阅读说明：本技术 介质涂覆设备 (Medium coating device ) 是由 M·波尔曼 R·舒勒 S·阿曼 B·埃尔克特 G·西贝尔 I·塞尔 J·德普纳 J·普 于 2018-11-29 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种介质涂覆设备、尤其是颜料涂覆设备,该介质涂覆设备具有用于将至少一个介质输出到至少一个表面(18a)上的至少一个介质输出单元(12a-12e；12g),该介质输出单元具有带着至少一个喷嘴元件(16a-16e；16g；16h；106c、108c、110c)的至少一个喷嘴单元(14a-14e；14g),并且该介质涂覆设备具有至少用于控制和/或调节所述介质输出单元(12a-12e；12g)的至少一个电子部件单元(20a；20b)。本发明提出,所述喷嘴元件(16a-16e；16g；16h；106c、108c、110c)的至少一个喷嘴参数是能调整和/或能校准的,和/或,所述喷嘴单元(14g)构造为振荡喷嘴单元、尤其构造为压电喷嘴单元。(The invention relates to a media application device, in particular a paint application device, comprising at least one media delivery unit (12a-12 e; 12g) for delivering at least one medium onto at least one surface (18a), comprising at least one nozzle unit (14a-14 e; 14g) having at least one nozzle element (16a-16 e; 16 g; 16 h; 106c, 108c, 110c), and comprising at least one electronic component unit (20 a; 20b) for controlling and/or regulating the media delivery unit (12a-12 e; 12 g). According to the invention, at least one nozzle parameter of the nozzle elements (16a-16 e; 16 g; 16 h; 106c, 108c, 110c) is adjustable and/or adjustable, and/or the nozzle unit (14g) is designed as an oscillating nozzle unit, in particular as a piezo nozzle unit.)

1. Media coating device, in particular paint coating device, having at least one media delivery unit (12a-12 e; 12g) for delivering at least one medium onto at least one surface (18a), having at least one nozzle unit (14a-14 e; 14g) with at least one nozzle element (16a-16 e; 16 g; 16 h; 106c, 108c, 110c), and having at least one electronic component unit (20 a; 20b) at least for controlling and/or adjusting the media delivery unit (12a-12 e; 12g), characterized in that at least one nozzle parameter of the nozzle element (16a-16 e; 16 g; 16 h; 106c, 108c, 110c) is adjustable and/or calibratable, and/or the nozzle unit (14g) is designed as an oscillating nozzle unit, in particular as a piezo nozzle unit.

2. Media application apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit (112b) is provided, which has at least one underpressure unit (114b) for conveying cleaning fluid counter to the media application direction (116 b).

3. The media coating installation as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, in particular for cleaning the nozzle elements (16c, 106c, 108c, 110c) and/or the valve elements (62c, 118c, 120c, 122c) of the nozzle unit (14c) by means of the cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit (112c), the nozzle unit (14c) is configured as a turret nozzle unit.

4. The media coating installation according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the nozzle unit (14g) has at least one oscillating membrane (124g) for outputting the medium and at least one excitation element (126g) for vibrationally exciting the oscillating membrane (124g), in particular in an ultrasonic frequency range.

5. The media coating apparatus of claim 4, wherein the excitation element (126g) is arranged at least substantially annularly on the oscillating diaphragm (124g) along at least substantially the entire maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm (124 g).

6. The media coating device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the oscillating membrane (124g) has at least one perforated grid (128 g; 128 g') of media through openings (130g) which is configured such that media coating dots can be produced by means of the nozzle unit (14g), said media coating dots having a maximum diameter of more than 1 mm.

7. Media coating apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one operating unit (132a) and/or operating function is provided, wherein the operating unit (132a) and/or the operating function is provided for stepwise or stepless control of the grey value or shade of at least one single point.

8. Coating system with at least one media coating device, in particular with at least one media coating device according to one of the preceding claims, and with at least one control and/or regulating unit (24a), characterized in that the control and/or regulating unit (24a) has at least one sensing device (26a) which is provided for sensing at least one position and/or orientation of the media coating device relative to at least one surface (18a), and in that at least one electronic component unit (20 a; 20b) of the media coating device is provided for controlling and/or regulating at least one media output unit (12a) of the media coating device (10a) as a function of at least one characteristic variable of the sensing device (26 a).

9. A coating system according to claim 8, wherein the electronic component unit (20a) is provided for controlling and/or adjusting the medium output unit (12a) such that the output of at least one medium takes place only with the medium output unit (12a) oriented at least substantially perpendicularly with respect to the surface (18 a).

10. Coating system according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the sensing device (26a) is arranged for sensing at least one area (28a) different from other areas of the surface (18a), in which area the electronic component unit (20a) controls and/or adjusts the medium output unit (12a) such that the output of the medium is stopped.

11. Coating system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the control and/or regulating unit (24a) has at least one inclination sensor unit (30a) which is arranged for sensing at least one inclination of the sensing device (26a) at least with respect to the surface (18a) and compensating the sensed inclination.

12. Coating system, in particular according to one of claims 8 to 11, having at least one medium application device, in particular according to one of claims 1 to 7, and having at least one alternating reserve device (134h), which can be coupled to the medium application device, for receiving at least one medium, characterized in that the alternating reserve device (134h) has at least one oscillating membrane (136h) for outputting the medium, wherein the oscillating membrane (136h) can be vibrationally excited, in particular in the ultrasonic frequency range, by means of the alternating reserve device (134h) and/or at least one excitation element (138h) of the medium application device.

13. Coating system according to claim 12, characterized in that the alternating reserve device (134h) has at least one identification unit (140h) for mechanical, optical, electronic and/or electromagnetic identification by means of at least one detection unit (142h) of the medium coating device.

14. Coating system according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the alternating reserve device (134h) has at least one absorption unit (144h) which is provided for preventing an uncontrolled outflow of the medium.

15. Method for operating a coating system, in particular according to one of claims 8 to 14, characterized in that at least one quantity and/or type of media required for an at least substantially uninterrupted media coating process is pre-calculated and output to at least one user (38 a).

Technical Field

A media coating device has been proposed, which has at least one media output unit for outputting at least one medium onto at least one surface, which has at least one nozzle unit with at least one nozzle element, and at least one electronic component unit at least for controlling and/or regulating the media output unit.

Disclosure of Invention

The invention relates to a media application device, in particular a paint application device, having at least one media discharge unit for discharging at least one medium onto at least one surface, having at least one nozzle unit with at least one nozzle element, and having at least one electronic component unit for controlling and/or regulating the media discharge unit.

The invention proposes that at least one nozzle parameter of the nozzle element is adjustable and/or that the nozzle unit is designed as an oscillating nozzle unit, in particular as a piezo nozzle unit. Preferably, at least one nozzle parameter of the nozzle element can be automatically adjusted and/or adapted, in particular as a function of the characteristic variable sensed by means of the sensing device.

The media application device is preferably designed as a paint application device. The media application device is preferably designed as a handheld media application device. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the media application device can be moved automatically and/or autonomously. Preferably, the medium application device is provided for making, in particular, dot-based frescoes. Preferably, the media application device can be provided for other applications, for making woodboard drawings and/or window drawings, for marking drill holes and/or pipe runs, and other applications that are considered to be of interest to a person skilled in the art. "provided" is to be understood in particular as specifically programmed, designed and/or equipped. The term "function that the object is provided with for determining" is to be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and/or executes the determined function in at least one application and/or operating state.

The medium discharge unit is preferably provided for discharging the medium onto a surface, in particular for spraying onto the surface. The surface may be constructed, inter alia, as a wall, a plank, a window, a canvas, a wallpaper, a wood face, or other surface deemed significant by one skilled in the art. The medium can be discharged, in particular, through the nozzle element onto the surface. Preferably, the nozzle element is shaped such that the medium can be applied to the surface in the form of dots. Preferably, the nozzle element is arranged adjustably, in particular rotatably, on a housing of the medium application device. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the cross section of the nozzle outlet opening of the nozzle element to be configured to be adjustable in size. In particular, the direction of the medium discharge from the nozzle element onto the surface and/or the shape or diameter of the medium application point applied to the surface by the nozzle element can be changed by adjusting the nozzle element. Preferably, the medium outlet direction of the nozzle element is oriented at least substantially in the same row as a reference element of the medium application device, such as a light emitting element, a radio transmitter, a coding element, etc., in the case of a standard orientation of the nozzle element. Preferably, the position and/or orientation of the media application apparatus relative to the surface may be sensed with reference to a reference element of the media application apparatus, in particular by an external unit. The nozzle element can be adjusted in particular in such a way that the medium outlet direction of the nozzle element is oriented at an angle to a row of reference elements with the medium application device. Preferably, a sharp edge of the medium application can be produced by this adjustment of the nozzle element. Preferably, the nozzle element has at least one adjustable and/or calibratable nozzle parameter. The nozzle parameters can be configured in particular as the orientation of the nozzle element, the medium outlet pressure of the nozzle element, the medium outlet quantity of the nozzle element, the size of the cross section of the nozzle outlet opening of the nozzle element or other nozzle parameters considered to be relevant by the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the nozzle parameters may be adjusted and/or calibrated by the user. For example, it is conceivable for the user to adjust the media outlet pressure of the nozzle element as a function of the distance at which the media outlet unit is guided relative to the surface. In principle, it is conceivable for the nozzle unit to have a plurality of nozzle elements. In particular, the nozzle elements can be arranged next to one another, in particular along an imaginary straight line, on a housing of the media application device. Preferably, the nozzle elements have the same medium output direction for outputting the medium onto the surface. Preferably, a plurality of medium application points can be applied simultaneously to the surface by a plurality of nozzle elements. Preferably, the media coating process may be accelerated by a plurality of nozzle elements compared to using a single nozzle element. The media application process is in particular designed as a process in which the user applies the media for producing the media application to the surface by means of a media application device.

The medium is preferably at least partially designed as a liquid medium. In particular, the medium can be provided for spray coating. Preferably, the medium is configured as a pigment medium, such as a lacquer, a dispersion pigment, an acrylic lacquer, or the like. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the medium to be designed as a spray chalk, a spray film or other medium which is considered to be expedient by the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the medium may be contained in a container. The medium application device may in particular have an engaging and/or fixing unit for engaging and/or fixing a container containing the medium. The container can be configured in particular as a glue pot, cartridge, tank, bottle, spray pot or other container which is considered to be expedient by the person skilled in the art. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the media application device to have an integrated container for directly receiving the media. Preferably, the medium can be supplied to the medium outlet unit by means of a line element. The line element can preferably be connected to the container, in particular in such a way that a supply of the medium received in the container to the nozzle element is possible. Preferably, the medium can be supplied to the nozzle element, in particular, through a line element, for example, by means of compressed air of a compressed air unit or the like. The compressed air unit can in particular be integrated into the media application device or be designed as an external compressed air unit. The compressed air unit can be designed, for example, as a compressed air compressor or the like. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the nozzle unit to have at least one valve element, which is in particular connected to the nozzle element. In particular, the flow rate of the medium to the nozzle element and/or the delivery pressure of the medium can be set by means of the valve element of the nozzle unit.

An "electronic component unit" is to be understood to mean, in particular, a unit having at least one control electronic component. The term "control electronics" is to be understood to mean, in particular, a unit having a processor unit and a memory unit, as well as an operating program stored in the memory unit. Preferably, the electronic component unit can control and/or adjust a plurality of parameters of the medium output unit. Preferably, the electronic component unit can control and/or regulate the progress of the medium output, the duration of the medium output and other parameters considered to be meaningful by a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the electronic component unit can control and/or regulate the medium output unit as a function of the further parameters and/or characteristic variables. The electronic component unit can preferably be connected, in particular conductively connected, to the media output unit for controlling and/or regulating the media output unit.

The nozzle unit, which is designed as an oscillating nozzle unit, is provided in particular for discharging the medium by means of an oscillating diaphragm of the nozzle unit, which is excited to oscillate. The nozzle unit, which is designed as a piezo nozzle unit, preferably has at least one piezo crystal, which is provided to excite an oscillating membrane of the nozzle unit to produce vibrations. The nozzle unit is preferably designed as an ultrasonic nozzle unit, wherein the oscillating membrane of the nozzle unit can be excited to vibrate, in particular in the ultrasonic frequency range. Preferably, the nozzle unit, which is designed as an oscillating nozzle unit, is arranged at least in sections on the container for receiving the medium. Preferably, the nozzle unit, in particular the oscillating membrane of the nozzle unit, which is designed as an oscillating nozzle unit, is designed at least in sections as a side wall of a container for receiving the medium. The nozzle unit, which is designed as an oscillating nozzle unit, is provided in particular for the delivery of a plurality of different media, such as lubricants, pan defrosters, spray adhesives, mold removers, insect repellents, visibility sprays, urea solutions, care agents, cleaning agents, coolants, water, sauces, etc.

Preferably, a nozzle unit configured as an oscillating nozzle unit is provided for outputting the medium, for which purpose the medium is at least partially atomized. Preferably, a media coating device comprising a nozzle unit configured as an oscillating nozzle unit is provided for generating a spray image, for example by means of output spray colour. However, it is also conceivable for the media application device to be provided for use in a vehicle, wherein the oscillating nozzle unit is provided, for example, for discharging a urea solution for exhaust gas aftertreatment, for discharging a cleaning agent in an interior of the vehicle, or the like, for use in a domestic appliance, for example, in a refrigerator, a coffee machine, an oven, a wiping robot, or a shower head or a water faucet, wherein the oscillating nozzle unit is provided, for example, for automatically discharging a cleaning agent, a mist, a sauce, or the like, or for use on a machine tool, wherein the oscillating nozzle unit is provided, for example, for discharging a coolant, a lubricant, or the like.

The nozzle parameters of the nozzle element can advantageously be set and/or calibrated by the configuration of the media application device according to the invention. Advantageously, the nozzle parameters of the nozzle element can be optimized for different applications of the media coating device. The medium application device can advantageously be used in different applications for producing the medium application. Advantageously, a particularly advantageously precise media output which is optimized for the application can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that the electronic component unit is provided for automatically adjusting and/or calibrating the nozzle parameters. In particular, the electronic component unit is provided for adjusting the nozzle parameters as a function of the further parameters. Preferably, the electronic component unit may adjust the medium output pressure of the nozzle element according to a distance of the medium output unit with respect to the surface. In particular, the medium application device may have a distance sensor unit, such as a lidar, a radar or the like, which is preferably provided for sensing the distance of the medium output unit relative to the surface. Preferably, the distance sensor unit conducts, in particular, an electrical signal relating to the distance of the medium outlet unit from the surface to the electronic component unit. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the electronic component unit to obtain a signal from a further unit, which is in particular designed outside the media application device, as to the distance of the media output unit from the surface. Preferably, the medium output unit may have a driving part, such as a servo motor or the like. In particular, the electronic component unit may operate the servo motor for automatic adjustment and/or calibration of the orientation of the nozzle element. Advantageously, the burden on the user to adjust and/or calibrate the nozzle parameters may be reduced. Advantageously, the user may be relieved of burden during the media application process. Advantageously, a comfortable media coating process can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that the media application device comprises at least one cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit which has at least one cleaning function for the media output unit and/or which is at least provided for preventing contamination of the environment surrounding the media output unit. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit is preferably connected to the media discharge unit, in particular a nozzle unit of the media discharge unit, and/or integrated into the media discharge unit. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit preferably has at least one function for cleaning the media outlet unit, in particular media residues. Preferably, the cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit has multiple cleaning functions. In particular, the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit has at least one, preferably a plurality of subunits and/or elements, in particular in order to provide a plurality of cleaning functions. Preferably, the cleaning function can be configured to flush the nozzle element and/or the valve element with a cleaning medium, in particular with a cleaning fluid, to blow clean the nozzle element and/or the valve element, to wipe the nozzle element, to mechanically scrape the nozzle element and/or the valve element, to remove media residues by vibration of the nozzle element and/or the valve element, or to otherwise have a cleaning function which is considered to be of interest to a person skilled in the art.

