HK1167985B - Method, treatment station, and system for the treatment of flat feedstock - Google Patents

Description

Method, treatment station and device for treating flat objects to be treated

The invention relates to a method, a processing station and a device for processing flat objects to be processed. In particular, the invention relates to such a method, treatment station and apparatus which allow treatment of a treatment object having a sensitive surface. The invention also relates to such a method, a treatment station and a device, in which the contact between the useful area of the treatment substance to be treated and the solid elements can be reduced.

In the processing of flat articles, such as circuit boards in the circuit board industry, the treatment of the articles is usually carried out in a wet chemical process line. For removing treatment liquids, such as chemicals or water, so-called squeeze rollers may be used. Such a roller can be used, for example, for the accumulation of a treatment liquid for the impregnation treatment in a treatment station, as is described in DE 4337988 a 1. In order to improve the exchange of substances on the substrate surface, nozzles can be used in order to introduce a fluid onto the surface of the treatment substance.

Fig. 18 is a schematic view of a treatment station 200 in which the liquid level of the treatment liquid is above the transport plane of the treatment 203 so that the treatment 203 can be transported macerally. The treatment product 203 is transported through the treatment stations in a horizontal transport direction 204. For conveying the treatment substance, a pair of rollers 211 and 216 is provided, which rest against the upwardly and downwardly directed surfaces of the treatment substance 203 in order to convey the treatment substance. In order to avoid outflow of the processing liquid, an inner container 201 is provided in which the processing liquid is accumulated at a high level (not shown). The inner vessel 201 is surrounded by the outer vessel 202 such that the outer vessel 202 collects the processing liquid overflowing from the inner vessel 201. From the treatment liquid 208 collected in the outer container 202, which has a level 209 in the outer container, the treatment liquid is pumped back to the inner container 201 by means of a pump 210. The treatment liquid can be fed back into the inner container 201 via inflow nozzles 206, 207 or another treatment means.

In order to accumulate the processing liquid in the internal container 201, a pair of so-called squeeze rollers 213, 215 is used in an inflow region and an outflow region of the internal container 201. The pair of squeeze rollers 213, 215 may have, for example, a cylindrical outer shell surface. When the pressure rollers 213a, 213b of the pair 213 and the pressure rollers of the roller pair 215 rest on the treatment 203, the free cross section through which the treatment liquid can flow out of the inner container 201 is limited. The desired level of the treatment liquid in the inner container 201 can be adjusted by adjusting the delivery rate of the pump 210 accordingly. Additional pairs of rollers, such as pairs of rollers 211, 212, 214 and 216, can likewise be used as press rollers in the inflow and outflow regions of the treatment station.

If the treatment substance 203 has one or more sensitive surfaces, direct contact between the pairs of pressure rollers 213, 215 and the treatment substance 203, in the case of conventional pressure rollers, over the entire width of the treatment substance 203, i.e. over the entire extent transversely to the conveying direction 204, can lead to damage of the surface of the treatment substance 203. Damage to the surface of the treatment 203 may be caused by, for example, particles and surface unevenness pressed or adhered to the surface of the pressing rollers 213, 215. Furthermore, undesirable deflection of the treatment substance 203 can occur in the region of the inflow nozzles 206, 207, for example as a result of flow relationships in the treatment stations. The deflection may cause the treatment 203 to contact other components of the treatment station.

The invention is based on the object of specifying a method, a processing station and a device for processing planar processing objects, in which the risk of damaging the sensitive surfaces of the processing objects can be reduced. The object on which the invention is based is also to specify a method for producing a circuit board, in which the risk of damage to sensitive surface regions of the circuit board can be reduced.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method, a processing station and an apparatus for processing planar processing objects as specified in the independent claims. The dependent claims define preferred and advantageous embodiments of the invention.

According to one aspect, a method for treating a flat treatment object is specified, wherein the treatment object is conveyed in a device for electrolytically or wet-chemically treating the treatment object. In the treatment station of the apparatus the treatment substance is exposed to the treatment liquid, which covers the treatment substance. In the treatment station, the roller with the roller surface is positioned such that the roller surface is spaced apart at least from the useful zone of the treatment object (which extends continuously between the edge regions of the treatment object) such that a gap remains between the useful zone of the treatment object and the roller surface. The roll surface is at least partially disposed in the treatment fluid. The roller is driven in a rotating manner such that a relative speed between the roller surface and the surface of the treatment object is induced over the gap.

The risk of damage to the surface of the treatment substance can be reduced in this method, since a gap is provided which extends between the roller and the useful region of the treatment substance. In one embodiment, the roller is spaced apart from the entire treatment. The relative speed on the opposite side of the gap can promote the exchange of substances on the surface of the treatment substance and/or reduce the outflow of the treatment liquid through the gap.

The gap left between the roller surface and the useful region of the treatment substance can be predefined by the geometry of the device or can be formed by a force balance, in particular if the treatment substance has a low inherent hardness.

The portion of the roller surface spaced from the surface of the treatment at the gap height may be moved at a speed which differs in direction and/or magnitude from the transport speed of the treatment.

The roller may be driven such that the portion of the roller surface forming the gap boundary moves opposite to the conveyance direction of the treatment. Thereby, a relative speed over the gap can be achieved without the roll having to rotate at a high rotational speed.

The rollers are advantageously arranged so that their axes of rotation are parallel to the conveying plane of the treatment.

The roller can then be driven such that the circumferential speed of the roller surface has a magnitude which differs from, in particular is greater than, the magnitude of the conveying speed of the treatment substance. In this case, the portion of the roller surface spaced apart from the surface of the treatment object by the gap height moves in the conveying direction of the treatment object.

The treatment liquid can be removed from the roller by means of a scraping device. The scraping device may be adjusted to regulate the amount of treatment liquid removed from the roll. In this way it is possible to control how strongly or strongly the exchange of substance by the roller reduces the outflow of liquid from the gap.

The scraping means may be arranged such that they have an even distance from the surface of the roll. Whereby a uniform action on the roller in the axial direction can be achieved. The distance between the scraping device and the surface of the roll can be adjusted. For example, the scraping device can be constructed as a strip which extends parallel to the axis of the roller and can be positioned at different intervals from the roller surface.

The rollers may be provided in the processing station as processing means. This allows, for example, a roller to be provided instead of an inflow nozzle. The use of rollers as processing means makes it possible to realize the processing station in a relatively small structural size. Accordingly, cost savings can be realized. The force acting on the treatment object can be reduced. The energy overhead can be reduced. Maintenance of the treatment bath may also be achieved.

When the roller is used as a treatment means, the minimum gap height between the roller surface and the useful region of the treatment substance is less than 1mm, in particular less than 0.7mm, in particular less than 0.5 mm. The minimum gap height may be at least 0.05mm, in particular at least 0.07mm, in particular at least 0.09 mm. The minimum gap height may also be greater than the stated limit values, but should typically be less than 10.0 mm.

The rollers may be arranged such that the exchange of substances on the surface of the treatment object to be treated is increased by the relative speed between the roller surface and the surface of the treatment object. In particular, the rollers can be arranged such that the action on the treatment liquid on the surface or in the bore of the treatment object is formed by the rotation of the rollers.

On the opposite side of the roller in the transport direction, the treatment liquid can accumulate on the roller (ansehen) up to the operating level of the treatment station. The roller can also be arranged completely below the operating level of the treatment station. This allows the use of the rollers as processing means in sections of the processing station which can be spaced from the inflow region and the outflow region.

The roller can also be arranged in the inflow region or outflow region of the treatment station. For example, the rollers may be disposed in the periphery of the edge of the inner container of the processing station. The roller surface in this case forms a non-return surface for the non-return treatment liquid. The outflow of the treatment liquid through the gap is reduced by the relative movement over the gap.

When the roll surface is used as a non-return surface, the minimum gap height between the roll surface and the useful zone of the treatment can be less than 1mm, in particular less than 0.7mm, in particular less than 0.5 mm. The minimum gap height may be at least 0.05mm, in particular at least 0.07mm, in particular at least 0.09 mm.

The further roller with the further roller surface can be positioned such that a further gap is left between the useful region of the treatment substance and the further roller surface. The roller and the further roller may be arranged on opposite sides of the conveying plane of the treatment object. For example, the roller and the other roller may be disposed such that their axes are disposed at the same position in the conveying direction. In a further embodiment, the axes of the roller and the further roller can be spaced apart in the transport direction. By providing this further roller, the treatment of the treatment substance can be further improved and/or the outflow of the treatment liquid can be further reduced.

The further roller may be driven in a rotating manner such that the portion of the further roller surface forming the edge of the further gap has a speed towards the conveying direction. The magnitude of the peripheral speed of the further roller may be equal to the magnitude of the transport speed ± 20%. Thereby, the transport of the treatment substance with low intrinsic hardness can be favorably influenced.

The further roller may be driven in a rotating manner such that the roller and the further roller rotate in the same direction.

According to a further aspect, a treatment station for treating flat treatment objects is specified for a device for electrolytically or wet-chemically treating treatment objects. The treatment station is designed such that during operation the treatment liquid covers the treatment substance to be treated. The treatment station comprises a roller with a roller surface, which is arranged such that the roller surface is spaced at least from the active zone of the treatment object extending continuously between the edge regions of the treatment object such that a gap is left between the roller surface and the active zone of the treatment object. Furthermore, the roller is arranged such that the roller surface is at least partially arranged in the treatment liquid. The drive is configured to drive the roller in a rotating manner such that a relative speed between the roller surface and the surface of the treatment object is obtained over the gap.

The risk of damage to the surface of the treatment object can be reduced in the treatment station, since a gap is provided which extends between the roller and the useful zone of the treatment object. In one embodiment, the roller can be spaced apart from the entire treatment. The relative speed on the opposite side of the gap can promote the exchange of substances on the surface of the treatment object and/or reduce the outflow of the treatment liquid through the gap.

The drive device can be designed to drive the roller in a rotating manner such that the side of the roller surface forming the gap boundary moves counter to the conveying direction of the treatment substance.

The drive device can be configured to drive the roller in a rotating manner such that the circumferential speed of the roller surface differs in magnitude from the transport speed of the treatment substance, in particular is greater than the transport speed.

The roller is advantageously arranged so that its axis of rotation is parallel to the transport plane of the treatment substance.

The treatment station may comprise a scraping device, in particular a scraping device adjustable relative to the roller, for removing the treatment liquid from the roller.

The roller may be provided as a processing mechanism in the processing station. On the opposite side of the roller in the conveying direction, the treatment liquid accumulates on the roller up to the operating level of the treatment station, or the roller can be arranged completely below the operating level of the treatment station.

The roller can be arranged in an inflow region or an outflow region of the treatment station, wherein the roller surface is designed as a non-return surface for non-return of the treatment liquid. The rollers may be arranged, for example, on the edge of the inner region of the processing station.

The treatment station may comprise a further roller with a further roller surface, which is positioned such that a further gap is left between the useful area of the treatment substance and the further roller surface. The roller and the further roller may be arranged on opposite sides of the conveying plane of the treatment object.

The drive means may be configured to drive the further roller in a rotating manner such that a portion of the further roller surface forming an edge of the further gap rotates in the conveying direction. The peripheral speed of the further roller may be equal to the transport speed.

The drive means may be configured to drive the further roller in a rotational manner such that the further roller and the roller rotate in the same direction.

