing the medium beams using the impact elements 42. Apson GmbH 1 1 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP

[0110] The plurality of discrete impact elements 42, each with an electrode tip 44, generate a plurality of high-voltage fields or electric fields. This allows the efficiency of the painting process to be further improved.

[0111] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 4, unlike, for example, the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, no air ring 18 and associated components (e.g., air turbine 6) are provided. Depending on the design, this supporting air ring 18 may be unnecessary.

[0112] Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the media applicator 1 with a plurality of discrete impact elements 42, which in this embodiment are aerodynamically profiled. The impact elements 42 are arranged concentrically around the paint nozzle 80, from which the medium 50 exits via media outlets 82. By means of the geometrically and aerodynamically designed wing shapes, in the form of propeller blades, the rebounding media 50 can be pulverized into a fine paint mist. This paint mist is then further conveyed to the target 70 by the airflow generated by the aerodynamically profiled and rotating impact elements 42, or the deflection in the discharge direction 15 is further improved. This allows for a significant reduction in the amount of guiding air that is otherwise required.

[0113] Further developing the representation in Fig. 5, Fig. 5a symbolizes the preferred direction of rotation of the bell 20 and the impact elements 42 with an arrow. Additionally, paint jets 50 are shown sketchily, running in the radial direction 16. It should be emphasized that the paint jets 50 have different lengths. The point of impact on the impact elements 42 is therefore not limited to a line along the impact elements 42, but the application of the medium can be distributed over a larger usable length of the impact elements 42. Thus, abrasion on the impact elements 42 can be distributed over a larger area, thereby significantly increasing the service life of the impact elements 42 and the bell 20. This can be achieved by an advantageous design of the outlet opening(s) 80; see the following figures.

[0114] Referring to Fig. 6a, a first embodiment of a paint nozzle 80 is shown. In this embodiment, the paint nozzle 80 has at least one slot as a media outlet 82, namely four slots. The slots can be arranged straight, obliquely, or parallel to the central axis or discharge direction 15. The arrangement and orientation of the slots of the media outlet 82 change the distribution of the medium 50. For example, it may be desirable to distribute the medium 50 over a greater length of the impact elements 42. This can, for instance, significantly reduce potential abrasion of the impact elements 42 by the medium 50 flung onto them. Furthermore, it can change the spray pattern of the medium 50 in the direction of the discharge direction 15.

[0115] Referring to Fig. 6b, the same embodiment as Fig. 6a or a different embodiment may be shown. The embodiment shown here therefore differs either in the arrangement of the slots 82 or in the orientation of the representation if the embodiment shown in Fig. 6a is shown from a different viewing direction.

[0116] Figs. 6c and 6d show two cross-sections through the embodiment shown in Fig. 6a parallel to the slots.

[0117] Fig. 7 shows a spray pattern obtainable with the paint nozzle 80 shown in Figs. 6a to 6d. This shows a paint spray fan radially around the paint nozzle 80.

[0118] Fig. 8 shows another embodiment of a paint nozzle 80 with a plurality of bores as media outlets 82. Fig. 9 shows the spray pattern of a paint nozzle 80 as shown in Fig. 8 in the example of 8 bores.

[0119] Referring to Fig. 10, a schematic flowchart of a method according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. The method 100 can be implemented, in particular, by means of a spray head 20 or a media applicator 1 for dispensing at least one medium. In particular, the system can include a media applicator 1 according to one of the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 3. Apson GmbH 12 December 12, 2025 aps-23WOP

[0120] In process step 110, at least one first medium can be fed into the media applicator. In particular, in the case of a media applicator according to Figures 1 to 3, the at least one first medium can be introduced via the first media inlet 7.

[0121] The medium can be brought for distribution via the first media outlet 9, which leads into the first media room 22 of the first spray unit 21.

[0122] If necessary, a second medium can be fed into media applicator 1.

[0123] Step 120 initiates the starting of the atomizing unit 20 or starts its rotation. In other words, the atomizing unit 20 is rotated at high speed, for example driven by compressed air.

[0124] In step 130, the medium is discharged from the atomizer 20. For example, medium 50, 51 is introduced from the media outlet 9 into the media chamber 22, after which the medium 50, 51 is radially accelerated. The medium 50, 51 encounters the passage element 32 and passes through the passage element 32 in step 135.

[0125] The medium 50, 51, which has passed through the passage element 32, is now directed towards an impact surface 40, 41. In other words, the media droplets formed by the atomizing device 20 and / or the passage element 32 are deflected by the impact element 40, 41 in step 138.

[0126] Method 100 can include applying 140 of at least one first medium by means of the spray head 20. A medium can be applied using a rotary atomizer bell, which is a suitable application method for many applications and media.