Preferably, the environment surrounding the medium outlet unit comprises a surface, in particular a region of the surface which is not provided for the medium application, and a further, in particular stationary, object surrounding the medium outlet unit. In particular, objects arranged in the interior, such as furniture, walls, doors or the like, can form an environment surrounding the media outlet unit when the media outlet unit is used in the interior. In particular, objects arranged in the outer region, such as trees, houses or the like, in the case of the use of the media output unit in the outer region, can form an environment surrounding the media output unit. Preferably, the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit is provided for at least substantially preventing the output of the medium by the medium output unit onto areas of the environment surrounding the medium output unit that are not provided for medium coating. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit is in particular provided for influencing the media output by the media output unit in such a way that contamination of the environment surrounding the media output unit, in particular by the media, is prevented. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit in order to prevent contamination of the environment surrounding the media outlet unit has in particular at least one, preferably a plurality of subunits and/or elements. Preferably, the cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit avoids contamination of the environment surrounding the media output unit by sucking away the media at the nozzle element, by diverting the media, by collecting the media, by leading the media away, for example by means of a gutter or the like, by accurately dispensing (Ausbringen) the media, by droplet protection for the nozzle element, or in a way that would otherwise be considered meaningful to a person skilled in the art.

Preferably, the nozzle unit configured as an oscillating nozzle unit is operatively connected to or at least partially configured as a cleaning and/or contamination-preventing unit. The cleaning and/or contamination-avoidance unit serves in particular for cleaning the oscillating membrane, in particular a plurality of medium passage openings of the oscillating membrane.

The media outlet unit can advantageously be cleaned by the configuration of the media application device according to the invention. Advantageously, clogging and/or drying of the valve element and/or the nozzle element may be prevented. Advantageously, a media coating installation with a long service life and low maintenance costs can be provided. Advantageously, a high user comfort may be achieved. Advantageously, contamination of the environment surrounding the media output unit can be avoided. Advantageously, a media coating process can be achieved that is at least substantially free of cleaning expense.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit has at least one cleaning element which is provided for cleaning the nozzle element and/or the valve element of the nozzle unit. Preferably, the cleaning element is arranged on the nozzle element and/or the valve element. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the cleaning element to be arranged outside the media output unit, for example in a cleaning station or the like. Preferably, the cleaning element is provided for cleaning the nozzle element and/or the valve element by means of a cleaning fluid. The cleaning fluid can be configured in particular as a cleaning liquid, compressed air or other cleaning fluid which is considered to be of interest to the person skilled in the art. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the cleaning element is provided for cleaning the nozzle element and/or the valve element by means of ultrasound, mechanical action or another measure considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. Advantageously, the nozzle element and/or the valve element can be cleaned. Advantageously, clogging and/or drying of the valve element and/or the nozzle element may be prevented.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit has at least one storage unit for receiving at least one cleaning fluid and/or cleaning fluid unit. Preferably, the storage unit is designed as an at least substantially fluid-tight tank. Preferably, the storage unit comprises a particularly closable filling element, by means of which the storage unit can be filled, preferably with cleaning fluid. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the storage unit comprises at least one receiving element for receiving at least one cleaning fluid unit. The cleaning fluid unit may in particular be configured as a container containing a cleaning fluid. Preferably, the cleaning fluid unit, in particular an empty cleaning fluid unit, can be removed from the storage unit and can be replaced by a new, in particular full, cleaning fluid unit. Preferably, the receiving element can be configured as a screw closure, snap closure or other receiving element which is considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the storage unit is connected to the cleaning element and/or to the nozzle unit, in particular for supplying the cleaning fluid. Advantageously, a cleaning fluid, in particular for a cleaning medium outlet unit, can be received and provided.

It is furthermore proposed that the media application device comprises at least one cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit, in particular the aforementioned cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit, which has at least one underpressure unit for conveying the cleaning fluid counter to the media application direction. Preferably, the vacuum unit is connected to the storage unit and/or the cleaning element, in particular for conveying cleaning fluid. Preferably, the negative pressure unit is provided for conveying the cleaning fluid at least from the reservoir unit to the cleaning element. The underpressure unit is provided for generating an underpressure, in particular for conveying cleaning fluid. Preferably, the cleaning fluid is drawn out of the reservoir unit by means of a negative pressure. Preferably, the vacuum unit is configured as a pump or other vacuum unit considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. The medium application direction is realized in particular in a direction in which the medium is discharged, in particular onto the surface, by the nozzle element. Preferably, the cleaning fluid is conveyed through the nozzle element and/or the valve element by the underpressure unit and in particular by the cleaning element counter to the medium application direction. Advantageously, the media residue can be conveyed out of the nozzle element and/or out of the valve element. Advantageously, clogging and/or drying of the nozzle element and/or the valve element may be prevented.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the nozzle unit is designed as a turret nozzle unit, in particular for cleaning the nozzle elements and/or valve elements of the nozzle unit by means of a cleaning and/or contamination-preventing unit. Preferably, the turret nozzle unit comprises a plurality of nozzle elements. It is additionally conceivable for the turret nozzle unit to have a plurality of valve elements. Preferably, the turret nozzle unit has a plurality of differently configured nozzle elements and/or valve elements, in particular for flexible application possibilities of the turret nozzle unit. The nozzle elements can be distinguished in particular by the diameter of the nozzle opening of the nozzle element, by the form of the nozzle opening, by the size of the nozzle element, by the shaping of the nozzle element and/or by other features of the nozzle element which are considered to be of interest to a person skilled in the art. The valve elements can be distinguished in particular by their volume, by their length, by their actuating mechanism and/or by other features of the valve element which are considered to be relevant by a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the at least one nozzle element and/or valve element can be transferred into the operating position and at the same time the at least one further nozzle element and/or valve element can be transferred into the cleaning position by a movement, in particular a rotation, of the turret nozzle unit. In the operating position, the nozzle element is in particular provided for the medium discharge. In the cleaning position, the nozzle element is in particular provided for cleaning, preferably by means of a cleaning element. Preferably, the medium outlet can be performed by at least one nozzle element, while at the same time cleaning of at least one further valve element and/or nozzle element takes place. Advantageously, the necessity of an interruption of the medium application process for cleaning the valve element and/or the nozzle element can be eliminated. Advantageously, a smoother and more efficient medium coating process can be achieved compared to without the turret nozzle unit. Advantageously, a high user comfort may be achieved.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit has at least one actuator element, at least one pusher element and at least one membrane element for dispensing the medium through the nozzle element. Preferably, the actuator element is operatively connected to the pusher element. Preferably, the tappet element is operatively connected to the diaphragm element. Preferably, at least the diaphragm element is arranged on the valve element. In particular, the medium located in the valve element can be compressed by means of the movement of the diaphragm element. Preferably, the medium can be extruded through the nozzle element due to the compression and in particular dispensed. Preferably, the diaphragm element is activated in movement by a movement of the tappet element. Preferably, the pusher element is activated into motion by an actuator element. The actuator element can be designed in particular as a magnetic actuator, eddy current actuator, piezoelectric actuator or other actuator element which is considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the actuator element is controlled and/or regulated by the electronic component unit. Advantageously, the controlled medium output can be achieved by means of a nozzle element. Advantageously, clogging and/or drying of the nozzle element and/or the valve element can be prevented, in particular due to the construction of the cleaning and/or contamination avoiding unit.

It is furthermore proposed that the nozzle unit has at least one oscillating membrane for the discharge of the medium and at least one excitation element for the vibrational excitation of the oscillating membrane, in particular in the ultrasonic frequency range. Preferably, the oscillating membrane is at least partially elastically designed, in particular, to be able to excite vibrations. Preferably, the oscillating membrane has a plurality of medium through openings through which a medium can be dispensed. The medium passage openings are in particular embodied as perforations or holes of the oscillating membrane. The oscillating membrane is in particular designed as an ultrasonic membrane, preferably as an ultrasonic plate. The oscillating diaphragm is at least substantially designed as a nozzle element of a nozzle unit designed as an oscillating nozzle unit. The oscillating diaphragm is preferably of circular design, viewed in the main plane of extension of the oscillating diaphragm. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the oscillating diaphragm to be designed such that it has an elliptical shape, a polygonal shape, such as a square or triangle, or the like, when viewed in the main plane of extension of the oscillating diaphragm. A "main plane of extension" of an object is to be understood to mean, in particular, a plane which runs parallel to the largest side of the smallest imaginary right-angled parallelepiped which surrounds the object exactly also completely and, in particular, runs through the center point of the right-angled parallelepiped.

Preferably, the excitation element is arranged on the oscillating membrane, in particular in operative connection with the oscillating membrane. Preferably, the excitation element is provided for exciting the oscillating membrane into a vibration at least substantially perpendicular to the main extension plane of the oscillating membrane. Preferably, the oscillating diaphragm and the excitation element are designed such that the oscillating diaphragm touches a medium transport element of the medium discharge unit as a result of an excitation transverse to the main plane of extension of the oscillating diaphragm, the medium transport element being provided for transporting the medium from the container for receiving the medium to the oscillating diaphragm, and a part of the medium is received from the medium transport element and discharged, in particular ejected, through the medium passage opening in a direction away from the container for receiving the medium by a subsequent movement of the oscillating diaphragm. The medium-conveying element can be designed to be particularly pumpable and to function according to the wicking principle or the sponge principle. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the medium discharge unit is designed without a medium transport element and that the oscillating diaphragm and the excitation element are designed such that the oscillating diaphragm, as a result of the excitation transverse to the main plane of extension of the oscillating diaphragm, at least partially protrudes into the medium, for example into a container for receiving the medium, on which container the oscillating diaphragm is arranged, wherein a part of the medium is received and the medium is discharged, in particular ejected, through the medium passage opening in a direction away from the container by a subsequent movement of the oscillating diaphragm.

The nozzle unit designed as an oscillating nozzle unit is provided in particular for outputting, in particular printing medium application dots, at an output frequency of at least 50 medium application dots per second, preferably at an output frequency of at least 100 medium application dots per second and particularly preferably at an output frequency of at least 200 medium application dots per second. The excitation element is in particular provided for vibrationally exciting the oscillating membrane with an excitation frequency of at least 1kHz, preferably with an excitation frequency of at least 16kHz, particularly preferably with an excitation frequency of at least 20kHz and very particularly preferably with an excitation frequency of at least 130 kHz. The excitation element is in particular provided for vibrationally exciting the oscillating membrane with an excitation frequency of at most 200 kHz. Preferably, the excitation element is provided for vibrationally exciting the oscillating membrane with a predetermined, preferably adjustable, waveform, for example with a sinusoidal waveform, a triangular waveform, a sawtooth waveform or other waveforms considered to be meaningful by the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the desired excitation frequency and/or waveform can be predefined for the excitation element by an electronic component unit of the dielectric coating device, in particular by applying a voltage to the excitation element. Preferably, the excitation element is designed as a piezo crystal. The piezoelectric crystal changes its shape in particular as a result of a voltage applied to the piezoelectric crystal, which leads to a vibration of the oscillating membrane in particular through a mechanical coupling of the piezoelectric crystal to the oscillating membrane. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the excitation element to be designed as a MEMS actuator (micromechanical system actuator), as an ultrasonic transducer or as another excitation element which is considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. Advantageously, a precisely controlled medium output can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that the excitation element is arranged at least substantially annularly on the oscillating diaphragm along at least substantially the entire maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm. The excitation element is arranged at least substantially annularly on the oscillating diaphragm, in particular along at least 60% of the maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm, preferably along at least 75% of the maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm, particularly preferably along at least 90% of the maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm, and very particularly preferably along the entire maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm. Preferably, the excitation element is mechanically coupled to the oscillating diaphragm along at least substantially the entire maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm. The oscillating diaphragm is in particular fixed to the excitation element along at least substantially the entire maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm. Preferably, the excitation element delimits the extension of the oscillating diaphragm in a main extension plane of the oscillating diaphragm. The excitation element is preferably designed as a piezoelectric ring. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the actuating element to be designed as a MEMS ring or the like. Advantageously, a compactly constructed nozzle unit can be provided, which enables an advantageously uniform excitation of the oscillating membrane. Advantageously, an accurate medium output of constant mass can be achieved.

It is also proposed that the oscillating membrane has at least one perforated grid of medium passage openings, which is designed in such a way that a medium application point can be produced by means of the nozzle unit, said medium application point having a maximum diameter of more than 1 mm. The perforated grid of the medium passage openings is in particular designed such that, by means of the nozzle unit, it is possible to print medium application dots having a maximum diameter of more than 1 mm. In particular, the oscillating membrane has at least one perforated grid of medium passage openings, which is designed in such a way that a medium application point can be generated by means of the nozzle unit at a distance of the nozzle unit from the surface on which the medium is discharged, preferably at a distance of the nozzle unit of at most 35cm from the surface, particularly preferably at a distance of the nozzle unit of at most 20cm from the surface and very particularly preferably at a distance of the nozzle unit of at most 10cm from the surface, said medium application point having a maximum diameter of more than 1 mm. In particular for printing medium application points, the nozzle unit has a distance of at most 1cm from the surface to be printed, preferably at most 5mm from the surface to be printed and particularly preferably at most 3mm from the surface to be printed. The perforated grid is in particular designed as the region of the oscillating membrane in which the medium passage openings are arranged. The perforated grid can preferably have different shapes, in particular depending on the shape of the dielectric coating point to be produced. The perforated grid is preferably configured circularly, elliptically, ovoid, polygonally, such as squarely, hexagonally, rhomboidally, triangularly or trapezoidally, semicircular, etc. Alternatively or additionally, it is contemplated that the perforated mesh panel may be constructed of themes (Motiv), such as seasonal themes, animal shapes, portrait characters, business icons, and the like. Preferably, the perforated grid is arranged in the central area of the oscillating membrane. The central region of the oscillating diaphragm is in particular a region of the oscillating diaphragm around a center point, in particular in a main plane of extension of the oscillating diaphragm.

Preferably, the medium passage opening has a diameter which is configured to be at least three times as large as the maximum particle size of the medium to be discharged. Preferably, the medium passage opening extends through the oscillating membrane at least substantially perpendicularly to a main extension plane of the oscillating membrane. The medium passage openings are in particular of cylindrical, truncated-cone or the like configuration. The medium passage openings are arranged in particular equidistantly with respect to one another. The oscillating membrane has in particular a density of at least 1 medium through opening per square millimeter of medium through openings, preferably at least 5 medium through openings per square millimeter, particularly preferably at least 10 medium through openings per square millimeter and very particularly preferably at least 20 medium through openings per square millimeter. Preferably, the nozzle unit provided for the jet-wise output and/or for atomizing the medium may comprise an oscillating membrane having a density of at least 80 medium through openings per square millimeter of medium through openings. The oscillating membrane has in particular at least 50 medium passage openings, preferably at least 75 medium passage openings and particularly preferably at least 100 medium passage openings. The oscillating membrane has in particular a maximum diameter of at least 1mm, preferably at least 2mm and particularly preferably at least 3 mm. Preferably, the oscillating membrane is provided for outputting water-based paints, in particular water-based acrylic paints. The media application device can in particular have at least one mixer unit and/or a chamber system for adjusting the mixing ratio of the color material to the water. Preferably, a cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit is provided for cleaning the medium passage openings, in particular flushing, blowing clean the medium passage openings in case of a blockage. Advantageously, a flexibly adaptable and large-area medium application can be realized.