The processing station can be designed such that it is designed to carry out a method according to one of the described embodiments or examples.

Furthermore, the treatment station can comprise a plurality of transport elements for transporting the treatment substance, which can for example form transport rollers or transport drums.

The effect of the development of the treatment station corresponds to the effect of the corresponding development of the method.

According to a further aspect, an apparatus for treating flat articles to be treated is specified, comprising a treatment station according to the embodiment or example.

According to a further aspect, a method for producing a printed circuit board is specified, wherein the material for producing the printed circuit board is treated by means of the method according to the embodiment or the exemplary embodiment.

Embodiments of the invention allow for the removal or blocking of treatment liquid from a treatment substance or for promoting substance exchange on the surface of a treatment substance in an apparatus for electrolytically or wet-chemically treating the treatment substance. The roller surface can be arranged at a distance from the useful zone of the treatment object, so that a gap is formed in order to reduce or avoid direct contact of the useful zone with the solid element.

Embodiments of the invention can be used in particular in installations in which a planar treatment object with a sensitive surface is transported in a horizontal transport plane or substantially in a horizontal transport plane. The embodiments are not limited to this field of application, however.

The invention will be explained in more detail below with the aid of preferred or advantageous embodiments with reference to the attached drawings.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic front view of a device for removing or retaining a treatment liquid of a treatment station according to an embodiment.

Fig. 2 shows a schematic, partially cut-away side view of the device of fig. 1.

Fig. 3 shows a schematic, partially cut-away side view of a treatment station for removing a treatment liquid of the treatment station according to a further embodiment.

Fig. 4 shows a schematic, partially cut-away side view of a part of a treatment station with a plurality of devices for removing treatment liquid according to an embodiment.

Fig. 5 shows a schematic, partially cut-away side view of a part of a treatment station with a plurality of devices for removing treatment liquid according to a further embodiment.

Fig. 6 shows a schematic front view of a device for removing or blocking the treatment liquid of a treatment station according to another embodiment.

Fig. 7 shows a schematic, partially cut-away side view for removing the treatment liquid.

Fig. 8 shows a schematic, partially cut-away side view of a treatment station with a means for removing or retaining treatment liquid in the inflow region and the outflow region according to an embodiment.

Fig. 9 shows a schematic, partially cut-away side view of an outflow region of a treatment station according to a further embodiment.

Fig. 10 shows a schematic, partially cut-away side view of an outflow region of a treatment station according to a further embodiment.

Fig. 11-17 show schematic, partially cut-away side views, respectively, of a processing mechanism of a processing station according to further embodiments, which is constructed with rollers.

Fig. 18 is a schematic, partially cut-away side view of a processing station with a pair of squeeze rolls.

The direction information or the position information with respect to the processed object is conventionally described with respect to the conveying direction. A direction parallel or antiparallel to the conveying direction when the processing object is conveyed is referred to as a longitudinal direction, and a direction orthogonal to the conveying direction in the conveying plane is referred to as a width direction of the processing object.

Embodiments of devices and methods are described in which treatment fluid is blocked or removed from a treatment object, and/or in which mass exchange on the treatment object is facilitated. A treatment liquid is understood to be any liquid to which the treatment substance is exposed in the apparatus for electrolytic or wet-chemical treatment, in particular treatment chemicals, spraying liquids such as water, etc.

These embodiments are described in the context of an apparatus for treating a treatment substance, wherein the treatment substance is conveyed in a horizontal conveying plane. Information such as "above" or "below" the conveying plane, the "upper surface", the "lower surface" and references to the height or level of the treatment liquid etc. are accordingly relative to the vertical direction, as long as not differently specified. Conveying in a horizontal conveying plane is to be understood here to mean, in particular, conveying of the treatment substance, wherein at least three corners of the treatment substance lie in the horizontal plane. This does not exclude that at least a single section or area of the treatment substance is outside the transport plane when transported, for example in the case of treatment substances with low intrinsic hardness.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic front view of a device 1 for removing a treatment liquid from a treatment object 10. Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of the device 1 in the direction indicated by II-II in fig. 1. The sectional plane of the partially cut side view is the vertical plane of the conveying plane cut along the line on which the useful zone of the treatment substance is conveyed.

The device 1 comprises a roller 2 and a further roller 3, which are arranged on opposite sides of the conveying plane of the treatment substance 10, so that the treatment substance 10 is conveyed between the roller 2 and the further roller 3. The device 1 can be used, for example, as a pair of press rolls 213 and 215 in the processing station 200 in fig. 9.

The roller 2 has a roller surface 4 of the non-return treatment liquid, which is designed as a non-return surface, and which is provided as an offset section of the lateral surface of the roller 2. The roller 2 is positioned relative to the transport path of the treatment 10 such that a gap 8 remains between the non-return face 4 and the treatment 10 when the treatment 10 is transported past the roller 2. The section of the lateral surface of the roller 2 forming the non-return surface 4 can be of substantially cylindrical design.

The further roller 3 has a further roller surface 14 designed as a non-return surface for the non-return treatment liquid, which is provided as an offset section of the lateral surface of the roller 3. The further roller 3 is positioned relative to the transport path of the treatment substance 10 in such a way that a gap 18 remains between the further non-return surface 14 and the treatment substance 10 when the treatment substance 10 is transported past the roller 3. The section of the lateral surface of the roller 3 forming the further non-return surface 14 can be of substantially cylindrical design.

Due to the gaps 8, 18 formed by the arrangement and configuration of the roller 2 and the further roller 3, the useful zone 11 of the treatment substance 10 extending over a large part of the width direction of the treatment substance 10 does not touch the solid elements of the device 1. In this way, the risk of surface damage to the treatment substance 10 in the useful zone 11 can be reduced.

Due to the cylindrical shape of the non-return surface 4 and the further non-return surface 14, the gaps 8, 18 have a gap height or a clear height which is variable in the transport direction 20 of the treatment substance 10. The minimum gap height 9, 19 of the gap 8, 18 is determined by the points of the non-return surfaces 4, 14 which have a minimum distance to the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite the respective roller 2 or 3.

Even if the gaps 8, 18 allow the treatment liquid to pass through, the treatment liquid can be removed from the treatment object 10 by means of the device 1. In particular, the device 1, on account of the tapering of the gaps 8, 18 up to the minimum gap height 9, 19, causes pressure losses which lead to different liquid levels of the treatment liquid on the two opposite sides of the roller 2 in the transport direction 20.

Fig. 2 schematically shows the treatment liquid 21, which accumulates on one side of the roller 2 up to a level 22, and shows the layer of treatment liquid 23 remaining after the treatment 10 has passed through the device 1, which has a lower level 24. The device 1 can be designed in particular such that the treatment liquid 21 is accumulated on one side of the rollers 2, 3 (on the left side of the rollers 2, 3 in fig. 2) by the non-return surface 4 and the further non-return surface 14 up to a level 22, which level 22 is higher directly on the non-return surface 4 than the minimum gap height 9 of the gap 8 and higher than the minimum gap height 19 of the gap 18, measured from the lower edge of the respective gap 8, 18 to the position having the minimum gap height, respectively.

As will be explained in more detail with reference to fig. 3-6, 9 and 10, the treatment liquid 23 remaining on the treatment 10 after it has passed the non-return surfaces 4, 14 can be removed in a suitable manner, for example by flowing in the treatment in a fluid flow.

The rollers 2, 3 of the device 1 can be designed not only for removing liquid from the treatment substance 10, but also for transporting the treatment substance 10. For this purpose, the roller 2 can have raised edge sections 5, 6 at its two axial ends, which rest against edge regions 12 of the treatment substance 10 when the latter passes through the rollers 2, 3. The raised edge sections 5, 6 can be driven in rotation in order to convey the treatment substance 10. In order to rotationally drive the edge sections 5, 6, a shaft 7 is provided, which is rotatably arranged in the treatment device for the treatment object 10 when the device 1 is in use. By rotating the edge sections 5, 6 in the direction of rotation 25, the treatment substance 10 can be conveyed further. Accordingly, the roller 3 can have raised edge sections 15, 16 at its two axial ends, which rest against the edge regions 12 of the treatment substance 10 when the treatment substance passes through the rollers 2, 3. The raised edge sections 15, 16 can be driven in rotation in order to convey the treatment substance 10. For rotationally driving the edge sections 15, 16, a shaft 17 is provided, which is rotatably arranged in the treatment device for the treatment object 10 when the device 1 is in use. The treatment substance 10 can be further transported by rotating the edge sections 15, 16 in the direction of rotation 26.

The edge sections 5, 6 and/or the edge sections 15, 16 can form a friction fit and/or form fit with the treatment substance 10 in order to transport the treatment substance. For example, projections are formed on the edge sections 5, 6 and/or on the edge sections 15, 16, which engage in corresponding recesses of the treatment substance 10 in order to transport the treatment substance 10.

In the case of the roller 2, the raised edge sections 5, 6 serve as transport sections, which can be coupled to the treatment substance 10 for transporting the treatment substance 10. The non-return face 4 is offset relative to the edge sections 5, 6. The increase in the edge sections 5, 6 or the larger radius compared to the radius of the non-return surface 4 determines the minimum gap height 9. Accordingly, in the case of the roller 3, the raised edge sections 15, 16 serve as transport sections, which can be coupled with the treatment substance 10 for transporting the treatment substance 10. The non-return face 14 is offset relative to the edge sections 15, 16. The increase in the edge sections 15, 16 or the larger radius compared to the radius of the non-return face 14 determines the minimum gap height 19.

The radii of the edge section and the non-return face can be selected as appropriate for the desired field of application. For example, the radius of the section of the rollers 2, 3 forming the non-return surface can be smaller than the radius of the edge section of the rollers 2, 3 serving as a conveying section by less than 1mm, in particular by less than 0.7mm, in particular by less than 0.5 mm. The radius of the section of the rollers 2, 3 forming the non-return surface can be smaller by at least 0.05mm, in particular by at least 0.07mm, in particular by at least 0.09mm, than the radius of the edge section of the rollers 2, 3 serving as a conveying section.

Additionally, the shaft 7 of the roller 2 and/or the shaft 17 of the further roller 3 can be arranged by means of a height-adjustable bearing, so that the distance of the shaft 7 from the upper surface of the treatment substance 10 and/or the distance of the shaft 17 from the lower surface of the treatment substance 10 can be adjusted.

The roller 2 and the further roller 3 can be designed such that, when the edge section 5, 6 or 15, 16 serving as a transport section rotates, the non-return surface 4 or 14 of the respective roller also rotates in the same direction as the transport section of the respective roller. For this purpose, the rollers 2 and 3 can be designed, for example, such that both the conveying sections and the non-return surfaces are designed to be rotationally fixed to one another on their surfaces. Since the roller surface is spaced from the active region 11 of the treatment substance 10 and the portions 4 or 14 forming the boundaries of the gap 8 or the gap 18 are offset relative to the transport sections 5, 6 or 15, 16, the roller surfaces of the rollers 2, 3 have a circumferential speed which is different from the transport speed of the treatment substance 10. Alternatively, however, the delivery section may be arranged rotatably relative to the non-return surface, as will also be explained in more detail with reference to fig. 8.

In one embodiment, the delivery section may be rotatably disposed relative to the non-return surface. The angular speed of the non-return surface can be selected in relation to the angular speed of the transport section of the roller, the radius of the transport section and the radius of the section of the roller forming the non-return surface.

