EP3965964A1

EP3965964A1 - Cleaning device and method for cleaning components

Info

Publication number: EP3965964A1
Application number: EP20726723.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Alexander GENZE
Original assignee: Ecoclean GmbH
Current assignee: Ecoclean GmbH
Priority date: 2019-05-08
Filing date: 2020-05-07
Publication date: 2022-03-16
Also published as: WO2020225374A1; US20220055076A1; CN114025891A; DE102019116307A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a cleaning device for cleaning, in particular, electrical components (12) with a gaseous cleaning medium, comprising a receiving unit (18) on which the component (12) is/can be fixed, a nozzle unit (22) having at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) that is/can be directed towards the component (12), and a retaining unit (26) for same, wherein at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) is adapted to at least one contour of the component (12), in particular an outer contour or a casing surface, as well as a pressure generation unit (14) for supplying the nozzle unit (22) with the cleaning medium, wherein at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) of the nozzle unit (22) is/can be fixed on the retaining unit (26) in an exchangeable and, in particular, detachable manner, and wherein the cleaning device (10; 40; 80) comprises at least one drive unit (32) which is operatively connected to the component (12) and/or the nozzle unit (22) in order to achieve a relative movement of the component (12) and the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) during the cleaning. The invention also relates to a method.

Description

CLEANING DEVICE AND

METHODS OF CLEANING COMPONENTS

The present invention relates to a cleaning device and a procedural Ren for cleaning electrical components in particular with a gaseous cleaning medium.

Electrical components, for example for electrical circuits or electric motors, can have sensitive assemblies, for example printed circuit boards or assemblies comprising windings that have to be specifically cleaned during and / or after production. For example, particulate contaminants that can lead to electrical short circuits and breakdowns during operation of the components and are responsible for the failure of electrical components must be removed. Dry cleaning using a gaseous (gas or gas mixture) cleaning medium is desirable, with targeted cleaning of the components being advantageous. It is known to blow off electrical components using compressed air and to free them from particles.

The cleaning device described here and the process described can be used with components of various types, but they are particularly suitable for electrical components. For example, these are components for electric motors such as bobbins, housings, bearings or Wel len, including particularly components with rotational symmetry or at least partially cylindrical design, alternatively components for power electronics or electrical circuit boards.

The object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning device and a method for cleaning electrical components in particular, which has an improved cleaning performance. This object is achieved by a cleaning device according to the invention for cleaning, in particular, electrical components with a gaseous cleaning medium, which cleaning device comprises a receiving device on which the component is fixed or can be fixed, a nozzle device with at least one directed or alignable on the component Nozzle element and a holding device for it, wherein at least one nozzle element is adapted to at least one contour of the component, in particular an outer contour or an envelope surface, the cleaning device further comprising a pressure generating device for applying the cleaning medium to the nozzle device, with at least one nozzle element of the nozzle device is replaceable and in particular releasably fixable or fixed on the holding device, and wherein the cleaning device comprises at least one drive device that is connected to the component and / or to the nozzle device device is in operative connection to achieve a relative movement of the component and the at least one nozzle element during cleaning.

The cleaning device according to the invention has a high degree of versatility in that it can be easily adapted to components to be cleaned due to the possibility of replacing at least one nozzle element of the nozzle device. For this purpose, at least one nozzle element can be exchanged, for example by being releasably attached to the holding device. In a preferred embodiment, a preferably controllable adjustment device for replacing at least one nozzle element can be provided. By adapting the nozzle element to the components to be cleaned, these can be cleaned in a targeted manner. In particular, there is an adaptation of the nozzle element to a contour of the construction part. This can be, for example, an outer contour, for example the contour of a jacket or the contour of the end faces of the component. As an alternative or in addition, the nozzle element can be adapted to an inner contour of the component, for example the contour of Cavities into which the nozzle element can be inserted. The already better cleaning result compared to a conventional cleaning device can be further improved by providing a drive device according to the invention with which the at least one nozzle element and the component can be moved relative to one another during cleaning and different surface sections of the component can be detected.