[0127] The procedure 100 can also include applying 140 another medium by means of the spray head 20.

[0128] The media applicator described above allows for the flexible and convenient application of different media using a single applicator. In particular, the dual or hybrid spray head enables the application of media using dedicated spray units tailored to the specific application or medium, and the spray heads can be easily interchanged as needed.

[0129] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been shown in the preceding description, various changes and modifications can be made. The embodiments mentioned are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the present disclosure in any way. Rather, the preceding description provides the person skilled in the art with a plan for implementing at least one exemplary embodiment, whereby numerous changes can be made to the function and arrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of protection of the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Furthermore, according to the principles described herein, several modules or several products can also be combined to obtain additional functions.

[0130] It is evident to those skilled in the art that the embodiments described above are to be understood as examples and that the invention is not limited to these, but can be varied in many ways without departing from the scope of protection of the claims. Furthermore, it is evident that the features, regardless of whether they are disclosed in the description, the claims, the figures, or elsewhere, also individually define essential components of the invention, even if they are described together with other features. In all figures, the same reference numerals represent the same objects, so that descriptions of objects that may only be mentioned in one figure, or at least not with respect to all figures, can also be applied to those figures and embodiments with respect to which the object is not explicitly described in the description. Apson GmbH 1 3 December 12, 2025 aps-23WOP

[0131] Reference symbol list

[0132] 1 Media applicator

[0133] 2 basic bodies, possibly cladding

[0134] 3 first end

[0135] 4 second end

[0136] 5 Exclusion

[0137] 6 air turbine

[0138] 8 Media entrance

[0139] 9 first media outlet or nozzle

[0140] 9a Dishwashing nozzle

[0141] 10 Second Media Outlet

[0142] 11 Media supply line

[0143] 11a Annular gap

[0144] 12. Detergent supply line

[0145] 13 Dishwashing liquid outlet

[0146] 14 Air duct

[0147] 14a Ring gap for air

[0148] 15 Discharge direction

[0149] 16 radial direction

[0150] 18 air ring

[0151] 19" enclosure

[0152] 20 spray head or bell

[0153] 22 first media room

[0154] 24 second media room

[0155] 30 front surface

[0156] 32 Perforation element

[0157] 34 Surface knurling (passage or guide element) outside

[0158] 35 Surface knurling (pass-through or guide element) in front of interior 38

[0159] 36 internal surface knurling (passage or guide element)

[0160] 37 Deflection part

[0161] 38 Interior of the bell

[0162] 39 Bell Enclosure

[0163] 40, 41 Impact element or impact surface

[0164] 42 discrete impact element

[0165] 44 distal end

[0166] 50, 51 Medium

[0167] 52 Air nozzle

[0168] 60 atomizer device

[0169] 70 Item to be treated (sprayed)

[0170] 80 paint nozzle

[0171] 82 Media outlet Apson GmbH 14 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP

[0172] 84 Electrode tip of the paint nozzle

[0173] 100 procedures

[0174] 110 Feed-in

[0175] 120 Rotate 130 Skip

[0176] 135 Penetrating

[0177] 138 Bounce

[0178] 140 Apply

Claims

Apson GmbH 1 5 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP Claims 1. Spray head (20) for a media applicator (1) for dispensing at least one medium (50, 51), the spray head comprising: at least one first media feed (11) for feeding at least one first medium into the spray head, at least one impact element, in particular designed as an impact surface (40, 41), which is / are arranged and configured such that escaping color particles strike the at least one impact element and are deflected in the direction of color discharge.

2. Spray head according to the preceding claim, further comprising an atomizing device (60) rotatable about its longitudinal axis, with a front surface (30) directed in the direction of the paint discharge.

3. Spray head (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein a droplet-reducing passage element (32) is arranged between the atomizing device and the impact element, and / or wherein the paint discharge from the spray head takes place via the front surface.

4. Spray head (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein the passage element (32) is arranged at or adjacent to a media outlet (9), and / or wherein the passage element (32) is part of the atomizing device (60), and / or wherein the passage element (32) is designed as a perforated disc.

5. Spray head (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein the perforated disc has a plurality of through holes or slots, and / or the perforated disc partially covers the media outlet (9), and / or the media outlet is arranged radially symmetrically about an atomizer rotation axis.

6. Spray head (20) according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 4, wherein the passage element (32) projects beyond the front surface (30) in the direction of the paint discharge, wherein in particular the front surface forms a front termination plane, and / or wherein the passage element (32) protrudes from the front surface (30).