Several variants of the device 1 can be realized in different embodiments.

For example, more than two elevated sections can also be provided on the roller 2 or on the further roller 3, while the rollers 2, 3 of the device 1 have elevations 5, 6, 15, 16 at their axial ends. The further raised section can be arranged in particular on the roller 2 and/or on the further roller 3 in such a way that it touches the treatment substance 10 on surface regions where such mechanical contact is not important. For example, the surface area of the treatment substance extending in the longitudinal direction of the treatment substance 10 can be supported by means of further elevations of the roller 2 and/or of the further roller 3, which contact should be unimportant if on one of the sides of the treatment substance. The additional support effect by the additional elevated portion effect reduces the risk of undesired contact of the treatment object 10 in its useful region.

When the non-return surfaces 4, 14, which form a gap with the surface of the treatment substance in the device 1, are arranged not only above but also below the conveying plane, it is also possible in a device according to another embodiment to provide non-return surfaces on only one side, which form a gap with the surface of the treatment substance. For example, such a clearance-forming non-return surface can be provided only on the upper side or only on the lower side of the conveying plane. On the opposite side, for example, a roller can be provided, which has a substantially constant diameter. The clearance-forming non-return surface arranged on the other side can lead to a reduction in the force applied to the surface of the treatment substance in order to reduce the risk of damage to the surface.

In another embodiment, the envelope surface of the roller with a constant diameter (i.e. a diameter that does not vary along the axial direction of the roller) may also be used as a non-return surface, which defines a gap between the non-return surface and the surface of the treatment substance. The configuration of the gap, in particular the minimum gap height, can be realized in an adjustable manner in that the rollers are arranged by means of bearings which can be height-adjusted relative to the conveying plane. Two such rollers can also be provided in order to remove liquid on the upper side and on the lower side of the treatment substance, wherein a gap remains between the respective roller and the treatment substance.

Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of an apparatus 31 for removing a treatment substance according to another embodiment. This device 31 can be used, for example, in the outflow region of the processing station 200 of fig. 18 instead of pairs of press rolls 214, 215, 216. Elements or devices of the device 31 which correspond to elements or devices of the device 1 in their function and/or configuration are provided with the same reference numerals and are not further elaborated.

The device 31 comprises a roller surface constructed as a non-return face 4 for the non-return liquid. The device 31 is designed such that the non-return surface 4 forms a gap 8 with the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite the non-return surface (in fig. 3 with the upper surface of the treatment substance 10). The non-return surface 4 is arranged on the rotatably arranged roller 2. The roll 2 may be constructed as described with reference to fig. 1 and 2. In particular, as described with reference to fig. 1 and 2, the circumferential speed of the roller surface on the gap 8 may be different from the conveyance speed of the treatment object 10. The non-return surface 4 removes the treatment liquid from the treatment object 10 conveyed through the non-return surface 4. Since the gap 8 in one embodiment allows liquid to pass through, there may also be a treatment liquid 34 on the treatment 10 after it has passed the roller 2 with the non-return face 4.

Furthermore, the device 31 comprises an inflow device 32 with a nozzle device. The inflow device 32 is arranged in the conveying direction at a distance from the roller 2 and the non-return surface 4 arranged on the roller 2. The inflow device 32 is arranged downstream in the conveying direction, i.e. downstream in the conveying direction, of the roller 2 with the non-return surface 4. The inflow device 32 is designed to remove a portion of the treatment liquid 34 remaining on the treatment substance 10 after passing through the gap 8 from the treatment substance 10. The inflow device 32 can be designed in particular to remove a large portion of the treatment liquid 34 remaining on the treatment substance 10 after passing through the gap 8 from the treatment substance 10.

The inflow device 32 can output a fluid flow 33, in particular a gas flow, for example an air flow, in order to blow off the treatment liquid 34 from the treatment substance 10 or to otherwise remove it in the fluid flow 33. The fluid flow 33 may have at least one flow component (component to the right in fig. 3) towards the clearance-generating non-return face 4 of the device 31. On the non-return surface 4, the treatment liquid can flow laterally from the treatment substance.

The inflow device can also be designed such that the fluid flow 33 has a flow component which, parallel to the transport plane and transversely to the transport direction 20, i.e. parallel to the axial direction of the roller 2, forms the non-return surface 4 on the roller 2. In this way, the treatment liquid 34 is removed laterally from the treatment object 10.

The inflow device 32 can extend through the treatment substance 10 over the entire width of the treatment substance 10, i.e. the extent of the treatment substance 10 transversely to the conveying direction. For the purpose of outputting the fluid flow 33, the inflow device 32 may have one or more nozzle openings. The nozzle opening can be embodied, for example, as a continuous groove, a plurality of grooves or a plurality of holes, which are embodied on the inflow device 32 in the width direction of the treatment substance 10. The inflow device 32 can be constructed such that the distance of the nozzle opening from the surface of the treatment substance 10 is substantially equal over the entire width of the treatment substance.

The inflow device 32 may comprise a straight channel body which is oriented parallel to the conveying plane and transversely to the conveying direction 20. Alternatively, the channel body can also be oriented parallel to the conveying plane and inclined to the conveying direction 20.

In one embodiment, the inflow device 32 may be shaped such that a central section of the inflow device 32 is arranged closer to the gap-forming non-return surface 4 than an edge section of the inflow device 32 in the width direction of the treatment. For example, the inflow device 32 can have a shape which, in a top view seen in a direction perpendicular to the conveying plane (i.e. in fig. 3 when the conveying plane is seen perpendicularly from above), has a convex shape towards the gap 8 formed by the non-return surfaces 4. For example, the inflow device 32 can have a V-shape in plan view, the tip of which points toward the non-return surface 4. The inflow device thus constructed is designed to output a fluid flow with a velocity component towards the edge of the treatment substance in order to effectively deliver the treatment liquid to the edge of the treatment substance and thus remove it.

The inflow device 32 can be designed to output a gas flow, in particular an air flow, and to flow the treatment substance therefrom. The inflow device 32 can be designed such that the outflow speed of the gas flow 33 is at least 2m/sec, in particular at least 10m/sec, in particular at least 30 m/sec.

The inflow device 32 can also be designed to discharge a liquid flow and thus to flow the treatment substance. The inflow device 32 can be designed such that the outflow speed of the liquid flow 33 is at least 0.1m/sec, in particular at least 1m/sec, in particular at least 3 m/sec.

The inflow device 32 may be designed such that the outflow direction of the fluid flow 33 may be parallel to the surface of the treatment substance or inclined to this surface. In particular, the inflow direction 32 can be designed such that the fluid flow exits from a nozzle opening of the inflow device 32 toward the gap 8 and/or transversely to the delivery direction toward the edge of the treatment substance 10. Alternatively, the outflow direction can also be perpendicular to the surface of the treatment substance 10.

The inflow device 32 may be designed such that the fluid flow 33 does not pass through the gap 8, i.e. does not enter the process liquid which accumulates on the opposite side of the non-return surface 4 forming the gap. In this way, bubble formation in the treatment liquid 21 caused by the fluid flow 32 can be avoided or suppressed. In order to avoid the fluid flow 33 from passing through the gap 8, for example, one or more of the volumetric flow, the outflow speed and/or the outflow direction of the fluid flow 33 from the inflow device 32 may be adjusted accordingly.

The device 31 can be designed such that the distance between the gap 8 and the nozzle opening of the inflow device 32 or different distances is at most 100mm and at least 10 mm.

As shown in fig. 3, the device 31 can also have a further roller surface, which is designed as a non-return surface 14, arranged below the conveying plane, which can be designed on a further roller 3.

In further embodiments, a plurality of variants of the device 31 can be implemented. Whereas the device 31 for removing liquid is described, for example, with reference to fig. 3 (in which the inflow device 32 is arranged in the transport direction of the treatment substance 10 after the roller 2 with the gap-forming non-return surface 4), the device for retaining the treatment liquid can also be constructed such that the inflow device is arranged in the transport direction of the treatment substance before or upstream of the gap-forming non-return surface. The device example thus constructed can be used in particular in the inflow region of a treatment station.

In a device for removing or retaining treatment liquid according to a further embodiment, an inflow device 32 can alternatively or additionally be arranged below the conveying plane in order to blow liquid away from the underside of the treatment substance 10 or to otherwise remove it from the treatment substance 10 in a fluid flow 33 emitted by the inflow device.

If the inflow device is arranged below the conveying plane, it can be designed such that the fluid flow generated by the inflow device has a velocity component parallel to the conveying direction which faces away from the non-return surface which generates the gap. For example, in an inflow device arranged in an outflow region of the treatment station, the fluid flow generated by the inflow device can have a velocity component in the conveying direction.

If the inflow device for removing the treatment liquid is arranged above the transport plane, a transport element can be arranged at a corresponding position below the transport plane. Similarly, if the inflow device for removing the treatment liquid is arranged below the transport plane, a transport element is arranged above the transport plane at a corresponding location. The conveying element and the inflow device can be arranged at the same location on opposite sides of the conveying plane in the conveying direction.

The transport element can be designed, for example, to support and/or transport the treatment substance. The transport element may constitute a roller. The roller may have an offset non-return face, but may also have a substantially constant diameter in the axial direction. The conveying element can also be constructed as a small wheel axle on which a plurality of small wheels are arranged. The small wheels may be configured to touch the treatment object to convey the treatment object.

Fig. 4 is a schematic side view of the outflow region 41 of the treatment station. Such an outflow region 41 can be provided in the treatment station 200 of fig. 18 at the end of the inner container 201 at which the treatment substance leaves the treatment station. In the outflow region, the treatment material 10 is conveyed further in the conveying direction 20 from the treatment region 42, in which the treatment liquid 21 covers the treatment material.

The outflow region 41 includes a plurality of devices 43, 44, and 45 for removing the treatment liquid from the treatment object 10. The devices 43, 44, and 45 for removing the processing liquid are disposed along the conveyance path of the processing object 10 at intervals from each other in the conveyance direction 20. Each of the devices 43, 44 and 45 can have a non-return surface which is arranged relative to the conveying plane in such a way that a gap is formed between the non-return surface and the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite the non-return surface.

The devices 43, 44 and 45 may be constructed as a device for removing the treatment liquid according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, the device 43 may have a pair of rollers 51, 52 arranged so that the treatment 10 can pass therethrough. A gap-forming nonreturn surface for returning the treatment liquid can be formed on at least one of the rollers 51, 52 of the device 43, so that a gap is formed between the nonreturn surface and the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite the nonreturn surface when the treatment substance passes through the rollers 51, 52. In particular, at least one of the rollers 51, 52 can have an elevated edge region for conveying the treatment substance 10 and an offset non-return surface arranged therebetween. The device 43 can be constructed, for example, as the device 1 described with reference to fig. 1 and 2. At least the rollers 51, 52 on which the non-return surfaces forming the gap are built up are driven such that the circumferential speed of the roller surface at the edge of the gap, i.e. on the line along which the roller surface is separated from the treatment 10 by the minimum gap height, differs in direction and/or magnitude from the conveying speed of the treatment 10.