The present object is achieved by a method according to the invention for cleaning, in particular, electrical components with a gaseous cleaning medium, in which method, depending on the component, at least one nozzle element of a nozzle device adapted to at least one contour of the component, in particular an outer contour or an envelope surface, is selected and is aligned with the component and the component is acted upon with the cleaning medium, the component and the at least one nozzle element being moved relative to one another during cleaning, and wherein the selection of the nozzle element includes in particular replacing the at least one nozzle element on a holding device.

The advantages that have already been mentioned in connection with the explanation of the cleaning device can also be achieved using the method, so that in this regard reference can be made to the preceding statements.

Advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention result from advantageous embodiments of the cleaning device according to the invention. These embodiments explained below can be implemented in accordance with the method, so that only these embodiments of the cleaning device are discussed in order to avoid repetitions. The at least one drive device is advantageously designed to achieve a relative rotation of the component and the at least one nozzle element and / or to achieve a translational movement of the component and the at least one nozzle element relative to one another.

A frequency of the rotation of the component and / or the nozzle element or a rotation frequency of the relative rotation can be, for example, approximately 0.1 revolutions per second to 50 revolutions per second, preferably up to approximately 10 revolutions per second.

In the case of translational movement, in particular linear, rectilinear movement, a speed of the relative movement of the component and of the at least one nozzle element can be, for example, approximately 1 mm per second to 100 mm per second.

The gaseous cleaning medium can in particular be compressed air.

The relative overpressure of the cleaning medium can be, for example, from above 0 bar to approximately 15 bar, preferably approximately 0.2 bar to 5 bar.

The pressure generating device can in particular comprise a pumping unit.

The temperature of the cleaning medium can preferably be from above about 0 ° C to about 80 ° C, preferably about 15 ° C to 60 ° C.

The relative humidity of the cleaning medium is preferably less than approx. 60%.

The cleaning device can preferably have a conditioning device for setting the temperature and / or the humidity of the cleaning device medium, in particular depending on the cleaning task to be performed and / or the workpiece.

The intensity of the cleaning can preferably be adjustable. The setting, in particular by controlling the cleaning device by means of a control device thereof, can for example include at least one of the following:

Setting the pressure of the cleaning medium;

Setting the process time for the application of the component by means of at least one nozzle element and preferably a plurality of nozzle elements;

Setting a speed of the relative movement of the component and at least one nozzle element, rotationally and / or translationally; Setting or changing a direction of the relative rotation and / or egg ner direction of movement of the component and at least one Düsenele Mentes, for example providing a repeated reversal of the direction of rotation;

optional selection and setting of the cleaning medium. Depending on the cleaning task to be carried out, it can be provided that the cleaning medium can be selected;

Adjustment of the cross section of at least one nozzle opening of at least one nozzle element.

It can be provided that the cleaning medium can be extracted. The relative negative pressure can be, for example, from approximately -10 mbar to -500 mbar.

It can be provided that a filter element for cleaning the cleaning medium is present upstream of the nozzle device. In this way, the supplied cleaning medium can be freed from particles. It can be provided that the cleaning device comprises or forms a cleaning chamber. In the cleaning chamber, a preferably swirled flow of cleaning medium when subjected to excess pressure and / or negative pressure can be provided. By means of the swirling flow, particles adhering to the component can be detached and carried away. It can be provided that the cleaning medium flows tangentially into the cleaning chamber, based on an axis defined by the latter. This axis can coincide, for example, with an axis of rotation for the component or the nozzle device.

It can be provided that the component can be acted upon by means of an electrical application device (DC and / or AC electrodes). The loading can take place, for example, during cleaning by means of the cleaning medium. As an alternative or in addition, it is conceivable that the component is acted upon while the component is being replaced, for example with the feed device mentioned below.

It can be provided that the at least one nozzle element is fixed in place on the holding device and that the component is rotated or displaced relative to the nozzle element by means of the drive device, or that the component is fixed in place on the receiving device and that the at least one nozzle element is fixed by means of the drive device is rotated or moved relative to the component.

The at least one nozzle element can be fixed to the holding device, for example, by a force fit and / or form fit. In particular, a screw connection, a latching connection and / or a clamping connection is conceivable. It can be advantageous if the at least one nozzle element can be fixed manually and in particular without tools on the holding device in order to keep the required set-up or replacement times for the at least one nozzle element short. Corresponding alignment elements or coding elements on the at least one nozzle element and the holding device are advantageous in order to ensure a clear arrangement.