It is furthermore proposed that the media application device comprises at least one mixer unit, which is in particular operatively connected to the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit and which is provided for mixing at least two different media. It is conceivable that the media application device is designed to solve the problem in the manner according to the invention in an alternative configuration independent of the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit. Preferably, the media application device comprises at least a mixer unit in an alternative configuration, in particular in a configuration configured independently of the cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit, which mixer unit is provided for mixing at least two different media. Preferably, a cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit is provided for cleaning the mixer unit. Preferably, the mixer unit has at least one mixing chamber in which at least two different media are mixed. Preferably, the mixing chamber is connected to a plurality of, preferably all, containers containing different media. Preferably, different media can be fed from the container into the mixing chamber. Preferably, the mixer unit has at least one metering element, preferably a number of metering elements corresponding to the number of different media, for metering the flow of the different media into the mixing chamber. In particular, the mixer unit can have at least one mixer element, such as a stirrer or the like. Preferably, the mixer element is arranged in the mixing chamber. The mixer element is especially provided for mixing different media. Preferably, all pigments can be mixed by a few basic pigments, in particular by four basic pigments, by means of the mixer unit if the different media are configured as different pigments. Advantageously, the different media can be mixed automatically. Advantageously, a variety of media outputs can be achieved. Advantageously, a high user comfort may be achieved.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit has at least one media supply unit which is provided for supplying media to the media discharge unit, in particular under the effect of an overpressure. Preferably, the overpressure is designed to be a pressure which is higher than the ambient pressure, in particular the air pressure, of the environment surrounding the medium outlet unit. The overpressure is in particular designed as a pressure which is higher than the pressure prevailing in the empty valve element. Preferably, the medium supply unit has a medium supply element, such as a hose, a tube or the like, for supplying the medium to the medium output unit. In particular, the medium supply element is connected in particular for guiding the medium to the mixer unit, in particular to a mixing chamber of the mixer unit, and/or to at least one container containing the medium. In particular, the medium supply element is connected to the medium outlet unit, in particular to the nozzle element and/or the valve element. Preferably, the medium supply unit has at least one medium conveying element, such as a pump or the like, for conveying the medium. In particular, the media transport element is arranged on the media supply element. Preferably, the medium conveying element is provided for generating an overpressure which squeezes out the medium, in particular from the mixing chamber of the mixer unit, from the nozzle element and/or into the valve element. Preferably, the medium is dispensed via the nozzle element by overpressure. The medium is advantageously supplied to the medium outlet unit, in particular under the effect of an overpressure. Advantageously, clogging and/or drying of the valve element and/or the nozzle element may be prevented.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit has at least one media return unit which is provided for receiving at least a part of the media at least during the media application process and supplying it to the mixer unit and/or the media discharge unit. The media application process is in particular designed as a process in which a user applies media to the surface by means of a media application device for producing the media application. Preferably, the medium return unit is provided for receiving a remaining portion of the medium for the medium coating section and supplying to the mixer unit and/or the medium output unit. In particular, the medium return unit has at least one collecting element for receiving, in particular for collecting, a portion of the medium. The medium return unit has in particular at least one return element for returning a portion of the medium to the mixer unit and/or the medium discharge unit. In particular, the collecting element and the return element are interconnected and preferably formed in one piece. Preferably, the guide-back element is connected with the mixing chamber, the nozzle element and/or the valve element of the mixer unit. Preferably, the collecting element is arranged behind the nozzle element, as viewed in the medium application direction, in particular at least partially in the flight path of the medium after it has been discharged from the nozzle element. In particular, the operation of the media dispensing unit according to the continuous inkjet method can be considered. Preferably, during operation of the media dispensing unit according to the continuous inkjet method, individual media drops, which are electrostatically charged, in particular by means of a charging electrode of the media dispensing unit, are dispensed through the nozzle element. In particular, the media drop is deflected by means of at least one deflection electrode of the media discharge unit onto a defined position on the surface. In particular, excess and/or excessively deflected media drops can be collected by the collecting element and fed to the mixer unit and/or the media discharge unit by the return element. Advantageously, a portion of the media may be reused. Advantageously, contamination of the environment surrounding the media output unit by excess media can be avoided.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit has at least one deflection unit, which is provided for deflecting at least a part of the medium at least during the medium coating process. Preferably, the deflection unit is provided for deflecting at least a part of the discharged medium away from a flight path of the medium, which is predetermined, in particular, by the orientation of the nozzle element and the discharge pressure. In particular, the deflection unit has at least one deflection element, which is provided for deflecting at least a part of the medium. Preferably, the deflection element can be configured as a direct or indirect deflection element. The direct deflection element is in particular in direct contact with the medium to be deflected. The direct deflecting element can be designed in particular as a wall, curtain or other direct deflecting element that is considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art and can be moved in particular at least partially into the flight path of the medium. The indirect deflection element generates, in particular, a force for deflecting the medium. The indirect deflection element can be designed in particular as an air nozzle for generating an air curtain, as a magnet for generating a magnetic field, in particular an electromagnet, or as another indirect deflection element which is considered to be of interest to the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the deflection unit has a further collecting element for receiving the deflection medium and a further return element for returning the deflection medium to the medium outlet unit and/or the mixer unit. Alternatively, it is conceivable to use the collecting element of the medium return unit for receiving the deflected medium and to use the return element of the medium return unit for returning the deflected medium to the mixer unit and/or the medium discharge unit. Advantageously, the medium can be conducted back. Advantageously, contamination of the environment surrounding the media output unit can be avoided.

It is furthermore proposed that at least the nozzle unit, the cleaning element, the storage unit, the mixer unit, the medium supply unit, the medium return unit and/or the deflection unit have an anti-soiling coating. Preferably, the nozzle unit, in particular the nozzle element and the valve element of the nozzle unit, and the cleaning element and the storage unit, and the mixing chamber of the mixer unit, in particular the mixer unit, and the medium supply unit, in particular the medium supply element and the medium transport element of the medium supply unit, and the medium return unit, in particular the collecting element and the return element of the medium return unit, and the deflection unit, in particular the deflection element of the deflection unit, the further collecting element and the further return element, have an anti-soiling coating. Preferably, the antifouling coating is configured as a nanostructured coating, for example according to the lotus principle, or other antifouling coatings considered to be of interest by the person skilled in the art. Advantageously, cleaning of the media application apparatus may be simplified. Advantageously, a high user comfort may be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that the media application device comprises at least one operating unit and/or operating function, wherein the operating unit and/or the operating function is provided for controlling and/or regulating at least one function of the media application device. In particular, the following embodiments of the operating unit and/or of the operating functions can be considered, wherein the following list is not final:

the operating unit is preferably designed as a switching element, for example as an on-off switch, a nozzle actuating switch, a push button, a touch switch, a physical switch for interrupting the current flow, or the like, and is arranged ergonomically in the grip region of the thumb of the user.

The operating unit is preferably designed as an output unit.

The operating unit and/or the operating function are preferably provided for the free dispensing of single points without restriction.

The operating unit is preferably designed as a safety operating element and/or the operating function is designed as a safety operating function, for example as an unlocking lock, a continuous actuation function or the like.

The operating unit is in particular designed as a reset operating element and/or the operating function is designed as a reset activation function in order to trigger a restart of the system, in particular of the operating system of the media application device.

The operating unit is preferably designed as a bluetooth operating element and/or the operating function is designed as a bluetooth activation function.

A wireless connection pairing operating element and/or a wireless connection pairing function provided for establishing a connection between the media application device and the camera and/or the computer unit may also be considered.

The operating unit and/or the operating function are in particular provided for controlling the output of the mixed color of two or more colors in a stepped and/or stepless manner.

The operating unit and/or the operating function are preferably provided for controlling the pigment dilution by means of one or more pigment diluents in a staged and/or stepless manner.

Preferably, a cleaning activation operating element and/or a cleaning activation function is provided.

The operating unit can preferably be designed as a haptic element. The haptic element is preferably configured as a vibration element. The haptic elements can be positioned differently, in particular on the appliance, in particular on the housing of the media application device. Preferably, a plurality of tactile elements can be positioned on the appliance, in particular on the housing of the media application device, which tactile elements can also be used individually.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the operating unit and/or the operating function is/are provided for applying at least one single point at a time in a defined position.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the operating unit and/or the operating function is/are provided for repeatedly applying at least one single point at a specific location. The operating unit and/or the operating function are in particular provided for repeated dispensing of single points at defined positions.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the operating unit and/or the operating function is/are provided for the stepwise or stepless control of the desired size of the at least one individual point.

It is furthermore proposed that the media coating device comprises at least one operating unit and/or operating function, in particular the mentioned operating unit and/or the mentioned operating function, wherein the operating unit and/or the operating function is provided for the stepwise or stepless control of the gray value or the shade of at least one single point. The operating unit and/or the operating function are preferably provided for activating or deactivating the automatic control of the spot size and/or the gray scale, in particular, of the spray image.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the operating unit and/or the operating function is/are provided for automatically controlling at least one operating mode.

It is further proposed that the operating unit and/or the operating function is/are provided for controlling at least one display. The operating unit and/or the operating function are in particular provided for controlling the display, in particular the view of the display for displaying the working position on the paint plane in front of the background of the working area.

It is further proposed that the operating unit and/or the operating function is provided for controlling at least one lighting unit. The operating unit is in particular designed as an illuminating operating element and/or the operating function is designed as an illuminating operating function.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the operating unit and/or the operating function is/are provided for voice or gesture control. The actuation of the media application device can also be realized in particular by voice and/or gesture control.

The invention further relates to a method for operating a media application device, in particular a media application device according to the invention.

The invention proposes that at least one nozzle element and/or at least one valve element be cleaned, in particular in at least one method step. Advantageously, the nozzle element and/or the valve element can be cleaned. Advantageously, clogging and/or drying of the valve element and/or the nozzle element may be prevented.

The invention further relates to a coating system having at least one media coating device, in particular at least one media coating device according to the invention, and at least one control and/or regulating unit.

The invention proposes that the control and/or regulating unit has at least one sensing device which is provided for sensing at least one position and/or orientation of the medium application device relative to at least one surface, and that the at least one electronic component unit of the medium application device is provided for controlling and/or regulating the at least one medium output unit of the medium application device with reference to at least one characteristic variable of the sensing device. A "control and/or regulating unit" is to be understood to mean, in particular, a unit having at least one control electronics. The control and/or regulating unit can preferably be configured as an external control and/or regulating unit, which is arranged in particular outside the media application device. The control and/or regulation unit may be configured in particular as a mobile device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer or other mobile device considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable to integrate the control and/or regulating unit into the media application device. In particular, the control and/or regulating unit, in particular the sensing device of the control and/or regulating unit, can be arranged in a common housing with the media application device. The sensing device is in particular provided for sensing at least one position and/or orientation of the medium application device relative to the surface, in particular in accordance with a reference element of the medium application device. For sensing the media application device, in particular the reference element of the media application device, the sensing device preferably has at least one sensing element. The sensing element can be designed in particular as a camera, an optical sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, an acoustic sensor or other sensing elements which are considered to be relevant by the person skilled in the art. In particular, the sensing device may have a plurality of preferably different sensing elements.

The media coating device and the control and/or regulating unit each preferably have at least one communication unit, in particular wireless, for exchanging electronic data with one another and/or with at least one further external unit, the communication units being in particular provided for transmitting data with a delay time of less than 30ms, the communication units preferably being configured as bluetooth units, radio units, light-based communication units or other communication units deemed appropriate by the person skilled in the art.

In particular, the characteristic variable of the sensing device can be transmitted by means of a communication unit of an electronic component unit of the media application device. Preferably, a plurality of characteristic variables of the sensing device can be transmitted to the electronic component unit. Preferably, the characteristic variable of the sensing device is configured as a characteristic variable sensed by the sensing device or as a parameter of the sensing device. Preferably, the characteristic variable sensed by the sensing device can be configured as a position of the media application device relative to the surface, an orientation of the media application device relative to the surface, a media application on the surface, a surface property of the surface or other characteristic variables sensed by the sensing device which are considered to be relevant by a person skilled in the art. The parameter of the sensing device can preferably be configured as an orientation of the sensing device relative to the surface, in particular a slope, or as another parameter of the sensing device which is considered to be meaningful by a person skilled in the art. Advantageously, the position and/or orientation of the medium application device relative to the surface is sensed. Advantageously, the medium outlet unit can be controlled and/or regulated as a function of a characteristic variable of the sensing device, in particular as a function of the position and/or orientation of the medium application device relative to the surface. Advantageously, a controlled media coating process can be achieved.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the electronic component unit is provided for controlling and/or regulating the media output unit in such a way that the output of at least one medium takes place only in the case of an at least substantially perpendicular orientation of the media output unit relative to the surface. The expression "substantially perpendicular" is intended here to define, in particular, an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, wherein the direction and the reference direction, in particular when viewed in a plane, enclose an angle of 90 ° and the angle has a maximum deviation of, in particular, less than 8 °, advantageously less than 5 °, and particularly advantageously less than 2 °. Preferably, the in particular at least substantially perpendicular orientation of the media output unit relative to the surface can be sensed by a sensing device of the control and/or regulating unit. Preferably, a signal relating to the orientation of the medium output unit relative to the surface can be directed onto the electronic component unit by means of the communication unit. Preferably, the electronic component unit is provided for sending a control signal for opening the nozzle element onto the media output unit with the media output unit being oriented at least substantially perpendicularly with respect to the surface. Preferably, the electronic component unit is provided for sending a control signal for closing the nozzle element onto the medium outlet unit if the orientation of the medium outlet unit relative to the surface deviates from an at least substantially perpendicular orientation of the medium outlet unit relative to the surface. Advantageously, the media output can be realized only in the case of an at least substantially perpendicular orientation of the media output unit relative to the surface. Advantageously, a precise coating of the medium can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that the sensing device is provided for sensing at least one object-specific characteristic variable, the electronic component unit controlling and/or regulating the at least one media output unit as a function of the characteristic variable. The object-specific characteristic variable is preferably configured as a surface-specific characteristic variable of the surface to which the agent coating is applied and/or as a coating-specific characteristic variable of the agent coating on the surface. The surface-specific characteristic variable can be in particular embodied as a material of the surface, a structure of the surface, a property of the surface, a temperature of the surface, a humidity of the surface or other surface-specific characteristic variables which are considered to be of interest to a person skilled in the art. The coating-specific characteristic variables can be configured in particular as the type of medium used for producing the medium coating, the coating thickness of the medium on the surface, inhomogeneities in the coating of the medium, the surface area covered by the medium on the surface, or other coating-specific characteristic variables which are considered to be of interest to the person skilled in the art. The sensing device may in particular have at least one object sensor element for sensing an object-specific characteristic variable. The object sensor element can preferably be designed as a camera, lidar device, laser scanner, laser thermometer, thermography camera, infrared hygrometer, radar device, ultrasonic sensor or other object sensor element that is considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. Alternatively, it is conceivable to use the sensing element of the sensing device for sensing the object-specific characteristic variable. Advantageously, the medium application can be adapted according to object-specific characteristic variables. Advantageously, a higher quality of the medium application than without sensing the object-specific characteristic variable can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that the sensing device is provided for sensing at least one region of the surface which is different from the other regions and in which the electronic component unit controls and/or regulates the medium discharge unit in such a way that the discharge of the medium is stopped. In particular, regions other than other regions of the surface can be sensed by means of the sensing elements of the sensing device. Preferably, the areas other than the other areas of the surface may be configured as doors, windows, light control switches or other areas other than the other areas of the surface that are deemed significant by those skilled in the art. Preferably, the sensing device sends a signal to the electronic component unit about the position of the area to be vacated when the medium application section is made. In particular, when the media discharge unit is located in the region to be emptied, the electronic component unit preferably controls and/or regulates the media discharge unit in such a way that the nozzle element is closed and/or remains closed. Advantageously, the medium can be discharged automatically only in the region of the surface provided for the medium application. Advantageously, the region to be freed on the surface can be omitted by masking, in particular by masking, by the user. Advantageously, a comfortable media coating process can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that the control and/or regulating unit has at least one inclination sensor unit which is provided for sensing at least one inclination of the sensing device at least relative to the surface and for compensating the sensed inclination. Preferably, the slope sensor unit has at least one slope sensing element arranged to sense the slope of the sensing device relative to the surface. The slope sensing element may be configured, inter alia, as a slope sensor, gyroscope, or other slope sensing element deemed significant by one skilled in the art. Preferably, the slope sensing element senses the orientation of the sensing device relative to the surface in a plurality of spatial directions. Preferably, the slope sensor unit has at least one slope compensation element arranged to compensate for the slope of the sensed sensing device relative to the surface. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the sensed inclination of the sensing device relative to the surface is compensated by means of an arithmetic unit of the control and/or regulating unit and/or by means of an electronic component unit of the medium application device. Preferably, the slope compensation element is configured as a microprocessor, digital circuit, or other slope compensation element deemed significant by one skilled in the art. Preferably, the slope compensation element may calculate a deviation of the position and/or orientation of the media coating device relative to the surface sensed by means of the tilted sensing device from the sensed slope of the sensing device relative to the surface. In particular, the inclination compensation element can correct the sensing of distortions of the surface, of the media application on the surface and/or of the media application device caused by the inclination of the sensing device relative to the surface by means of a trapezoidal correction, in particular by means of a horizontal and/or vertical trapezoidal correction, depending on the inclination of the sensing device relative to the surface being sensed. Advantageously, the slope of the sensing device relative to the surface may be compensated for. Advantageously, the correct functionality of the sensing device being tilted with respect to the surface may be ensured.