The device 44 may have a roller 53 and an inflow device 54 arranged above the transport plane and a roller 55 and an inflow device 56 arranged below the transport plane. A clearance-forming nonreturn surface for returning the treatment liquid can be formed on at least one of the rollers 53, 55 of the device 44, so that a clearance is formed between the nonreturn surface and the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite the nonreturn surface when the treatment substance passes through the rollers 53, 55. In particular, at least one of the rollers 53, 55 can have an elevated edge region for conveying the treatment substance 10 and an offset non-return surface arranged therebetween, as explained with reference to fig. 1 and 2. Inflow devices 54 and 56 flow the treatment substance 10 in a fluid flow 33, for example air, in order to remove residual treatment liquid on the treatment substance. For this purpose, the fluid flow 33 emitted by the inflow devices 54 and 56 can be oriented in such a way that it moves the treatment liquid toward the edge of the treatment substance and is then removed.

The device 45 may have a roller 57 and an inflow device 58 arranged above the transport plane and a roller 59 and an inflow device 60 arranged below the transport plane. A clearance-forming nonreturn surface for returning the treatment liquid can be formed on at least one of the rollers 57, 59 of the device 45, so that a clearance is formed between the nonreturn surface and the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite the nonreturn surface when the treatment substance passes through the rollers 57, 59. In particular, at least one of the rollers 57, 59 can have an elevated edge region for conveying the treatment substance 10 and an offset non-return surface arranged therebetween, as explained with reference to fig. 1 and 2. The inflow devices 58 and 60 flow the treatment substance 10 in a fluid flow 33, for example air, in order to remove the treatment liquid remaining on the treatment substance. For this purpose, the fluid flow 33 emitted by the inflow devices 58 and 60 can be oriented such that it moves the treatment liquid toward the edge of the treatment substance and is then removed.

At least the rollers forming the gap between the respective roller and the treatment object among the rollers 53, 55, 57, 59 can be rotated such that the circumferential speed of the rollers at the gap differs in magnitude and/or direction from the transport speed of the treatment object 10.

The non-return surfaces of the devices 43, 44 and 45 through which the treatment substance 10 passes successively, which surfaces form the gap, can have different configurations. For example, the gap on these devices may be narrower and narrower. For example, the device 43 can be designed such that a gap with a first minimum gap height is formed between the non-return surface of the device 43 and the opposing surface of the treatment substance 10, while the device 44 arranged downstream of the device 43 in the transport direction is designed such that a gap with a second minimum gap height is formed between the non-return surface of the device 44 and the opposing surface of the treatment substance 10. The second minimum gap height at the device 44 can be smaller than the first minimum gap height at the device 43, i.e. the gaps can have a smaller and smaller height in the outflow region of the treatment station from one device for removing the treatment liquid to another device arranged downstream of the device in the conveying direction.

The device 43 forming the boundary of the treatment zone 42 is constructed such that the difference in level between the opposite sides of the treatment liquid in the conveying direction of the roller 51 is adjusted. The treatment liquid 21 is accumulated up to a level 71 in the treatment zone 42, while the treatment liquid is accumulated up to a level 72 on the other side of the roller 51 in the adjacent zone.

The device 44 arranged after the device 43 in the conveying direction is constructed such that the treatment liquid is removed from the treatment substance 10 when the treatment substance 10 passes through the rollers 53, 55. The treatment liquid 73 still present on the treatment substance 10 after the treatment substance 10 has passed the rollers 53, 55 is at least partially removed by the inflow devices 54, 56. A further part of the treatment liquid which is still present on the treatment object 10 after passing through the device 44 can be removed from the treatment object by means of a device 45 arranged on the transport device after the device 44.

Even if a gap is left between the processing object 10 and the non-return surface, the processing liquid can be reliably removed from the processing object 10 by using a plurality of devices for removing the processing liquid.

Between the bottom 46 of the inner container of the processing station and the rollers 52 of the device 43, which are arranged below the conveying plane, there is provided a weir 47. The difference 74 between the levels 71, 72 of the liquid on both sides of the device 43 can be set by means of the weirs 47. To this end, an opening 61 is formed in weir 47, for example in the form of a slot, bore or groove. Openings 61 may be closed to accommodate passage of liquid through weir 47 and thus accommodate a level difference 74 between liquid levels 71 and 72.

The level 72 in the region adjacent to the treatment region 42 is determined by the balance of the inflow and outflow of the treatment liquid. In order to be able to adjust this and thus the level 72, one or more openings, for example closable boreholes, are provided in the bottom 46 between the weirs 47, 48. The desired basic adjustment of level 72 in the region adjacent to processing region 42 can be selected by appropriate selection of the opening opened in weir 47 and the opening opened in bottom 46. In addition, overflow weirs are provided on the elements forming the lateral boundary of the treatment stations, for example in the bearing receptacles provided for the setting rollers 51, 52, 53 and 55. The additionally constricted liquid quantity can be discharged over the overflow weir.

To compensate for the flow of the treatment liquid out of the treatment region 42, the treatment liquid can be conveyed into the treatment region 42 by means of a pump (not shown).

The weir 48 is arranged between the bottom 46 of the inner container of the processing station and the rollers 55 of the device 44 which are arranged below the conveying plane. The weir 48 need not have a closable opening for adjusting the level of the liquid. The weirs 48 help reduce the outflow of the process fluid from the processing region.

In further embodiments, a deformation of the outflow region 41 can be achieved. In one embodiment, for example, device 45 may be omitted. Accordingly, two devices for removing the treatment liquid can be provided in the outflow region. At least in the transport direction, the last of these devices can have an inflow device. The inflow device may be arranged at least above the transport plane.

In another embodiment, a plurality of devices for removing liquid can be provided, which have weirs with an opening or openings for adjusting the level difference. The weirs may each have the configuration as they are explained with reference to weir 47. In one embodiment, for example, two devices with at least one roller in each case can be provided in the inflow region or outflow region, which have a non-return surface for the non-return liquid, which forms a gap with the process passing over it, wherein a weir with an opening or openings, as described for weir 47, is provided in each of the devices below the conveying plane. Spaced apart from these two devices in the conveying direction, a further device can be provided, which has a configuration corresponding to the device 44. In this way, for example, at least two regions with a reduced treatment liquid level relative to the treatment region can be formed in the inflow region or the outflow region.

In the devices 43-45 for removing liquid, a roller is arranged in each case below and above the conveying plane, which roller forms a gap with the treatment product passing through it, while in another embodiment the devices for removing liquid are each designed in such a way that only the roller arranged above the conveying plane is provided with a non-return surface, which roller leaves free a gap between the non-return surface and the treatment product passing through it. The rollers arranged below the conveying plane may have a constant diameter in the axial direction of the rollers.

In one embodiment, one of the inflow devices 54, 56 may be replaced by a delivery element. The transport element may be configured to support and/or transport the treatment substance. The transport element can be configured, for example, as a roller or a small wheel axle. Alternatively or additionally, one of the inflow devices 58, 60 may be replaced by a conveying element. The transport element may be configured to support and/or transport the treatment substance. The transport element can be configured, for example, as a roller or a small wheel axle.

In one exemplary embodiment, one of the inflow devices 56, 60 arranged below the conveying plane can be designed such that the fluid flow 33 generated by the inflow device 56, 60 has a velocity component in the outflow region 41 which is directed in the conveying direction.

Fig. 5 is a schematic side view of the outflow region 81 of the treatment station. Such an outflow region 81 can be provided in the processing station 200 of fig. 18 at the end of the inner container 201, at which the processed material leaves the inner container 201. In the outflow region, the treatment material is further conveyed from the treatment region 82 in the conveyance direction 20, and the treatment material is covered with the treatment liquid 21 in the treatment region. The elements or devices of the outflow region 81, which correspond in terms of their function and/or construction to the elements or devices of the outflow region 41, are provided with the same reference numerals and are not explained in depth.

In certain treatment stations, it may be desirable to set a relatively high liquid level 91 in the treatment region 82. The liquid level 91 in the treatment zone 82 may be set at least 15mm above the transport plane, for example.

The outflow region 81 is provided with a plurality of devices 83, 44 and 45 for removing or retaining the treatment liquid. The device 83 includes rollers 84, 85 arranged so that the treatment 10 can pass therethrough. A gap-forming nonreturn surface for returning the treatment liquid can be formed on at least one of the rollers 84, 85 of the device 83, so that a gap is formed between the nonreturn surface and the surface of the treatment 84, 85 opposite the nonreturn surface when the treatment passes through the rollers 84, 85. In particular, at least one of the rollers 84, 85 can have an elevated edge region for conveying the treatment substance 10 and an offset non-return surface arranged therebetween. The pair of rollers 84, 85 is constructed, for example, as the apparatus 1 explained with reference to fig. 1 and 2. At least the rollers 84, 85 on which the non-return surfaces forming the gap are built are driven such that the circumferential speed of the roller surface at the gap, i.e. along the line on which the roller surface is separated from the treatment 10 by the minimum gap height, differs in direction and/or magnitude from the conveying speed of the treatment 10.

In order to achieve the accumulation of the treatment liquid up to a high level 91, the device 83 has a further non-return element 86 above the roller 84. The further non-return element 86 is constructed to act together when accumulating treatment liquid in the case of high liquid levels in the treatment region 82 in such a way that it acts as a wall for the accumulated liquid. This further non-return element 86 can be designed, for example, as a roller which is designed complementary to the roller 84 in such a way that the rollers 84, 85 close tightly and only allow little or no liquid to pass between the rollers 84, 86. Other configurations of the further element 86 are possible, for example in the form of an upright member.

The device 83 is constructed such that a level difference 97 of the treatment liquid between the level 91 in the treatment zone 82 and the zone adjacent thereto on the other side of the device 83 is adjusted and maintained by the device 83. When the treatment object 10 passes through the device 44, the device 44 disposed after the device 83 in the conveying direction removes another treatment liquid from the treatment object 10. Instead of level 92, there is only a small amount of treatment liquid 93 on the treatment 10 as the treatment 10 passes through the roller pairs of the device 44. The device 45 arranged after the device 44 in the conveying direction can also remove additional liquid from the treatment substance, as long as this is still necessary after passing through the device 44.

To adjust level difference 97, closable opening 61 is provided in weir 47. The level 92 in the region adjacent to the treatment region 82 is determined by the balance of the inflow and outflow of the treatment liquid. In order to be able to adjust the balance and thus the level 92, one or more openings 96, for example closable boreholes, can be provided in the bottom 46 between the weirs 47, 48. The desired basic adjustment of level 92 in the region adjacent to processing region 82 can be selected by appropriate selection of opening 61 that is opened in weir 47 and opening 96 that is opened in bottom 46. In addition, overflow weirs are provided on the elements forming the lateral boundary of the treatment stations, for example in the bearing receptacles of the rollers provided for the mounting devices 83 and 84. The additionally constricted liquid quantity can be discharged via the overflow weir.

To compensate for the flow of the treatment fluid out of the treatment region 82, a flow 95 of the treatment fluid may be delivered into the treatment region 82 by means of a pump 94.

While the configuration of the outflow region of the treatment station is described with reference to fig. 4 and 5, the means for removing or retaining the treatment liquid can accordingly also be provided in the inflow region of the treatment station. In particular, a plurality of devices for removing or retaining the treatment liquid, which are spaced apart from one another in the conveying direction, can also be provided in the inflow region in order to prevent the treatment liquid from flowing onto the treatment substance before the treatment substance is introduced into the treatment station in the inflow region.

The configuration of the non-return surfaces forming the gap can be selected in a suitable manner according to the particular field of application.

Fig. 6 is a schematic front view of a device 101 for removing or retaining treatment liquid according to another embodiment.