7. Spray head (20) according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 5, wherein the passage element (32) has a medium passage direction and allows the medium (50, 51) to pass through in a radial direction, and / or wherein the passage element (32) forms a rotating impact surface for the medium (50, 51) and influences the trajectories and / or particle size of the droplets.

8. Spray head (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the medium (50, 51) used is paint or varnish, and / or Apson GmbH 16 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP wherein the spray head comprises or is designed as a rotary bell atomizer.

9. Spray head (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one impact element (40, 41) is statically arranged, and / or wherein the at least one impact element (40, 41) is arranged on a base body (2), wherein the base body in particular encloses the atomizing device (60), and / or wherein the at least one impact element (40, 41) is designed as a circumferential impact surface.

10. Spray head (20) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the impact element (40, 41) has a conical surface curvature in at least sections, and / or wherein the impact element (40, 41) has a concave surface curvature in at least sections.

11. Spray head (20) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of at least two impact elements.

12. Spray head (20) according to the preceding claim, wherein the plurality of at least two impact elements are discrete impact elements, and / or wherein an air gap is arranged between each pair of adjacent impact elements, by which the adjacent impact elements are separated from each other, and / or wherein a radially open bell is formed by means of the plurality of at least two impact elements.

13. Spray head (20) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the plurality of at least two impact elements are aerodynamically shaped, in particular in the form of a propeller blade or impact wing, and / or wherein the plurality of at least two impact elements project beyond a rotating bell housing in the direction of the paint discharge, and / or wherein the plurality of at least two impact elements radially enclose the front surface at least partially or in certain areas.

14. Spray head according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein the plurality of at least two impact elements is each designed in such a way that it can be electrically charged during operation of the spray head.

15. Spray head according to the preceding claim, wherein the impact elements have a distal end, and wherein the distal ends of the impact elements are shaped as electrodes (B: specific designs).

16. Spray head according to one of the two preceding claims, further configured in such a way that a plurality of electric fields are formed during operation of the spray head, which superimpose each other, wherein in particular each impact element functions as an electrode. Apson GmbH 17 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP 17. Spray head according to one of the 6 preceding claims, wherein the plurality of at least two impact elements are arranged, in particular by means of their aerodynamic design, to provide an airflow in the direction of the paint discharge during operation and / or during rotation of the impact elements (B: saving of steering air) 18. Spray head according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a paint nozzle, wherein the at least one first medium is fed from the media supply into the paint nozzle, and wherein the paint nozzle in particular further comprises at least one media outlet, so that the medium can exit the paint nozzle during operation of the spray head.

19. Spray head according to the preceding claim, wherein the paint nozzle is further configured to carry an electrostatic charge to influence the spraying behavior of the paint particles, and / or wherein the paint nozzle is designed as an electrode, and / or wherein the paint nozzle is arranged concentrically in the spray head, and / or wherein the paint nozzle projects further out of the spray head in the direction of paint discharge than the front surface.

20. Spray head according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the plurality of at least two impact elements radially enclose the paint nozzle at least partially or in certain areas, arranged such that the medium can exit the paint nozzle and strike the impact elements.

21. Spray head according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one impact element is arranged to rotate.

22. Spray head (20) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising means for feeding at least a second medium, different from the first medium, into the same spray head, so that the first medium and the second medium can be applied with the spray head.

23. Media applicator (1), in particular configured as a robot arm, comprising a spray head (20), in particular configured according to one of the preceding claims, the spray head comprising: at least one first media feed for feeding at least one first medium into the spray head, at least one impact element (40, 41) which is arranged and configured such that escaping color particles hit the at least one impact element and are deflected in the direction of color discharge.

24. Media applicator (1) according to the preceding claim, further comprising an atomizing device (60) rotatable about its longitudinal axis, with a front surface (30) directed in the direction of the color discharge Apson GmbH 18 12 December 2025 aps-23WOP 25. Media applicator according to the preceding claim, wherein the color discharge from the spray head takes place via the front surface, and / or wherein a droplet-reducing passage element (32) is arranged between the atomizing device and the impact element.

26. Method (100) for applying a medium (50, 51) by means of a media applicator (1), in particular according to the preceding claim, wherein the method comprises at least the following steps: Feeding (110) at least one first medium into the media applicator for dispensing from the at least one first media outlet (9, 10), Discharge (130) of the medium from the atomizing device, Bounce (138) of the material formed by the atomizing device and / or the passage element Media droplets from at least one impact element (40, 41), and Applying (140) the at least one first medium by means of the spray head.

27. Method according to the preceding claim, furthermore with the step Rotating (120) an atomizing device (60) at high speed, and / or after the discharge of the medium with the step of penetrating (135) a droplet-reducing device passage element (32) from the medium during discharge from the atomizing device.

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