It is furthermore proposed that the sensing device has at least one arithmetic unit which is provided for precalculating at least one region on the surface which is continuous with respect to the application of the medium, in which region the electronic component unit controls and/or regulates the medium discharge unit in such a way that the at least one nozzle element is kept open. An "arithmetic unit" is to be understood to mean, in particular, a processor, a controller of a memory unit and/or an operating, control and/or computing program stored in a memory unit. In particular, a media application strategy for the media application process can be stored in a memory unit of the arithmetic unit. The media coating strategy is in particular a flow plan for the media coating process. The media coating strategy comprises, in particular, for each media coating spot of the material to be coated, information about the output position on the surface, the spot size and the media type. The media coating strategy comprises inter alia the number of media to be used and the sequence of coatings with respect to the media to be used. Preferably, a media coating strategy is used to control and/or regulate the media output unit. The region on the surface that is continuous with respect to the media application can be configured in particular as a region on the surface in which the media application strategy provides media application of a plurality of media application points of the same media type, in particular of the same media type with at least 10 media application points of the region at a distance of at least 5 media application points from the edge of the material. Preferably, the arithmetic unit can calculate in advance the areas on the surface that are continuous with respect to the media application according to the media application strategy. The arithmetic unit of the electronic component unit may in particular send signals regarding the position of the continuous area on the surface. Preferably, the electronic component unit can control and/or regulate the media discharge unit, in particular in respect of the position of the media discharge unit, in successive regions on the surface in such a way that the nozzle element remains open and a continuous media discharge onto the surface takes place in successive regions on the surface. Advantageously, a smoother medium application process can be achieved than without continuous opening of the nozzle element.

The invention further relates to a coating system, in particular a coating system according to the invention, having at least one media application device, in particular at least one media application device according to the invention, and at least one spray can unit with at least one further nozzle unit having at least one further nozzle element and at least one further valve element.

The invention proposes that at least one cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit of the media application device has at least one actuator unit which is provided for actuating the further valve element in order to dispense at least one medium via the further nozzle element. It is conceivable that the coating system has, in addition to the media coating device and the spray tank unit, at least one control and/or regulating unit, in particular the control and/or regulating unit mentioned. The spray tank unit is preferably designed as a spray tank, which contains, in particular, a medium. It is additionally conceivable that the spray can unit contains a dissolved aerosol, in particular for spraying the medium out of the further nozzle element under the effect of an overpressure. Preferably, the spray can unit has at least one further fastening element, such as a clamping closure, a screw closure, a snap closure or the like, for fastening to an engagement and/or fastening unit of the media application device. Preferably, the actuator unit has at least one further tappet element, which is provided for actuating the further valve element. In particular, the further tappet element is operatively connected to the further valve element in the state in which the spray can unit is mounted on the medium application device. Preferably, the actuator unit comprises at least one further actuator element for energizing the pusher element. The further actuator element may be designed in particular as a magnetic actuator, eddy current actuator, piezoelectric actuator or other actuator element which is considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. Advantageously, a cost-effective media application device can be provided, and the displacement can eliminate the nozzle unit in the media application device. Advantageously, the actuator unit can be completely separate from the media guidance and the media output. Advantageously, contamination of the actuator unit can be avoided. Advantageously, in particular in the case of drying and/or clogging of a further nozzle unit of the spray can unit, the spray can unit can be replaced by a new spray can unit, in particular by the user.

The invention further relates to a coating system, in particular a coating system according to the invention, having at least one media coating device, in particular at least one media coating device according to the invention, and at least one alternating reserve device that can be coupled to the media coating device for receiving at least one medium.

The invention proposes that the alternating reserve device has at least one oscillating membrane for the output of the medium, wherein the oscillating membrane is vibratably excited, in particular in the ultrasonic frequency range, by means of at least one excitation element of the alternating reserve device and/or of the medium application device. It is conceivable that the coating system has, in addition to the medium coating device and the alternating reserve device, at least one control and/or regulating unit, in particular the control and/or regulating unit mentioned. In particular, the alternating reserve device has at least one alternating container for receiving the medium. Preferably, the alternating containers are at least substantially fluid-tight. Preferably, the alternating stocking device, in particular the alternating container, is provided for single use. In particular, the alternating storage device, in particular the alternating containers, is provided to be purged after complete emptying. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the alternating storage device to be designed to be reusable, in particular for the alternating container to be refillable. The alternating containers have in particular a maximum volume for receiving up to 125ml, preferably up to 100ml and particularly preferably up to 75ml of medium. Preferably, the alternating reserve device has at least one level display for displaying the remaining volume and/or color of the medium in the alternating container. Preferably, the liquid level display device is designed as an at least partially transparent partial region of the alternating container, in particular as a window. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the liquid level display device to be designed as a liquid level sensor, for example, with an optical, acoustic and/or tactile output.

The alternating reserve device preferably comprises a single oscillating membrane which is adapted to the medium located in the alternating container, in particular with regard to the diameter, material size, number and/or arrangement of the medium passage openings of the oscillating membrane, the diameter and/or shape of the medium passage openings, etc. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the alternating storage device to have a plurality of oscillating diaphragms. The oscillating diaphragm of the alternating reserve device is preferably at least substantially similar in design to the oscillating diaphragm of the nozzle unit of the media application device described above. The oscillating membrane of the alternating reserve device at least partially forms a nozzle element of the medium application device, in particular in a state in which the alternating reserve device is arranged on the medium application device. Preferably, the oscillating membrane is arranged on the alternating container, in particular the walls of the alternating container are constructed at least in sections. The oscillating membrane is in particular in contact with the medium located in the alternating containers. In particular, in the use state of the alternating reserve device, the medium is supplied to the oscillating membrane by the force of gravity acting on the medium. Preferably, the oscillating membrane, in particular the medium passage opening of the oscillating membrane, is designed such that the oscillating membrane seals the alternating container in an at least substantially fluid-tight manner in the non-excited state. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the alternating reserve device comprises at least one sealing element, for example a cover which is movable in front of the oscillating membrane, which sealing element is provided for at least substantially fluid-tight sealing of the alternating container.

Preferably, the alternating reserve device has at least one excitation element, in particular a piezoelectric ring. The actuating element is in particular at least substantially similar to the actuating element of the nozzle unit of the media application device described above. In particular, the alternating supply device can have at least one electrical contact for actuating and/or supplying energy to an actuating element of the alternating supply device by the media application device, in particular by an electronic component unit of the media application device. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the media application device comprises at least one excitation element, in particular the aforementioned excitation element, for the oscillatory diaphragm of the alternating reserve device to be excited in an oscillatory manner. In particular, the alternating reserve device may comprise at least one mechanical contact, in particular a contact surface, which is provided in particular for the purpose of mechanically coupling an excitation element of the medium application device to an oscillating diaphragm of the alternating reserve device in an oscillating manner.

Preferably, the media application device has at least one fastening unit which is coupled to the alternating reserve device, in particular in a force-locking and/or form-locking manner. Preferably, the fastening unit is provided for the press connection of the alternating reserve device, in particular of the oscillating membrane of the alternating reserve device, to the exciter element of the media application device and/or to the housing of the media application device. In particular, the fastening unit can have at least one actuating lever which is provided for fastening the alternating reserve device, in particular the oscillating membrane of the alternating reserve device, to the exciter element of the medium application device and/or to the housing of the medium application device. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the fastening unit to be provided for a clamping connection, a screw connection, a vacuum connection or other connections considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art to be provided with the alternating reserve device. In particular, the fastening unit is provided for fastening the alternating reserve device, in particular the oscillating membrane of the alternating reserve device, in particular with a holding force, in particular a pressing force, of at least 5N, preferably at least 7N and particularly preferably at least 10N, in particular on the excitation element of the medium application device and/or on the housing of the medium application device. Advantageously, an alternating system of user comfort may be provided. Advantageously, the oscillating diaphragm and the exciter element can be optimally preset to a specific medium, so that adjustment by the user can be dispensed with. Advantageously, cleaning of the oscillating membrane can be eliminated.

It is further proposed that the alternating supply device has at least one identification unit for mechanical, optical, electronic and/or electromagnetic identification by at least one detection unit of the media application device. Preferably, the identification unit is provided for supplying the detection unit with at least one identification parameter, which identifies the reserve supply device in particular. Preferably, the detection unit is provided for deducing parameters of the alternating reserve device, such as the maximum volume of the alternating reservoir, the medium contained in the alternating reservoir, the design of the oscillating membrane, the design of the excitation element, etc., with reference to the identification characteristic variable. In particular, for each known identification parameter, the corresponding parameter of the alternative reserve device can be stored in a memory unit of the detection unit and/or the electronic component unit of the media application device. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the identification unit is provided for providing all parameters of the alternative supply device to the detection unit. In particular, the different alternating storage devices can be configured for receiving different media, in particular from the food sector, such as fat, oil, chocolate or jelly, from the cleaning sector, such as special cleaners, impregnating agents, glass cleaners or room fragrances, from the plant care sector, such as plant protection agents or fertilizers, from the health and/or hygiene sector, such as disinfectants or spray plasters, from the cosmetic sector, such as bath lotions, liquid soaps, sun screens or cosmetics, or from other sectors, such as adhesives, lubricants or spray films. For example, it is conceivable for the identification unit to be provided for providing different identification parameters depending on the different media located in alternating containers.

Preferably, the identification unit may be arranged for mechanical identification. In particular, the identification unit may comprise at least one mechanical identification element which can be sensed by the detection unit for mechanical identification. The mechanical detection element can be designed in particular as an actuating pin of different length according to different parameters of the alternating reserve device, as a compression spring which is tensioned to different extents according to different parameters of the alternating reserve device, or the like. Preferably, the identification unit may be arranged for optical identification. In particular, the identification unit can comprise, for the optical identification, at least one optical identification element which differs depending on different parameters of the alternating reserve device and which can be optically sensed by the detection unit. The optical identification element can be designed, in particular, as an optical code, such as a QR code, a bar code, etc., as a readable character, a color code, a shape code, or other optical identification elements that are considered to be of interest to a person skilled in the art. Alternatively or additionally to the detection unit, it is conceivable for the control and/or regulating unit, in particular a sensing device of the control and/or regulating unit, to be provided for identifying the alternative reserve device, in particular by scanning of an optical identification element of the identification unit. Preferably, the identification unit may be arranged for electronic identification. In particular, the identification unit may comprise, for the purpose of electronically identifying, at least one electronic identification element which differs depending on different parameters of the alternating reserve device and which can be electronically sensed by the detection unit. The electronic identification element can be designed in particular as an electronic contact, microchip or other electronic identification element which is considered to be expedient by the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the identification unit may be arranged for electromagnetic identification. In particular, the identification unit can comprise, for the purpose of electromagnetically identifying, at least one electromagnetic identification element which differs depending on different parameters of the alternating reserve device and which can be electromagnetically sensed by the detection unit. The electromagnetic identification element can be designed in particular as a radio frequency transmitter (RFID), as a magnetic tape, as a magnetic pigment or as another electromagnetic identification element which is considered to be of interest to the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the electronic component unit of the media application device is provided for adjusting parameters of the media application device as a function of the identification of the alternative reserve device. Advantageously, an automatic and user-friendly coordination between the medium application device and the alternating reserve device can be achieved.

It is also proposed that the alternating reserve device has at least one suction unit which is provided to prevent uncontrolled outflow of the medium. In particular, the absorption unit is provided for preventing an outflow of the medium from the alternating container, which outflow is in particular different from the output by the oscillating membrane, for example in the case of a defect or a leak of the alternating container. Preferably, the absorption unit is arranged and/or can be arranged in particular automatically in the interior of the alternating container. Preferably, the absorption unit is constructed at least partially from an absorbable material. In particular, the absorption unit is provided for at least partially receiving, in particular absorbing, a medium, in particular according to the wick principle or the sponge principle. Preferably, the absorption unit is constructed as a sponge, inhaler or absorption unit considered to be meaningful by the person skilled in the art. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that a cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit of the media application device, in particular a media return unit of the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit, is provided for preventing an uncontrolled outflow of the media. Advantageously, contamination of the media application apparatus and/or the environment surrounding the media application apparatus may be prevented.

The invention further relates to a method for operating a coating system, in particular a coating system according to the invention.

The invention proposes that, in particular in at least one method step, at least one direct interaction with at least one user is carried out in an initialization step and/or during operation by means of a control and/or regulating unit in order to optimize the media application process. In particular, the control and/or regulating unit has at least one output and/or input unit for direct interaction with a user, in particular for outputting prompts to the user and/or for inputting commands by the user. Preferably, the output and/or input unit comprises at least one output element for outputting the prompt to the user. Preferably, the output element can be configured as a screen, a loudspeaker, a vibration motor or other output element considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. Preferably, the output and/or input unit may comprise at least one input element for inputting instructions by a user. The input element may be in particular designed as at least one key, a touch-sensitive surface, a microphone or other input elements which are considered to be of interest to a person skilled in the art. Preferably, the output and/or input unit has combined output and/or input elements for outputting prompts to a user and/or inputting instructions by the user. Preferably, the combined output and/or input elements may be configured as a touch screen or other combined output and/or input elements deemed meaningful by those skilled in the art. The initialization step can be configured in particular as an execution of an adjustment of the control and/or regulating unit and/or the media application device, a selection of the material to be applied, an orientation of the control and/or regulating unit in front of the surface or other initialization steps deemed appropriate by the person skilled in the art. During operation of the coating system, in particular, prompts for the media coating process can be output and/or instructions for the media coating process can be input. Advantageously, direct interaction with the user can be achieved. Advantageously, a specific media coating process can be realized.

In particular, it is proposed that, in at least one method step, at least one quantity and/or type of media required for an at least substantially uninterrupted media application process is pre-calculated and output to at least one user. Preferably, the at least substantially uninterrupted medium coating process is interrupted at most by replacing the container containing the medium. In particular, all media required for producing the media coating section, in particular containers containing the required media, are ready for use for at least substantially uninterrupted media coating. Preferably, the amount and/or type of medium required for an at least substantially uninterrupted medium application process can be pre-calculated according to the medium application strategy, in particular by means of the arithmetic unit of the control and/or regulating unit. Preferably, the media coating strategy contains information about the type of media required to make the media coating and information about the amount of area integral on the material for each media type. Preferably, the media application strategy contains information about the size of the media application on the surface, in particular selected by the user. Preferably, the amount of medium required for the at least substantially uninterrupted medium coating process can be pre-calculated from the type of medium required for making the medium coating, the amount of surface area of the type of medium on the subject and the size of the medium coating on said surface. Preferably, the pre-calculated amount and/or type of the medium required for the at least substantially uninterrupted medium application process is output to the user by means of an output and/or input unit, in particular by means of a combined output and/or input element. Advantageously, an at least substantially uninterrupted media coating process can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that, in particular in at least one method step, at least one application-specific preset is stored as at least one media application pattern for selection by a user. Preferably, the application-specific presetting is configured as an adjustment of a parameter of the media application device, in particular a nozzle parameter, a parameter of the media delivery unit or a parameter of the electronic component unit, or as an adjustment of a parameter of the control and/or regulating unit, in particular a parameter of the media application strategy. In particular, the media application pattern can be configured as a plurality of pre-adjusted combinations, in particular different from one another. Preferably, the media coating mode can be configured as a surface-specific media coating mode, a media coating process-specific media coating mode, a power-saving media coating mode, or other media coating mode that is deemed meaningful to one skilled in the art. Preferably, the control and/or regulating unit has a plurality of media application modes, in particular for different applications. In particular, the medium application pattern is stored in a memory unit of the control and/or regulating unit. Preferably, the media application mode can be selected by the user, in particular depending on the application. Preferably, the media coating mode can be selected by means of an output and/or input unit. Advantageously, the medium application pattern can be selected as appropriate to the application. Advantageously, an application-specific media coating process can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that, in particular in at least one method step, at least one question is issued and/or at least one prompt is issued to the user for the purpose of setting at least one control and/or regulating unit. Preferably, a plurality of questions and/or a plurality of prompts are presented to the user for adjusting the control and/or regulating unit. Preferably, the question asking and prompting output is performed by means of an output and/or input unit. Preferably, the user is guided through an initialization process for initializing the coating system by questions and/or prompts. Preferably, the user can make adjustments for media application, such as material, size of media application portion, media to be used, etc., with reference to questions and/or prompts. Preferably, the user can be supported by prompts and/or questions when positioning the control and/or adjustment unit, for example by means of a digital level. Advantageously, the user can be guided to the correct adjustment of the coating system. Advantageously, a frustration-free initialization process for the media coating process can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed, in particular in at least one method step, that at least one object-specific parameter is sensed and at least one prompt is output to the user at least once as a function of the parameter. Preferably, the object-specific characteristic variable is sensed by means of the sensing device, in particular by means of a sensing element of the sensing device and/or by means of an object sensor element of the sensing device. Preferably, the prompting output to the user is preferably performed by means of an output and/or input unit, in particular by means of a combined output and/or input element of the output and/or input unit. Preferably, a warning message can be output to the user, in particular if the sensed object-specific characteristic variable and the selected adjustment of the coating system do not correspond to one another. Advantageously, inconsistencies between the object-specific parameters and the settings of the selected coating system can be detected and the user notified. Advantageously, a use error can be detected and the influence on the medium application can be prevented at least as far as possible.