The device 101 comprises a roller 102 and a further roller 103. The roller 102 and the other roller 103 are arranged so that the treatment object 10 can be conveyed through the rollers 102 and 103. The outer lateral surface of the roller 102 has a non-return surface 104, which is designed to return the treatment liquid. The roller 102 with the non-return surface 104 is designed such that, when the treatment substance 10 passes through the roller 102, a gap 8 remains between the non-return surface 104 of the roller 102 and the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite the non-return surface. When the treatment is held at its longitudinal edges by means of the retaining rails, the axial end sections 105 of the rollers 102 are designed with a smaller diameter than the central section of the rollers 102, which defines the non-return surface 104, in order to serve as transport sections for transporting the treatment 10 when the treatment 10 is held at its longitudinal edges by means of the retaining rails.

The outer lateral surface of the further roller 103 has a further non-return surface 106, which is designed to prevent the treatment liquid from returning. The further roller 103 with the further non-return surface 106 is designed such that, when the treatment substance 10 passes the further roller 103, a gap 18 remains between the further non-return surface 106 of the further roller 103 and the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite the further non-return surface. When the treatment is held on its longitudinal edges by means of the holding rails, the axial end section 107 of the further roller 103 is designed with a smaller diameter than the central section of the further roller 103, which defines the further non-return surface 106, in order to serve as a conveying section for conveying the treatment 10.

On the longitudinal edges of the treatment object 10, retaining rails 108, 109 are provided, which retain the treatment object for transporting the treatment object 10. Such retaining rails 108, 109 can be used in particular when conveying treatment substances with low inherent stiffness to impart additional stability to the treatment substances. The roller 102 and the further roller 103 of the device 101 are designed such that their axial end sections 105, 107 with the smaller diameter rest against the retaining rails 108, 109. The treatment substance 10 can be further transported by the rotation of the roller 102 and the further roller 103 via the holding rails 108, 109.

In the device 101, the non-return surfaces 104, 106 of the rollers 102, 103 are offset relative to the transport sections provided at the axial ends of the rollers 102, 103, so that when the treatment substance 10 passes the non-return surfaces 104, 106, a gap 8, 18 with the desired minimum gap height is formed between the non-return surfaces 104, 106 and the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite these non-return surfaces.

In this apparatus 101, the rollers 102 and 103 do not directly touch the processing object 10. The conveyance of the processing object 10 is performed by coupling the conveyance sections 105, 107 with the holding rails 108, 109, on which the processing object 10 is held.

In this device 101, the roller 102 has a circumferential speed on the roller surface forming the non-return surface 104, which forms the boundary of the gap 8 on one side, that is lower than the conveyance speed of the processed object 10. The roller surface of the roller 103 forming the boundary of the gap 18 on one side, which forms the non-return surface 106, has a circumferential speed which is less than the conveying speed of the treatment substance 10.

In a variant of the device 101, the rollers 102, 103 can be designed such that they touch the treatment product 10 in the edge regions next to the holding rails 108, 109 in order to transport it. For this purpose, elevated transport sections can be provided on the rollers 102, 103, which contact the treatment object next to the holding rails 108, 109. The rollers 102, 103 may also be constructed such that a gap is also formed between the rollers 102, 103 and the holding rails 108, 109 for displacing the liquid. For this purpose, recesses or slots which are set back in relation to the transport section of the rollers are provided on the rollers 102, 103 for pressing the liquid out of the holding rail. The gap formed between the roller and the holding rail may have a minimum gap height, which may be less than 1mm, in particular less than 0.7mm, in particular less than 0.5 mm. The gap formed between the roller and the holding rail can have a minimum gap height, which can be at least 0.05mm, in particular at least 0.07mm, in particular at least 0.09 mm.

The device 101 for pressing out the liquid of the held treatment substance can furthermore comprise an inflow device. The inflow device may be constructed as explained with reference to fig. 3. The inflow device can be designed in particular such that the fluid flow output by the inflow device also removes the treatment liquid from the retaining rail.

Channels are provided in the holding rails 108, 109, which enable the liquid to pass through the holding rails transversely to the conveying direction.

The rollers 102, 103 can be designed such that a force with a force component in the conveying plane and transversely to the conveying direction is applied to the holding rails 108, 109 arranged at least on one of the longitudinal edges. The force can be directed such that the retaining rails 108, 109 arranged on the opposite longitudinal edges are pressed away from one another in order to tension the treatment object 10 transversely to the conveying direction. For this purpose, the holding rails 108 and/or 109 can have, for example, one or more magnets, in particular permanent magnets, on at least one longitudinal edge of the treatment substance. The roller 102 arranged above the conveying plane and/or the roller 103 arranged below the conveying plane may have a magnet or a plurality of magnets in order to exert an electromagnetic force on the retaining rail. The force can be oriented such that the holding rails are elastically pressed away from one another on opposite longitudinal edges of the treatment substance 10.

Fig. 7 is a schematic side view of a device 111 for removing or retaining treatment liquid. In this device 111, the non-return surface is not arranged on a rotatably mounted roller. According to one embodiment, the device 111 may be provided in the processing station in combination with a roller having the development described with reference to fig. 1-6.

The device 111 comprises two substantially square elements 112, 113 which can be used as inserts in an apparatus for treating a treatment liquid 10. The insert 112 may be disposed above the conveying plane while the insert 113 is disposed below the conveying plane. The surfaces of the inserts 112, 113 serve as non-return surfaces that are non-return to the treatment liquid.

The inserts 112, 113 of the device 111 may be arranged relative to the transport path of the treatment object 10 such that a gap 115 remains between one of the upper surfaces of the treatment object 10 and a side 114 of the insert 112 facing the upper surface when the treatment object 10 passes the device 111, and a gap 118 remains between the lower surface of the treatment object 10 and a side 117 of the insert 113 facing the lower surface when the treatment object 10 passes the device 111. Side 114 of insert 112 and side 117 of insert 117 may have a planar configuration such that gaps 115 and 118 extend at a constant gap height along the conveying direction.

The inserts 112, 113 of the device 111 have inflow regions which are open with respect to the conveying direction 20 and which are formed by inclined portions 116, 119 on the inserts 112, 113. Such an inflow region can be used, for example, for guiding a treatment substance having a low inherent stiffness, for example a membrane.

The device 111 with the inserts 112, 113 can be used in an apparatus for electrolytic or wet-chemical treatment of the treatment substance 10 for accumulating the treatment liquid 21. When the treatment substance 10 passes the inserts 112, 113 from a treatment zone arranged on a first side (left in fig. 7) of the insert (in which treatment liquid 21 accumulates up to a level 121), a layer of treatment liquid with a smaller thickness 122 remains on the treatment substance 10.

The inserts 112, 113 may be suitably configured according to the structural facts of the device in which the apparatus 111 is used. For example, the inserts 112, 113 may be constructed such that the gaps 115, 118 are as long as possible in the conveying direction 20.

The inserts 112, 113 can be mounted in a rotationally fixed manner in the apparatus for electrolytic or wet-chemical treatment. The inserts 112, 113 can also be arranged in the device in particular in a fixed position in the transport direction. The inserts 112, 113 may be positioned such that they may move perpendicular to each other.

In a variant of the device 111, a square insert is arranged above the conveying plane and rollers are arranged below the conveying plane for conveying the treatment substance. The square insert may, for example, have the same configuration as the insert 112 of the device 111.

Fig. 8 shows a schematic side view of the treatment station 131, wherein a pair of rollers 132, 133 is provided in the inflow region and another pair of rollers 134, 135 is provided in the outflow region. The roller 132 is arranged above the conveying plane in the inflow region and the roller 133 is arranged below the conveying plane of the treatment substance 10 in the inflow region. The roller 134 is arranged above the conveying plane in the outflow region and the roller 135 is arranged below the conveying plane of the treatment substance 10 in the outflow region. The treatment liquid 21 is accumulated in the treatment station 131 up to a level 136 by means of a roller pair.

The rollers 132 and 135 each have a conveying section in the form of a raised portion 5, 15 at their axial ends for conveying the treatment liquid. Between the conveying sections arranged at the ends, there are formed non-return surfaces 4, 14 of smaller diameter. As explained with reference to fig. 1 and 2, the roller surfaces designed as non-return surfaces 4, 14 form a gap with the treatment passing through the roller, which gap extends in the width direction of the treatment.

The different sections of the rollers 132 in the inflow region are driven in a rotating manner, so that the conveying section 5 and the non-return surface 4 of the rollers 132 arranged above the conveying plane, which is arranged therebetween, rotate in the same direction. The different sections of the rollers 133 in the inflow region are driven in a rotating manner such that the conveying section 15 and the non-return surface 14 of the roller 133 arranged below the conveying plane arranged therebetween rotate in the same direction. The direction of rotation 141 of the transport section 5 of the rollers 132 arranged above the transport plane is selected such that the transport section 5 moves in the transport direction 20 at its contact point with the treatment substance 10 in order to transport the treatment substance 10 in the transport direction 20. The direction of rotation 143 of the transport section 15 of the rollers 133 arranged below the transport plane is selected such that the transport section 15 moves in the transport direction 20 at its contact point with the treatment object 10 in order to transport the treatment object 10 in the transport direction 20. The non-return surface 4 of the roller 132, which is arranged above the conveying plane, rotates in the same direction as the conveying section 5 of the roller 132 in the direction of rotation 142, so that the section of the non-return surface 4 which is directed exactly at the treatment substance 10 moves toward the higher liquid level (to the right in fig. 8). Similarly, the non-return surface 14 of the roller 133 arranged below the conveying plane rotates with the conveying section 15 in the same direction in the direction of rotation 144, so that the section of the non-return surface 14 which is directed directly at the treatment substance 10 moves toward the higher liquid level (to the right in fig. 8).

By suitable design of the rollers 132, 133, a sufficiently high liquid level 136 can be built up, while the movement of the non-return face 4 relative to the region with a high liquid level substantially reduces the passage of liquid through the gap formed on the non-return face 4 of the rollers 132, 133. To this end, the rollers 132, 133 can be designed such that a gap with a minimum gap height of less than 0.3mm (for example, approximately 0.1mm) is formed between the non-return surfaces 4, 14 and the surface of the treatment substance 10 lying opposite the non-return surfaces. For example, the delivery section may be raised relative to the non-return face by less than 0.3mm, for example by about 0.1 mm.

In the discharge region, the transport sections 5, 15 of the rollers 134, 135 rotate in the direction of rotation 145, 147, so that the transport sections 5, 15 move in the transport direction 20 at their contact point with the treatment object 10.

In order to reduce the passage of liquid through the gap formed in the outflow region by means of the rollers 134, 135 in the outflow region, the roller 134 arranged above the conveying plane can be designed such that the non-return surface 4 of the roller 134 can be rotated relative to the conveying section 5 of the roller 134. Similarly, the rollers 135 arranged below the conveying plane can be constructed such that the non-return faces 14 of the rollers 135 can be rotated relative to the conveying sections 15 of the rollers 135. In the outflow region, the non-return surfaces 4 of the rollers 134 arranged above the conveying plane can be rotated in a direction of rotation 146, which is opposite to the direction of rotation 145 of the conveying sections 5 of the rollers 134. The non-return surfaces 14 of the rollers 135 arranged below the conveying plane can be rotated in a direction of rotation 148 which is opposite to the direction of rotation 147 of the conveying sections 15 of the rollers 135. In this way, the rotation of the non-return surfaces 4, 14 can also take place in the outflow region, so that the section of the non-return surface 4 of the roller 134 arranged above the conveying plane, which section is directed precisely at the treatment substance 10, is moved toward a higher liquid level (to the left in fig. 8). Similarly, the non-return face 14 of the roller 135 can be rotated oppositely relative to the conveying section 15 so that the section of the non-return face 14 of the roller 135 that is directed exactly towards the treatment 10 moves towards a higher liquid level (to the left in fig. 8).