It is advantageous if the cleaning device comprises a preferably electrically controllable adjusting device, by means of which the at least one nozzle element is held on the holding device in an exchangeable manner. In this way, the cleaning device proves to be particularly versatile. Depending on the cleaning task to be carried out, preferably depending on the component to be cleaned, at least one nozzle element can be exchanged by the adjusting device. For example, the control device already mentioned can control the adjustment device. The adjustment device can be actuated by a user or automatically, for example depending on a component recognized by means of a recognition unit.

Overall, it is advantageous if the cleaning device comprises a recognition unit with which the component can be recognized, at least one cleaning process and / or at least one cleaning parameter being adjustable as a function of the component. The detection can preferably take place without contact, for example optically and / or by means of other types of electromagnetic radiation, for example using RFID or NFC technology. It can be provided that an identification on the component or a support element (for example the receiving device) for the component is detected without contact.

The nozzle device advantageously comprises a set of nozzle elements which are interchangeable with one another and preferably made of interchangeable nozzle elements by means of an adjusting device. To a certain extent, a "supply" can be provided from which the user can select with regard to the cleaning task and the component. Advantageously, the selection can be made automatically by means of the adjustment device without any action on the part of the user. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one nozzle element, in particular a nozzle opening of the at least one nozzle element, is adapted to rotationally symmetrical components or at least partially cylindrical components. For example, at least one nozzle element is adapted for cleaning a jacket surface of a component, with a jacket of the component being able to be cleaned off along the entire circumference when the component is rotated. As an alternative or in addition, at least one nozzle element can be adapted for cleaning an end face of the component, it being possible for this to be rotatable about an axis extending transversely and in particular vertically through the end face.

It goes without saying that at least one nozzle element can comprise a plurality of openings with which, depending on the orientation relative to the component, different sections of the component can be cleaned. For example, it is possible to clean different sides of the component using just one nozzle element. For example, a jacket surface and an end surface of the component can be cleaned at the same time.

Overall, it is advantageous if the components can be acted upon axially and / or radially and / or tangentially by means of the at least one nozzle element with cleaning medium, based on an axis defined by the component, the component axis advantageously coinciding with an axis of rotation for rotating the component can. The axial and / or radial and / or tangential application can take place via a plurality of nozzle openings of the nozzle element or, alternatively, only one nozzle opening with which the aforementioned surfaces of the component can be applied.

It is favorable if the cleaning device comprises a vibration device for subjecting the component to vibrations. A vibration frequency can be, for example, approximately 1 Hz to 1000 Hz, preferably approximately 50 Hz to 200 Hz. The vibration can cause adhering particles detached and thereby the cleaning result can be improved. The vibrations can be harmonious or anharmonic, for example with a noise-like vibration spectrum. The vibrations can be periodic or aperiodic and / or continuous or interrupted.

It can be provided that the component itself is subjected to vibrations. Alternatively or in addition, indirect loading can be provided, with the receiving device being set to vibrate.

It is beneficial to decouple the vibration of the other components of the cleaning device, for example via vibration dampers.

In a preferred embodiment it is provided that at least one nozzle element of the nozzle device comprises a nozzle body with a feed section and a discharge section having at least one nozzle opening, the nozzle body being at least partially formed in one piece and a flow channel for the cleaning medium integrally in the feed section and / or is formed in the delivery section. As a result of the one-piece production, in particular by means of generative production, the nozzle element can be adapted particularly well to the component to be cleaned in practice.

In particular, it can be advantageous if the nozzle body is manufactured at least in sections by means of a generative manufacturing process, in particular by means of 3D printing, especially on the delivery section. Generative manufacturing, for example 3D printing, allows the nozzle body to form advantageous structures with regard to a particularly good cleaning result.

For example, a flow-optimized air guide can be formed in the flow channel and / or at the nozzle opening. This can for example are achieved in that there are no abrupt, tangent discontinuous transitions on flow-guiding sections of the nozzle body.

Transitions between flow-guiding sections, for example with cross-section changes and / or changes in direction, advantageously have radii. The radii can preferably range from about 1 mm to 5 mm.