The media application device according to the invention, the application system according to the invention, the method according to the invention for operating a media application device and/or the method according to the invention for operating a coating system should not be limited to the applications and embodiments described above. In particular, the media application device according to the invention, the application system according to the invention, the method according to the invention for operating the media application device and/or the method according to the invention for operating the application system have a number which differs from the number mentioned here of the individual elements, components and units and method steps in order to satisfy the functionality described here. Furthermore, in the numerical ranges specified in this disclosure, values lying within the limits mentioned are also to be regarded as disclosed and can be used at will.

Drawings

Other advantages are derived from the following description of the figures. Eight embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings. The figures, description and claims contain features in combination. The person skilled in the art expediently observes the features individually and summarizes them as meaningful further combinations.

In the drawings:

figure 1 shows a medium coating device according to the invention in a perspective view,

figure 2 shows the medium coating installation according to the invention in figure 1 in a schematic sectional view,

figure 3 shows the control and/or regulating unit in a perspective view,

figure 4 shows the control and/or regulating unit from figure 3 in a further perspective view,

figure 5 shows a coating system according to the invention in a schematic view,

figure 6 shows a medium application point in a schematic representation,

figure 7 shows an alternative medium application device according to the invention in a perspective view,

figure 8 shows in a schematic sectional view the alternative medium application device according to the invention of figure 7,

figure 9 shows in a perspective view a further alternative media output unit of a media application device according to the invention,

figure 10 shows in a schematic sectional view a further alternative media outlet unit of a media application device according to the invention,

figure 11 shows in a schematic sectional view a further alternative media outlet unit of a media application device according to the invention,

figure 12 shows in a perspective cross-sectional view a part of an alternative coating system according to the invention,

figure 13 shows an exploded view of a part of a media output unit of a further alternative media application device in a perspective view,

figure 14 shows in a schematic representation a different embodiment of an alternative perforated grid of the media output unit in figure 13,

figure 15 shows a further alternative coating system according to the invention in a schematic representation,

figure 16 shows a further alternative coating system according to the invention in figure 15 in a further schematic representation,

FIG. 17 shows in a schematic representation a further alternative to the alternative storage device of the coating system according to the invention from FIG. 15, and

fig. 18 shows the alternating reserve device from fig. 17 in a schematic sectional illustration.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a media application device 10a in a perspective view. The media application device 10a is configured as a handheld paint application device. The media application device 10a has a housing 40 a. The housing 40a is formed of plastic. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the housing 40a is formed from metal. The housing 40a has a head region 42a and a receiving region 44 a. The head region 42a and the receiving region 44a are formed in one piece. Components necessary for the operation of the media application device 10a are arranged in the head region 42 a. The receiving region 44a is configured as a half hollow cylinder. The receiving region 44a is shaped in such a way that the implicitly illustrated container 46a containing the medium to be coated is partially enclosed by the receiving region 44a in the mounted state on the medium coating device 10 a. The container 46a is configured as a media box. The medium is configured as a pigmented medium. The medium is configured as a spray paint.

The housing 40a has an engagement and/or securing unit 48a on the underside of the head region 42a and in connection with the receiving region 44 a. The engaging and/or securing unit 48a is provided for receiving the container 46a on the media application device 10 a. The engaging and/or securing unit 48a has an adapter hook element 50a (see fig. 2) for fastening the container 46 a.

On the upper side of the head region 42a of the housing 40a, a reference element 52a of the medium application device 10a is arranged. The reference element 52a of the media application device 10a is configured to be antiglare for a user 38a, not shown in detail. The reference element 52a of the medium application device 10a is designed as a radiation-emitting light-emitting element which emits electromagnetic radiation in the blue spectral range from the electromagnetic spectrum. The reference element 52a of the media application device 10a is designed as a blue light-emitting diode. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the reference element 52a of the media application device 10a to emit radiation from a spectral range that is invisible to the human eye, for the light-emitting element to be provided for emitting the radiation in pulses, or for the reference element 52a of the media application device 10a to be designed as a radiation-free coding element.

An antiglare element 54a of the media application apparatus 10a is disposed on the head region 42a of the housing 40 a. The anti-glare element 54a is formed of an opaque plastic. The antiglare element 54a is constructed integrally with the housing 40 a. The antiglare element 54a is configured as a cover portion. The anti-glare element 54a partially covers the reference element 52a of the media coating device 10 a. The reference element 52a of the media coating device 10a is partially disposed inside the antiglare element 54 a. The anti-glare element 54a is configured to shield radiation emitted by the reference element 52a of the media coating device 10a from the user 38 a.

An output unit 56a of the medium coating apparatus 10a is disposed on an upper side of the head region 42a of the housing 40 a. The output unit 56a is configured as a screen. The output unit 56a is configured as a touch screen. Output unit 56a is mounted flush with housing 40a in head region 42 a. The output unit 56a is provided for outputting information to the user 38a and/or for inputting instructions by the user 38 a.

The media application device 10a comprises at least one operating unit 132a and/or operating functions, wherein the operating unit 132a and/or operating functions are provided for controlling and/or regulating at least one function of the media application device 10 a. The output unit 56a at least partially constitutes an operating unit 132a of the medium coating device 10 a. The operating unit 132a and/or the operating function is/are provided for applying at least one single point at a time in a defined position. The operating unit 132a and/or the operating function is/are provided for repeatedly applying at least one single point at a specific location. The operating unit 132a and/or the operating function is/are provided for repeated dispensing of single dots at defined positions. The operating unit 132a and/or the operating function is/are provided for controlling the desired size of the at least one single point in stages or steplessly.

The media application device 10a comprises at least one operating unit 132a and/or operating functions, in particular the aforementioned operating unit 132a and/or the aforementioned operating functions, wherein the operating unit 132a and/or the operating functions are provided for the stepwise or stepless control of the gray value or the shade of at least one single point. The operating unit 132a and/or the operating functions are preferably provided for the activation or deactivation of the automatic control of the spray image, in particular of the dot size and/or the grey scale.

The operating unit 132a and/or the operating functions are provided for automatically controlling at least one operating mode. The operating unit 132a and/or operating functions are provided for controlling at least one display. The operating unit 132a and/or the operating functions are provided as a view for controlling a display, in particular a display (not further shown here) for showing a working position on a paint plane in front of the background of the working area. The operating unit 132a and/or operating functions are provided for controlling at least one lighting unit (not further shown here). The operating unit 132a is configured to illuminate the operating element, and/or the operating function is configured to illuminate the operating function. The operation unit 132a and/or the operation function is provided for voice or gesture control. Manipulation of the media application device 10a may also be via voice and/or gesture control.

Alternatively or additionally, the following embodiments of the operating unit 132a and/or of the operating functions can be considered, wherein the list is not final:

the operating unit 132a is designed as a switching element, for example as an on-off switch, a nozzle actuation switch, a pushbutton, a touch switch, a physical switch for interrupting the current, or the like, and is arranged ergonomically in the grip region of the thumb of the user 38 a.

The operating unit 132a and/or the operating functions are provided for the unrestricted free dispensing of single points.

The operating unit 132a is designed as a safety operating element and/or the operating function is designed as a safety operating function, for example as an unlocking lock (einschaltlerre), a continuous operating function or the like.

The operating unit 132a is designed as a reset operating element and/or the operating function is designed as a reset activation function in order to trigger a restart of the system, in particular of the operating system of the media application device 10 a.

The operating unit 132a is designed as a bluetooth operating element and/or the operating function is designed as a bluetooth activation function.

Wireless connection pairing operating elements and/or wireless connection pairing functions, which are provided for establishing a connection between the media application device 10a and the camera and/or the computer unit, may also be considered.

The operating unit 132a and/or the operating function is/are provided for controlling the output of a mixed color composed of two or more colors in stages and/or steplessly.

The operating unit 132a and/or the operating function is/are provided for controlling the pigment dilution by means of one or more pigment diluents in stages and/or steplessly.

Setting a cleaning activation operating element and/or a cleaning activation function.

The operating unit 132a can be configured as a haptic element. The haptic element is configured as a vibrating element. The tactile elements can be positioned differently on the appliance, in particular on the housing 40a of the media application device 10 a. A plurality of haptic elements, which can also be used individually, can be positioned on the appliance, in particular on the housing 40a of the media application device 10 a.

Fig. 2 shows the medium application device 10a of fig. 1 in a schematic sectional illustration. A head region 42a, an engagement and/or securing unit 48a with an adapter hook element 50a and a part of a receiving region 44a are shown. A reference element 52a and an anti-glare element 54a of the media coating device 10a are arranged on the head region 42 a. Inside the housing 40a, in the receiving region 44a, an energy supply unit 58a of the media application device 10a is arranged. The energy supply unit 58a is provided for supplying the media output unit 12a of the media application device 10a with electrical energy for the operation of the media application device 10 a. The energy supply unit 58a is designed as a battery.

The medium output unit 12a is arranged inside the housing 40a in the head region 42 a. The medium output unit 12a includes a nozzle unit 14a and a medium supply unit 60 a. The nozzle unit 14a has a nozzle element 16 a. In the present exemplary embodiment, the nozzle unit 14a additionally has a valve element 62 a. In principle, however, it is conceivable that the nozzle unit 14a does not comprise the valve element 62 a. The nozzle element 16a is rotatably supported in the housing 40 a. The nozzle element 16a is arranged in the same row as the reference element 52a of the media application device 10 a. The nozzle element 16a is provided for discharging the medium on a surface 18a, not further shown. The nozzle element 16a is connected to the valve element 62a for the purpose of conveying the medium through a line element 64a of the nozzle unit 14 a. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the nozzle unit 14a to comprise only the nozzle element 16a and the line element 64 a. The valve element 62a is provided for enabling a medium to flow through the nozzle element 16 a. The nozzle element 16a is provided for discharging the medium as at least one medium application point 66a onto the surface 18 a. At least one nozzle parameter of the nozzle element 16a is adjustable and/or calibratable. The orientation of the nozzle element 16a, the medium outlet pressure of the nozzle element 16a, the medium outlet quantity of the nozzle element 16a and the size of the cross section of the nozzle outlet opening of the nozzle element 16a can be configured adjustably and/or calibratably. The nozzle parameters of the nozzle element 16a are configured to be adjustable and/or calibrated by the user 38 a.

The medium outlet unit 12a has a medium supply unit 60a for supplying medium to the valve element 62 a. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the medium supply unit 60a is provided for supplying the medium directly to the nozzle element 16 a. The media supply unit 60a includes a media supply element 68a, which is connected to the valve element 62a, and an adapter element 70 a. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the medium supply 68a to be connected to the nozzle element 16a or to the line element 64 a. The adapter element 70a is connected to the media supply element 68a and is provided for establishing a connection to a container 46a, which is not shown for the sake of simplicity. The adapter element 70a is arranged for guiding media from the container 46a to the media supply element 68 a.

An electronic component unit 20a of the medium coating device 10a is arranged inside the housing 40a and resting on the support element 72a of the medium coating device 10 a. The electronic component unit 20a is configured as a circuit board with a processor unit, not shown further, and a memory unit, not shown further. The electronic component unit 20a is provided for controlling and/or regulating the medium outlet unit 12 a. The electronic component unit 20a is provided for automatically adjusting and/or calibrating the nozzle parameters of the nozzle element 16 a. The electronic component unit 20a is supplied with electric power by the power supply unit 58 a.

The medium coating device 10a has a communication unit 74 a. The communication unit 74a is disposed inside the housing 40 a. The communication unit 74a is configured as a wireless communication unit. The communication unit 74a is configured as a bluetooth module. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the communication unit 74a to be designed as a radio module, a light-based communication unit or a cable-connected communication unit. The communication unit 74a has a delay time of less than 30 ms. The communication unit 74a is provided for exchanging electronic data with the control and/or regulating unit 24a and/or further external units.

Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of the control and/or regulating unit 24 a. A rear side 76a of the control and/or regulating unit 24a is shown. The control and/or regulating unit 24a is designed as a smartphone. The control and/or regulating unit 24a has a housing unit 78 a. The housing unit 78a is formed of metal. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the housing unit 78a to be formed from glass or plastic.

The control and/or regulating unit 24a has a further communication unit 80 a. The further communication unit 80a is arranged inside the housing unit 78 a. The further communication unit 80a is designed as a wireless communication unit. The further communication unit 80a is designed as a bluetooth module. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the further communication unit 80a to be designed as a radio module, a light-based communication unit or a cable-connected communication unit. The further communication unit 80a has a delay time of less than 30 ms. The further communication unit 80a is provided for exchanging electronic data with the not further shown media application device 10a and/or further external units.

The control and/or regulating unit 24a has a sensing device 26 a. The sensing device 26a is provided for sensing the position and/or orientation of the media application device 10a relative to the surface 18 a. To sense the position and/or orientation of the media application device 10a relative to the surface 18a, the sensing device 26a has a sensing element 82a configured as a camera. The sensing element 82a is arranged on the housing unit 78a on the rear side 76a of the control and/or regulating unit 24 a. The electronic component unit 20a of the media application device 10a is provided for controlling and/or regulating the media output unit 12a of the media application device 10a as a function of at least one characteristic variable of the sensing device 26 a. The characteristic variable of the sensing device 26a can be configured as a position of the media application device 10a relative to the surface 18a, an orientation of the media application device 10a relative to the surface 18a, a media application 34a on the surface 18a, a surface property of the surface 18a or an orientation, in particular a slope, of the sensing device 26a relative to the surface 18 a. The electronic component unit 20a is provided to control and/or regulate the media output unit 12a in such a way that the output of the media takes place only when the media output unit 12a is oriented at least substantially perpendicularly relative to the surface 18 a. The orientation of media output unit 12a relative to surface 18a may be sensed by means of sensing element 82a of sensing device 26 a. The sensing device 26a is provided for sensing at least one object-specific characteristic variable. The object-specific characteristic variable can be sensed by means of the sensing element 82a of the sensing device 26 a. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the sensing device 26a to have an object sensor element for sensing an object-specific characteristic variable. The object-specific characteristic variables can be configured as the material of the surface 18a, the structure of the surface 18a, the properties of the surface 18a, the temperature of the surface 18a, the moisture of the surface 18a, a type of medium used to produce the medium coating 34a, the coating thickness of the medium on the surface 18a, inhomogeneities in the medium coating 34a or the area covered by means of the medium on the surface 18 a. The electronic component unit 20a is provided for controlling and/or regulating the medium output unit 12a as a function of the object-specific characteristic variable. The sensing device 26a is arranged for sensing at least one area 28a different from other areas of the surface 18 a. The area 28a, which is different from the other areas of the surface 18a, may be configured as a door, a window or a light control switch. The electronic component unit 20a controls and/or regulates the media discharge unit 12a in the region 28a, which is different from the other regions of the surface 18a, in such a way that the discharge of the media is stopped.