The roller surface of the roller 134, which serves as the non-return surface 4, is rotated in this case in such a way that the point of the roller surface next to the conveying plane moves in the direction opposite to the conveying direction of the treatment substance 10 (to the left in fig. 8). In this way a relative movement is generated between the roll surface 4 at the upper edge of the gap 8 and the treatment 10. The roller surface of the roller 135 serving as the non-return surface 5 rotates such that a point of the roller surface next to the conveying plane moves in a direction opposite to the conveying direction of the processing object 10 (leftward in fig. 8). In this way a relative movement is generated between the roller surface at the lower edge of the gap 9 and the treatment 10.

The rollers 134, 135 in the outflow region can also be designed such that a gap with a minimum gap height of less than 0.3mm, for example about 0.1mm, is formed between the non-return surfaces 4, 14 and the surface of the treatment substance 10 opposite the non-return surfaces. For example, the delivery section may be raised relative to the non-return face by less than 0.3mm, for example by about 0.1 mm.

Alternatively or additionally, one or more inflow devices may be provided in each case in the inflow region and/or in the outflow region of the treatment station 131 in order to remove the treatment liquid passing through the gap in a fluid flow, as explained with reference to fig. 3.

The liquid can be reduced by a roller pair which is suitably formed in the inflow region and/or outflow region through the gap left during the transport of the treatment substance, so that no inflow device for blowing away the treatment liquid is provided in the inflow region and/or outflow region of the treatment station.

In the inflow region and/or in the outflow region, a plurality of devices for removing or retaining the treatment liquid can also be provided, as explained with reference to fig. 4 and 5.

The device and the method according to various embodiments allow for the removal or blocking of the treatment liquid from the treatment substance or for an increased exchange of substances on the treatment substance in an apparatus for the electrolytic or wet-chemical treatment of treatment substances, wherein direct contact between the solid elements and the active zones of the treatment substance can be reduced or avoided.

Fig. 9 is a side view, partly in section, of the outflow region 221 of the treatment station. The means for removing liquid shown may include a pair of rollers 231, 232, a wiper 235, an inflow 236, and a drive 238. This device can be used, for example, in the processing station 200 of fig. 18 instead of the press rolls 214 and/or 215.

The processing station has an inner tank with a bottom 222. The treatment liquid has a running level 223 with a height 224 relative to the bottom 222 in the region of the treatment station. The running level 223 is adjusted so that the treatment 10 is covered with the treatment liquid before passing through the pair of rollers 231, 232. As already described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, this can be achieved by the weir 227 in combination with the pair of rollers 231, 232: the processing liquid downstream of weir 227 reaches only a level 225 below the conveying plane of the treatment substance 10. The height 226 of the process liquid downstream of the weirs 227 is less than the height 224 upstream of the weirs.

In the case of rollers 231, 232 which are designed such that they are in each case spaced apart from a useful region of the treatment object 10, the useful region extends continuously between the opposite edge sections. The roller 231 is disposed above the conveyance plane of the processing object. The roller 232 is disposed below the conveyance plane of the processing object. Each of the rollers 231, 232 is covered with the treatment liquid at least on a part of the circumference thereof. The rollers 231, 232 may be constructed such that they are spaced apart from the entire treatment object 10 when the treatment object 10 passes through the rollers 231, 232. In particular, the rollers 231, 232 may be configured such that they do not act together when conveying the treatment object 10. The rollers 231, 232 may have cylindrical roller surfaces 228 or 229. The gap between the roller surface 228 of the roller 231 and the treatment object 10 continuously extends in the width direction between the edge areas of the treatment object 10. Another gap between the roller surface 229 of the roller 232 and the treatment object 10 continuously extends in the width direction between the edge areas of the treatment object 10.

The rollers 231, 232 are driven in rotation by a drive 238. The drive means may comprise an actuator, such as a motor, and suitable means for transmitting the torque of the actuator to the rollers 231, 232. The drive 238 for the rollers 231, 232 can have components which are at the same time part of the drive for other components, for example for the conveyor rollers. Advantageously, the drive means 238 may be provided within the processing station. At least the motor of the drive 238 may be housed.

A drive 238 drives the roller 231 such that it has a circumferential velocity of magnitude v 1. Along a line 233 on which the roller surface 228 of the roller 231 is spaced at the gap height from the useful region of the treatment substance 10, the velocity vector 234 of the circumferential velocity is oriented counter to the transport velocity vT of the treatment substance. Since there is adhesion resistance between the roller 231 and the treatment liquid, the outflow of the treatment liquid through the gap can be reduced. In general, the rollers 231 arranged above the conveying plane can be driven in the inflow region or outflow region of the treatment station such that the roller surfaces move towards a higher level on the line forming the boundary of the gap. The magnitude v1 of the velocity or the rotational speed of the roll 231 can be adjusted depending on the desired level difference of the treatment liquid between the two sides of the roll.

Drive 238 drives roller 232 so that it has a circumferential velocity of magnitude v 2. The roller 231 and the roller 232 are driven so as to rotate in the same direction. In one embodiment, the circumferential speed of the second roller 232 is equal to the transport speed vT ± 20% of the treatment substance. Thereby, the following risks can be reduced: the treatment 10 having a low inherent hardness is greatly biased so that it comes into impermissible contact with the rollers 231, 232. The roller 232 may also be driven such that the magnitude v2 of the circumferential velocity is greater than the magnitude vT of the transport velocity.

In one embodiment, the rollers 231, 232 are driven such that v1 is v 2.

A drive 238 may drive the roller 231 such that the roller 231 carries the treatment liquid. The amount of the treatment liquid carried is related to the surface characteristics of the roller 231, particularly, the surface roughness, the rotational speed and the diameter of the roller 231.

The scraping device 235 may remove the entrained processing liquid from the roller 231. The scraping device 235 can be configured, for example, as a strip, which runs parallel to the axis of the roller 231. The scraping device 235 may be constructed such that it compensates for variations in the treatment liquid carried by the roller 231 along the axial direction of the roller 231. For example, the scraping device 235 may have a constant distance from the roller surface 228 in the axial direction of the roller 231. The scraping device 231 may be constructed such that it does not completely remove the treatment liquid from the roller 231, so that a treatment liquid film of a limited thickness is formed around the roller 231 due to the rotation of the roller 231. The scraping device 235 may be constructed such that the treatment liquid film around the roller 231 reduces the effective cross section of the gap for the outflow of the treatment liquid between the roller 231 and the treatment object 10.

The scraper 235 may be adjustable relative to the roller 231 in order to adjust the amount of treatment liquid that is stopped by the scraper 235. In this way, the amount of returned treatment liquid can be adjusted depending on the application, for example, according to the desired level 223.

The inflow device 236 may be configured to inflow the treatment 10 with a fluid 237, such as air. The treatment liquid remaining on the treatment object 10 after the treatment object 10 passes between the rollers 231, 232 may be removed. The inflow device may be constructed as described with reference to fig. 3-5.

Fig. 10 is a side view, partly in section, of an outflow region 241 of a treatment station with a device for removing a treatment liquid. The means for removing the treatment liquid comprises a pair of rollers 231, 232, a scraping means 235, an inflow means 236 and a drive means 248. This device can be used, for example, in the processing station 200 of fig. 18 instead of the press rolls 214 and/or 214. Elements and devices corresponding in their configuration and/or function to elements and/or devices of the outflow region 221 and described with reference to fig. 9 are provided with the same reference numerals as in fig. 9.

Drive 248 is configured to counter-rotate roller 232 relative to roller 231. The surface of roller 232 has a circumferential velocity of magnitude v 2. The circumferential speed is against the conveying direction of the treatment object along the line on which the roller 232 is spaced from the treatment object 10 by the minimum gap height. Since there is adhesive resistance between the roller 232 and the treatment liquid, the outflow of the treatment liquid through the gap between the roller 232 and the treatment object can be reduced. In particular, for the treatment object 10 having sufficient inherent hardness, for example, for a circuit board having high inherent hardness, the rollers v1, v2 are rotated oppositely as shown in fig. 10.

The magnitude of the circumferential velocity v2 of the roller 232 can be selected, for example, depending on what liquid flow is permitted through the gap between the roller 232 and the treatment 10. The volume of treatment liquid flowing out per unit time can be reduced by a higher value of the peripheral velocity v 2. In one embodiment, the rollers 231, 232 are driven such that v1 is v 2.

The device with one pair of rollers is described with reference to fig. 9 and 10, while in further embodiments multiple pairs of rollers may be provided in the outflow region of the treatment station, as described with reference to fig. 9 and 10. For example, a plurality of such pairs of rollers are arranged spaced apart from one another in the conveying direction as described with reference to fig. 4 and 5. In this way, horizontal cascading may be achieved. Alternatively or additionally, the pair of rollers can be combined with devices having fixed elements (as shown, for example, in fig. 7) arranged at a distance in the conveying direction.

The device with a pair of rollers is described with reference to fig. 9 and 10, while in another embodiment a fixed element is provided instead of one of the rollers, for example instead of the roller 232 arranged below the conveying plane. In another embodiment, the rollers 231 and 232 do not have to be arranged at a distance from the treatment object 10. If the side of the treatment object facing a roller is touch-sensitive, the roller is arranged at a distance from the treatment object according to an embodiment.

In the case of the exemplary embodiments, the use of a device for removing or retaining the treatment liquid in the inflow region and/or outflow region of the inner region of the treatment station is described, but such a device can also be used at a distance from the inflow region and outflow region of the treatment station in order to displace the liquid, for example for improved substance exchange, as described in detail with reference to fig. 11 to 17. The flat surface of the treatment object can be treated by means of different devices described in detail with reference to fig. 11 to 17, but blind or through-going holes can also be advantageously treated. The devices described with reference to fig. 11 to 17 can be used in the treatment station in combination with or instead of the inflow nozzles. If the device is used instead of an inflow nozzle, the treatment liquid is conveyed by suitable means into the interior region of the treatment station.

Fig. 11 is a side view, partly in section, of a treatment section 251 of the treatment station. Section 251 has a pair of rollers 261, 262, a scraper 265 and a drive 268. These elements can be used instead of the inflow nozzles 206, 207 of the treatment station 200 of fig. 18 in order to promote the exchange of substances on the surface of the treatment substance.

The processing station has an inner tank with a bottom 252. The treatment liquid has a running level 253 with a height 254 in the region of the treatment stations. The running level 253 is adjusted such that the treatment 10 is covered with the treatment liquid on the circumference of the rollers 261, 262.

The rollers 261, 262 are designed such that they are in each case spaced apart from a useful region of the treatment substance 10, which extends between the opposite edge sections. The roller 261 is disposed above the conveyance plane of the treatment object. The roller 262 is disposed below the conveyance plane of the processing object. On the opposite side of the roller 261 in the conveying direction, the treatment liquid accumulates up to the run level 253. Roller 262 is disposed entirely below level 253.