Flow-guiding sections in the interior of the nozzle body have, for example, diameters of approximately 0.5 mm to 3 mm. Guide contours can be provided on flow-guiding sections for flow-optimized guidance of the cleaning medium.

Nozzle openings can, for example, have lengths of approx. 1 mm to 1000 mm, preferably up to approx. 200 mm and / or widths of approx. 0.1 mm to 15 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

At least one nozzle element can form a Laval nozzle; Additive manufacturing has proven to be advantageous for manufacturing.

The generative process also allows the strength of the nozzle body to be optimized, for example as a result of support structures in the interior and / or variable wall thicknesses.

Nozzle openings can, for example, be partially interrupted, for example in the case of slot-shaped nozzle openings in order to achieve greater strength in the area of the nozzle opening.

Attachment points for anchoring the nozzle body can be manufactured using the generative method in such a way that advantageously no collection points for soiling arise. For example, anchoring inserts such as threaded inserts are incorporated integrally. The generative process allows different geometries of the at least one nozzle opening to be manufactured in a simple manner, for example obliquely running slot-shaped nozzle openings and / or angled nozzle openings for an angled impact on the component. In an at least approximately rotationally symmetrical component, for example, a nozzle element with a helical contour similar to a He lix is used, whereby the nozzle opening can extend helically around the construction part.

The additive manufacturing of the nozzle body also makes it possible to make the cleaning device versatile. Due to the possibility of changing the nozzle element, a large number of different components can be cleaned with relatively little effort in terms of production technology. By means of simulation methods, there is in particular the possibility of supporting the additive manufacturing of the nozzle body. Automated optimization algorithms can be used here.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one nozzle element can be designed in the shape of a lance and can be inserted into hollow spaces of the component by means of the drive device. In this way, the components can be cleaned on the inside. The nozzle element is advantageously adapted to the contours of the cavities.

It can be advantageous if the cleaning device comprises a transport device with which the component can be fed to the at least one nozzle device. In particular, a plurality of functionally identical or identical nozzle devices can be provided, wherein a plurality of components can be fed to the nozzle devices simultaneously with the transport device and can be cleaned by them. In this way, the cycle time for cleaning components can be reduced. The loading device can be loaded manually or mechanically, for example by a robot.

Provision can be made for a monitoring device to be present in order to determine whether the nozzle device provided for use is suitable for cleaning the component. For example, it can be checked whether at least one nozzle element is provided which is adapted to the contour of the component. This nozzle element can preferably be selected, for example with the aforementioned adjustment device. The monitoring is preferably carried out in a contactless manner, for example by means of RFID technology.

The cleaning result can advantageously be monitored by means of a monitoring device, for example optically, by means of a before-and-after comparison of the uncleaned component with the cleaned component.

As already mentioned, it is possible to set cleaning parameters depending on the component to be cleaned. In this case, for example, a label on the component or on the receiving unit is read out, for example optically by means of the aforementioned recognition unit.

Before or after cleaning the component, or in parallel, it can be provided that the receiving device can be cleaned. For example, a suction open or closed, for example by means of a hood, and / or a pressure application, for example by movable nozzle elements, is conceivable.

The cleaning device can have a soundproofing device which is designed, for example, in the form of a chamber and can be formed in the shape of a hood. Multiple soundproofing, for example, through hoods arranged one above the other is conceivable. In a preferred embodiment of the cleaning device, a cleaning process of the components can advantageously be carried out, comprising at least two of the following steps:

Cleaning of cavities, for example index and threaded blind holes, of the component by means of at least one lance-shaped nozzle element;

Vibration of the respective component, preferably with simultaneous loading by means of the cleaning medium, for example compressed air, via the nozzle device, while advantageously a relative movement of the component and the nozzle device takes place;

Acting on the receiving device, in particular at receiving points for the component. This can, for example, also be carried out after the component has been cleaned;

Cleaning of overhead surfaces of the component, with position and orientation information such as "above" or "below" based on an intended use of the cleaning device to be understood;

Cleaning the side surfaces of the component, preferably with relative movement to the at least one nozzle element.

Advantageously, removed particles can be deposited with the aid of gravity. Particles removed by the cleaning medium and / or vibration can, for example, fall down and be collected in a separation device or in a collecting container.