The control and/or regulating unit 24a has a slope sensor unit 30 a. The slope sensor unit 30a is provided for sensing the slope of the sensing device 26a relative to the surface 18a and compensating for the sensed slope. The slope sensor unit 30a has a slope sensing element 84 a. The slope sensing element 84a is provided for sensing the slope of the sensing device 26a relative to the surface 18 a. The slope sensing element 84a is configured as a slope sensor. The slope sensing element 84a is disposed inside the housing unit 78 a. The slope sensor unit 30a has a slope compensation element 86 a. The slope compensation element 86a is provided to compensate for the sensed slope of the sensing device 26a relative to the surface 18 a. The slope compensation element 86a may calculate the offset of the position and/or orientation of the media coating device 10a relative to the surface 18a sensed by means of the tilted sensing device 26a with reference to the sensed slope of the sensing device 26 a. The slope compensation element 86a is configured as a microprocessor. The slope compensation element 86a is disposed inside the housing unit 78 a.

The sensing device 26a has an arithmetic unit 32 a. The arithmetic unit 32a is provided for calculating in advance an area 36a which adheres to the surface 18a with respect to the medium application portion 34 a. The arithmetic unit 32a is provided for calculating in advance the region 36a adhering to the surface 18a in relation to the media application section 34a with reference to the media application strategy for producing the media application section 34 a. The media coating strategy is stored in a memory unit, not further shown, of the arithmetic unit 32 a. The electronic component unit 20a is provided for controlling and/or regulating the media output unit 12a in a region 36a which is adhered to the surface 18a with respect to the media application 34a in such a way that the nozzle element 16a remains open.

Fig. 4 shows the control and/or regulating unit 24a of fig. 3 in a further perspective illustration. A front side 88a of the control and/or regulating unit 24a is shown.

The control and/or regulating unit 24a has an output and/or input unit 90 a. The output and/or input unit 90a is arranged for outputting prompts to the user 38a and/or inputting instructions by the user 38 a. The output and/or input unit 90a includes a combined output and/or input element 92a and output element 94 a. The combined output and/or input element 92a is designed as a screen. The combined output and/or input elements 92a are configured as a touch screen. The combined output and/or input element 92a is arranged for outputting prompts to the user 38a and/or inputting instructions by the user 38 a. The output element 94a is designed as a loudspeaker. The output element 94a is arranged to output a prompt to the user 38 a. The combined output and/or input element 92a and output element 94a fit flush into the housing unit 78 a.

Preferably, the control and/or regulating unit 24a is provided for use in a coating system 22a according to the illustration in fig. 5, in particular with the media coating installation 10 a. However, it is also conceivable to use the control and/or regulating unit 24a with the media application device 10b according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 7, the media application device 10c according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 9, the media application device 10d according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 10, the media application device 10e according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 11, the media application device 10f according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 12, the media application device 10g according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 13 and/or the media application device 10h according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 15.

Fig. 5 shows the coating system 22a in a schematic representation. The coating system 22a comprises a medium coating device 10a and a control and/or regulating unit 24 a. The media application device 10a is held by a user 38a in his or her hand. The user 38a applies media to the surface 18a by means of the media application apparatus 10 a. The control and/or regulating unit 24a is arranged on a tripod 96a in front of the surface 18a for sensing the position and/or orientation of the media application device 10a relative to the surface 18 a. The surface 18a is configured as a room wall.

The surface 18a includes the region 28a that is different from the other regions of the surface 18 a. The region 28a, which is different from the other regions of the surface 18a, is designed as a door. If the user 38a guides the media output unit 12a over the region 28a, which is different from the other regions of the surface 18a, the electronics unit 20a controls and/or adjusts the media output unit 12a in such a way that the output of the media is stopped.

The medium coating portion 34a is coated on the surface 18 a. The medium coating portion 34a is formed of a plurality of medium coating dots 66 a. The surface 18a includes a region 36a that adheres to the surface 18a with respect to the media-coated portion 34 a. The region 36a that adheres to the surface 18a with respect to the media application 34a is configured as a region of ten media application points 66a of the same media type. The region 36a that adheres to the surface 18a in relation to the media application 34a is at a distance of five media application points 66a from the edge 98a of the media application 34 a. The arithmetic unit 32a is provided for calculating the region 36a adhering to the surface 18a with respect to the medium application portion 34a in advance. If the user 38a guides the media output unit 12a past the region 36a that is adhered to the surface 18a with respect to the media application 34a, the electronic component unit 20a controls and/or adjusts the media output unit 12a in such a way that the nozzle element 16a remains open.

The following describes a method for operating the coating system 22 a. In at least one method step, at least one direct interaction with the user 38a takes place in an initialization step and/or during the operation for optimizing the media coating process by means of the control and/or regulating unit 24 a. Direct interaction with the user 38a takes place by means of the output and/or input unit 90a of the control and/or regulating unit 24 a. In at least one further method step, at least one quantity and/or type of the media required for the at least substantially uninterrupted media application process is calculated in advance and output to the user 38 a. The amount and/or type of media required for the at least substantially uninterrupted media application process is output to the user 38a by means of the output and/or input unit 90 a. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the amounts and/or types of media required for the at least substantially uninterrupted media application process are output to the user 38a by means of the output unit 56a of the media application device 10 a. In at least one further method step, at least one application-specific advance adjustment is stored by the user 38a as at least one media application pattern for selection. In at least one further method step, at least one question is posed to the user 38a and/or at least one prompt is given for controlling and/or regulating the adjustment of the unit 24 a. At least one question is posed to the user 38a and/or at least one prompt is given for controlling and/or regulating the adjustment of the unit 24a by means of the output and/or input unit 90 a. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable to provide at least one question to the user 38a by means of the output unit 56a and/or to provide at least one prompt for controlling and/or regulating the adjustment of the unit 24 a. In at least one further method step, at least one object-specific parameter is sensed, and at least one prompt is output to the user 38a with reference to the parameter. The object-specific characteristic variable is sensed by means of the sensing device 26 a. The output of the prompts to the user 38a is performed by means of the output and/or input unit 90 a. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the output of the prompt to the user 38a is performed by means of the output unit 56 a.

With regard to the further method steps of the method for operating the coating system 22a, reference should be made to the preceding description of the coating system 22a, since this description applies analogously to the method and therefore all features relating to the coating system 22a are also to be regarded as being disclosed with regard to the method for operating the coating system 22 a.

Fig. 6 shows the medium application points 66a in a schematic representation. The media application points 66a are produced by a standard orientation of the nozzle element 16 a. Media coating dots 66a are created on surface 18 a. In the case of a standard orientation of the nozzle element 16a, the medium outlet direction of the nozzle element 16a is oriented at least substantially in the same row as the reference element 52a of the medium application device 10 a. The standard orientation of the nozzle element 16a is indicated by means of the point 100 a. The point 100a represents a projection of the position of the reference element 52a of the media application device 10a onto the surface 18 a. The media application points 66a are symmetrically arranged about the point 100 a. The media application points 66a are configured in a dot shape. Additional media application points 102a are shown. The further media application point 102a is produced by an orientation of the nozzle element 16a which is shifted relative to the standard orientation of the nozzle element 16 a. The orientation of the nozzle element 16a is shifted in such a way that the media output direction of the nozzle element 16a is oriented at an angle to the row with the reference element 52a of the media application device 10 a. The further media-coated spots 102a are produced on the surface 18 a. The further media application points 102a are of oval design. The edge 104a of the further media application point 102a is arranged on the point 100 a.

Seven further embodiments of the invention are shown in fig. 7 to 18. The following description and the figures are substantially limited to the differences between the exemplary embodiments, wherein substantially also further exemplary embodiments, in particular the figures and/or illustrations of fig. 1 to 6, can be referred to with respect to identically designated components, in particular with respect to components having the same reference numerals. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a is placed after the reference numerals of the embodiments in fig. 1 to 6. In the embodiments of fig. 7 to 18, the letter a is replaced by the letters b to h.

Fig. 7 shows an alternative media application device 10b in a perspective view, the media application device 10b being designed as a handheld paint application device, the media application device 10b having a housing 40b, the housing 40b being formed from plastic, it being conceivable alternatively for the housing 40b to be formed from metal, the housing 40b having a head region 42b and a receiving region 44b, the head region 42b and the receiving region 44b being designed in one piece, in the head region 42b there are arranged the components required for the operation of the media application device 10b, the receiving region 44b being designed as a half-hollow cylinder, the receiving region 44b being shaped in such a way that the implicitly illustrated container 46b containing the medium to be applied is partially surrounded by the receiving region 44b in the mounted state on the media application device 10b, the container 46b being designed as a media box, the media being designed as paint media, in particular water-based and/or chalk-based paint media, the media being designed as paint-on paint, the media being designed as dispersion-type paint, acrylic paint, paint-on-based paint, paint-on-paint-.

The housing 40b has an engagement and/or securing unit 48b on the head region 42b and connected to the receiving region 44 b. The engaging and/or securing unit 48b is provided for receiving the container 46b on the media application device 10 b. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the engagement and/or securing unit 48b is provided for receiving a plurality of containers 46b, and/or that the media application device 10b has a plurality of engagement and/or securing units 48 b. The engaging and/or securing unit 48b has an adapter hook element 50b for fastening the container 46b (see fig. 8).

A reference element 52b of the media application device 10b is arranged on the head region 42b of the housing 40 b. The reference element 52b of the media application device 10b is configured to be antiglare for a user not shown in more detail. The reference element 52b of the medium application device 10b is designed as a radiation-emitting light-emitting element which emits electromagnetic radiation in the blue spectral range from the electromagnetic spectrum. The reference element 52b of the media application device 10b is designed as a blue light-emitting diode. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the reference element 52b of the media application device 10b to emit radiation from a spectral range that is invisible to the human eye, for the light-emitting element to be provided for emitting the radiation in pulses, or for the reference element 52b of the media application device 10b to be designed as a radiation-free coding element. The reference element 52b of the media application device 10b is provided for sensing the position and/or orientation of the media application device 10b relative to the surface by means of a control and/or adjustment unit, such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, augmented reality glasses, etc.

An antiglare element 54b of the media application apparatus 10b is disposed at the head region 42b of the housing 40 b. The anti-glare element 54b is formed of an opaque plastic. The antiglare element 54b is constructed integrally with the housing 40 b. The antiglare element 54b is configured as a cover portion. The anti-glare element 54b partially covers the reference element 52b of the media coating apparatus 10 b. The reference element 52b of the media coating device 10b is partially disposed inside the anti-glare element 54 b. The anti-glare element 54b is configured to shield radiation emitted by the reference element 52b of the media coating apparatus 10b from a user.

Fig. 8 shows an alternative media application device 10b from fig. 7 in a schematic sectional illustration. A head region 42b, an engagement and/or securing unit 48b with an adapter hook element 50b and a part of a receiving region 44b are shown. A reference element 52b and an anti-glare element 54b of the media coating device 10b are disposed on the head region 42 b. Inside the housing 40b, in the receiving region 44b, an energy supply unit 58b of the media application device 10b is arranged. The energy supply unit 58b is provided for supplying the media output unit 12b of the media application device 10b with electrical energy for the operation of the media application device 10 b. The energy supply unit 58b is designed as a battery.

The medium output unit 12b is arranged inside the housing 40b in the head region 42 b. The medium output unit 12b includes a nozzle unit 14 b. The nozzle unit 14b has a first nozzle element 16 b. In the present exemplary embodiment, the nozzle unit 14b additionally has a first valve element 62 b. In principle, however, it is conceivable that the nozzle unit 14b does not comprise the first valve element 62 b. The first nozzle element 16b is rotatably supported in the housing 40 b. The first nozzle element 16b is arranged in the same row as the reference element 52b of the media application device 10 b. The first nozzle element 16b is arranged for outputting the medium on a surface not further shown. The first nozzle element 16b is connected to the first valve element 62b for conveying the medium through a first line element 64b of the nozzle unit 14 b. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the nozzle unit 14b comprises only the first nozzle element 16b and the first line element 64 b. The first valve element 62b is provided for enabling a medium to flow through the first nozzle element 16 b.

The media coating device 10b has a cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit 112 b. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit 112b has a cleaning function for the medium output unit 12 b. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit 112b is provided for preventing contamination of the environment surrounding the media output unit 12 b. The environment surrounding the media output unit 12b comprises the surface and further, in particular stationary, objects surrounding the media output unit 12 b.

The cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit 112b has a cleaning element 146 b. The cleaning element 146b is provided for cleaning the first nozzle element 16b and the first valve element 62 b. The cleaning element 146b is arranged for cleaning the first nozzle element 16b and the first valve element 62b by means of a cleaning fluid. The cleaning fluid is configured as a cleaning liquid. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the cleaning element 146b is provided for cleaning the first nozzle element 16b and/or the first valve element 62b by means of ultrasound or by means of a mechanical action. Cleaning elements 146b are arranged inside housing 40b in head region 42 b. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the cleaning element 146b to be arranged outside the media output unit 12b, for example in a cleaning station. The cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit 112b has a storage unit 148 b. The reservoir unit 148b is arranged for receiving cleaning fluid. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the storage unit 148b is provided for receiving a cleaning fluid unit. The reservoir unit 148b is configured as an at least substantially fluid-tight tank. The storage unit 148b comprises a closable filling element, not shown in detail. The storage unit 148b can be filled with cleaning fluid by means of a filling element. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the storage unit 148b to comprise a receiving element for receiving a cleaning fluid unit. The reservoir unit 148b is connected to the cleaning element 146b via a fluid line element 150b for supplying cleaning fluid.

The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit 112b has a negative pressure unit 114 b. The negative pressure unit 114b is arranged for conveying the cleaning fluid opposite to the media application direction 116 b. The negative pressure unit 114b is connected to the reservoir unit 148b and the fluid line element 150 b. The underpressure unit 114b is provided for conveying cleaning fluid from the storage unit 148b to the cleaning element 146b via the fluid line element 150 b. The negative pressure unit 114b is provided for generating a negative pressure to deliver the cleaning fluid. The cleaning fluid is sucked out of the reservoir unit 148b due to the negative pressure. The negative pressure unit 114b is configured as a pump. The medium application direction 116b corresponds to the direction in which the medium is discharged onto the surface by the first nozzle element 16 b. The cleaning fluid is conveyed through the negative pressure unit 114b and via the cleaning element 146b counter to the medium application direction 116b past the first nozzle element 16b and/or the first valve element 62 b.

The media coating apparatus 10b has a mixer unit 152 b. The mixer unit 152b is operatively connected to the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit 112 b. The mixer unit 152b is arranged for mixing at least two different media. The cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit 112b is provided for cleaning the mixer unit 152 b. The mixer unit 152b has a mixing chamber 154b in which the at least two different media are mixed. The mixing chamber 154b and the container 46b pass through the media supply 68 b. From the container 46b, the medium can be conveyed into the mixing chamber 154 b. In principle, it is conceivable that several different media can be fed into the mixing chamber 154b when several containers 46b are mounted on the media application device 10 b. The mixer unit 152b has metering elements, not shown in detail, for metering the flow of the medium into the mixing chamber 154 b. The mixer unit 152b has mixer elements which are not further shown. The mixer element is configured as a stirrer. The mixer element is disposed in the mixing chamber 154 b. The mixer element is arranged for mixing different media.