The rollers 261, 262 may be constructed such that they are spaced apart from the treatment 10 when the treatment 10 passes through the rollers 261, 262. In particular, the rollers 261, 262 may be configured such that they do not act together when the treatment 10 is conveyed. The rollers 261, 262 may have cylindrical surfaces 258 or 259. A gap 8 having a gap height 9 between the roller 261 and the treatment object 10 extends continuously in the width direction between the edge regions of the treatment object 10. Another gap between the roller 262 and the processing object 10 continuously extends in the width direction between the edge areas of the processing object 10.

The rollers 261, 262 may be driven by a drive 268. The drive means may comprise an actuator, such as a motor and suitable means for transmitting the torque of the actuator to the rollers 261, 262. The drive 268 for the rollers 261, 262 can have components which are at the same time part of the drive for other elements, for example for the conveyor rollers.

The drive 268 drives the roller 261 such that the roller surface 258 has a circumferential velocity of magnitude v 1. Along a line 263, which represents the boundary of the gap between the roller 261 and the treatment object 10 formed by the roller surface, the velocity vector 264 of the circumferential velocity is against the transport velocity vT of the treatment object. The roll surface of the roll 261 and the treatment 10 move at a relative speed at the edge of the gap 8. The exchange of substances on the surface of the treatment substance 10 facing the roller 261 can then be effectively promoted. Drive 238 drives roller 262 such that it has a circumferential velocity of magnitude v 2.

The roller 261 and the roller 262 are driven by the driving device 268 so that they rotate in the same direction. In particular, the rollers 262 arranged below the conveying plane can be driven such that the roller surfaces move along a line on which the rollers 262 are spaced apart from the treatment 10 by the gap height in the direction of the conveying speed vT of the treatment 10.

The drive 265 is arranged to scrape the treatment liquid from the roller 261. The spacing 266 between the scraping device 265 and the roller 261 can be adjusted. In this way, the amount of treatment liquid that is returned by the scraper 265 can be adjusted. The configuration and function of the scraping device 265 corresponds to that described for the scraping device 235. In particular, the scraping device may be adjusted such that the roller 261 is completely surrounded by a film of the treatment liquid.

Fig. 12 is a side view, partly in cross-section, of a processing section 271 of a processing station. The section 271 has a pair of rollers 261, 262, a scraping device 265 and a drive device 278. These elements may be used to facilitate the exchange of substances on the surface of the treatment substance, for example instead of the inflow nozzles 206, 207 of the treatment station 200 of fig. 18. Elements and/or devices corresponding in their configuration and/or function to the segments 251 and described with reference to fig. 11 are provided with the same reference numerals as in fig. 11.

The drive device 278 drives the rollers 261, 262 so that they rotate in the same direction. Along a line 263 on which the roller 261 is spaced at a gap height 9 from the useful region of the treatment substance 10, the roller surface of the roller 261 is moved with a speed 274 which is oriented in the conveying direction of the treatment substance 10. The magnitude v1 of the circumferential speed can be adjusted such that it differs from the magnitude vT of the conveying speed. Along a line 275 on which the roller 262 is spaced from the useful zone of the treatment substance 10 by the gap height of the gap between the roller 262 and the treatment substance 10, the roller surface of the roller 262 is moved at a speed 276 which is oriented against the transport direction of the treatment substance 10. This results in relative movement between the roller surface of the roller 262 and the treatment 10 at the gap.

In a further embodiment, the drive can be designed such that the rollers 261 arranged above the conveying plane and the rollers 262 arranged below the conveying plane rotate in opposite directions, as described with reference to fig. 13 and 14.

Fig. 13 is a side view, partially in cross-section, of a processing section 281 of a processing station. Section 281 has a pair of rollers 261, 262, a scraper 265 and a drive 288. These elements can be used instead of or in conjunction with the inflow nozzles 206, 207 of the treatment station 200 of fig. 18 to promote mass exchange on the surface of the treatment substance. Elements and/or devices corresponding in their configuration and/or function to the segment 251 or segment 271 and described with reference to fig. 11 and 12 are provided with the same reference numerals as in fig. 11 or 12.

A drive 288 drives the rollers 261, 262 so that they rotate in opposite directions. Along a line 263 on which the roller 261 is spaced at a gap height 9 from the useful region of the treatment substance 10, the roller surface of the roller 261 is moved at a speed 284 which is oriented counter to the conveying direction of the treatment substance 10. Along a line 275 on which the roller 262 is spaced from the useful zone of the treatment 10 by the gap height of the gap between the roller 262 and the treatment, the roller surface of the roller 262 is moved with a speed 286 which is oriented against the transport direction of the treatment 10. Thereby, not only the gap left between the useful zone of the treatment substance 10 and the roller 261 but also the additional gap left between the useful zone of the treatment substance 10 and the roller 262 causes a relative speed between the treatment substance and the roller 261 or 262 forming the boundary of the gap. The exchange of substances can be effectively promoted on both sides of the treatment substance.

Fig. 14 is a partially cut-away side view of the process section 291 of the process station. The section 291 has a pair of rollers 261, 262, a scraper 265 and a drive 298. These elements can be used, for example, instead of or in combination with the inflow nozzles 206, 207 of the treatment station 200 of fig. 18 to promote mass exchange on the surface of the treatment substance. Elements and/or devices corresponding in their configuration and/or function to the segment 251 or segment 271 and described with reference to fig. 11 and 12 are provided with the same reference numerals as in fig. 11 or 12.

The drive 298 drives the rollers 261, 262 so that they rotate in opposite directions. Along a line 263 on which the roller 261 is spaced at a gap height 9 from the useful region of the treatment substance 10, the roller surface of the roller 261 is moved at a speed 294 which is oriented in the conveying direction of the treatment substance 10. Along the line 275 on which the roller 262 is spaced from the useful area of the treatment 10 by the gap height of the gap between the roller 262 and the treatment, the roller surface of the roller 262 moves at a speed 296, which is likewise oriented in the transport direction of the treatment 10.

The magnitude of the velocity 294 corresponds to the circumferential velocity v1 of the roller 261. The magnitude of the velocity 296 corresponds to the circumferential velocity v2 of the roller 262. At least one of the circumferential speeds v1 and v2 is different in magnitude from the conveyance speed vT of the treatment substance 10. Thereby causing a relative speed between the respective roller and the processing station.

In a further embodiment, only one roller can also be provided as the treatment means. The roller may be arranged above or below the conveying plane. A handling device in the form of a roller without counter rollers on the other side of the transport plane can be used in particular for handling through-holes or blind holes.

Fig. 15 is a partially cut-away side view of a processing section 301 of the processing station. Section 301 has rollers 302, a scraper 265 and a drive 308. These elements can be used, for example, instead of or in combination with the inflow nozzles 206, 207 of the treatment station 200 of fig. 18 to promote mass exchange on the surface of the treatment substance. Elements and/or devices corresponding in their configuration and/or function to the segment 251 or segment 271 and described with reference to fig. 11 or 12 are provided with the same reference numerals as in fig. 11 or 12.

The rollers 302 are arranged above the conveying plane and form a gap between the surface of the rollers 302 and the treatment object 10 extending over the entire useful area of the treatment object 10. On both sides of the roll 302, the treatment liquid accumulates up to the run level 253 of the treatment station. The drive 308 rotationally drives the roller 302. Along a line 303, on which the roller 302 is spaced from the useful zone of the treatment substance 10 by the gap height 9, the roller surface of the roller 302 moves with a speed 304, which is oriented in the transport direction of the treatment substance 10. The magnitude of the velocity 304 corresponds to the circumferential velocity v1 of the roller 302. The magnitude v1 of the circumferential velocity differs from the transport velocity vT of the treatment substance 10. Thereby causing a relative speed between the roller 302 and the treatment 10 at the edge of the gap 8.

Fig. 16 is a partially cut-away side view of the processing section 311 of the processing station. Section 311 has rollers 312 and drive 318. These elements can be used, for example, instead of or in combination with the inflow nozzles 206, 207 of the treatment station 200 of fig. 18 to promote mass exchange on the surface of the treatment substance. Elements and/or devices corresponding in their configuration and/or function to the segment 251 or segment 271 and described with reference to fig. 11 or 12 are provided with the same reference numerals as in fig. 11 or 12.

The rollers 312 are arranged below the conveying plane and form a gap between the surface of the rollers 312 and the treatment object 10 which extends over the entire useful area of the treatment object 10. The roller 312 is completely surrounded by the treatment liquid. The drive 318 rotationally drives the roller 312. Along a line 313, on which the roller 312 is spaced at the gap height 19 from the useful area of the treatment substance 10, the roller surface of the roller 312 moves at a speed 314, which is oriented in the transport direction of the treatment substance 10. The magnitude of the velocity 314 corresponds to the circumferential velocity v2 of the roller 312. The magnitude v2 of the circumferential velocity differs from the transport velocity vT of the treatment substance 10. Thereby causing a relative velocity between the roller 312 and the treatment 10 at the edge of the gap 18.

In a further embodiment, the roller 302 of the section 301 or the roller 312 of the section 311 can also be driven in rotation, so that the roller 302 or 312 has a velocity vector along the line 303 or 313 counter to the conveying direction of the treatment substance 10. This configuration can be used in particular in the case of treatments with high intrinsic hardness.

In a further embodiment, a pair of rollers offset from one another in the conveying direction can be provided as the processing means. Such a handling device can be used in particular for handling through-holes.

Fig. 17 is a side view, partly in section, of a processing section 321 of a processing station. The section 291 has a pair of rollers 261, 262, a scraper 265 and a drive 328. These elements can be used, for example, instead of or in combination with the inflow nozzles 206, 207 of the treatment station 200 of fig. 18 to promote mass exchange on the surface of the treatment substance. Elements and/or devices corresponding in their configuration and/or function to the segment 251 or segment 271 and described with reference to fig. 11 and 12 are provided with the same reference numerals as in fig. 11 or 12.

The rollers 261 arranged above the conveying plane and the rollers 262 arranged below the conveying plane are arranged offset to each other in the conveying direction. Since this arrangement of the rollers is not mirror-symmetrical with respect to the transport plane, the through-going holes can be handled well.

The drive 328 drives the rollers 261, 262 so that they rotate in opposite directions. Along a line 263 on which the roller 261 is spaced at a gap height 9 from the useful region of the treatment substance 10, the roller surface of the roller 261 is moved at a speed 324 which is oriented in the transport direction of the treatment substance 10. Along a line 275 on which the roller 262 is spaced from the useful area of the treatment 10 by the gap height of the gap between the roller 262 and the treatment, the roller surface of the roller 262 moves at a speed 326, which is likewise oriented in the transport direction of the treatment 10.

The magnitude of the speed 324 corresponds to the circumferential speed v1 of the roller 261. The magnitude of velocity 326 corresponds to the circumferential velocity v2 of roller 262. At least one of the circumferential speeds v1 and v2 is different from the conveyance speed vT of the treatment substance 10. This causes a relative speed between the respective roller and the treatment substance, which promotes the exchange of substances on the surface of the treatment substance.

In the device described with reference to the figures, the magnitude of the relative speed between the roller and the treatment substance at the gap has a magnitude in the interval 0.1m/s to 20m/s, in particular in the interval 0.2m/s to 10m/s, in particular in the interval 0.5m/s to 5 m/s.