The nozzle elements can be designed differently, for example with a slot-shaped nozzle opening, point jet nozzle opening, as a lance, as a single-substance nozzle or multi-substance nozzle, etc. In particular, combinations of two or more identical or different types of the aforementioned nozzle openings are possible, for example slot-shaped openings interrupted by webs or walls ( Multiple slots). Cleaning by means of the cleaning medium can be combined with other cleaning processes, for example CCh cleaning, plasma cleaning, wet cleaning (eg with steam) and / or targeted suctioning of the component.

The application of the cleaning medium can be continuous or interrupted, for example pulsed.

Removed particles can be removed, for example, by means of the cleaning medium itself. Alternatively, a separate carrier medium can be used which, for example, discharges particles by means of overpressure or underpressure.

Any cleaning chamber for receiving the component can advantageously be cleaned automatically, for example mechanically with a brush or a scraper. Alternatively or in addition, application of a cleaning fluid can be provided. For this purpose, the cleaning device can comprise, for example, a separate nozzle device.

In a preferred embodiment, the cleaning medium can be ionized in order to reduce electrostatic charges by which the particles adhere to a surface of the workpiece. Accordingly, an ionizing device can be provided in order to achieve a charge equalization on the surface, for example by means of electrodes.

The description of preferred embodiments of the invention is used in conjunction with the drawing to explain the invention in more detail. Show it :

Figure 1: a schematic representation of a cleaning device according to the invention; FIG. 2: a schematic partial illustration of a further cleaning device according to the invention;

FIG. 3: a simplified sectional view along the line 3-3 in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4: a schematic partial illustration of a further cleaning device according to the invention; and

FIG. 5: a detailed representation of a nozzle element of the cleaning device from FIG. 4.

Figure 1 shows a schematic representation with the reference numeral 10 be put advantageous embodiment of a cleaning device according to the invention. The cleaning device 10 is designed for cleaning components 12 with a gaseous cleaning medium, in particular compressed air. The components 12 are, for example, electrical components for electric motors such as coil bodies, housings, bearings or shafts. In particular, the cleaning device 10 is suitable for components with rotational symmetry, as will be explained below with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5.

In order to provide the compressed air, the cleaning device 10 can have a pressure generating device 14, in this case a pump unit 16 for compressed air.

The components 12 are fixed on receiving devices 18, on which they can remain, for example, during the cleaning process and for transport.

In the present case, the cleaning device 10 comprises a transport device 20. With the transport device 20, the receiving device 18 with the component 12 attached to it can be fed to a nozzle device 22 of the cleaning device 10. The nozzle device 22 stands with the Pump assembly 16 directly or indirectly in flow connection, so that the nozzle device 22 and in particular at least one nozzle element 24 of the nozzle device 22 can be acted upon with compressed air.

The nozzle device 22 and in particular its nozzle elements 24 are held on a holding device 26. As already explained, the cleaning device 10 according to the invention has the advantage that at least one nozzle element 24 on the holding device 26 can be exchanged and exchanged for a different type of nozzle element 24. This is done in particular with a view to an optimal cleaning result, it being possible to use a nozzle element 24 which is adapted in its nature to at least one contour of the component 12.

It is conceivable that at least one nozzle element 24 can be releasably fixed on the holding device 26. A non-positive and / or positive connection, in particular a screw connection, snap-in connection and / or clamp connection, can be provided for fixing. It is advantageous if corresponding alignment elements on the nozzle element 24 and on the holding device 26 ensure a clear alignment.

In the present case, however, the cleaning device 10 advantageously comprises an adjusting device 28. The adjusting device 28 is operatively connected to the nozzle device 22 such that at least one nozzle element 24 can be exchanged by the adjusting device 28 for a different type of nozzle element 24.

The cleaning device 10 can comprise a control device 30. By means of the control device, all processes of the cleaning device 10 can advantageously be controlled, in particular the transport device 20, the pump assembly 16, the nozzle device 22 and the adjusting device 28. The cleaning device 10 further comprises a drive device 32. The drive device 32 serves to enable a relative movement of the component 12 and at least one nozzle element 24 during the cleaning of the component 12. The relative movement can in particular be a rotation about at least one axis and / or a translation in at least one spatial direction. The translation can be straight. In the present case, for example, both the component 12 and the nozzle device 22 for moving the nozzle elements 24 are assigned a respective drive device 32.