The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit 112b has a medium supply unit 60 b. The medium supply unit 60b is provided for supplying the medium to the medium output unit 12 b. The medium supply unit 60b is provided for supplying medium to the medium output unit 12b under overpressure. The medium supply unit 60b has a medium supply member 68b for supplying a medium to the medium output unit 12 b. The medium supply element 68b is configured as a hose. The medium supply element 68b is connected to the first valve element 62 b. In principle, however, it is conceivable for the medium supply element 68b to be connected to the first nozzle element 16 b. The media supply unit 60b has an adapter element 70 b. The adapter element 70b is connected to the media supply element 68b and is provided for establishing a connection to a container 46b, which is not shown for the sake of simplicity. The medium supply unit 60b has a medium conveying member 156 b. The media transport element 156b is configured to transport media. The medium conveying element 156b is configured as a pump. The medium conveying member 156b is disposed on the medium supplying member 68 b. The medium conveying element 156b is provided for generating an overpressure which presses the medium from the mixing chamber 154b of the mixer unit 152b into the first valve element 62 b. In principle, however, it is conceivable for the overpressure to press the medium from the mixing chamber 154b of the mixer unit 152b directly into the first nozzle element 16 b. The medium is dispensed by overpressure via the first nozzle element 16 b.

The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit 112b has a media return unit 158 b. The medium guide-back unit 158b is provided for receiving at least a part of the medium during the medium coating process and supplying it to the mixer unit 152 b. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the media guide-back unit 158b is provided for receiving a portion of the media during the media coating process and supplying it to the media output unit 12 b. The medium guide-back unit 158b is arranged to receive the excess part of the medium and to supply it to the mixer unit 152 b. The medium return unit 158b has a collecting element 160b for receiving a portion of the medium. The medium return unit 158b has a return element 162b for returning a part of the medium to the mixer unit 152 b. The collecting element 160b and the return element 162b are formed in one piece. The return element 162b is not further shown connected to the mixing chamber 154b of the mixer unit 152 b. A portion of the return element 162b rests on the head region 42b of the housing 40 b. The collecting element 160b is arranged behind the first nozzle element 16b, viewed in the medium application direction 116 b. The collecting element 160b is arranged partly in the flight trajectory of the medium after it has been output from the first nozzle element 16 b. In operation of the media output unit 12b according to the continuous inkjet method, excess and/or excessively deflected media drops can be collected by the collecting element 160b and fed to the mixer unit 152b by the return element 162 b.

The cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit 112b has a deflection unit 164 b. The deflection unit 164b is provided for deflecting at least a portion of the media during the media coating process. The deflection unit 164b is provided for deflecting a portion of the output medium from the flight trajectory of the medium. The deflection unit 164b has a deflection element 166b, which is provided for deflecting at least a part of the medium. The deflection element 166b is designed as an indirect deflection element. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the deflection element 166b to be designed as a direct deflection element. The deflecting element 166b is configured as an air nozzle for generating an air curtain. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the deflection element 166b to be designed as a magnet for generating a magnetic field or as an electrode for generating an electric field. The collecting element 160b of the medium return unit 158b is used for receiving the deflected medium, and the return element 162b of the medium return unit 158b is used for returning the deflected medium to the mixer unit 152 b. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the deflection unit 164b itself to have a further collecting element and/or a further return element.

The nozzle unit 14b, the cleaning element 146b, the reserve unit 148b, the mixer unit 152b, the media supply unit 60b, the media return unit 158b and the deflection unit 164b have an anti-fouling coating the first nozzle element 16b and the first valve element 62b of the nozzle unit 14b and the mixing chamber 154b of the mixer unit 152b and the media supply element 68b, the adapter element 70b and the media transport element 156b of the media supply unit 60b and the collecting element 160b and the return element 162b of the media return unit 158b and the deflection element 166b of the deflection unit 164b have an anti-fouling coating which is configured as a nanostructured coating according to the lotus principle (L otusprinzip).

An electronic component unit 20b of the medium coating device 10b is arranged inside the housing 40b and resting on the support element 72b of the medium coating device 10 b. The electronic component unit 20b is configured as a circuit board with a processor unit, not shown further, and a memory unit, not shown further. The electronic component unit 20b is provided for controlling and/or regulating the medium outlet unit 12 b. The electronic component unit 20b is supplied with electric power by the power supply unit 58 b.

The medium coating device 10b has a communication unit 74 b. The communication unit 74b is disposed in the housing 40 b. The communication unit 74b is configured as a wireless communication unit. The communication unit 74b is configured as a bluetooth module. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the communication unit 74b to be designed as a radio module, a light-based communication unit or a cable-connected communication unit. The communication unit 74b has a delay time of less than 30 ms. The communication unit 74b is provided for exchanging electronic data with the control and/or regulating unit and/or a further external unit.

It is conceivable that the media application device 10b can be used in an application system 22a according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 5, in particular with a control and/or regulating unit 24 a.

The following describes a method for operating the media application device 10 b. In at least one method step, the first nozzle element 16b and/or the first valve element 62b is cleaned. With regard to the further method steps for operating the media application device 10b, reference should be made to the preceding description of the media application device 10b, since this description applies analogously to the method and therefore all features relating to the media application device 10b are also to be regarded as being disclosed with regard to the method for operating the media application device 10 b.

Fig. 9 shows a media output unit 12c of a further alternative media application device 10c in a perspective view. The medium discharge unit 12c has a nozzle unit 14 c. The nozzle unit 14c is configured as a turret nozzle unit. The nozzle unit 14c has four nozzle elements 16c, 106c, 108c, 110 c. In the present exemplary embodiment, the nozzle unit 14c additionally has four valve elements 62c, 118c, 120c, 122 c. In principle, however, it is conceivable that the nozzle unit 14c does not comprise the valve elements 62c, 118c, 120c, 122 c. One of the nozzle elements 16c, 106c, 108c, 110c is arranged behind the respective one of the valve elements 62c, 118c, 120c, 122c, as viewed in the medium application direction 116 c. The first nozzle element 16c is connected to the first valve element 62c via a first line element 64 c. Second nozzle element 106c is connected to second valve element 118c by a second line element 168 c. The third nozzle element 108c is connected to the third valve element 120c via a third line element 170 c. The fourth nozzle element 110c is connected to the fourth valve element 122c by a fourth line element 172 c. By rotating the nozzle unit 14c about an axis which is imaginary in the direction of the medium application direction 116c, the first nozzle element 16c and the first valve element 62c can be transferred into the operating position and at the same time the third nozzle element 108c and the third valve element 120c can be transferred into the cleaning position. In the operating position, the first nozzle element 16c is provided for discharging the medium. In the cleaning position, the third nozzle element 108c is provided for cleaning by means of a cleaning element, not shown in detail, of a cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit. The medium output can take place via the first valve element 62c and via the first nozzle element 16c, while simultaneously cleaning of the third valve element 120c and the third nozzle element 108c takes place.

It is conceivable that the media application device 10c can be used in an application system 22a according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 5, in particular with a control and/or regulating unit 24 a.

Fig. 10 shows a schematic sectional view of a further alternative media discharge unit 12d of a media application device 10 d. A portion of the cleaning and/or contamination avoidance unit 112d is shown. The first valve element 62d and the first nozzle element 16d of the nozzle unit 14d are also shown. The first nozzle element 16d is disposed directly on the first valve element 62 d. The medium is supplied to the first valve element 62d through the medium supply element 68d of the medium supply unit 60 d. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit 112d has an actuator element 174d, a pusher element 176d and a diaphragm element 178d for dispensing the medium through the first nozzle element 16 d. The actuator element 174d is operatively connected to the pusher element 176 d. The actuator element 174d is disposed about the pusher element 176 d. The pusher member 176d is operatively connected to the diaphragm member 178 d. The diaphragm member 178d is disposed on the first valve member 62 d. The medium located in the first valve element 62d can be compressed by means of the 178d movement of the diaphragm element. The medium may be pressed through the first nozzle element 16d and dispensed on the basis of compression. The diaphragm element 178d is actuated in movement by movement of the pusher element 176 d. The tappet element 176d is set into motion by the actuator element 174 d. The actuator element 174d is configured as a magnetic actuator. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the actuator element 174d to be designed as an eddy current actuator or as a piezo actuator. The actuator element 174d is controlled and/or regulated by an electronic component unit of the medium application device 10d (not further shown here). The first valve element 62d and the first nozzle element 16d can be cleaned by means of a cleaning element, not further shown, which cleans and/or avoids contamination of the unit 112 d.

It is conceivable that the media application device 10d can be used in an application system 22a according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 5, in particular with a control and/or regulating unit 24 a.

Fig. 11 shows a further alternative media discharge unit 12e of a media application device 10e in a schematic sectional view. The medium output unit 12e includes a nozzle unit 14 e. The nozzle unit 14e has a first valve element 62 e. The first valve element 62e is configured as a magnet valve. The first valve element 62e is controlled and/or regulated by an electronic component unit of the medium application device 10e (not further shown here). The medium is supplied to the first valve element 62e through the medium supply element 68e of the medium supply unit 60 e. The medium is supplied to the first valve element 62e under overpressure. The nozzle unit 14e has a first nozzle element 16 e. The first nozzle element 16e is disposed directly on the first valve element 62 e. The first nozzle element 16e is provided for the discharge of a medium under overpressure when the first valve element 62e is actuated. The first valve element 62e and the first nozzle element 16e can be cleaned by cleaning of the media application device 10e and/or by cleaning elements, not shown further, which avoid contamination of the unit.

It is conceivable that the media application device 10e can be used in a coating system 22a according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 5, in particular with a control and/or regulating unit 24 a.

Fig. 12 shows a portion of an alternative coating system 22f in a perspective cross-sectional view. The coating system 22f includes a media coating apparatus 10f and a spray tank unit 180 f. The spray tank unit 180f includes an additional nozzle unit 182 f. The further nozzle unit 182f has a further nozzle element and a further valve element 184 f. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit 112f of the media application device 10f has an actuator unit 186 f. An actuator unit 186f is provided for actuating the further valve element 184f for dispensing the medium through the further nozzle element. The further nozzle elements are not further shown. The spray tank unit 180f is configured as a spray tank. The shooting pot unit 180f contains a medium. Additionally, the spray can unit 180f contains dissolved aerosol. The spray tank unit 180f has a further fastening element 188f for fastening to an engagement and/or fastening unit of the media application device 10 f. The further fastening element 188f is configured to clamp the closure. The actuator unit 186f has a further pusher element 190 f. The further tappet element 190f is provided for actuating the further valve element 184 f. In the assembled state of the spray can unit 180f on the media application device 10f, the further tappet element 190f is operatively connected to the further valve element 184 f. The actuator unit 186f comprises a further actuator element 192 f. The further actuator element 192f is provided for activating the further tappet element 190 f. The further actuator element 192f is arranged around the further pusher element 190 f. The further actuator element 192f is designed as a magnetic actuator. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the further actuator element 192f to be designed as an eddy current actuator or as a piezo actuator. The actuator unit 186f is controlled and/or regulated by an electronic component unit of the medium application device 10f (not further shown here).

It is conceivable that the media application device 10f can be used in a coating system 22a according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 5, in particular with a control and/or regulating unit 24 a.

Fig. 13 shows in a perspective view an exploded view of a part of a media outlet unit 12g of a further alternative media application device 10g, the media outlet unit 12g comprising a nozzle unit 14g and a container 46g for receiving media, the media outlet unit 12g comprising a cover 194g for closing the container 46g, the nozzle unit 14g being designed as an oscillating nozzle unit, in particular as a piezo nozzle unit, the nozzle unit 14g having at least one oscillating diaphragm 124g for outputting media and at least one excitation element 126g for vibration excitation of the oscillating diaphragm 124g, in particular in the ultrasonic frequency range, the nozzle unit 14g being designed as an ultrasonic nozzle unit, the oscillating diaphragm 124g of the nozzle unit 14g being able to excite vibrations in the ultrasonic frequency range, the nozzle unit 14g being arranged at least regionally on the container 46g for receiving media, the nozzle unit 14g, in particular the oscillating diaphragm 124g of the nozzle unit 14g, the side wall g of the oscillating diaphragm 124g being configured at least regionally for receiving media, the side wall 198g of the oscillating diaphragm 124g being able to supply a cleaning medium 198g, a spray medium, a spray unit, a spray carrier, a spray unit, a spray carrier, a spray unit.

The nozzle unit 14g is arranged for outputting the medium for at least partially atomizing the medium. The media application device 10g comprising a nozzle unit 14g is arranged for producing a spray image, for example by means of output spray paint. However, it is also conceivable for the media application device 10g to be provided for use in a vehicle, wherein the nozzle unit 14g is provided, for example, for discharging a urea solution for exhaust gas aftertreatment, for discharging a cleaning agent in the interior of the vehicle, etc., for the media application device 10g to be provided for use in a domestic appliance, for example, in a refrigerator, coffee machine, oven, wiping robot or shower head or faucet, wherein the nozzle unit 14g is provided, for example, for automatically discharging a cleaning agent, a mist, a sauce, etc., or for the media application device 10g to be provided for use on a machine tool, wherein the nozzle unit 14g is provided, for example, for discharging a coolant, a lubricant, etc.

The nozzle unit 14g is operatively connected to a cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit (not further shown here) of the media application device 10 g. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit is provided for cleaning the oscillating membrane 124g, in particular for cleaning the plurality of medium passage openings 130g of the oscillating membrane 124 g. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the nozzle unit 14g to be constructed at least partially to clean and/or avoid contamination of the unit.

The oscillating membrane 124g is at least partially elastically designed, in particular designed, to be able to excite vibrations. Oscillating diaphragm 124g has a plurality of medium through openings 130g through which a medium can be dispensed. The medium passage opening 130g is configured as a perforation or hole of the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. The oscillating diaphragm 124g is configured as an ultrasonic diaphragm. The oscillating diaphragm 124g is configured as an ultrasonic plate. The oscillating diaphragm 124g at least substantially configures the nozzle element 16g of the nozzle unit 14 g. The oscillating diaphragm 124g is configured in a circular shape as viewed in a main extension plane 202g of the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the oscillating diaphragm 124g to be designed such that, viewed in the main plane of extension 202g of the oscillating diaphragm 124g, it is ellipsoidal, polygonal, for example square or triangular, or the like.

The excitation element 126g is arranged on the oscillating diaphragm 124g, in particular is operatively connected to the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. The excitation element 126g is provided for exciting the oscillating membrane 124g to generate vibrations at least substantially perpendicular to the main extension plane 202g of the oscillating membrane 124 g. The oscillating diaphragm 124g and the excitation element 126g are designed in such a way that the oscillating diaphragm 124g, as a result of excitation transverse to the main plane of extension 202g of the oscillating diaphragm 124g, comes into contact with the medium transport element 200g and receives a portion of the medium from the medium transport element 200g and, as a result of a subsequent movement of the oscillating diaphragm 124g in the direction away from the container 46g for receiving the medium, discharges, in particular ejects, the medium via the medium passage opening 130 g. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the medium outlet unit 12g does not form the medium transport element 200g and that the oscillating membrane 124g and the excitation element 126g are formed such that the oscillating membrane 124g is at least partially extended into the medium as a result of the excitation transversely to the main plane of extension 202g of the oscillating membrane 124g, for example inside a container 46g for receiving the medium, on which the oscillating membrane 124g is arranged, a part of the medium being received there and the medium being discharged, in particular ejected, via the medium passage opening 130g by a subsequent movement of the oscillating membrane 124g in a direction away from the container 46 g.

The nozzle unit 14g is provided in particular for outputting, in particular printing, medium application dots at an output frequency of at least 50 medium application dots per second, preferably at an output frequency of at least 100 medium application dots per second and particularly preferably at an output frequency of at least 200 medium application dots per second. The excitation element 126g is in particular provided for vibrationally exciting the oscillating membrane 124g with an excitation frequency of at least 1kHz, preferably with an excitation frequency of at least 16kHz, particularly preferably with an excitation frequency of at least 20kHz and very particularly preferably with an excitation frequency of at least 130 kHz. In particular, the excitation element 126g is provided for vibrationally exciting the oscillating membrane 124g with an excitation frequency of at most 200 kHz. The excitation element 126g is provided for vibrationally exciting the oscillating membrane 124g with a predetermined, preferably adjustable, waveform, for example with a sinusoidal waveform, with a triangular waveform, with a sawtooth waveform or with a waveform otherwise considered to be meaningful to a person skilled in the art. By means of an electronic component unit, not shown in detail here, of the dielectric coating device 10g, in particular by applying a voltage to the exciter element 126g, a desired excitation frequency and/or waveform of the exciter element 126g can be predetermined. The excitation element 126g is designed as a piezo crystal. The piezoelectric crystal changes its shape due to the application of a voltage to the piezoelectric crystal, which causes the oscillation of the oscillating diaphragm 124g through the mechanical coupling of the piezoelectric crystal with the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the excitation element 126g to be designed as a MEMS actuator, as an ultrasonic transducer, or the like.