As described with reference to fig. 11-14 and 17, a pair of rollers disposed on opposite sides of the conveying plane may be used as the processing mechanism in the processing stations of the continuous apparatus. In one embodiment, the two rollers can be driven in the same direction of rotation. In this case, in particular, the rollers arranged below the conveying plane can be driven such that they point in the conveying direction along a circumferential speed of the line which is spaced at the gap height from the useful zone of the treatment substance. In a further embodiment, the two rollers can be driven in a rotationally opposite manner. The drive means may be configured such that selective energization causes co-or counter-rotation of the rollers.

In the different embodiments described with reference to fig. 11 to 14 and 17, the circumferential speed v1 of the rollers arranged above the conveying plane and the circumferential speed v2 of the rollers arranged below the conveying plane are equal in magnitude. In further embodiments, v1 > v2, in particular v1 > v2 or v1 < v2, in particular v1 < v 2. In particular, v2 may be equal to the magnitude vT ± 20% of the transport speed of the treatment substance.

In the different arrangements described with reference to fig. 9-17, the surfaces of the rollers may each be cylindrical. The surface may be constructed as a cylindrical surface without openings. These surfaces are particularly impermeable to the treatment liquid. The surfaces of the rollers are advantageously cylindrical and extend over the entire useful area of the treatment, so that a gap is formed which extends continuously between the edge regions. In a further embodiment, a plurality of roller-shaped partial elements can be combined in order to form the gap extending over the useful region in sections.

Many variations of the embodiments shown in the drawings and described in detail can be implemented in other embodiments.

In the device described with reference to fig. 11-17, in which the scraping device is arranged in the periphery of a roller arranged above the conveying plane, in other embodiments the fixed element may also be arranged in the periphery of a lower roller arranged below the conveying plane. The fastening element can be designed, for example, as a strip. The slats influence the flow field in the surroundings of the roller. The slats can be adjusted relative to the roller.

In all of the embodiments described here, the rollers can be designed as electrodes for electrolytic processes. It can be designed in particular as an inert anode.

In all of the embodiments described herein, the rollers may have a surface that is smooth within process tolerances. In a further embodiment, the surface of the roller can also have a structure.

In all of the embodiments described here, the rollers can be arranged such that their axes are at an angle different from 90 degrees to the conveying direction.

In the various exemplary embodiments, the non-return surfaces are described, which extend transversely to the treatment material at substantially the same height in the width direction of the treatment material, and the non-return surfaces forming the gap can also be designed such that the cross section of the gap, in particular the gap height, changes in the width direction of the treatment material. For example, the non-return surface may be concave in the width direction of the treatment, so that the gap formed (depending on the position in the width direction of the treatment) is higher in the middle of the treatment than at the edge.

While the various embodiments may be used in particular in processing plants in which the treatment substance is conveyed continuously and in a horizontal conveying plane, they may also be used in plants in which the treatment substance is conveyed in a vertical conveying plane. For example, a combination of a gap-forming non-return surface and an inflow device can also be used for accumulating liquid when the treatment substance is transported in a vertical transport plane. One or more rollers whose axes are directed in the vertical direction when the treatment object is conveyed on the vertical conveying plane may be used as the treatment mechanism.

In the case of the exemplary embodiment, a roller which is spaced apart from the entire useful region of the treatment substance is used in the inflow region or outflow region of the treatment station or is described as a treatment means, while in other embodiments the treatment station can have at least one rotationally driven roller as a treatment means, as described with reference to fig. 11 to 17, and at least one rotationally driven roller in the inflow region and outflow region, as described with reference to fig. 1 to 10.

The apparatus and method according to the different embodiments may be used, for example, in the manufacture of circuit boards, such as printed circuit boards, without its application being limited thereto.

Reference numerals

1 apparatus for removing treatment liquid

2 roller

3 additional rollers

4 non-return surface

5. 6 raised edge section

7 shaft

8 gap

9 minimum gap height

10 treated article

11 useful area

12 edge region

14 additional non-return surfaces

15, 16 raised edge sections

17 axle

18 additional gaps

19 minimum gap height

20 direction of conveyance

21 treating liquid

22 level of liquid

23 treating fluid

24 level of liquid

25, 26 direction of rotation

31 apparatus for removing processing liquid

32 inflow device

33 flow of fluid

34 treating liquid

41 outflow region

42 treatment area

43, 44, 45 device for removing treatment liquid

46 bottom

47, 48 weir

51, 52 roller

53, 55 roller

54, 56 inflow device

57, 59 roll

58, 60 inflow device

61 opening

71, 72 liquid level

73 treating liquid

Difference of 74 levels

81 outflow region

82 treatment area

83 apparatus for removing processing liquid

84-86 roller

91, 92 liquid level

93 treating liquid

94 pump

95 flow of liquid

96 opening

97 level difference

101 apparatus for removing processing liquid

102 roller

103 further rollers

104 non-return surface

105 receding edge section

106 additional non-return surface

107 back-off edge segments

108, 109 holding rail

111 apparatus for removing processing liquid

112, 113 insert

114, 117 side surface

115, 118 gap

116, 119 inclined part

131 processing station

132-135 roller

136 level of liquid

141 and 148 rotation directions

200 processing station

201 inner container

202 outer container

203 treated article

204 direction of conveyance

206, 207 inflow nozzle

208 treating liquid

209 level in the outer container

210 pump

211，212

214, 216 conveyor roller pair

213, 215 squeeze roll pairs

221 outflow region

222 bottom part

223, 225 liquid level

224, 226 height

227 weirs

228, 229 roll surface

231, 232 roller

Wire on 233 roll surface

234 speed

235 scraping device

236 inflow device

237 fluid flow

238 drive device

241 outflow region

248 driving device

251 processing section

252 bottom

253 level of operation

254 height

258, 259 roll surface

261, 262 roller

263 line on the surface of the roll

264 speed

265 scraping device

266 distance

268 drive arrangement

271 processing segment

274 speed

275 lines on the surface of the roll

276 speed

278 driving device

281 processing section

284, 286 velocity

288 driving device

291 processing section

294, 296 speeds

298 drive device

301 processing a segment

302 roller

303 lines on the surface of the roll

304 speed

308 driving device

311 processing of a segment

312 roller

313 lines on the surface of the roll

314 speed

318 driving device

321 processing section

324, 326 speeds

328 driving device

Claims (13)

1. A method for treating flat articles (10) to be treated, which are conveyed through a device for electrolytically or wet-chemically treating the articles (10),

wherein the treatment object (10) is exposed to a treatment liquid (21) covering the treatment object (10) in a treatment station of the apparatus, the treatment liquid (21) accumulating up to a run level (253) in a treatment zone of the treatment station;

wherein a roller (2, 3; 51, 52, 53, 55, 57, 59; 84, 85; 102, 103; 132; 231, 232; 261, 262; 302; 312) with a roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 229; 258, 259) is arranged in the treatment station such that the roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 228, 229; 258, 259) is at least spaced apart from the useful zone (11) of the treatment (10) such that a gap (8, 18) remains between the roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 228, 229; 258, 259) and the useful zone of the treatment (10) in order to avoid direct contact of the useful zone (11) with solid elements in the treatment station, wherein the useful zone extends continuously between the edge regions (12) of the treatment (10),

wherein the roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 228, 229; 258, 259) is at least partially arranged in the treatment liquid (21), the treatment liquid (21) accumulating up to an operating level (253), and wherein the roller (2, 3; 51, 52, 53, 55, 57, 59; 84, 85; 102, 103; 132) is driven in a rotating manner such that a relative speed between the roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 228, 229; 258, 259) and the surface of the treatment object (10) is caused at the gap (8, 18).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein

The rollers (2, 3; 51, 52, 53, 55, 57, 59; 84, 85; 102, 103; 132; 135; 231, 232; 261, 262; 302; 312) are driven such that the peripheral speed (v1, v2) of the roller surface differs in magnitude from the transport speed (vT) of the treatment (10).

3. The method of claim 2, wherein

The circumferential speed (v1, v2) of the roller surface is greater than the conveying speed (vT) of the processed object (10).

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the treatment liquid is removed from the roll (231; 261; 302) by means of a scraping device (235; 265).

5. A method according to claim 4, wherein the scraping device (235; 265) is adjusted in order to adjust the amount of treatment liquid removed from the roller (231; 261; 302).

6. A method according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a roll (261, 262; 302; 312) is provided as the processing means in the processing station.

7. A method according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the treatment liquid (21) accumulates on the opposite side of the roller (261; 302) in the conveying direction up to the operating level (253) of the treatment station or wherein the roller (262; 312) is arranged completely below the operating level (253) of the treatment station.

8. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a further roll (3; 52, 55, 59; 85; 103; 133, 135; 232; 262) having a further roll surface (14) is positioned in the treatment station such that a further gap (18) remains between the useful zone (11) of the treatment (10) and the further roll surface (14),

wherein the roller (2; 51, 53, 57; 84; 102; 132, 134; 231; 261) and the further roller (3; 52, 55, 59; 85; 103; 133, 135; 232; 262) are positioned on opposite sides of the conveying plane of the treatment object (10).

9. A treatment station for treating flat treatment objects (10) of a plant for electrolytically or wet-chemically treating treatment objects (10), wherein the treatment station is designed such that during operation a treatment liquid (21) covers the treatment object (10) to be treated, the treatment liquid (21) accumulating in a treatment region of the treatment station up to an operating level (253),

the processing station includes:

a roller (2, 3; 51, 52, 53, 55, 57, 59; 84, 85; 102, 103; 132; 135; 231, 232; 261, 262; 302; 312) with a roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 228, 229; 258, 259) which is arranged such that the roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 228, 258; 258, 259) is at least spaced apart from the useful zone (11) of the treatment (10) such that a gap (8, 18) remains between the roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 228, 229; 258, 259) and the useful zone (11) of the treatment (10) in order to avoid direct contact of the useful zone (11) with solid elements in the treatment station, wherein the useful zone extends continuously between the edge regions (12) of the treatment (10), wherein the roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 228, 229; 258, 259) is at least partially arranged in the treatment liquid (21) until the treatment liquid (21) runs horizontally, and

drive means (238; 248; 268; 278; 288; 298; 308; 318; 328) which are designed as rollers (2, 3; 51, 52, 53, 55, 57, 59; 84, 85; 102, 103; 132; 135; 231, 232; 261, 262; 302; 312) are driven in a rotating manner such that a relative speed between the roller surface (4, 14; 104, 106; 228, 229; 258, 259) and the surface of the treatment (10) is caused at the gap (8, 18).

10. Treatment station according to claim 9, comprising a further roller (3; 52, 55, 59; 85; 103; 133, 135; 232; 262) having a further roller surface (14), which is positioned such that a further gap (18) remains between the useful zone (11) of the treatment substance (10) and the further roller surface (14),

wherein the roller (2; 51, 53, 57; 84; 102; 132, 134; 231; 261) and the further roller (3; 52, 55, 59; 85; 103; 133, 135; 232; 262) are arranged on opposite sides of the conveying plane of the treatment object (10).

11. The processing station according to claim 9 or 10, configured for carrying out the method according to one of claims 1 to 8.

12. An apparatus for processing planar processing objects (10), comprising a processing station (221; 241; 251; 271; 281; 291; 301; 311) according to one of claims 9 to 11.

13. A method for manufacturing a circuit board, comprising processing a material (10) for manufacturing a circuit board by means of a method according to one of claims 1-8.