Furthermore, the cleaning device 10 can include a detection device 34. The component 12 can be recognized by means of the recognition device 34. As an alternative or in addition, it is conceivable that an identification assigned to the component 12, for example on the receiving device 18, is recognized. The detection device 34 is, for example, optically configured.

Depending on the result of the detection, there is in particular the possibility of adapting the cleaning process to the component 12 in such a way that an optimal cleaning result can be achieved. This includes, in particular, the control of the pump unit 16, the nozzle device 22, the adjusting device 28 and the drive device 32.

Provision can be made for a plurality of nozzle devices 22 of identical or advantageously identical design to be provided. For example, a plurality of receiving units 18 with components 12 arranged thereon can be transported simultaneously with the transport device 20 and fed to the nozzle devices 22. In this way, the cycle time can be shortened. The number of receiving devices 18 that can be supplied advantageously corresponds to the number of nozzle devices 22. Subsequently, further advantageous embodiments of the cleaning device according to the invention are provided. Identical reference numerals are used for features and components that are the same or have the same effect. The advantages that can be achieved with the cleaning device 10 can also be achieved with the cleaning devices mentioned below, so that reference can be made to the above explanations in order to avoid repetition.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of an advantageous embodiment of a cleaning device according to the invention in a partial representation. In this example, a rotor of an electric motor is provided as component 12. The rotor 42 includes a shaft 44 that defines an axis 46.

In the present case, a rotation device is provided as the drive device 32. The rotor 42 can be rotated about an axis of rotation 48 with the rotation device. In the present case, the axis of rotation 48 coincides with the axis 46.

In the present case, the nozzle device 22 comprises a nozzle element 50 and a further nozzle element 52. In the present case, the nozzle elements 50, 52 are arranged in a stationary manner on the holding device 26 and fixed thereon by a force fit and / or form fit. As explained above, however, there is the possibility of replacing the nozzle elements 50 and 52 in order to use a nozzle element that is better adapted for the cleaning purpose and the component 12, depending on the component 12 to be cleaned.

The nozzle elements 50, 52 are adapted to the rotor 42. With the nozzle element 50, there is in particular the possibility of applying compressed air to the rotor 42 radially and axially with respect to the axis 46. A first nozzle opening 54 allows compressed air to be applied in the radial direction and a second nozzle opening 56 allows the application in the axial direction Rich.

When the nozzle element 52 there is the possibility of acting on the rotor 42 via a nozzle opening 58 in the radial direction.

The nozzle device 22 is accordingly designed in such a way that several surfaces of the rotor 42 can be cleaned simultaneously, in particular a side surface or jacket surface 60 and an end surface 62.

The nozzle elements 24 of the nozzle device 22 and accordingly, for example, the nozzle elements 50 and 52, are advantageously produced by means of a generative process. For example, the nozzle elements 50, 52 are at least partially produced by means of 3D printing.

The nozzle elements 24, 50, 52 comprise, for example, a nozzle body 64 which is formed in one piece and in which a flow channel 66 is formed. The flow channel 66 is via a supply line 68, for example one

Hose line, with the pump unit 16 in flow connection.

The nozzle body 64 comprises a supply section 70, to which the supply line 68 is connected, and a discharge section 72, on which the nozzle opening 54, 56, 58 is formed. The flow channel 66 extends from the feed section 70 to the discharge section 72.

At least the delivery section 72 is favorably formed in one piece with the nozzle opening 54, 56, 58, specifically by 3D printing. This makes it possible to adapt the nozzle openings 54, 56, 58 as best as possible with regard to the cleaning task to be fulfilled. An adaptation can be made to at least one contour of the component 12 in particular. FIG. 4 schematically shows an advantageous embodiment of the cleaning device according to the invention in a partial representation.

In this example, a stator 82 of an electric motor is used as component 12. The stator 82, like the rotor 42, has essentially a rotational symmetry. The stator 82 is held on the receiving device 18, which is, for example, a robot arm in the present case. The stator 82 can be rotated about the axis of rotation 48 by means of the drive device 32. The axis of rotation 48 coincides with an axis 46 of the stator 82.