The excitation element 126g is arranged at least substantially annularly on the oscillating diaphragm 124g along at least substantially the entire maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. In particular, the excitation element 126g is arranged at least substantially annularly along at least 60% of the maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm 124g, preferably along at least 75% of the maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm 124g, particularly preferably along at least 90% of the maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm 124g, and completely particularly preferably along the entire maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. The excitation element 126g is mechanically coupled to the oscillating diaphragm 124g along at least substantially the entire maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. The oscillating diaphragm 124g is fixed to the excitation element 126g along at least substantially the entire maximum circumference of the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. The excitation element 126g delimits the extension of the oscillating diaphragm 124g in a main extension plane 202g of the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. The excitation element 126g is configured as a piezoelectric ring. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the actuating element 126g to be designed as a MEMS ring or the like. The nozzle unit 14g has a fixing ring 204 g. The fastening ring 204g is provided for fastening the oscillating diaphragm 124g and the excitation element 126g, in particular the excitation element 126g on which the oscillating diaphragm 124g is fastened, to the container 46 g. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the exciter element 126g and/or the oscillating membrane 124g can be fastened directly to the container 46 g.

The oscillating membrane 124g has at least one perforated grid 128g of medium passage openings 130g, which is designed in such a way that a medium application point with a maximum diameter of more than 1mm can be produced by means of the nozzle unit 14 g. The perforated grid 128g of the medium passage openings 130g is designed in such a way that medium application points with a maximum diameter of more than 1mm can be printed by means of the nozzle unit 14 g. In particular, the oscillating membrane 124g has at least one perforated grid 128g of medium passage openings 130g, which is designed in such a way that, by means of the nozzle unit 14g, it is possible to produce a medium application point having a maximum diameter of more than 1mm at a distance of up to 50cm of the nozzle unit 14g relative to a surface (on which the medium discharge takes place), not shown in detail here, preferably at a distance of up to 35cm of the nozzle unit 14g relative to the surface, particularly preferably at a distance of up to 20cm of the nozzle unit 14g relative to the surface, and very particularly preferably at a distance of up to 10cm of the nozzle unit 14g relative to the surface. In particular, for printing the medium application dots, the nozzle unit 14g has a distance of at most 1cm from the surface to be printed, preferably at most 5mm from the surface to be printed and particularly preferably at most 3mm from the surface to be printed. The perforated grid 128g is configured as a region of the oscillating membrane 124g in which the medium passage openings 130g are arranged. The perforated grid 128g may have different shapes, in particular depending on the shape of the dielectric coating dots to be produced. In fig. 13, the perforated grid 128g is hexagonally configured. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the perforated grid 128g to be of circular, elliptical, oval, polygonal, square, diamond, triangular or trapezoidal design, semicircular design, etc. A perforated grid 128g is arranged in the central region of the oscillating membrane 124 g. The central region of the oscillating diaphragm 124g is a region of the oscillating diaphragm 124g around the midpoint, in particular in the main extension plane 202g of the oscillating diaphragm 124 g.

The medium passage opening 130g has a diameter configured to be at least three times as large as the maximum particle size of the medium to be output. The medium passage opening 130g extends through the oscillating diaphragm 124g at least substantially perpendicularly to the main extension plane 202g of the oscillating diaphragm 124 g. The medium penetration opening 130g may be configured in a cylindrical shape, a truncated conical shape, or the like. The medium penetration openings 130g are arranged equidistantly with respect to each other. The oscillating membrane 124g has in particular a density of at least 1 medium passage opening 130g per square millimeter, preferably at least 5 medium passage openings 130g per square millimeter, particularly preferably at least 10 medium passage openings 130g per square millimeter and very particularly preferably at least 20 medium passage openings 130g per square millimeter of the medium passage openings 130 g. The nozzle unit 14g provided for the spray output and/or atomization of the medium may preferably comprise an oscillating diaphragm 124g having a density of at least 80 medium passage openings 130g per square millimeter of medium passage openings 130 g. The cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit is provided for cleaning the medium passage openings 130g, in particular for flushing, blowing, etc. the medium passage openings 130g in the event of a blockage.

It is conceivable that the media application device 10g can be used in a coating system 22a according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 5, in particular with a control and/or regulating unit 24 a.

Fig. 14 shows a different embodiment of an alternative perforated grid 128 g' of the media outlet unit 12g in fig. 13 in a schematic representation. There are illustratively shown 24 different embodiments of the perforated grid 128 g'. Perforated grid 128g ' may be configured, for example, as a circle 206g ', an equilateral triangle 208g ', a square 210g ', a pentagon 212g ', an ellipse 214g ', an isosceles triangle 216g ', a rectangle 218g ', a heptagon 220g ', a diamond 222g ', an oval 224g ', an obtuse isosceles triangle 226g ', a parallelogram 228g ', an octagon 230g ', a curved triangle 232g ', a semicircle 234g ', a right triangle 236g ', an isosceles trapezoid 238g ', an nonagon 240g ', a tetralobal shape 242g ', a crescent 244g ', a kite shape 246g ', a trapezoid 248g ', an decagon 250g ', a pentagon 252g ', and so forth.

Fig. 15 shows a further alternative coating system 22h in a schematic representation. The coating system 22h comprises a media coating device 10h and an alternating storage device 134h, which can be coupled to the media coating device 10 h. The alternating reserve device 134h is shown in fig. 15 in a decoupled state from the media application device 10 h. The alternating supply device 134h can be pushed into the media application device 10h at least in sections in the first arrow direction 254 h. The alternating supply device 134h has at least one oscillating diaphragm 136h for discharging the medium, wherein the oscillating diaphragm 136h can be excited in an oscillating manner, in particular in the ultrasonic frequency range, by means of the alternating supply device 134h and/or at least one excitation element 138h of the medium application device 10 h. The media application device 10h has at least one fastening unit 256h for coupling, in particular for force-fitting and/or form-fitting, with the alternating reserve device 134 h. The fastening unit 256h is provided for the press connection of the alternating reserve device 134h, in particular of the oscillating membrane 136h of the alternating reserve device 134h, to the housing 40h of the media application device 10 h. The fastening unit 256h has at least one actuating lever 258h, which is provided for fastening the alternating reserve device 134h, in particular the oscillating membrane 136h of the alternating reserve device 134h, to the housing 40h of the medium application device 10 h. To secure the alternate reserve device 134h, the lever 258h may be pivoted in the second arrow direction 260 h. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the fastening unit 256h to be provided for a clamping connection, a screw connection, a vacuum connection or a connection in another way considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art with the alternating reserve device 134 h. In particular, the fastening unit 256h is provided for fastening the alternating reserve device 134h, in particular the oscillating membrane 136h of the alternating reserve device 134h, in particular on the housing 40h of the medium application device 10h, with a holding force, in particular a pressing force, of at least 5N, preferably at least 7N and particularly preferably at least 10N.

Fig. 16 shows a further alternative coating system 22h from fig. 15 in a further schematic representation. The alternate reserve device 134h is shown in fig. 16 in a state of being coupled to the media application device 10 h. The alternating reserve device 134h is fastened to the housing 40h of the media application device 10h by means of a fastening unit 256 h.

Fig. 17 shows, in a further schematic representation, an alternative storage device 134h of the further alternative coating system 22h from fig. 15. Alternating reserve device 134h has at least one alternating reservoir 262h for receiving media. Alternating reservoirs 262h are at least substantially fluid-tight. Alternate holding device 134h, and in particular alternate container 262h, is configured for single use. After complete emptying, the alternating reservoir 134h, in particular the alternating container 262h, is provided for purging. Alternatively, it is conceivable that alternating storage device 134h may be designed to be reusable, in particular alternating container 262h may be designed to be refillable. The alternating container 262h has in particular a maximum volume for receiving up to 125ml, preferably up to 100ml and particularly preferably up to 75ml of medium. The alternating reserve device 134h has at least one level display 264h for displaying the remaining volume and/or color of the medium in the alternating container 262 h. The fill level display device 264h is designed as an at least partially transparent partial region of the alternating container 262h, in particular as a window. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the liquid level display 264h to be designed as a liquid level sensor, for example with an optical, acoustic and/or haptic output.

Alternating reserve device 134h comprises a single oscillating membrane 136h which is adapted to the medium located in alternating reservoir 262h, in particular with respect to diameter, material size, number and/or arrangement of medium passage openings of oscillating membrane 136h, diameter and/or shape of the medium passage openings, etc. Alternatively, it is conceivable for alternating storage device 134h to have a plurality of oscillating diaphragms 136 h. The oscillating membrane 136h of the alternating reserve device 134h is at least substantially configured similarly to the oscillating membrane 124g of the nozzle unit 14g of the previously described media application device 10g of the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 13. In particular, reference should be made to the description of the oscillating membrane 124g of the nozzle unit 14g of the media application device 10g of the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 13 with regard to the design and/or functionality of the oscillating membrane 136h of the alternating reserve device 134 h. The oscillating membrane 136h of the alternating reserve device 134h at least partially forms the nozzle element 16h of the media application device 10h in the state in which the alternating reserve device 134h is arranged on the media application device 10 h. The oscillating membrane 136h is arranged on the alternating container 262h, in particular the walls of the alternating container 262h are formed at least in sections. The oscillating diaphragm 136h is in contact with the medium located in alternate reservoir 262h (see fig. 18). In the use state of the alternating reserve device 134h, the oscillating membrane 136h supplies the medium by means of the force of gravity acting on the medium. The oscillating membrane 136h, in particular a medium passage opening (not further shown here) of the oscillating membrane 136h, is designed in such a way that the oscillating membrane 136h at least substantially seals the alternating container 262h in a fluid-tight manner in the non-excited state. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that alternating storage device 134h comprises at least one sealing element, for example a cover which can be moved in front of oscillating membrane 136h and which is provided for at least substantially fluid-tight sealing of alternating container 262 h.

The alternating reserve device 134h has at least one excitation element 138h, in particular a piezoelectric ring. The actuating element 138h is at least substantially similar to the actuating element 126g of the nozzle unit 14g of the previously described media application device 10g of the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 13. In particular, reference should be made to the description of the actuating element 126h of the nozzle unit 14g of the media application device 10g of the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 13 with regard to the design and/or functionality of the actuating element 138h of the alternating reserve device 134 h. The alternating reserve device 134h has at least one electrical contact (not shown here) for actuating and/or supplying energy to the actuating element 138h of the alternating reserve device 134h by means of the media application device 10h, in particular by means of an electronic component unit of the media application device 10 h. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the media application device 10h comprises at least one excitation element for the oscillatory diaphragm 136h of the alternating reserve device 134h to be excited in an oscillatory manner. In particular, the alternating reserve device 134h can comprise in this embodiment at least one mechanical contact, in particular a contact surface, which is provided in particular for the purpose of mechanically vibrationally coupling an excitation element of the medium application device 10h to an oscillating membrane 136h of the alternating reserve device 134 h.

Fig. 18 shows the alternating reserve device 134h from fig. 17 in a schematic sectional illustration. The alternate reserve device 134h is shown rotated 90 ° compared to fig. 17. The fluid surface 266h of the fluid located in alternating reservoirs 262h can be seen. The alternating reserve device 134h has at least one identification unit 140h for mechanical, optical, electronic and/or electromagnetic identification by means of at least one detection unit 142h of the medium application device 10h (see fig. 16). Identification unit 140h is provided to provide detection unit 142h with at least one identification parameter, which unambiguously identifies reserve device 134 h. The detection unit 142h is provided to deduce, with reference to the identification parameters, parameters of the alternating reservoir 134h, such as the maximum volume of the alternating reservoir 262h, the medium contained in the alternating reservoir 262h, the design of the oscillating membrane 136h, the design of the exciter element 138h, etc. For each known identification parameter, the corresponding parameter of the alternating supply device 134h can be stored in a memory unit of the detection unit 142h and/or in an electronic component unit of the media application device 10 h. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the identification unit 140h is provided for the detection unit 142h to supply all parameters to the alternating reserve device 134 h. The different alternating reserve apparatuses 134h can be configured for receiving different media, in particular from: the food field, such as fats, oils, chocolate or jelly; the field of cleaning, such as special cleaners, impregnants, glass cleaners or room fragrances; plant care areas, such as plant protection agents or fertilizers; health and/or hygiene areas, such as disinfectants or spray plasters; cosmetic fields, such as bath lotions, liquid soaps, sun creams or cosmetics; or other fields such as adhesives, lubricants or sprayed films. For example, it is conceivable that the identification unit 140h is provided for providing different identification parameters depending on the different media located in the alternation container 262 h.

In the present embodiment, the recognition unit 140h is exemplarily provided for electromagnetic recognition. For the purpose of electromagnetic identification, identification unit 140h comprises at least one different electromagnetic identification element 268h, which can be electromagnetically sensed by detection unit 142h, as a function of different parameters of alternating storage device 134 h. The electromagnetic recognition element 268h is configured as a magnet band. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the electromagnetic identification element 268h to be designed as a radio-frequency transmitter, magnetic pigment, or the like. Alternatively or in addition to electromagnetic recognition, it is conceivable for the recognition unit 140h to be provided for mechanical, optical and/or electronic recognition. In particular, the identification unit 140h may comprise at least one mechanical identification element which may be mechanically sensed by the detection unit 142h for mechanical identification. The mechanical detection element can be designed in particular as an actuating pin of different length according to different parameters of the alternating reserve device 134h, as a compression spring which is designed to be tensioned according to different parameters of the alternating reserve device 134h, or the like. In particular, the identification unit 140h can comprise at least one different optical identification element, which can be optically sensed by the detection unit 142h, depending on different parameters of the alternating storage device 134h, for the purpose of optically identifying the same. The optical identification element can be designed in particular as an optical code, for example as a QR code, a bar code or the like, as a readable character, a color code, a shape code or another optical identification element which is considered to be expedient by the person skilled in the art. Alternatively or in addition to the detection unit 142h, it is conceivable for a control and/or regulating unit of the coating system 22h, in particular a sensing device of the control and/or regulating unit, to be provided for recognition of the alternative supply device 134h, in particular by scanning an optical recognition element of the recognition unit 140 h. In particular, identification unit 140h may include at least one different electronic identification element, which may be electronically sensed by detection unit 142h, for the purpose of electronically identifying the different parameters of alternating storage device 134 h. The electronic identification element can be designed in particular as an electronic contact, as a microchip or as another electronic identification element which is considered appropriate by the person skilled in the art. The electronic component unit of the media application device 10h is provided for adjusting the parameters of the media application device 10h as a function of the recognition of the alternative reserve device 134 h.

The alternating reserve device 134h has at least one suction unit 144h, which is provided to prevent an uncontrolled outflow of the medium. The absorber unit 144h is provided to prevent the medium from flowing out of the alternating container 262h, in particular, other than through the output of the oscillating membrane 136h, for example in the event of a defect or a leak in the alternating container 262 h. The absorber units 144h are disposed in the inner chambers 270h of the alternating containers 262 h. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the absorption unit 144h can be arranged in particular automatically in the interior 270h of the alternating container 262 h. The absorber unit 144h is constructed at least partially of an absorbent material. The absorption unit 144h is provided for at least partially receiving, in particular absorbing, the medium, in particular according to the wicking principle or the sponge principle. The absorption unit 144h is configured as a sponge. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the absorption unit 144h is configured as an inhaler or the like. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that a cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit of the media application device 10h, in particular a media return unit of the cleaning and/or contamination prevention unit, is provided for preventing an uncontrolled outflow of media (not shown here).

It is conceivable that the media application device 10f can be used in a coating system 22a according to the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 5, in particular with a control and/or regulating unit 24 a.