In the present case, the nozzle device 22 comprises, as the nozzle element 24, a plurality of nozzle elements which are identified by the reference numerals 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94 and 96. In the present case, the nozzle bodies 64 of the nozzle elements 84 to 96 are also advantageously produced generatively, in particular by means of 3D printing. Reference is made to the preceding statements concerning the advantages of such a manufacturing method.

The nozzle elements 84, 86 are adapted to the jacket-shaped side surface 60 of the stator 82. In particular, there is the possibility of applying compressed air to the side surface 60 in the radial direction.

In contrast, the nozzle elements 80, 90 and 92 are adapted to clean an end face 62 of the stator 82. In particular, windings 98 of the stator 82, which form the end face 62, can be cleaned.

In the present case, the nozzle elements 94, 96 are lance-shaped configured. This offers the possibility of penetrating into cavities 100 of the stator 82. For example, the receiving device 18 can be lowered and raised so that the lances are inserted into the cavities 100. Alternatively, the raising or lowering can take place by means of the drive device 32. The nozzle elements 94, 96 are also adapted to the contours of the stator 82, in the present case to the contours of the cavities 100.

FIG. 5 shows, by way of example, the nozzle element 94 with a plurality of nozzle openings in an enlarged illustration.

In the present case, the nozzle elements 84 to 96 are releasably attached to the holding device 26, for example by means of a force fit and / or form fit, in particular a screw connection, a latching connection and / or a clamping connection. A simple and quick change of at least one of the nozzle elements 84 to 96 is possible.

In connection with the cleaning devices 40 and 80, not all components of the cleaning device that are advantageously present are provided. It goes without saying, however, that, for example, as in the case of the cleaning device 10, the transport device 20, the adjusting device 28, the control device 30 and / or the detection device 34 can be present.

The cleaning device 80 comprises a vibration device 102, which can preferably also be present in the cleaning devices 10 and 40. The vibration device 102, which can preferably be controlled by the control device 30, is in the present case fixed indirectly or directly on the component 12, for example on the receiving device 18. Adhering particles are thereby detached from the component 12 and are preferably captured and removed by the cleaning medium acting on the component 12. List of reference symbols:

10, 40, 80 cleaning device

12 component

14 Pressure generating device

16 pumping unit

18 Reception facility

20 Transport device

22 Nozzle device

24 nozzle element

26 Holding device

28 Adjustment device

30 control device

32 Drive device

34 recognition device

42 rotor

44 wave

46 axis

48 axis of rotation

50, 52 nozzle element

54, 56, 58 nozzle opening

60 side face

62 face

64 nozzle bodies

66 flow channel

68 Supply line

70 feed section

72 delivery section

82 stator

84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96 nozzle element 98 winding

100 cavity 102 vibration device

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS

1. Cleaning device for cleaning electrical components in particular (12) with a gaseous cleaning medium,

comprising a receiving device (18) on which the component (12) is fixed or can be fixed,

a nozzle device (22) with at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86) which is oriented or can be oriented towards the component (12),

88, 90, 92, 94, 96) and a holding device (26) for this, with at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) on at least one contour of the component (12) is adapted, in particular an outer contour or an envelope surface,

and a pressure generating device (14) for applying the cleaning medium to the nozzle device (22),

wherein at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) of the nozzle device (22) can be fixed or fixed on the holding device (26) in an exchangeable and in particular detachable manner,

and wherein the cleaning device (10; 40; 80) comprises at least one drive device (32) which is in operative connection with the component (12) and / or with the nozzle device (22) in order to achieve a relative movement of the component (12) and of the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) during cleaning.

2. Cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one drive device (32) for achieving a relative rotation of the component (12) and the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) and / or to achieve a translational movement of the component (12) and the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) relative to one another.

3. Cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the cleaning device (10; 40; 80) comprises a conditioning device for setting the temperature and / or the humidity of the cleaning medium.

4. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that an intensity of the cleaning is adjustable and at least one of the following is provided:

Setting the pressure of the cleaning medium;

Setting of the process time for the application of the component (12) by means of at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) and preferably a plurality of nozzle elements (24, 50, 52, 84 , 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96);

Setting a speed of the relative movement of the component (12) and at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86,

88, 90, 92, 94, 96), rotatory and / or translatory;

Setting or changing a direction of the relative rotation and / or a direction of movement of the component (12) and at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94,

96), for example providing a repeated reversal of the direction of rotation;

optional selection and setting of the cleaning medium;

Adjustment of the cross section of at least one nozzle opening at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96).

5. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the cleaning device (10; 40; 80) comprises or forms a cleaning chamber.

6. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the component (12) can be acted upon by means of an electrical application device.

7. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) is fixed in place on the holding device (26) and that the component (12) is fixed by means of the drive device (32 ) is rotated or displaced relative to the nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96), or that the component (12) is fixed in place on the receiving device (18) and that at least a nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) is rotated or displaced relative to the component (12) by means of the drive device (32).

8. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) by force and / or form fit on the holding device (26 ) is established, in particular by a screw connection, a latching connection and / or a Klemmverbin manure.

9. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device (10; 40; 80) comprises a preferably electrically controllable adjusting device (28) by means of which the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) on the holding device (26) is held interchangeably.

10. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning device (10; 40; 80) comprises a recognition unit with which the component (12) can be recognized, at least one cleaning process and / or at least one cleaning parameter being adjustable as a function of the component (12).

11. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the nozzle device (22) comprises a set of interchangeable nozzle elements (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) which are preferably interchangeable by means of an adjusting device (28).

12. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96), in particular a nozzle opening (54, 56, 58) of the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52 , 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96), is adapted to rotationally symmetrical components (12) or at least partially cylindrical components (12).

13. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that at least one nozzle element (24, 50,

52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) comprises a plurality of nozzle openings via which, depending on the orientation relative to the component (12), different sections of the component (12) can be cleaned.

14. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the components (12) can be exposed to cleaning medium axially and / or radially and / or tangentially by means of the at least one nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96), based on an axis (46) defined by the component (12).

15. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that at least one nozzle element (24, 50,

52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) of the nozzle device (22) a nozzle body (64) with a feed section (70) and a discharge section (72) having at least one nozzle opening (54, 56, 58), the nozzle body (64) being at least partially formed in one piece and a flow channel (66) for the cleaning medium being integral is formed in the supply section (70) and / or in the delivery section (72).

16. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, in particular according to claim 15, characterized in that the nozzle body (64) is manufactured at least in sections by means of a generative process, in particular by means of 3D printing, especially at the delivery section (72).

17. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that at least one nozzle element (24, 50,

52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96) is lance-shaped and can be inserted into cavities (100) of the component (12) by means of the drive device (32), in particular that the nozzle element (24, 50, 52 , 84, 86,

88, 90, 92, 94, 96) is adapted to the contours of the cavities (100).

18. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the cleaning device (10; 40; 80) comprises a transport device (20) with which the component (12) can be fed to the at least one nozzle device (22), in particular that a plurality of functionally identical or identical nozzle devices (22) is provided and that with the transport device (20) a plurality of components (12) can be fed to the nozzle devices (22) simultaneously and can be cleaned by them.

19. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the cleaning device (10; 40; 80) comprises a monitoring device for determining whether the Turn provided nozzle device (22) for cleaning the component (12) is suitable.

20. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by carrying out a cleaning process for the components (12), comprising at least two of the following steps:

Cleaning of cavities (100) of a respective component (12) by means of at least one lance-shaped nozzle element (24, 50, 52, 84, 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96);

Vibration of the respective component (12), preferably with simultaneous application of the cleaning medium via the nozzle device (22), while a relative movement of the component (12) and the nozzle device (22) takes place;

Loading the receiving device (18), in particular at receiving points for the component (12);

Cleaning overhead surfaces (62) of the component (12);

Cleaning the side surfaces (60) of the component (12).

21. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that the cleaning device (10; 40; 80) comprises a vibration device (102) for subjecting the component (12) to vibrations.

22. A method for cleaning, in particular, electrical components with a gaseous cleaning medium, in which, depending on the construction, at least one nozzle element of a nozzle device adapted to at least one contour of the component, in particular an outer contour or an envelope surface, is selected and aligned with the component and the component is acted upon with the cleaning medium, the component and the at least one nozzle element being moved relative to one another during the cleaning, the selection of the nozzle element tes in particular includes replacing the at least one nozzle element on a holding device.